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Family, friends, and members of the Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel) gathered on Friday at the Late Mr. Peter Otika’s Compound in Uhueme Village, Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, to pay their final respects to Mr. Chigozie George Otika.

The funeral service sermon by Pastor Miracle Nwakeze, centred on the theme "The Hope We Have in Christ." Speaking during the service, Pastor Nwakeze reflected on the inevitability of death, reminding mourners that life’s uncertainties make it crucial to hold onto hope and faith in God.

“No more will be said of Chigozie today or in the future more than he lived for,” Pastor Nwakeze said. “Death is a reality every mortal must face. But for believers, we grieve not without hope,” he added, referencing I Thessalonians 4:13-14 and John 11:35, where the Bible records that even Jesus wept.

Encouraging the family to find strength in God, Pastor Nwakeze cited Psalm 34:18, assuring the bereaved that "God is always close to the brokenhearted." He urged Mrs. Otika and the wider family to remain hopeful even in their darkest moments, drawing on scriptures from Deuteronomy 1:8 and John 14:1-3 to reinforce that God’s presence offers comfort and light in times of sorrow.

Pastor Nwakeze also shared a personal story, recounting how he lost his father at a young age and how fear gripped his family following a series of untimely deaths. He explained that accepting Jesus Christ as his Lord and Saviour changed the trajectory of his life, dispelling fear and spiritual darkness within his family. "The authority of light over darkness is instant and unquestionable," he said, emphasizing that faith in Christ transforms lives and communities.

During the service, Mr. Tobechukwu Otika, the younger brother of the deceased, delivered a moving tribute. He described his late brother as a man with a large heart, recalling a time when Chigozie emptied his savings to support Tobechukwu’s university education at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.

"I was hopeless after gaining admission with no funds to begin my registration," Tobechukwu said. "Chigozie emptied his account to ensure that I never lost the opportunity. His sacrifice is a memory I will always cherish."

He also paid tribute to their mother, recognising her resilience and unwavering commitment to ensuring the family's progress despite financial hardship. "Whatever we do today is not just for ourselves but for the family," he said.

Pastor Emeka Ezenwa of Living Faith Church, Mbaukwu, also addressed mourners during the service. He asked the congregation to reflect on the ultimate destination of the human soul, quoting from Genesis 2:7 and 1 Corinthians 13:13.

"Our lives belong to God," Pastor Ezenwa said. "We must live for God and for humanity." He emphasised that Christianity is a personal relationship with God, not merely church attendance. "The real church is within us," he said. "The blessings of God come through serving Him."

Pastor Ezenwa further urged attendees to live according to the teachings of the Bible, reminding them that death is inevitable but that the way one lives determines their eternal legacy.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr. Emmanuel Otika expressed gratitude to the church for their support and compassion throughout the period of mourning. He acknowledged that the dignity and heart with which the burial was conducted deepened the family's faith and commitment to God.

The funeral ceremony concluded with a thanksgiving service held on Sunday at Living Faith Church, Mbaukwu. Pastor Ezenwa led prayers for the Otika family, asking for divine blessings and longevity.

Mr. Chigozie George Otika is remembered by his family, friends, and community as a man of generosity, love, and enduring faith.

 

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