The remains of the Late Permanent Secretary of Government House, Umuahia, Chief Ugochukwu Kingston Elefue, has been laid to rest at his Amawom Oboro country home in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State.
Speaking during the funeral service, conducted by the Living Faith Church at Amawom Central School, Ikwuano, Governor Alex Otti described death as a necessary end for all mortals, irrespective of age, gender, or status.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, the Governor eulogised the deceased as more than just a colleague, but a pillar of integrity, dedication, and excellence in public service.
He highlighted the commitment of Chief Elefue to the ideals of good governance, noting his meticulous nature, keen attention to detail, and steadfast loyalty to the progress of the State.
Governor Otti further urged the bereaved family, particularly the widow, Deaconess Glory Ugo-Elefue, to draw comfort from the cherished memories shared, the legacy of integrity he left behind and the knowledge that his life made a profound impact on both the people and the State.
In their tributes, the Member representing Ikwuano State Constituency, Engr. Boniface Isienyi; the Commissioner for Transport, Dr Chimezie Ukaegbu; the Commissioner for Finance, Mr Uwaoma Ukandu; and the Mayor of Ikwuano LGA, Dr Anthony Nwaubani, described Chief Elefue as a pillar of strength, a source of comfort, and a gracious example of a consummate leader.
They prayed God to grant divine comfort upon the Elefue family and all affected by the loss.
Also in his tribute, the Head of Service, Mr Benson Ojeikere; the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Productivity, Mrs Clara Dim, who spoke on behalf of the Body of Permanent Secretaries and the Director in Charge of Government House, Mrs Onyedikachi Ogwo, who spoke on behalf of the Management and Staff of Government House, Umuahia, described their departed colleague as an embodiment of wisdom, hard work, commitment, and a focused gentleman who distinguished himself in every given assignment.
Earlier in a sermon titled “Preparing for the Ultimate Appointment”, Senior Pastor of the Living Faith Church, Market Branch, Umuahia, Pastor Felix Aguele, stressed the need for everyone to be prepared at all times and to live righteously with eternity in view.
In a funeral oration, the daughter of the deceased, Miss Adaeze Ugo-Elefue, described her late father as a consummate family man who dedicated his life to the service of God and humanity, praying for divine fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
Aged 58, the late Chief Ugochukwu Kingston Elefue, who until his passing was the Permanent Secretary of Government House, Umuahia, is survived by his wife, Deaconess Glory Ugo-Elefue, five children, and several relatives.
The funeral, which featured prayers for the bereaved family and condolence messages, attracted the presence of dignitaries including the Special Adviser to the Governor on Trade and Commerce, Chief Nwaka Inem; the Special Assistant to the Governor on Religious Activities, Apostle Kenneth Wiper; the Body of Permanent Secretaries; as well as Management and Staff of Government House, Umuahia, among others.
