Gregory University Founder, Ibe, Dies At 63

The Founder and Chancellor of Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State, Prof. Gregory Ikechukwu Ibe, has died after a prolonged illness.

According to a statement issued by the royal family of HRH Eze Cyril Ibe, Okwelube I of Amaokwe Achara Autonomous Community on Monday, Ibe, who was 63, died on Sunday.

The statement described him as a distinguished academic, administrator, philanthropist, entrepreneur and educationist who dedicated his life to expanding access to education, uplifting the less privileged and serving humanity.

“Through Gregory University Uturu, Skill ‘G’ Ltd., Innov8 Hub and other initiatives, he touched thousands of lives, leaving an enduring legacy in education and community development,” the family said.

He is survived by six children and seven grandchildren.

The family thanked the public for prayers and messages of sympathy and appealed for continued prayers for the peaceful repose of his soul and strength for the bereaved family.

It said funeral arrangements would be announced in due course and urged the public to respect its privacy during the mourning period.

Ibe, a Professor of Entrepreneurial Studies, was the All Progressives Grand Alliance governorship candidate in Abia State in the 2023 election.

He had advocated a power shift to Abia North in the election, citing the Abia Charter of Equity.

He reportedly began experiencing health challenges as political activities ahead of the 2023 polls gathered momentum and had rarely appeared in public since then. He, however, attended his mother’s burial earlier this year.

The late professor, a prominent Igbo entrepreneur and investor, was also known for his philanthropy, particularly his support for undergraduates on scholarship at Gregory University.