Obasanjo, Jonathan, Gowon and Others Honor Late Aso Rock Chaplain, William Okoye

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called the late William Okoye a statesman of faith and a fearless voice of truth.

Mr Obasanjo shared this in a tribute read by Godwin Isaac, a bishop, during the Night of Tributes for Mr Okoye at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, on Friday.

Mr Okoye was the former general overseer of All Christians Fellowship Mission (ACFM) and also served as chaplain of the Aso Rock Villa Chapel.

Mr Obasanjo mentioned that Mr Okoye’s death has left a huge gap in the nation. He reflected on their close working relationship from 1999 to 2007.

He said Mr Okoye, who was his chaplain, provided wisdom and guidance during tough times, beyond his spiritual duties.

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

He added that Mr Okoye knew that real gospel ministry must deal with the real-life issues people face.

The former Nigerian leader also recalled that the late clergyman was part of the Presidential Advisory Council on Youth Affairs and represented the FCT at the National Political Reform Conference.

He held positions on the Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board and had leadership roles in the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).

Mr Obasanjo said Mr Okoye was chairman of CAN and PFN in Abuja and also served as CAN National Director on National Issues.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan said he met Mr Okoye while he was governor of Bayelsa State and worshipping at the Aso Rock Villa Chapel.

Mr Jonathan, represented by John Opara, the former executive secretary of the Nigerian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC), noted that Mr Okoye was the deputy chaplain to Yusufu Obaje before becoming chaplain during the Jonathan presidency.

He mentioned that Mr Okoye later asked to leave the Villa Chapel and recommended Obioma Onwuzurumba as his successor, along with John Oyelade, an archbishop.

“Nigeria will miss you. Your family will miss you. The church will miss you. You stood for integrity,” Mr Jonathan said.

Former Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, called Mr Okoye a pioneer of Nigeria Prays and praised his leadership, integrity, humility, and commitment.

Mr Gowon, a retired general, was unable to attend the event in person due to a trip to the United Kingdom but sent his tribute virtually.

He stated that Mr Okoye’s memory would always be remembered, recalling his support for the Nigeria Prays movement since it started in 1996.

Victor Umeh, the Anambra Central Senator, represented the NDC presidential candidate, Peter Obi. He described Mr Okoye as a brother from the same local government area in Anambra State.

Mr Umeh mentioned that Mr Okoye prayed for peace during Anambra’s political crisis and worked hard for stability in the state.

Toyin Okoye, a pastor and the late clergyman’s wife, thanked God for her husband’s life, calling him “Mine.”

She said Mr Okoye told doctors in the hospital that he was not afraid of death and appreciated everyone who prayed for them and visited.

She especially thanked the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Enoch Adeboye, and other Christian leaders who supported their family during this time.

“Your life of integrity touched lives, including my own life. You have fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith,” she said.

Paul Enenche, founder of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, said Mr Okoye cared deeply about Nigeria’s spiritual and physical health.

Mr Enenche mentioned that the late chaplain believed that God would raise Christians who would make a big difference in Nigeria.

The President of CAN, Daniel Okoh, an archbishop, described Mr Okoye as a preacher, trainer, and mentor who dedicated his life to God and humanity.

Mr Okoh quoted Psalm 116:15 and John 11:25, saying Christians do not mourn like those without hope.

Victor Okoye spoke on behalf of the children. He said since their father’s passing, the family has heard many stories of his kindness.

He noted that his father may not have left great material wealth but left a lasting legacy of a good name, values, and kindness that money cannot buy, which they will carry on.

NAN reports that Wale Oke, the PFN national president, led prayers for the family and the church the deceased left behind.

Mr Okoye is survived by his wife, six children, and nine grandchildren, including Victor Okoye, a journalist with NAN, and the entire ACFM family.