By Hopejane Uzor
The Abia State Government held a state burial service in honour of renowned evangelist, Uma Ukpai, who passed away at the age of 80.
The event, held at the International Conference Centre Umuahia on Thursday, 26 March, 2026. drew dignitaries from across Nigeria, including political leaders, clergy, and traditional rulers, who gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of the late cleric.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Alex Otti urged Nigerians to live upright lives, noting that the true measure of a person is the legacy they leave behind.
He described the late Ukpai as a man whose impact would continue to speak beyond his lifetime, adding that “he did not die but only transited.”
The governor thanked God for the life and contributions of the evangelist to Abia State, Nigeria, and the global Christian community, stressing that the state deemed it necessary to honour him in recognition of his service and influence.
Also speaking, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, represented by his deputy, described the late cleric as a visionary who lived a life worthy of emulation, urging Nigerians to take solace in his impactful life and enduring legacy.
In his sermon, President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Francis Wale Oke, emphasised the need for righteous living, stating that salvation through Christ remains the path to a fulfilled and honourable end.
He noted that Ukpai lived a life of holiness and dedication to the gospel.
Delivering a vote of thanks on behalf of the family, the deceased’s first son, Chidi Uma, expressed gratitude to the Abia State Government and all attendees for their support, assuring that the family would uphold the values their father lived for. The burial ceremony attracted prominent personalities, including Bayelsa State Governor, Doye Diri; Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi; and President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, John Azuta Mbata, among others.
