Prof. Gregory Ikechukwu Ibe, founder of Gregory University, Uturu, and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) governorship candidate in Abia State during the 2023 elections, has died after a period of illness. His death was confirmed by his royal family in a statement released on Monday, October 19, 2026.
Royal Family Confirms Death After Health Struggles
The royal family of HRH Eze Cyril Ibe of Okwelube I, Amaokwe Achara Autonomous Community in Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State, announced the passing in an official statement. The statement described Prof. Ibe as a man whose life was defined by purpose, service, and impact.
"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," the statement read. "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."
Gregory University and Business Ventures
Ibe established Gregory University, Uturu, a private institution built around research, medical science, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Beyond education, he ran companies including Skill 'G' Limited and Innov8 Hub, through which he supplied laboratory and technical equipment to tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
His work spanned multiple sectors, earning him recognition as an industrialist and philanthropist who consistently invested in the development of others. According to The Punch, which first reported the news, the family said Ibe had been battling health challenges before his death.
Political Career and Legacy
In 2023, Ibe contested the Abia State governorship election on the APGA platform, running on a technology-focused campaign that proposed turning the state into an industrial hub. His political ambition followed a long career in academia and business, where he was known for his contributions to education and enterprise development.
Ibe is survived by six children, seven grandchildren, and a wide network of mentees and beneficiaries whose lives he influenced over the course of his career. The family thanked well-wishers for their condolences and asked for privacy while funeral arrangements are being finalised.
