Rev. William Okoye, ex-Aso Villa Chaplain, dies at 83
Rev. William Okoye, ex-Aso Villa Chaplain, dies

Rev. William Okoye, the Founder and General Overseer of All Christians Fellowship Mission (ACFM) and former Chaplain of the Aso Villa Chapel, has died. He passed away peacefully on Wednesday, 15 July, according to a statement signed by Godwin Tsee on behalf of the Board of Trustees and the National Executive Council of the mission.

Life and Ministry

The statement described Okoye as a faithful servant of God who dedicated his life to the service of humanity. He served as Chaplain of the Aso Villa Chapel during the administrations of former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, contributing significantly to the growth of the church and Christian ministry.

The mission urged members of ACFM and the wider Christian community to remain steadfast in faith, united in love and prayer following the founder's death. The leadership is consulting with the immediate family on arrangements to honour Okoye's life and ministry. Details of the funeral and burial ceremonies will be communicated through official channels.

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Survivors

Okoye is survived by children, including Victor Okoye, a journalist with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Abuja.

CAN Mourns

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) expressed deep sadness over Okoye's passing. In a statement signed by CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association extended heartfelt condolences to the widow, Toyin Okoye, his children, and the entire Christian community in Nigeria.

Okoh described the late cleric as a dedicated servant of God who spent his life preaching the Gospel, raising leaders, and working tirelessly for the unity and growth of the Church. “His service to the body of Christ extended well beyond his own ministry. He served as Chairman of CAN, FCT Chapter, Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), FCT Chapter and later as CAN National Director on National Issues and Social Welfare,” Okoh said.

National Service

Okoh highlighted Okoye's outstanding national service, noting that he served the country with distinction in high-profile capacities. “Rev. Okoye also served the nation with distinction as a member of the Presidential Advisory Council on Youth Affairs, the National Political Reform Conference, the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission and as Chaplain to two Presidents of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Head of the Aso Rock Villa Chapel,” Okoh said.

Okoh added that Okoye's commitment to nation-building reflected his deep conviction that faith should positively influence society. Paying tribute to Okoye's personal character, the CAN president described him as a humble servant of God who discharged his duties with wisdom, grace, and unwavering dedication. “He was deeply committed to the unity of the Church and was always willing to lend his voice and experience whenever called upon. His counsel, calm disposition and passion for advancing God's Kingdom will be greatly missed,” Okoh added.

Call to Prayer

Okoh urged the Christian faithful to thank God for a life well spent in His service and prayed that God would comfort the bereaved family, the All Christians Fellowship Mission, and all grieving individuals, granting them the strength to bear the loss.

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