By Ihechi Enyinnaya
Prof. Gregory Ikechukwu Ibe, founder of Gregory University, Uturu, and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) governorship candidate in the 2023 Abia State election, is dead.
His death was announced on Monday by the royal family of HRH Eze Cyril Ibe of Okwelube I, Amaokwe Achara Autonomous Community in Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State.
According to the family, Ibe, who was an educationist, industrialist, philanthropist and politician, died after battling health challenges.
The family, in a statement, expressed sadness over his passing while thanking God for a life devoted to service, education and humanity.
“With deep sadness, but with gratitude to Almighty God for a life of purpose, impact, and service, we announce the passing of our beloved father, brother, grandfather, patriarch, and an exceptional man, Prof. Gregory Ikechukwu Ibe, OFR,” the statement read.
The family described the deceased as a distinguished academic, administrator, entrepreneur, philanthropist and statesman who dedicated his life to expanding access to education, supporting the less privileged and serving humanity.
Ibe founded Gregory University, Uturu, a private university in Abia State known for its emphasis on research, medical science, innovation and entrepreneurship.
Beyond the education sector, he contributed to the provision of technical and laboratory equipment to tertiary institutions across Nigeria through his companies, including Skill ‘G’ Limited and Innov8 Hub.
In politics, Ibe contested the 2023 Abia governorship election on the platform of APGA, presenting a technology-driven development agenda aimed at transforming the state into an industrial hub.
His political ambition was built around the use of technology and industrial development to improve Abia’s economy and create opportunities for its people.
Ibe is survived by six children, seven grandchildren and numerous mentees and beneficiaries who benefited from his work in education, business and philanthropy.
The family expressed appreciation to members of the public for their condolences and appealed for privacy as arrangements for his burial were being finalised.
Further details about his funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family.