Eze Aro of Arochukwu Kingdom, His Eminence Dr Eberechukwu Oji, has grieved over the passing of Mazi (Senator) Chris Ukpabi, saying he will be sorely missed.
The family, through his son Architect Kelechi Ukpabi, had announced the second republic Senator’s death on Sunday, saying:
“With tears in our eyes and pain in our heart, we announce the passing away of an illustrious son of this family, Chief (Sen.) Christopher Ogbonnaya S. I Ukpabi.”
Following the announcement, Eze Eberechukwu Oji while expressing sadness over the loss of the distinguished lawmaker, said:
“Arochukwu Kingdom, Abia State, and indeed Nigeria have lost a fine gentleman, a father and a community leader. He lived for the people and not himself; we shall miss him sorely.”
The Aro monarch prayed God to repose the departed soul, as well as grant his household the fortitude to bear the huge loss.
Mazi Chris Ukpabi was a man of many parts, who made impacts in several spheres of human existence as an astute politician and orator, a philanthropist, a leader and voice of the people.
Senator Chris Ukpabi held several traditional titles including Onwa na agbara oha 1; Ikoro Atani, Oyere ive n’ogo; Dike di oha nma of Nkwerre.
As a politician, he was elected Senator on the platform of National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in 1983 to represent Umuahia Zone; Abia State governorship candidate of the National Republican Convention (NRC) and later Abia State Chairman of NRC from 1991-1993.
A native of Atani Village, Arochukwu, Mazi Chris Ukpabi was educated at County Grammar School, Ikwerre Etche; Government College Owerri, and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he earned a degree in Plant/Soil Science.
In the corporate world, Mazi Chris Ukpabi was a Federal Produce Officer, Ministry of Trade; Land Surveyor, Nigeria Agip Oil Company Ltd; Chairman/CEO, Chrislyn and Associates and Chair/ CEO of Trident Shipping Co, Chrislyn & Associates and NIPEC Nig Ltd
He was also Chairman, Governing Board, Rivers State College of Education (Technical), Omoku.
In service to his community, Senator Chris Ukpabi held the post of National Treasurer of Nzuko Aro from 1986-1996; past Vice Chair, Eze Aro Advisory Council; past President, Ohabuike Age grade Atani, among others.
Mazi Chris Ukpabi single-handedly installed the street lights in Atani Village.
He is married to Evelyn and blessed with children and grand children.
Burial arrangement will be announced later by the family
May his soul rest in peace!