Obasanjo, Jonathan, Gowon Honour Late Chaplain William Okoye: A Life of Faith and Fearless Truth

Nigeria's past leaders came together on Friday night to celebrate a man who stood tall in faith and truth. Former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, alongside ex-Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon, paid glowing tributes to the late Rev. William Okoye at the National Christian Centre in Abuja.

Okoye, who served as Chaplain to two Nigerian presidents at the Aso Rock Villa Chapel, was remembered as a fearless voice of truth and a statesman of faith. The Night of Tributes drew Christian leaders, politicians, and family members to honour a man whose influence stretched far beyond the pulpit.

Obasanjo: 'A Monumental Void'

Former President Obasanjo, in a tribute read by Bishop Godwin Isaac, described Okoye as a steady and uncompromising voice of truth. Recalling their close working relationship between 1999 and 2007, Obasanjo said Okoye provided wisdom and guidance during high-pressure situations, going beyond his spiritual duties.

“As my chaplain, he was a steady, fearless, and uncompromising voice of truth,” Obasanjo said.

Obasanjo stressed that Okoye understood the gospel must speak to the material realities of the people. He served on the Presidential Advisory Council on Youth Affairs, represented the FCT at the National Political Reform Conference, and held key roles in the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).

Jonathan: 'You Stood for Integrity'

Former President Goodluck Jonathan shared a personal memory of meeting Okoye while he was Governor of Bayelsa State. Okoye was then Deputy Chaplain at the Aso Rock Villa Chapel and later became Chaplain during Jonathan's presidency.

Jonathan revealed that Okoye voluntarily stepped aside and recommended Ven. Obioma Onwuzurumba and Archbishop John Oyelade as his successors. His tribute was direct and emotional: “Nigeria will miss you. Your family will miss you. The church will miss you. You stood for integrity.”

Gowon: A Pioneer of Nigeria Prays

Gen. Yakubu Gowon, who joined virtually from the United Kingdom, praised Okoye as a pioneer of the Nigeria Prays movement. He recalled Okoye's support since the movement began in 1996 and highlighted his leadership, integrity, humility, and commitment.

“His memory will remain evergreen,” Gowon said.

Family, Friends, and Faith Leaders Speak

Sen. Victor Umeh, representing Peter Obi, described Okoye as a brother from the same local government area in Anambra State. He noted that Okoye prayed for peace during Anambra's political crisis and worked tirelessly for stability.

Pastor Mrs Toyin Okoye, the late chaplain's wife, affectionately called him “Mine.” She shared that Okoye told doctors he was not afraid of death. She thanked Pastor Enoch Adeboye and other Christian leaders for their support, adding: “Your life of integrity touched lives, including my own life. You have fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith.”

Dr Paul Enenche, founder of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, said Okoye was passionate about Nigeria's spiritual and physical wellbeing. He believed God would raise Christians to transform the nation.

CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh described Okoye as a preacher, trainer, and mentor who dedicated his life to God and humanity. Quoting Psalm 116:15 and John 11:25, he reminded mourners that Christians do not grieve without hope.

What Legacy Does William Okoye Leave Behind?

Okoye's life was marked by fearless truth, integrity, and service. He served two presidents, led national Christian bodies, and mentored countless believers. His legacy is a call to stand firm in faith and speak truth to power.

When and Where Will William Okoye Be Buried?

According to the News Agency of Nigeria, Okoye will be buried next week in his hometown in Anambra State. The burial will bring together family, church leaders, and dignitaries to give him a final farewell.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Rev. William Okoye?

Rev. William Okoye was a former General Overseer of All Christians Fellowship Mission and Chaplain of the Aso Rock Villa Chapel. He served under Presidents Obasanjo and Jonathan.

What roles did Okoye hold in Christian organisations?

He served as Chairman of CAN and PFN in Abuja, CAN National Director on National Issues, and a member of the Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board.

How did Okoye impact Nigeria's political landscape?

He served on the Presidential Advisory Council on Youth Affairs and represented the FCT at the National Political Reform Conference, bringing moral and spiritual guidance to national affairs.

Okoye's passing is a loss to Nigeria, but his life remains a powerful example of faith in action. As the nation prepares to lay him to rest, one thing is clear: this was a man who ran his race well.