The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and his friends and associates have donated N100 million to St. Matthew’s Anglican Church, Mgbuogba Parish, Port Harcourt, in honour of the late traditional ruler, Sir Edward Chinda, the Eze Nyemenum I of Rumuokwuta.
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The donation was announced during the monarch’s funeral service at the church in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State on Saturday.
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Wike described the late ruler, who died at the age of 85, as a humble, dependable and easy-going man who played an important role in his family and beyond.
The minister, who was related to the deceased through his marriage to the monarch’s niece, said Sir Chinda was always available whenever his extended family needed assistance.
He recalled that the traditional ruler maintained a youthful appearance and attitude despite his age, adding that he was surprised when he learnt that the deceased was 85.
Wike also spoke about his political relationship with the monarch, recalling their association when he contested for the chairmanship of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
He said he had spoken with Sir Chinda during his illness and continued to hope that he would recover until he received news of his death.
Explaining the reason for the N100 million donation, Wike said the late monarch had looked forward to the church’s annual harvest thanksgiving and wanted his church group to emerge as the leading contributor.
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The minister said the donation was intended to fulfil the deceased’s wish and make him happy, despite his inability to participate in the harvest celebration before his death.
Wike also praised the church for its development, noting that its capacity had grown to more than 20 times what he remembered from his last visit over two decades ago.
Earlier, the church’s Supervisor and Vicar, Rev. Canon Gideon Genka, delivered a sermon titled “Life is Short Compared to Eternity”.
Genka reminded the congregation that human life was fragile and unpredictable, stressing that everyone would eventually die regardless of how long they lived.
He encouraged Christians to live with eternity in mind and commended Wike for his peace efforts in Rivers State and his support for people around him.
The cleric described the minister as a good leader who consistently looked after his followers.
Genka also praised the late Sir Edward Chinda as a respected traditional ruler, committed Christian and peaceful community leader whose humility, wisdom and contributions to Rumuokwuta would be remembered.
The funeral service was attended by members of the deceased’s family, traditional rulers, religious leaders and political associates who gathered to honour his memory.
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