At least two Governors and religious leaders, on Wednesday, took turns to pay tributes to a renowned cleric, late Dr Uma Ukpai, describing him as a devoted servant of God.
Speaking at a state burial, organised by the Abia Government in his honour at the International Conference Center, Umuahia, they said that the deceased’s ministry impacted lives across Nigeria and beyond.
The host Governor, Dr Alex Otti, who led the tributes, followed by Gov. Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, described the legendary evangelist as “a spiritual father and mentor.”
They said that Ukpai’s evangelical and humanitarian activities left a lasting legacy on earth.
According to Otti, Ukpai was a gift to his generation.
He said that his life and ministry “impacted Abia, Nigeria and the global Christian community.”
He also said that though the cleric was physically gone, “his legacy would continue to live on through his works and the many lives he touched.”
He urged Christian faithful to remain steadfast, pointing out that “death is not an end but a transition to eternal life.”
Otti said that the testimonies shared at the event underscored the far-reaching impact made by the deceased, describing him as “a unifying figure, who fostered strong ties between Abia and Akwa Ibom.”
He also advised the bereaved family to grieve with hope, expressing the confidence that the late cleric had gone to be with his maker.
Also, Eno described the deceased as “a revered servant of God, whose life and ministry left a lasting spiritual legacy.”
The governor, represented by his deputy, Sen. Akon Eyakeni, said that the deceased, though born in Abia, found full expression of his calling in Uyo, “where he impacted lives, through soul-winning and mentorship of many ministers of the gospel.”
He said that Ukpai founded the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, through which he propagated his teachings and demonstrated compassion for the underprivileged.
He also said that the late cleric was among Christian leaders, who established the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), a body he described as formidable in the Christendom.
Eno said that although the cleric was no longer physically present, his impactful life remained a source of comfort.
He said that the deceased lived “purposefully and finished well.”
He prayed for the repose of his soul and urged Christian believers to emulate his life of service and dedication.
A clergyman, Prof. Mosy Madugba, said that Ukpai had an unwavering commitment to prayer, worship, education, and humanitarian services.
Madugba described him as “a man of prayer and fasting, who combined spiritual devotion with a passion for learning.”
“Before his first crusade abroad, he made a covenant with God, carried the Bible, wept in prayer, and miracles followed him everywhere,” he said.
Madugba said that Ukpai’s dedication to education inspired him to establish schools across the country.
He described him as a devoted family man, who balanced his ministry with his role as a husband and father.
He also spoke about the deceased’s life of generosity, recalling instances where he supported ministers and others financially, without expecting repayment.
In an homily, the National President of PFN, Mr Wale Oke, urged Christians “to live a life of righteousness and uphold the truth as written in the Bible.”
Oke praised the deceased’s preaching and ministry, describing him as a global ambassador of the gospel.
“He dedicated his life to teaching people the difference between religion and salvation and that only Jesus saves, and that was his consistent message,” he said.
He also said that Ukpai’s ministry spanned Europe, North America, Asia, and different parts of Nigeria, impacting millions of lives.
He describing him as a worshiper, philanthropist, and trailblazer, whose legacy in education, ministry, and service would continue to inspire generations of Christians.
In a remark, the deceased’s first son, Chidi Uma, expressed gratitude to all the dignitaries, clergy, traditional rulers, friends and well-wishers for their support and presence at the event.
Uma said the entire Uma Ukpai family was deeply encouraged by the show of love and solidarity from Nigerians.
He said that the prayers, kind messages and contributions received had been a great source of comfort to the family.
He appreciated those who contributed to the success of the burial.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was attended by Gov. Duoye Diri of Bayelsa, the lawmaker representing Abia South, Sen. Enyinnaya Abaribe, former Governor of Anambra, Mr Peter Obi, clergymen and dignitaries from different walks of life.
