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Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, addressing attendees at the funeral service of Elder Kalu Uke Kalu in Isiugwu, Ohafia, said that his administration is committed to establishing an environment where individuals and businesses can flourish in Abia.
Speaking at the service conducted by the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria at Isiugwu Central Field, Otti acknowledged Kalu as a great Nigerian who actively contributed to the advancement of society.
He urged those in leadership positions, particularly those in public offices, to draw inspiration from the enduring legacies left behind by the deceased.
The governor said: ‘Today, we are here celebrating him; but as we celebrate him, we need to talk to ourselves.’
‘A lot of good men are going. We are now wondering, the best of the young people, are they here? Most of them have ‘japad’ (left the country).’
‘So, for those who are opportune to lead, we need to deliberately make efforts to attract our best people back.’
He stressed the need to encourage the younger generation to stay back in the country as well as make efforts to bring back those who have left.
According to him, ‘when we do all the things we do in Abia, we want to attract our people that are outside, most importantly the people that are outside the shores of the state.’
‘We need to get them back, otherwise, we will get to a level where what will be left here will be the trace of the society. May it not happen to us in Jesus’ name!’
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Otti described the late Kalu, founding partner and executive director, SKOUP & Company Limited, as a friend and a mentor, one who did well in life.
He spoke about his humility, integrity and legacies the deceased, who died at 88, left behind.
Speaking about the topic, “Preciousness of Death”, Most Rev Benebo Fubara-Manuel preached from Psalm 116 verse 15, that although death may not be precious in the sight of men, in the sight of God, it is.
He said death is the end of a man’s assignment on earth and brings believers closer to God, the creator.
Offering gratitude for the rich life of Elder Kalu, he conveyed thanks to God and counseled the family and those impacted by the loss to bear it with fortitude.
During the funeral oration, David, the first son of the departed Elder Kalu, eloquently illuminated his father’s noteworthy contributions to the fields of accounting, finance, academia, community service, and his commitment to the church.
He thanked Governor Otti, his entourage, and the sympathizers from diverse backgrounds for joining them in their moment of grief. He concluded with a prayer, seeking God’s blessings upon all.
The funeral ceremony garnered the attendance of distinguished personalities, including Abia State’s Deputy Governor, Ikechukwu Emetu, an engineer; former Governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke, accompanied by his wife Onari; Member representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, Ibe Osonwa; Commissioner for Education, Prof Uche Eme-Uche; alongside various senior government officials and traditional rulers.
