By Chesa Chesa
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Chairman of the United Bank for Africa (UBA), Chief Israel Ogbue, who passed away at the age of 99.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President commiserated with the family, friends and associates of the late banking executive, describing his life as exemplary and devoted to service.
Chief Ogbue had a distinguished career spanning the Federal Civil Service, the National Insurance Corporation (NICON), and NAL Merchant Bank before his tenure at UBA. He served as a non-executive director of the bank from 2005 to 2011 and was subsequently appointed Chairman, a position he held until 2013.
During his time on the board, President Tinubu noted, Ogbue demonstrated dignity, strategic foresight and principled leadership, guiding the institution through a critical phase in its transformation.
The late Chief Ogbue was the father of Dr. Awele Elumelu, wife of UBA Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu.
The President extended his condolences to the Elumelu family and other extended family members, as well as to the board, management and staff of UBA over the loss.
Tinubu also acknowledged what he described as numerous tributes highlighting Ogbue’s devotion to family, public service and faith. He praised the late patriarch as a committed Christian who lived humbly and dedicated his time, resources and experience to serving the church, the poor, the vulnerable and his community.
President Tinubu prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed elder statesman and asked God to grant comfort and strength to his family.
