Prof. Gregory Ikechukwu Ibe, founder of Gregory University, Uturu, and the 2023 governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Abia State, is dead.
His demise was announced on Monday by the royal family of HRH Eze Cyril Ibe of Okwelube I, Amaokwe Achara Autonomous Community, in Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State.
In a statement, the family disclosed that the renowned educationist, industrialist and philanthropist died after a period of ill health.
The statement expressed sadness over his death, describing him as a man who devoted his life to education, public service and the welfare of humanity.
“With deep sadness, but with gratitude to Almighty God for a life of purpose, impact, and service, we announce the passing of our beloved father, brother, grandfather, patriarch, and an exceptional man, Prof. Gregory Ikechukwu Ibe, OFR,” the family said.
It described the deceased as an academic, administrator, entrepreneur, statesman and philanthropist whose contributions to society extended beyond the classroom and business environment.
Ibe was widely associated with the establishment of Gregory University, Uturu, a private university in Abia State with interests in research, medical sciences, innovation and entrepreneurship.
He also supported the development of technical capacity in Nigerian tertiary institutions through his businesses, including Skill 'G' Limited and Innov8 Hub, which supplied laboratory and technical equipment to institutions across the country.
In politics, Ibe sought to lead Abia State in 2023 under the APGA platform, campaigning on a technology-based development agenda designed to reposition the state as an industrial centre.
Although his political ambition did not result in his emergence as governor, his involvement in the election made him one of the contenders in the state's governorship race.
The family said Ibe is survived by six children and seven grandchildren, as well as numerous mentees and beneficiaries of his educational and philanthropic activities.
It thanked sympathisers and members of the public for their expressions of grief and support, adding that details of his funeral would be communicated as arrangements were finalised.
The family also appealed for privacy during the period of mourning.
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