By Steve Oko

UMUAHIA – Founder of Gregory University, Uturu, and 2023 governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Prof. Greg Ibe, on Friday buried his mother, Ugoeze Margaret Ibe, who died at 81, amid deep emotions and tributes.

In an emotion-laden tribute, Prof. Ibe described his late mother as his mentor and moral compass, saying her death has left a void that would be difficult to fill.

“If I had another life, I would still choose you as my mother,” he said.

He credited her for shaping both his spiritual and entrepreneurial journey.

“You raised me to worship God and instilled in me the entrepreneurial spirit that defines who I am today. Whatever I have become started with you.”

He pledged to uphold her legacy by living according to the values she taught.

“We will continue on the path of righteousness you laid and honour the legacy you built.”

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, described the late matriarch as a virtuous woman whose life left lasting imprints on her family and community.

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, the governor said the deceased’s influence was evident in the achievements of her son, including the establishment of Gregory University.

“We are not just mourning but celebrating a life of sacrifice, strength and enduring values. She was a builder of character and a nurturer of dreams,” Otti said.

He urged the family to draw strength from her legacy of love, service and dignity.

In a homily, the Chancellor of the Catholic Diocese of Okigwe, Rev. Fr. Samuel Okoli, called on Christians to remain faithful stewards in God’s vineyard, stressing that people would ultimately be remembered for the lives they lived.

“We shall all give account of what is entrusted to us. Let your life be one of faithfulness and enduring legacy,” he said.

Former Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Uche Ogah, described the deceased as a priceless asset whose absence would be deeply felt.

He prayed for the repose of her soul and urged the family to sustain her values.

Other dignitaries at the event included Abia State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ikechukwu Uwanna (SAN); former Commissioner for Sports, Henry Agbaeze; former Abia PDP Chairman, Senator Emma Nwaka; and APGA State Chairman, Ambassador Sunday Onukwubiri, among others.