It was an afternoon of grief, solemn reflection, and heartfelt tributes as government officials, members of the Body of Permanent Secretaries, civil servants, friends, and family gathered for the Service of Songs in honour of the late Permanent Secretary of Government House Umuahia, Chief Ugochukwu Kingston Elefue.
The event, held at the JAAC Building, Ogurube Layout, Umuahia, brought together dignitaries from across the state to celebrate a man remembered for his humility, dedication, and selfless service to Abia State.
Governor Otti: “A Strategic Mind and a Dependable Ally”
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, Governor Dr. Alex Otti described the late Chief Elefue as “a dependable ally in the discharge of his duties and a man who exhibited humility, diligence, and professionalism.”
The Governor recalled the late Permanent Secretary’s trademark “strategic approach” to getting things done, noting that Elefue was never afraid to seek clarification to ensure alignment with the administration’s vision.
“His death has left a void that words cannot express. It came at a time his wealth of experience was needed most. We must take solace in the fact that he lived an impactful life,” Governor Otti stated.
The Final Lessons: Brevity of Life
Delivering the sermon titled “The Brevity of Life”, Pastor Collins Ekeanyanwu of the Living Faith Church, Market Branch, reminded attendees that death is inevitable for all mortals.
He urged the living to amend their ways and dedicate their lives to God while they still have the chance, stressing that nothing can be changed after death.
Colleagues and Family Speak
On behalf of the Body of Permanent Secretaries, Mrs. Magdaline Kalu-Onwu (Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Budget and Planning) and Rev. Okey Ihemanma (Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industry and SMEs) hailed Chief Elefue as an embodiment of wisdom, hard work, and integrity. They vowed to uphold the values he represented.
Speaking for the family, the deceased’s younger brother, Mr. Chigozirim Elefue, described him as “the backbone of the family” and prayed for his soul’s eternal rest.
In his vote of thanks, Mr. Benson Ojeikere, Head of Service, expressed deep sadness over the sudden loss and appreciated the Governor, his Chief of Staff, the Body of Permanent Secretaries, the state workforce, and all who came to honour the deceased.
Final Journey
Aged 58, the late Chief Ugochukwu Kingston Elefue will be laid to rest at his Amawom Oboro country home in Ikwuano LGA on Friday this week.
The Service of Songs featured prayers, tributes, and hymns, attended by several notable figures including Hon. Boniface Isienyi (Member representing Ikwuano State Constituency), Apostle Kenneth Wiper (Special Assistant to the Governor on Religious Activities), senior government officials, and members of the church.
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