Challenge Children, Politicians On National Development<em

PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari yesterday extolled the virtues of the late Pa Pius Okonkwo Ngige, father of the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige, saying he contributed immensely to the development of Nigeria.

The remains of the late Ngige, who died at 105 years, were laid to rest yesterday in his community, Alor, Idemili South local council of Anambra State amid presence of people from different walks of life across the country.

Speaking at the funeral service held at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Alor, Buhari, who was represented by the Secretary to Government of the Federation, Pastor Babachir David Lawal, urged the children of the deceased to emulate their late father and seek for ways to contribute to national development.

He noted, however, that the children of the late octogenarian were doing well in their various professions, but singled out Chris whom he described as “one of the pillars of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Nigeria in general”.

He further observed that “Ngige is a good man, very hardworking and smart”, and wished the family more success in their endeavours.

Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State praised the late Ngige, saying his death was “a celebration of life well lived and worthy of emulation.” He also urged the children to emulate the good life their father led.

Earlier in his homily, titled, “We All Must Die Someday”, the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, His Lordship Paulinus Ezeokafor, observed that Pa Ngige committed his life to the service of God, stressing that irrespective of age, he was never found wanting in the things of God.

He noted that the greatest service anybody could do while living was service to God and mankind, lamenting that Nigerians spend much time and resources in frivolities and neglecting things that could impact meaningfully on humanity.

Turning to political office holders, the Bishop charged them to be responsible and provide the needed service that could improve the lots of the masses, explaining that such was the only way they could live good legacies.

He stressed that the nation’s economic downturn had not reached a level where the political leaders would abandon those that elected them to office.

“All those called to responsibility of governance has one target and that is service. They should be able to deliver. They have a duty to provide responsible governance to make Nigeria a better place for the people. In doing this however, we need to sacrifice our comfort because that is our calling. You must reappraise your decisions and efforts to see whether they support the welfare of the people. You must put others first before yourself. We know that leadership is not an easy job, but you must do your best at all times,” he said.

Speaking about their late father, chief mourner, Dr Chris Ngige described him as a disciplinarian, who was very close to his children.

He said his father ensured that peace prevailed in his family until his death and assured Nigerians that they would uphold his virtues.

Dignitaries present at the ceremony included former Vice President, Alex Ekwueme; Governors Adam Oshimhole (Edo), Ifeanyi Okowa (Delta), Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia) and Willie Obiano (Anambra); Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Kelechi Igwe; and Deputy Governor of Imo State, Eze Mmadumere.