Governor Alex Otti has expressed sadness over the death of the 2023 governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance in Abia, Gregory Ibe, describing the news as “shocking”.

Mr Otti’s condolence message is contained in a statement issued by his special adviser on media and publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, and made available in Umuahia on Monday evening.

Mr Ibe, founder and chancellor of Gregory University, Uturu, died on Sunday.

The governor described the deceased as an illustrious Abia son, who contested the 2023 governorship election with him.

“Governor Otti is saddened by the news of Prof. Ibe’s passing, given his continued impact in education and research in the country in general and Abia, in particular.

“The Abia chief executive, like numerous other well-wishers, had prayed and hoped that the respected administrator and philanthropist would overcome the sickness he battled for some time. But, unfortunately, he couldn’t. We cannot question God,” said the statement.

The governor encouraged Mr Ibe’s family, friends and loved ones not to mourn like persons without hope but to take solace in the fulfilled and impactful life he led and strive to uphold his worthy virtues and legacies.

“Otti, on behalf of his family, the government and people of Abia, mourns Prof. Ibe and prays that God grants his soul eternal repose,” the statement added.

(NAN)