Live Exemplary Lives That Leave Lasting Legacies, Deputy Governor Emetu Tells Abians

The Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE, has urged Abians to live exemplary and impactful lives, noting that every person will ultimately be remembered by their actions and contributions to society.

Emetu gave the charge on Friday at the burial ceremony of Late Mrs. Ezioma Ndubuisi Arukwo Onyebinanma, held in Amauhie, Eluoma Autonomous Community, Bende Local Government Area of Abia State.

Speaking at the event, the Deputy Governor reflected on the sermon delivered by Apostle Dr. Mrs. Kate Emmanuel, describing it as a powerful reminder for the living to be intentional about the legacies they leave behind.

He said the central theme of the sermon, “What will you be remembered for?”, should challenge everyone to live with truthfulness, integrity, and love.

According to him, while death is inevitable, the legacy we leave is the true testament of how we lived.

“What we do will be remembered long after we leave this earth. We should strive to lead exemplary lives, love one another, always speak the truth, and avoid bearing false witness,” Emetu said.

He further advised those in positions of authority to uphold integrity at all times, whether their superiors are present or not, and to reject falsehood in all its forms.

Emetu thanked Apostle Dr. Emmanuel for what he described as a deeply impactful message, adding that the life of the deceased, who died at 82, should inspire the living to pursue not just longevity, but a life that leaves a positive and lasting mark.

He also commended the people of Abia State for their continued support for the present administration, assuring that government remains committed to good governance and to delivering dividends of democracy to the people.

Earlier in her sermon from Acts 9:36-39, Apostle Dr. Mrs. Kate Emmanuel drew lessons from the life of Tabitha, also known as Dorcas. She noted that Dorcas is remembered for her kindness and charitable works, especially toward widows and the vulnerable in her community.

She charged the congregation to be problem solvers in their families, communities, workplaces, churches and public service, and to serve with sincerity and dedication.

In a heartfelt tribute, Hon. Ndubuisi W. Iheanyi, the son of the late Mrs. Ezioma Ndubuisi Arukwo Onyebinanma, shared that despite his mother’s lack of formal education, she possessed incredible wisdom and achieved remarkable success in farming and trading. She also earned prestigious awards as a cultural singer during her time in the East Central State.

He went on to describe her as a courageous advocate for the oppressed, a cultural icon, and a nurturing figure for those without mothers. He prayed for her soul to find eternal peace.

The Deputy Governor was accompanied by his wife, Her Excellency Mrs. Adaeze Chidera Emetu. Also present were the Member representing Bende South State Constituency, Hon. Emmanuel Ndubuisi; the SSA to the Governor on Environment, Prof. Ijeoma Iheukwumere; the Mayor of Bende LGA, Hon. Uwabunkeonye Bassey; the LP State Deputy Women Leader, Hon. Mrs. Stephanie Nneoma Alilionwu, aides to the Deputy Governor and other well wishers.