Obasanjo, Others Pay Tribute To Late Cleric

Former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, yesterday described late Rev. William Okoye as a statesman of faith and fearless voice of truth.

He spoke in a tribute read by Bishop Godwin Isaac at the Night of Tributes for Okoye, held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, on Friday.

Okoye, former General Overseer of All Christians Fellowship Mission (ACFM), was also a former Chaplain of the Aso Rock Villa Chapel.

Obasanjo 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.

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).

“As my chaplain, he was a steady, fearless, and uncompromising voice of truth,” Obasanjo said.

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”.

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.

Speaking on behalf of the children, Mr Victor Okoye, said, since his father’s passing, the family had heard countless stories of his compassion.

He said his father may not have left great material wealth, but left an enduring legacy of a good name, values and kindness that money cannot buy, which they would carry forward.

NAN reports that Archbishop Wale Oke led prayers for the family and the Church the deceased left behind.

Rev. Okoye is survived by his wife, six children, and nine grandchildren, including Mr Victor Okoye, a journalist with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), and the entire ACFM family. (NAN)