Dr. Okey Udo Mourns Gregory Ibe, Says Abia Has Lost a Great Son
The Abia North Senatorial Candidate of the Action Democratic Party (ADP), Dr. Okey Okoro Udo, has mourned the death of the founder of Gregory University, Uturu, Professor Gregory Ikechukwu Ibe, OFR, describing his passing as a painful loss to Abia State and Nigeria.
In a statement personally signed by him, Udo said the late educationist and philanthropist would be remembered for his contributions to education, youth empowerment and human development.
He described Ibe as a father figure and an inspiration whose life demonstrated how one individual could make a lasting difference in society.
“There are some phone calls you never want to receive. This was one of them.
“Professor Gregory Ikechukwu (Iyke) Ibe, OFR, Enyi Abia, is gone. The hills of Uturu are quiet tonight. The lecture halls he built stand in silence,” he said.
Udo noted that the establishment of Gregory University, Uturu, was among the late professor’s greatest achievements, providing educational opportunities for young Nigerians and contributing to the development of Abia State.
According to him, Ibe invested his resources in education, skills development and philanthropy at a time when many young people struggled to access such opportunities.
“A man who could have bought mansions in London and Dubai chose instead to build classrooms in Uturu. A man who could have hidden his wealth chose to pour it into the children of strangers,” he stated.
The ADP senatorial candidate also recalled Ibe’s contributions through Skill-G Nigeria Limited, the Gregory Iyke Foundation and Innov8 Hub, Abuja, noting that the initiatives helped young people acquire education, technical skills and opportunities for employment.
He said the late professor’s philanthropic activities, including scholarships for indigent students and assistance to vulnerable families, had left a lasting impact on many communities.
Udo also acknowledged Ibe’s involvement in politics, recalling his participation in the 2023 Abia State governorship election under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
He said political differences never diminished his respect for the late professor’s contributions to society.
“I did not stand on his political platform. But I stood in awe of his heart. We disagreed on parties. We never disagreed on purpose. And today, parties mean nothing. Only the loss remains,” he said.
Udo urged the people of Uturu, Isuikwuato and Abia North to preserve the institutions and initiatives established by the deceased.
“To the people of Uturu, Isuikwuato and all of Abia North, I say: do not let his dream die with him. Let us protect what he built. Let us finish what he started,” he stated.
He extended his condolences to the family of the deceased, particularly his children and grandchildren, urging them to take comfort in the lives their father touched.
“Every graduate of Gregory University is your brother and sister. Every child he educated is your family. You will never walk alone in this country, because he filled it with people who owe him their tomorrow,” he said.
Udo concluded his tribute by describing Ibe as a great son of Uturu whose legacy would continue to inspire future generations.
“Rest, Enyi Abia. The elephant has fallen. But the forest he planted will shelter generations yet unborn, and every tree in it will whisper his name.
“Adieu, great son of Uturu. Adieu, pride of Abia. Adieu, Skill-G,” he added.
