The Abia State Government on Thursday conducted a state burial service in honour of late evangelist Uma Ukpai, who died at the age of 80.

The event, held at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia, was attended by prominent political and religious figures, including Abia State Governor Alex Otti, Bayelsa State Governor Doye Diri, and former presidential candidate Peter Obi. Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno was represented by his deputy, Akon Eyakenyi.

In his address, Governor Otti urged citizens to live impactful lives that would earn them lasting remembrance. He described the late cleric’s passing as a transition rather than an end, noting that his legacy would continue to inspire generations. He called on the people of Abia and Akwa Ibom states, as well as Christians at large, to emulate Ukpai’s virtues.

Representing Governor Eno, Deputy Governor Eyakenyi described the late evangelist as a visionary leader who raised a generation of morally grounded individuals.

In his sermon, President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Francis Wale Oke, said Ukpai lived a life devoted to God and humanity, rather than the pursuit of material wealth.

Other dignitaries present at the burial included Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe and John Mbata, President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, among others.