The Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Umahi, on Wednesday paid a condolence visit to his former Deputy Governor, Barr. Kelechi Igwe in Ebonyi State.
This follows the brutal killing of the Deputy Governor’s father, Francis Igwe, at the late monarch’s palace in Alike, Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State recently.
During the visit, Umahi offered words of comfort to the bereaved family and strongly condemned the shocking act, urging them to remain steadfast in faith despite the painful loss.
Addressing family members and community leaders, Umahi described the killing as a deeply disturbing act that reflects a troubling level of cruelty in society.
“When I heard of this unfortunate occurrence, for me it was like a dream, a very, very deep dream. The whole episode is strange, the level of man’s inhumanity against man.
“You will be with somebody and think he or she is a human being. The people that did this thing are not human beings,” the Minister stated, adding that such events suggest the fulfillment of biblical prophecies about the end times.
Umahi recalled the close relationship the late monarch shared with the leadership of Ebonyi State during his tenure, praising Eze Francis Igwe as a man whose wisdom and guidance fostered unity and stability.
“He was a father to all of us. We worked very well with him during our struggles, giving us advice, fathering us and making sure that the squabbles you will see between deputy and governor never existed between us. He was a man of wisdom, committed to God and service to humanity.”
Visibly saddened, the Minister prayed for divine justice against those responsible for the killing and urged the bereaved family, particularly the monarch’s widow, to find solace in the support of the wider Ebonyi community and their faith.
He also revealed that he had spoken with the Governor of Ebonyi State, commending his commitment to responding to the tragedy.
Offering personal reassurance, Umahi assured the family of his unwavering support: “I want you to be assured that I am a member of your family and you have my shoulder to lean on in all things.
“May God not allow this to happen again, not only in Alike Ikwo but also in the entire Ebonyi State and Nigeria. Please, be consoled.”
Responding on behalf of the family, Barr. Kelechi Igwe expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Minister for his solidarity during their time of grief.
The Minister was accompanied by members of the DUN Foundation, who also offered prayers and support to the grieving family.
