Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, on Friday, May 16, 2025, led a high-powered delegation of government officials to the burial ceremony of late Mrs. Evelyn Ada Ekeke, mother of Hon. Chinedu Ekeke, the Mayor of Isuikwuato Local Government Area and Chairman of the Abia State Chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON). The solemn ceremony took place at St. Paul's Catholic Church, Nunya, in Isiukwuato LGA.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Kenneth Kalu; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba; members of the Abia State Executive Council; Mayors of the 17 Local Government Areas; Special Advisers and Assistants to the Governor; members of the Abia State House of Assembly; traditional rulers; and religious leaders from various denominations. Their presence accentuated the high regard for the Ekeke family and the Governor's commitment to grassroots leadership.
In his remarks at the funeral, Governor Otti emphasized the importance of fiscal discipline in governance. He noted that pulling down the cost of governance is a core strategy of his administration to redirect funds toward developmental projects. “As a Government, we don’t use Government money for anything other than Government business. We don’t even allow people to steal the money. That is why we are able to do so many of the things we are doing,” the Governor stated.
He further addressed the clergy’s commendations and cautioned against the idea of seeking a third term in office, describing it as an unsuccessful venture in Nigerian political history. “The real challenge is not just finishing well but raising capable successors. A good father wants his children to be better than him,” Governor Otti said, adding that his administration is committed to building a new generation of competent leaders.
Governor Otti praised the late Mrs. Ekeke for her resilience, honesty, and the values she instilled in her children despite not having formal education herself. He urged the family to celebrate her life rather than mourn deeply, noting that at 85, her legacy is one to be proud of.
Dr. Oluebube A. Chukwu was also present at the ceremony and paid glowing tribute to the late matriarch. He described her as “a woman of faith, strength, and grace,” whose influence is evident in the leadership qualities of her son, Hon. Chinedu Ekeke. Dr. Chukwu also commended Governor Otti for always standing with the people in moments of both celebration and grief.
Hon. Chinedu Ekeke expressed deep appreciation to Governor Otti and all the dignitaries for honouring his family. "I wish my mother had known that the Governor would attend her funeral. It would have filled her heart with joy," he said with emotion. He also thanked all guests for their support and presence.
The burial concluded with interment at the family compound, followed by a reception for guests. The outpouring of love and respect from both the government and community further affirmed the impact and legacy of late Ezinne Evelyn Ada Ekeke.
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