Tributes Gallery

A TRIBUTE TO A COLOSSUS: LATE CHIEF KALU IKE KALU BY ELDER HON. CHIEF AMBS. UKPAI MBILA MBA Writing a tribute in honour of Chief Kalu Ike Kalu is one of the write-ups I have found so difficult to write. Composure, courage, brevity, dexterity etc: all deserted me each time I remembered to write this tribute. But, so obvious, something needs to be done. So let’s do first things first. I have come to terms that life has three triangular apertures. To some, life is measured with the amount of wealth one has amassed. To some, life is measured by the number of years one has lived on planet earth. And yet to some, life is measured by the impartation to people around you. This third measurement apparatus has become the most widely accepted in the Christendom and in the walk of life however facile. I am in agreement with the song writer Charles H. Supurgeon who in S. S & S 798 summarized the length of life as “only remembered by what we have done” My dear Reader, pause a little. “What will you be remembered with?” This great solider whose body lies before us was unassuming, a counselor per excellence. He was an epitome of honesty, love, diligent, care, trustworthy, hardworking, and fearless and always standing tall for the truth he believed in. In helping others to succeed he was, superlative. He was a pillar of inspiration and not a caterpillar. In the period of our childlessness, he used to release the little IYKE-our page boy-to us, just to douse the tension of childlessness on me and my amiable wife. What a manner of love and empathy: releasing the son, Nar, the ONLY CHILD then. But be that as it may, the umpire of life, (the Chief Judge of the Supreme Court of heaven and earth in whose judgment there is no appeal) has called him to His nearer presence. Nna m Ike, let it be known to you and all who are still alive that gallant soldiers of Christ don’t die. How do I know? Tom Stoppard a famous playwright, thinker, wittily observed that “those who impacted positively toward humanity don’t die. They only withdraw from the battle field of life to God’s nearer presence”. We shall meet with him on the resurrection morning. Adieu, Amadi Obu Ikpe Mbila! Adieu, Nwoke Obi Oma ? Adieu, Big Daddy ?! p Rest on. Your fond memories will not be forgotten.

A Tribute to a Gentle Soul, A father, and my Brother in Christ There are some people who don’t need to shout to be heard; their character speaks for them. Nna Kay was exactly that. He lived his life with an easygoing grace that we all envied. As a dedicated member of our church, he didn't just attend service; he embodied the message. He was a "doer of the word," showing us through his actions what it means to walk humbly and love mercy. His faith wasn't loud or demanding; it was a steady, glowing light that guided him and comforted us. To my father, he was a brother and a friend. To us, he was an anchor. We will miss his calm spirit and his effortless kindness, but we take comfort knowing that a man so genuine is now at rest in the presence of the Creator he served so faithfully. Rest well, Uncle. Your gentleness has left a mark on our hearts that time can never erase. Jee Nke Õma Amadi Umu Uyom ???

26 February,2026 Ike Kalu Ike Porthacourt Rivers State *CONDOLENCE MESSAGE* We received the shock news of the passing of your father, Chief Kalu Ike Kalu. Words are insufficient to console one on a father's death, but we do urge you to take solace in the life that he lived. His memory and legacy will forever be cherished and remain evergreen. We pray that God in His infinite mercy will grant you and your family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss, while he comforts and assuages the pain of those he left behind. May his soul rest in perfect peace. Amen. Ukiwe Kelechi Kalu MD/CEO

We mourn the passing of Chief Kalu Ike, who departed this life on 6th November 2025. The news of his death, which I received through my father, Chief Kalu Chiori, came as a profound shock to our entire family. It is difficult to put into words the depth of our loss. Chief Ike was a truly hardworking and generous man. He consistently showed genuine concern for me and my siblings, always asking how we were faring and offering words of wisdom, encouragement, and fatherly guidance. His presence brought reassurance, and his counsel carried both strength and kindness. As young boys growing up, my younger sibling and I had the privilege of working with Pa Ike and his late virtuous wife, Nne Ogbonne, on their family farms. What began as family support became a cherished learning experience. They not only welcomed us warmly but also ensured that our efforts were financially rewarded. Through those moments, we learned the dignity of labour, responsibility, and the value of unity within the family. Pa Ike lived a well-rounded Christian and social life. His faith was evident in his character, his generosity, and the way he related with people. He believed in togetherness, in lifting others up, and in strengthening family bonds. His legacy is one of love, service, and steadfast commitment to both God and community. Though we will deeply miss him, we take solace in the beautiful legacies he leaves behind; legacies of love, kindness, wisdom, and unity. His life was impactful, and his memory will continue to inspire us. Mr. Chikezia Chiori Kalu

Goodbye Big Brother Heaven has called upon you today, leaving so many words left to say. But now it's too late, for your time has come. Words unspoken - I am sure everybody has some. Regrets and wishes are probably there too, but lasting forever are memories of you. I was there when you needed a place to stay, just like you would be there for me night or day. There have been many times that we agreed, but we were there for each other in time of need. Now it's time for me to say goodbye, until we meet again in heaven to fly Okah Ikeh