The Bar in Black: A Sea of Lawyers Bids Final Farewell to Bright Ndah Owhor
Today, the 22nd of August 2025, the legal community, friends, and family gathered to bid a painful farewell to Bright Ndah Owhor, who was tragically shot dead in the prime of his life around 9:30 p.m. on July 5 and succumbed to his injuries on July 6 at approximately 2:00 a.m. His funeral service, which held at St. Michael’s Anglican Church, Rumuomasi, Port Harcourt, bore testimony to the impact he made in his short but meaningful journey on earth.
The church auditorium could not contain the sea of mourners who thronged in to honour him. The overflow of humanity, young and old, colleagues, mentors, and friends spoke louder than any words about the void his death has created.
Notably, the Nigerian Bar Association turned out in full strength. From the Candle light procession, valedictory court session and evening of tributes all earlier held his honour to the graveside, lawyers in their numbers stood shoulder to shoulder, united in grief and in solidarity. The sombre procession, the black robes, and the bowed heads reflected not only sorrow but also a strong message: Bright was one of our own, and he will not be forgotten.
The funeral service was marked by prayers, hymns, and tributes that captured the essence of a life of promise abruptly cut short. Those who knew Bright remembered his dedication to the law, his warmth of character, and his unflinching belief in justice. The pain of his loss was evident, but so too was the resolve to ensure that his memory becomes a rallying call for justice and a safer society.
As his body was laid to rest, emotions ran deep, yet beneath the tears lay a shared commitment that Bright’s legacy will not be buried with him. His name now lives as a reminder of the need to safeguard the sanctity of life and the ideals of justice that he stood for.
Rest in peace, Bright Ndah Owhor. Your light shines on.