On Monday, 21 April 2025, His Excellency Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, Governor of Abia State, accompanied by his gracious wife, Her Excellency Mrs. Priscilla Chidimma Otti, joined an outpouring of mourning as they paid their final respects to the late Mazi Senator Chris Ogbonna Ukpabi. The solemn occasion took place in Senator Ukpabi’s native Ugwuavo community at Atani, in Arochukwu Local Government Area, where he was laid to rest amid an atmosphere of deep sorrow and heartfelt thanksgiving.
Born and raised in Ugwuavo, Senator Ukpabi devoted his life to public service. After completing his education, he began a distinguished career in grassroots politics and community development before ascending to national office. In 1979, he achieved the historic feat of becoming the only Senator from the South East elected on the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) platform during the Second Republic, a testament to his wide appeal and steadfast commitment to good governance. He served in the Red Chamber from 1979 until the military takeover in 1983, championing bills on rural electrification, agricultural extension services, and local government autonomy.
The funeral service, held at the Cathedral Church of All Saints, Ugwuavo Arochukwu, was marked by a stirring blend of Christian liturgy and cultural homage. A choir from the Diocese serenaded mourners with hymns celebrating a life well lived, while traditional drummers paid rhythmic tribute to Senator Ukpabi’s roots. In his eulogy, Governor Otti spoke movingly of the late Senator’s unshakable support in the struggle to eradicate bad governance in Abia State. “Mazi Ukpabi,” he said, “was not only a political ally but a true friend to every reformer who dreamed of a transparent, accountable administration.”
Reflecting on the late statesman’s enduring legacy, Governor Otti recalled how Senator Ukpabi fearlessly lent his voice and influence to promote healthcare clinics in rural communities, scholarships for needy students, and the establishment of vocational training centers across the state. He noted that such initiatives sprang from Ukpabi’s belief that sustainable development must be rooted in education and empowerment.
Offering words of comfort to the bereaved family, Governor Otti acknowledged the heavy weight of grief but urged them to “not mourn as those without hope,” reminding them that their father’s virtuous life promises a glorious reunion on the resurrection morning. He encouraged the Senator’s children to “carry forward his torch of unity, peace, and service to humanity”—the greatest tribute they could render to his memory.
The Governor also took a moment to commend Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa for his meticulous coordination of the burial arrangements, ensuring the ceremony proceeded with dignity and solemnity. In response, the Ukpabi family expressed profound gratitude to the Otti family for their empathy and solidarity at this difficult hour.
Dignitaries from across Nigeria—and from abroad—flocked to Ugwuavo to honour Senator Ukpabi’s remarkable life: former ministers, serving commissioners, traditional rulers, community leaders, and prominent professionals all stood shoulder to shoulder in a final salute to one of Abia’s most illustrious sons. As the sun set on Ugwuavo, the residents took solace in the knowledge that, though the senator has passed on, the ideals he embodied will continue to inspire generations to come.