The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, has paid a condolence visit to Dr. Hilary Ibegbulem, Principal Secretary to the former Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, following the death of his father, Pa Gilbert Okafor Ibegbulem.
The delegation, led by the Vice Chairman of the Council, Comrade Felix Ekwu, represented the State Chairman, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, who was unavoidably absent.
Other members of the delegation included the Ag. State Secretary, Comrade Mrs. Josephine Omodior, State Treasurer, Comrade Caro Ubini, State Financial Secretary, Comrade Polycarp Orosevwotu, State Auditor, Comrade Celestine Aforkoba, and the Chairperson of NAWOJ, Comrade Sonia Unobunjo.
Also present were Comrades Christian Eze, Chairman SWAN, Delta State Chapter, Elder Emmanuel Ekebe (Ex-Officio I), Florence Nwabuonwu (Chairman, State Information Chapel), Kenneth Obieh (Chairman, ICC), Kenneth Orusi, and Efecha Collins.
Speaking on behalf of the Council Chairman, Comrade Ekwu conveyed the Union’s heartfelt condolences to Dr. Ibegbulem and his family, describing the late Pa Gilbert Okafor Ibegbulem as “a great man, a philanthropist, and statesman who lived a life of service to humanity.”
He urged the family to take solace in the impactful life their father lived, adding that “the Lion can only beget a Lion,” in reference to the noble legacies left behind by the deceased.
In his response, Dr. Hilary Obi Ibegbulem expressed deep appreciation to the NUJ Delta Council for their solidarity and support during their time of grief.
He described his late father as a disciplined and devoted family man who ensured that all his seven children became graduates and successful professionals.
Dr. Ibegbulem assured that the family would honour their father with a befitting burial ceremony, befitting of his virtues and legacy.
He also extended an invitation to the NUJ Delta Council to join the family in celebrating the life and times of the late Pa Gilbert Okafor Ibegbulem when he is laid to rest.
