By Akuma Ebere
It was a day soaked in tears, tributes and solemn reflection as the peaceful town of Utuh in Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State laid to rest its second indigenous Catholic priest, Very Rev. Fr. Michael Esotu, in a funeral ceremony that drew mourners from far and wide.
The final rites, held at St. Peter Claver Catholic Church, Utuh, were attended by a large crowd comprising clergy, religious, laity, community leaders, and admirers, all gathered to honour a man whose life was defined by selfless service, humility and unshakable devotion to God and humanity.
Born in 1940, ordained in 1973, and called to eternal rest in April 2025, Very Rev. Fr. Esotu, a native of Umunoo village, Utuh, left behind a legacy of priestly excellence that spanned over five decades. His calm disposition, deep spirituality and boundless generosity earned him love and respect across the Diocesan Community and beyond.
In his sermon during the requiem Mass, Rev. Fr. Theodore Uzochukwu, Parish Priest of St. Peter Claver’s, described Very Rev. Fr. Esotu as a man who lived a fulfilled life anchored on simplicity and faith. He urged the living to emulate the late cleric’s virtues and appreciated the joint efforts of the Esotu family, the Utuh Catholic community and various parishioners in organizing a befitting farewell.
Mr. Emeka Esotu, fondly known as Afunwa and nephew of the deceased, emotionally described his late uncle as more than family, a true father and a saint whose influence reshaped many lives. He extended heartfelt gratitude to those who travelled from near and far to honour the memory of a man he called a pillar of strength and holiness.
Other emotional tributes came from community figures such as Chief Oliver Emukai (Akusinachi) and his wife, Mrs. Ngozi Emukai (Mmadiya), as well as Mr. Emmanuel Afolabi and Mr. Chidi Paul Nnopu, who described the late Fr. Esotu as a rare soul, a philanthropist, a man of peace and a spiritual shepherd.
Chief Emukai recalled how the priest personally took care of him during a period of illness and introduced him to the Lumen Christi Adoration Ministry in Isele-Ukwu.
“I cannot forget the good he did for me,” he said with emotion.
As incense rose and hymns echoed through the church, the resounding message from all quarters was clear: Very Rev. Fr. Michael Esotu lived a meaningful life, touched many hearts and has now taken his place among the saints.
His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy of love, faith and service remains a guiding light for the generations he inspired.
