Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 elections, announced on Thursday morning, July 16, 2026, the death of Reverend William Okoye. Obi described Okoye as a distinguished senior leader of the All Christians Fellowship Mission (ACFM) and expressed profound sadness over the loss.
Obi's Tribute to Reverend Okoye
In a personal statement shared on his verified X page, Obi wrote: "Rev. Okoye belonged to that rare generation of spiritual leaders who understood that the true measure of ministry is not in the size of its platforms but in the depth of its impact on humanity." He hailed the late cleric as a humble spiritual leader whose ministry was defined by faith, integrity, and sacrificial service.
According to Obi, Rev. Okoye spent his ministry equipping people to live with purpose, discipline, and moral conviction. The politician credited the late cleric with inspiring countless individuals through his teachings, personal conduct, and leadership within the ACFM body.
A Significant Loss for Nigeria
Obi described the death as a blow not only to the Okoye family and the wider Christian community but also to Nigeria as a nation. He noted that the country currently stands in need of voices capable of fostering unity and healing. "His passing is a great loss to his family, the entire All Christians Fellowship Mission (ACFM), the Body of Christ, and our dear nation, Nigeria, at a time when our country yearns for voices that unite, heal, and inspire people to pursue justice, peace, and compassion," Obi said.
Call to Honour the Cleric's Legacy
While acknowledging the grief surrounding the cleric's departure, Obi struck a note of celebration, saying the life Rev. Okoye lived warranted recognition rather than grief alone. He expressed confidence that the values the reverend championed would outlast his physical presence and continue shaping lives across generations.
Obi closed his tribute with a direct appeal, urging those who mourn the cleric to honour his memory by committing themselves to selfless living, sincere love, and diligent work toward building a just and peaceful Nigeria. He concluded: "May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace."
Background on Peter Obi
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Obi called for President Tinubu's resignation. In June, Obi demanded President Tinubu's resignation over alleged governance failures and purported nationwide discontent, following the IMF's revelation that expenditure amounting to two per cent of Nigeria’s GDP was omitted from the budget process.
