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The late Reverend Ferdinand Okoye Nzekwe has been laid to rest amidst heartfelt tributes and praise to God at his country home in Ngodo Namkpu Village, Mbaukwu, Awka South Local Government Area.

In his sermon at the funeral, Pastor Emmanuel Chukwu of the All Brethren Assembly in Zakibiam, Benue State, reminded the congregation that God created us to represent Him on earth and that one day we will all return to Him. He emphasized that every individual will be judged by their actions, as our deeds on earth determine our fate in the afterlife. Pastor Chukwu urged everyone to live with constant preparedness, as no one knows when death will come. He encouraged a life of righteousness and faithful service to God.

Pastor Emeka Ezenwa of Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel), Mbaukwu, in his words of encouragement, emphasized that true redemption is found only in Christ. He declared that those who die in Christ die in truth, and those who die in righteousness depart having done what is right. 

He stressed that following God goes beyond mere church attendance; it requires a genuine relationship with Christ. “What grants eternal life is a true relationship with Christ,” he explained. “This means living according to God's will and commands. You can attend church but still be disconnected from God, and without this connection, there is no salvation—only eternal damnation. The truth of God's Word sets you free and leads you to eternal life.”

Pastor Ezenwa encouraged believers to fully embrace this truth, emphasizing that the church exists to deepen one’s understanding, strengthen faith, and help overcome sin. "Every soul must embrace the truth for eternal life," he concluded.

Pastor Edwin Nzekwe of the Watchman Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement (WCCRM), also known as the Voice of the Last Days Ministry in Awo-Omamma, Imo State, expressed heartfelt thanks to God for everything. He described his late elder brother as a wonderful and deeply cherished individual. Pastor Nzekwe expressed his joy that his brother passed away as an ambassador of Christ, confident that he now enjoys eternal life with God. He urged those who have yet to reconcile with God to do so, stressing that nothing in life matters more than a personal encounter with Christ and the promise of eternal life in God.

In his remarks, Chidi Abagwalatu, the late Ferdinand Okoye Nzekwe’s first son, expressed deep appreciation to everyone who honored their invitation, especially the church, for their outpouring of love and support. “This is what the church is meant to be,” he remarked, adding, “I deeply appreciate them.” Reflecting on his father’s passing, Chidi reminded everyone that it is now up to the living to continue doing what is right, as the Bible teaches. He offered special thanks to Living Faith Church, Mbaukwu, for their unwavering support and prayed that God would reward them abundantly for their kindness.

             Another son, Tagbo Abagwalatu, expressed deep gratitude to God for the journey of life thus far. He thanked God that his father remained with the family throughout his upbringing, ensuring that he and his siblings were educated up to the university level. Even after his father's passing, he continues to appreciate all that his father did for them. As a Christian, Tagbo urged people not to mourn without hope, as his father has gone to be with the Lord. He encouraged his mother and siblings to remain strong in their faith and extended heartfelt thanks to everyone who came to support them during this difficult time, praying for journey mercies.

Victoria Abagwalatu, his daughter, expressed that she was overwhelmed with emotion, emphasizing that her father passed away at a time when she needed him the most. "He sacrificed so much for us," she said, "and just when things were starting to turn around, when it was finally time for him to enjoy the fruits of his labor, he left. The last time we spoke, he was so excited that I got admission to the university to study medicine.” Victoria prayed that God would grant their family the grace to find strength and comfort in Him during this difficult time.

                        

The late Reverend Ferdinand Okoye Nzekwe was a businessman in Zakibiam, Benue State, and was married to Mrs. Christiana Nzekwe, with children: Chidi, Tagbo, Ifeanyi, Edozie, and Victoria.

The family concluded his funeral rites with a thanksgiving service at Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel), Mbaukwu, where Pastor Emeka Ezenwa prayed for God's continued blessings and protection over the family.