The Abia State Government on Thursday staged a solemn and dignified State Burial Service in honour of the late internationally acclaimed gospel evangelist, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, who departed this life on October 6, 2015, at the age of 80.
The ceremony, held at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia, witnessed a convergence of eminent personalities and high-profile dignitaries from across the country. Among those in attendance were the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Doye Diri and his wife; the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi; former Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uche Ogah; deputy governors from various states; and the wife of former Edo State Governor, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki.
The event also drew members of the National Assembly, legislators from the Abia State House of Assembly and other state assemblies, members of the State Executive Council, the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator John Azuta Mbata, leaders of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), clerics, traditional rulers, and a broad spectrum of admirers and well-wishers.
In his address, Governor Alex Otti underscored the profound necessity of honouring the late cleric in recognition of his immense and far-reaching contributions to Abia State, Nigeria, and the global Christian community. He noted that celebrating Rev. Ukpai, even in death, is a reflection of his administration’s unwavering commitment to giving honour to whom it is due.
Governor Otti extolled the late evangelist’s steadfast dedication to the service of God and humanity, describing the multitude of lives he impacted as a compelling testament to the enduring relevance of his legacy. He further posited that death should not be perceived as a finality but as a transition into eternal communion with the Creator, urging all to live purpose-driven lives that would stand the test of time.
The Governor also expressed profound appreciation to the widow, Pastor Mrs. Philomena Uma Ukpai, for graciously consenting to the State-organised burial, while encouraging the bereaved family to draw strength from their faith and the promise of eternal life.
Representing the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, described the late Rev. Ukpai as a visionary luminary who fought the good fight of faith and finished his course with distinction. She enjoined Nigerians to emulate his exemplary life.
In separate tributes, the National Secretary of PFN, Rev. David Bakare, alongside Rev. Prof. Mosy Madugba, portrayed the deceased as a global spiritual voice and a unifying force within the body of Christ. They revealed that the honour of placing the PFN flag on his coffin was unprecedented, underscoring the extraordinary impact and stature he commanded.
Delivering the sermon, the PFN President, Bishop Wale Oke, emphasised the imperative of a life wholly surrendered to Christ as the only pathway to a righteous end. Speaking on the theme, “Let me die the death of the righteous,” he noted that Rev. Ukpai exemplified holiness, doctrinal integrity, and unwavering commitment to the Gospel, attributes that distinguished his earthly sojourn.
In a heartfelt vote of thanks, the first son of the deceased, Dr. Chidi Uma, expressed deep gratitude to the Abia State Government and all attendees for their solidarity and support. He assured that the family would remain resolute in preserving and advancing the spiritual legacy bequeathed by their late patriarch.
Leave a comment