People from all walks of life and of different categories comprising the political class and Religious Leaders, Christians of different denominations, friends as Community and family of Late Rev. Dr Uma Ukpai gathered on Thursday at the International Conference Center Ogurube layout Umuahia to celebrate the life and times of a renowned Evangelist and Preacher of the Word.
In his speech, at the Commendation Service organized by the Abia state government Governor Alex Otti,
thanked God for the gift of the Late Dr Uma Ukpai to humanity.
He explained that the decision of the state to honor him is in accordance with the character of his administration in giving honor to whom honor is due.
The Governor who Challenged people to live good lives that would speak for them after their departure, pointed out that the late Dr Uma Ukpai transited to eternal glory and did not die.
He condoled the wife of the deceased Pastor Philomena Uma- Ukpai and other members of the family and urged them not to mourn like people without hope but to take consolation in the impactful life of Late Dr Uma Ukpai.
In his goodwill message, the Governor of Akwa Ibom Pastor Umo Enoh represented by his deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi said late Dr Uma Ukpai impacted lots of lives in Akwa Ibom state and lived a life of selfless service to God and humanity.
He further described him as a rare gift from Abia to the people of Akwa Ibom state and the world at large.
In a sermon,The National President, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Bishop Francis Wale pointed out that the late Dr Umah Ukpai was a trailblazer, a mover and preacher of the word of God who impacted millions of lives across the globe.
He made it clear that Rev Umah Ukpai lived and died the death of a righteous man, declaring that his life exemplified peace, faith love, service and sacrifice.
In his tribute, The Founder, Ministers Prayer Network International Professor Mosy Madugba described the deceased as a practical Christian, large hearted, an excellent preacher, a good father and family man, who healed the sick, gave all, mended many homes and restored hope to the hopeless.
Speaking on behalf of the Bereaved family, the first son of the deceased, Dr Chidi Uma disclosed that their father left a big shoe for them and solicited prayers from all.
He thanked Governor Alex Otti for honoring their late father and other Guests for their show of love, respect and compassion.
The service attracted the presence of Governor Doye Diri of Bayelsa state and wife, former Governor of Anambra State ADC Chieftain, Mr Peter Obi, Members of the National Assembly, Deputy Governor of Abia state Chief Ikechukwu Emetu,wife of former Governor of Edo State,Mrs Betty Obaseki, President General Ohanaeze Ndigbo Senator John Azuta- Mbata, members of the state executive council,top government officials, the Clergymen, traditional Rulers and host of others.
