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By Philomina Attah
Former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, Yakubu Gowon and Peter Obi on Friday joined in paying glowing tributes Rev. William Okoye, a former Chaplain of the Aso Rock Villa Chapel.
Okoye who served as Chaplain to two Nigerian presidents was also a former General Overseer of All Christians Fellowship Mission (ACFM)
Speaking at the Night of Tributes for Okoye, held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, on Friday, Onabanjo described the late Okoye as a statesman of faith and fearless voice of truth.
The former President in a tribute read by Bishop Godwin Isaac, said Okoye’s death had created a monumental void across the nation, recalling their close working relationship between 1999 and 2007.
He said Okoye, who served as his chaplain, provided wisdom and guidance during high-pressure situations, beyond his spiritual responsibilities.
“As my chaplain, he was a steady, fearless, and uncompromising voice of truth,” Obasanjo said.
He said Okoye understood that genuine gospel ministry must address the material realities confronting the people.
Obasanjo recalled that Okoye served on the Presidential Advisory Council on Youth Affairs and represented the FCT at the National Political Reform Conference.
He also served on the Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board and held leadership positions in the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).
Obasanjo said Okoye served as Chairman of CAN and PFN in Abuja, while also serving as CAN National Director on National Issues.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan said he met Okoye while serving as Governor of Bayelsa State and worshipping at the Aso Rock Villa Chapel.
Jonathan recalled that Okoye was then Deputy Chaplain to Rev. Obaje and later served as Chaplain during Jonathan’s presidency.
He said Okoye eventually requested to leave the Villa Chapel and recommended Ven. Obioma Onwuzurumba as his successor, alongside Archbishop John Oyelade.
“Nigeria will miss you. Your family will miss you. The church will miss you. You stood for integrity,” Jonathan said.
Former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, described Okoye as a pioneer of Nigeria Prays and praised his leadership, integrity, humility and commitment.
Gowon, who was unable to attend physically because of a trip to the United Kingdom, delivered his tribute virtually.
He said Okoye’s memory would remain evergreen, recalling his support for the Nigeria Prays movement since its inception in 1996.
Sen. Victor Umeh, who represented Mr Peter Obi, described Okoye as a brother from the same local government area in Anambra State.
Umeh said Okoye prayed for peace during Anambra’s political crisis and worked to promote stability in the state.
Pastor Mrs Toyin Okoye, wife of the deceased, thanked God for her husband’s life, describing him affectionately as “Mine”.
She said Okoye told doctors at the hospital that he was not afraid of death and appreciated those who prayed for and visited them.
She particularly acknowledged Pastor Enoch Adeboye and other Christian leaders who supported the family during the period.
“Your life of integrity touched lives, including my own life.
“You have fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith,” she said.
Dr Paul Enenche, founder of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, said Okoye was passionate about Nigeria’s spiritual and physical wellbeing.
Enenche said Okoye believed God would raise Christians who would contribute significantly to the transformation of Nigeria.
The President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, described Okoye as a preacher, trainer and mentor who dedicated his life to God and humanity.
Okoh quoted Psalm 116:15 and John 11:25, saying Christians did not mourn as those without hope.
Okoye, will be buried next week in his hometown in Anambra.
(NAN)
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