The founder of Gregory University, Uturu, and the 2023 governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance in Abia State, Prof. Gregory Ibe, is dead.

Ibe’s death was confirmed in a statement issued on Monday 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 institution known for its focus on research, medical science, innovation and entrepreneurship.

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Through his companies, including Skill ‘G’ Limited and Innov8 Hub, he provided tertiary institutions across the country with laboratory and technical equipment.

In politics, Ibe contested the 2023 Abia State governorship election as the APGA candidate, campaigning on a technology-driven blueprint to transform the state into an industrial hub.

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

The family thanked members of the public for their condolences and requested privacy as funeral arrangements were being finalised.