Idike Laid To Rest Amidst Tributes

By Blessing Igidi, Abakaliki

The remains of late Hon Kenneth Ndubuisi Idike were lowered into the grave at his country home, Ndiukabi, Igbeagu in Izzi Local Government Area, Ebonyi State following a solemn funeral mass attended by dignitaries, government officials, and mourners from across the state and beyond. The event witnessed the presence of the Ebonyi State Governor,Rt Hon. Francis Nwifuru, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Princess Patricia Obila.

Other dignitaries includes, the Speaker of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Moses Ije Odunwa; Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Grace Umezurike; Chief of Staff, Professor Emmanuel Echiegu; Deputy Chief of Staff, Engr Donatus Uche; former State Minister for Power and Steel, Chief Godwin Ogbaga, Commissioner for Markets and Parks, Prof Nwogo Aguka Obasi; and Commissioner for Capital City Development, Chief Sunday Elechi Inyima. Also in attendance were members of the Izzi Youth Forum, relatives of the deceased, Catholic priests, church members, officials of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), members of the Road Safety Corps, members of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, (SWAN) and various other organisations.

Delivering the homily, Rev Fr Godwin Uguru urged Christians to prioritise their spiritual well-being, emphasising that the soul is the only possession taken back to the Creator. He reminded mourners that death is an inevitable end for every mortal, regardless of status, wealth, or influence. Fr Uguru reflected on the transient nature of life, stating that humans enter the world empty-handed and leave without material possessions and stressed the importance of righteous living, noting that what one would be remembered for after departing is far more significant than earthly gains. The Deputy Governor, Princess Patricia Obila, speaking on behalf of the state government, expressed condolences to the bereaved family, particularly the widow of the late Hon Idike. She encouraged them to find solace in the good works and enduring legacy of the deceased and prayed for divine protection over them. The Ministry of Youth Development and Sports, led by its Permanent Secretary, Comrade Obiesie Ogbonna Hilary, also registered its presence, standing in solidarity with the Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Hon Richard Ugo Idike, the elder brother of the deceased. The ministry assured him of their support and urged him to remain strong in this period of grief.

Similarly, the Ebonyi State Sports Council, the NYSC family, the Road Safety Corps, and the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ebonyi State chapter led by comrade Nwogha Ndubuisi, extended their condolences to Hon Richard Idike, offering prayers for strength and divine guidance. Hon Kenneth Ndubuisi Idike was a respected political figure known for his service to the people and commitment to development. Mourners described him as a man of integrity, kindness, and dedication who left an indelible mark in his community. Family members and sympathisers wept as his remains were committed to the earth, marking the final farewell to a man who had served his people diligently. Tributes poured in, highlighting his contributions to governance, youth empowerment, and community development. Many attendees acknowledged that Hon Idike’s life was an example of selflessness and leadership. His colleagues and associates praised his role in public service, describing him as a patriot who prioritised the welfare of his people above personal interests. The emotional ceremony ended with prayers for the repose of his soul, with clerics and family members expressing hope that he would find eternal peace. The funeral also served as a moment of reflection, urging attendees to embrace lives of purpose, service, and faith. As his body was lowered into the grave, his family, friends, and well-wishers bid him a tearful farewell, clinging to the memories of his impactful life. His legacy, they said, would continue to inspire generations to come. Late Hon Kenneth Ndubuisi Idike is survived by his wife, children, siblings, and a host of other relatives who now bear the responsibility of carrying on his legacy.