Abia State Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE, has urged residents to live exemplary lives marked by truth, integrity, love and meaningful service to humanity.

Emetu spoke at the burial ceremony of late Mrs. Ezioma Ndubuisi Arukwo Onyebinanma, held in Amauhie, Eluoma Autonomous Community, Bende Local Government Area of Abia State.

Reflecting on the message delivered at the funeral by Apostle Dr. Mrs. Kate Emmanuel, the Deputy Governor said the occasion provided an opportunity for those present to consider the kind of legacy they would leave behind.

He highlighted the sermon’s theme, “What will you be remembered for?”, noting that although death is inevitable, the impact people make through their conduct and service remains a lasting testimony of how they lived.

Emetu urged Abians to reject falsehood, demonstrate love towards one another and maintain integrity in their responsibilities, whether or not those supervising them were present.

“What we do will be remembered long after we leave this earth. We should strive to lead exemplary lives, love one another, always speak the truth, and avoid bearing false witness,” he stated.

The Deputy Governor commended Apostle Emmanuel for the message, saying its emphasis on purposeful living and service was relevant to everyone at the gathering.

He also reflected on the life of the deceased, who died at the age of 82, saying her example should encourage people to focus not only on living long but also on making a positive contribution to society.

Earlier, Apostle Emmanuel based her sermon on Acts 9:36–39, which recounts the life of Tabitha, also known as Dorcas. She encouraged the congregation to consider the legacy they would leave behind, pointing to Dorcas’ reputation for kindness and charitable works, particularly her support for widows and other members of her community.

The preacher urged people to become “problem solvers” rather than contribute to existing difficulties, encouraging them to make positive contributions in their families, communities, workplaces, churches and public service.

She further called on those presented with opportunities to serve to approach such responsibilities with sincerity and commitment, stressing that the impact of their actions would remain after they were gone.

In a tribute to his mother, Hon. Ndubuisi W. Iheanyi said Mrs. Onyebinanma, despite having no formal education, demonstrated considerable wisdom and achieved success in farming and trading.

He also recalled that she received prestigious awards for her contributions as a cultural singer during the era of the former East Central State. He described her as a courageous voice for the oppressed, a cultural icon and a mother figure to people who lacked maternal care.

Iheanyi prayed for the peaceful repose of his mother's soul.

During the ceremony, Emetu also appreciated the people of Abia State for their continued support for the administration, assuring them that the government remained focused on good governance and delivering tangible benefits to citizens.

He expressed optimism about further developments in the state and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to serving the people.

The Deputy Governor attended the ceremony with his wife, Her Excellency Mrs Adaeze Chidera Emetu. Also present were the Member Representing Bende South State Constituency, Hon. Emmanuel Ndubuisi; the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Environment, Prof. Ijeoma Iheukwumere; Mayor of Bende LGA, Hon. Uwabunkeonye Bassey; LP State Deputy Women Leader, Hon. Mrs. Stephanie Nneoma Alilionwu; aides to the Deputy Governor and other well-wishers.