SOLUDO, OBI PAY TRIBUTE TO UMA UKPAI, CELEBRATE HIS ENDURING LEGACY
The Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, alongside former presidential aspirant Peter Obi, has conveyed their profound grief regarding the demise of one of Nigeria’s most esteemed Christian figures, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, who departed this life peacefully on October 6, at the age of 80.
In their individual messages of sympathy issued on Monday, both leaders characterized the passing of the iconic preacher, distinguished evangelist, and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association as a significant loss not only to Nigeria but also to the global Christian community.
In a press release circulated by his Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, on Monday, Soludo praised Rev. Ukpai as an authentic spiritual patriarch, a mighty figure of faith, and a dauntless proclaimer of the gospel, whose life exemplified the essence of faith, commitment, and unwavering service to God and humanity.
The governor remarked, “Rev. Dr. Ukpai was more than a mere preacher; he stood as a crucial institution in Christian evangelism, national integrity, and the Nigerian Pentecostal movement.
“For numerous decades, his resonant voice reverberated across the globe, imparting salvation, healing, and hope to countless individuals.
“The narrative of contemporary Christianity in Nigeria and throughout Africa would be incomplete without acknowledging the unforgettable influence of Rev. Ukpai, manifested through his crusades, theological instruction, and the founding of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, which was devoted to winning souls for Christ. ”
Consequently, the governor proffered his heartfelt condolences to the immediate relatives of the late evangelist, the entire Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, and the Christian populace in Nigeria, praying for divine peace for his soul and solace for his family in this time of profound loss.
Similarly, in a post shared via X on Monday, Obi referenced Ukpai as one of Nigeria’s most venerated religious leaders, highlighting his lifelong commitment to preaching the Gospel, healing, and uplifting souls throughout the nation and beyond.
“I have just received with deep sorrow the news of the glorious transition of one of Nigeria’s most revered clerics, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, Founder and President of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association,” Obi articulated.
“Through the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, he orchestrated extensive crusades, healing services, and leadership symposiums that offered hope and transformation to innumerable lives. ”
The former Governor of Anambra State extended his sympathies to Ukpai’s family, friends, and congregation, invoking divine peace and comfort during this challenging period.
“My sincerest condolences are extended to his family, friends, and the entire congregation of his ministry.
“May God’s peace and comfort envelop them during this difficult season. Dr. Uma Ukpai dedicated his life to disseminating the Gospel, healing, and uplifting souls across Nigeria and beyond. ”
The confirmation of Ukpai’s exit was communicated by his family in a statement entitled “Glorious Transition. ”
“He was a devoted soldier of the faith who committed his life to propagating the gospel with zeal and integrity.
“His teachings, prophetic revelations, and guidance have established a lasting legacy that will inspire believers for generations to come,” his family remarked.
