Professor Gregory Ibe, founder of Gregory University Uturu and APGA's 2023 Abia governorship candidate, has died at 63.
ABIA STATE: Professor Gregory Ibe dies at 63, according to a statement issued by his family on Monday, October 19, 2026. The founder and proprietor of Gregory University Uturu in Abia State reportedly died on Sunday, October 18, after a prolonged illness.
Ibe was a prominent academic, entrepreneur, philanthropist and politician who contested the 2023 Abia State governorship election as the candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
His death was announced in a statement issued by the royal family of HRH Eze Cyril Ibe, Okwelube I of Amaokwe Achara Autonomous Community.
The family described the late professor as a distinguished educationist and administrator whose work focused on expanding access to education, supporting disadvantaged people and contributing to community development.
Family Announces Gregory Ibe’s Death
In its announcement, the family expressed gratitude for the prayers and messages of sympathy received following the professor’s death.
According to the statement, Ibe dedicated his life to education, entrepreneurship, philanthropy and humanitarian service.
“Through Gregory University Uturu, Skill ‘G’ Ltd., Innov8 Hub and other initiatives, he touched thousands of lives, leaving an enduring legacy in education and community development,” the statement said.
The family confirmed that the late professor is survived by six children and seven grandchildren.
It also appealed for continued prayers for the peaceful repose of his soul and strength for relatives mourning his death.
Funeral arrangements, according to the statement, would be announced in due course. The family also requested privacy during the mourning period.
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Gregory Ibe’s Contributions to Education
Gregory Ibe was best known for establishing Gregory University Uturu, a private university located in Abia State.
Through the institution, he pursued his interest in education and human capital development. The university remains one of the major institutions associated with his professional legacy.
Beyond the university, Ibe was connected with Skill ‘G’ Ltd. and Innov8 Hub, initiatives identified by his family as part of his work in education, entrepreneurship and innovation.
He was also recognised for his philanthropic activities, particularly support for undergraduates receiving scholarships at Gregory University.
His work combined educational initiatives with business and community development, earning him recognition as an entrepreneur and educationist in southeastern Nigeria.
Gregory Ibe’s Political Career in Abia State
Beyond academia and business, Ibe participated in Abia State politics.
He contested the 2023 governorship election under the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance. During the campaign, he advocated a power shift to Abia North, citing the Abia Charter of Equity.
His candidacy placed him among the politicians seeking to lead the state in the 2023 election.
Although he was widely associated with education and entrepreneurship, his participation in the governorship race also made him a notable figure in Abia’s political landscape.
Health Challenges Before His Death
Reports surrounding Gregory Ibe’s death indicated that he had experienced health challenges as political activities ahead of the 2023 governorship election gathered momentum.
He reportedly made fewer public appearances after the election while dealing with the illness.
However, he attended his mother’s burial earlier in 2026, according to the account of events surrounding his final years.
The family announcement did not provide a specific medical cause of death. Further medical details should therefore not be assumed without an authoritative statement.
Gregory Ibe’s Legacy
Gregory Ibe’s death marks the loss of a figure whose activities spanned higher education, entrepreneurship, philanthropy and politics.
His establishment of Gregory University Uturu and involvement in other initiatives formed central parts of his public identity.
Support for students and educational opportunities was also a notable part of the legacy highlighted by his family.
As tributes and reactions emerge, further statements from the university, political associates and public officials may provide additional perspectives on his contributions to Abia State and Nigeria.
For now, the family has confirmed his death and said funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.
Avid Reporters will update this report as further verified information becomes available.
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