The Labour Party candidate for Bende Federal Constituency, Dr. Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso, has paid his final respects to the late Pastor Mrs. Ihuoma Irene Dike, wife of the Director-General of the Chima Anyaso Campaign Organisation, Pastor Okechukwu Dike.
Mrs. Dike, who died on April 24, 2026, at the age of 51, was laid to rest on Saturday at her husband’s compound in Amaegbuato, Nkpa, Bende Local Government Area of Abia State.
The funeral service attracted family members, friends, political associates, religious leaders and well-wishers who gathered to mourn the deceased and support the Dike family.
Anyaso, who had also attended the deceased’s Service of Songs on Friday night, described her death as shocking, noting that she was the wife of a close associate and a key member of his campaign organisation.
He expressed condolences to Pastor Dike and the entire family, urging them to remain steadfast in their faith and draw strength from God and the support of loved ones.
Anyaso also commended Pastor Dike for remaining committed to the OFUJI political project despite the personal tragedy he was experiencing.
He described the campaign director-general’s dedication as exceptional, saying he had continued to contribute to the project at a time when he was grieving the loss of his wife.
“Even in the midst of this unfortunate situation, he stood his ground and even performed more than we expected.”
The Labour Party candidate encouraged Pastor Dike to remain steadfast, assuring him that his sacrifices and commitment would be remembered.
“Continue to be good, God will continue to bless you.”
Speaking further, Anyaso stressed the importance of character and integrity in public service, saying personal wealth was temporary while character remained a lasting measure of an individual’s worth.
He said his commitment to politics was driven by the desire to serve with integrity and remain accountable to the people.
Anyaso prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul and asked God to grant the Dike family the fortitude to bear the loss.
In his vote of thanks, Pastor Dike expressed appreciation to family members, friends, associates, religious leaders and other sympathisers who supported the family throughout the period of mourning.
