Anambra State Friday stood still for late Pa Pius Okonkwo Ngige, father of the Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, as the crème de la crème of Nigerian politics stormed Alor in Idemili South Local Government Area to pay last respects to him. He died at 105.
The burial, which brought all the political affiliations together both in the state and at national level saw the St. Mary Catholic Church Alor venue of the funeral over stretched beyond its capacity, with many dignitaries standing outside as security operatives had a herculean task controlling the crowd.
The funeral service was performed by the Archbishop of Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province, Most Rev. Dr. Valerian Okeke.
In his homily, Bishop Ezeokafor reminded all about the reality of life that every one must one day die, but what was important was the worth of life one lived on earth.
He admonished Christians to work out their salvation, as their judgement will come according their calling hence the need for them to try to fulfill the will of God in their diverse callings.
The Bishop reminded the political office holders that they have duty to make Nigeria a better place, saying that achieve the goal needs personal sacrifice.
He said, “It is true that the economy is bad, but it is not dead. You should remember that government has the duty to provide basic amenities for the citizenry. We will continue to pray for those in governance as you will labour in vain if God is not with you”.
President Buhari who spoke through his representative, Pastor Lawal extolled the virtue of late Pa Ngige, thanking God that he left good representatives in his children especially, Senator Ngige who he described as a good man.
He said, “Chris Ngige is one of the pillars of the Buhari’s cabinet and he is the pillar of APC. He is a good man, very hardworking man and a smart Igbo man”.
The host, Governor Obiano, in his remarks thanked God for long life given to Pa Ngige and prayed that his son Senator Ngige would live long to give Nigeria his best. (Daily Sun)
