Professor Gregory Ikechukwu Ibe, OFR, founder and proprietor of Gregory University, Uturu, and the 2023 governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Abia State, has passed away.

His death was announced in a statement issued by the royal family of HRH Eze Cyril Ibe, Okwelube I of Amaokwe Achara Autonomous Community, Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State.

According to the family, the renowned educationist, philanthropist, entrepreneur and statesman died following a series of health challenges, which he reportedly battled with remarkable courage and strength.

The statement, signed by his son and Chancellor of Gregory University Uturu, Okechukwu Gregory Ibe, described the late professor as an exceptional personality whose life was dedicated to education, philanthropy, community development and service to humanity.

The family noted that through the establishment of Gregory University Uturu, Skill ‘G’ Ltd., Innov8 Hub and several other initiatives, the deceased contributed significantly to educational advancement, youth empowerment and socioeconomic development.

Prof. Ibe, who contested the 2023 Abia State governorship election under the platform of APGA, was widely known for his contributions to education, entrepreneurship and human capital development in Abia State and beyond.

Describing him as a loving father, devoted grandfather and pillar of strength, the family said his legacy would continue through the institutions he established, the students whose lives he transformed and the communities that benefited from his philanthropic activities.

“To his family, he was much more than an accomplished man. He was a loving father, a cherished brother, a devoted grandfather, and a pillar of strength to us all,” the statement read.

The late academic is survived by six children and seven grandchildren.

The family expressed appreciation to friends, associates and well-wishers for their prayers, condolences and messages of sympathy, while appealing for continued prayers during the period of mourning.

It also requested privacy as family members come to terms with the loss.

Funeral arrangements, according to the statement, will be announced in due course.