Prof. Gregory Ibe, founder of Gregory University, Uturu, and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) governorship candidate in Abia State during the 2023 election, is dead.

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

According to the family, the educationist, industrialist and philanthropist died after battling health challenges.

The statement read, “With deep sadness, but with gratitude to Almighty God for a life of purpose, impact, and service, we announce the passing of our beloved father, brother, grandfather, patriarch, and an exceptional man, Prof. Gregory Ikechukwu Ibe, OFR.

“A distinguished academic, administrator, philanthropist, statesman, entrepreneur, and educationist, Prof. Ibe dedicated his life to expanding access to education, uplifting the less privileged, and serving humanity.”

Ibe founded Gregory University, Uturu, a private university known for its focus on research, medical sciences, innovation and entrepreneurship.

Through his companies, including Skill ‘G’ Limited and Innov8 Hub, he supplied laboratory and technical equipment to tertiary institutions across Nigeria.

In politics, Ibe contested the 2023 Abia State governorship election as the APGA candidate, campaigning on a technology-driven development agenda aimed at transforming the state into an industrial hub.

He is survived by six children, seven grandchildren, and numerous mentees and beneficiaries.

The family expressed appreciation to members of the public for their condolences and requested privacy as arrangements for his funeral were being finalised.