The Federal Polytechnic, Oko, has held a valedictory session in honour of its late Bursar, Mr. Stephen Udu, described by colleagues and associates as a man of integrity, humility, and uncommon dedication to duty.
Speaking during the special session held on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at the institution’s Convocation Arena, the Rector, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, paid glowing tributes to the late bursar, noting that his passing was a great loss to the Polytechnic community.
Dr. Awuzie described Mr. Udu as a consummate professional who served the institution with distinction.
“Mr. Udu served this Polytechnic with unwavering dedication, integrity, and excellence,” she said. “He set a standard of loyalty and professionalism, not only in managing the finances of the Polytechnic but also in his civility, humility, and kindness towards people around him. He made a difference, not through noise or fanfare, but by doing his work quietly, faithfully, and consistently.”
The Rector, on behalf of the Governing Council, Management, Staff, and Students, extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, assuring them of the Polytechnic’s support and prayers.
In their tributes, the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics (SSANIP), Federal Polytechnic Oko Branch, the Bursary Division, and the Ebonyi Staff Welfare Association all eulogized the late bursar, describing him as a model of humility and service.
Mr. Ben Agudosi, Secretary of SSANIP, recalled Mr. Udu’s active participation in union affairs despite his busy schedule as a principal officer, describing him as “a true unionist who remained humble, sociable, and never segregated against anyone.”
The Bursary Division, in its tribute, noted that Mr. Udu fostered unity and spiritual growth within the department by introducing regular prayer sessions. “He welcomed ideas from subordinates and was known for his generosity and open-hearted leadership,” the tribute read.
Similarly, the Ebonyi State Staff Welfare Association, represented by Mr. Ugbo Celestine, hailed the late bursar as a selfless patron who demonstrated unwavering commitment to the welfare and unity of the staff community.
As part of the events honouring the late bursar, a valedictory mass was held at St. Augustine’s Catholic Chaplaincy, Federal Polytechnic, Oko.
In his homily, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ekwulobia, His Eminence Peter Ebere Cardinal Okpalaeke, urged Christians to live lives of virtue and readiness for eternity, noting that death could come at any moment.
“Mr. Stephen Udu lived and died in faith. He was a good and humble Christian who identified with others and served with sincerity,” Cardinal Okpalaeke said.
The Holy Mass was concelebrated by over 15 priests, including the Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Dr. John Umeojiako; the Vicar General of Ekwulobia Diocese, Rev. Fr. Anthony Chiegboka; and former Chaplain, Very Rev. Fr. Paul Dimude, among others.
The ceremony was attended by the Rector and members of the Polytechnic management, the Mayor of Orumba North LGA, Barr. Capt. Casmir Nwafor (rtd), staff, students, and friends of the late bursar.
Mr. Stephen Udu will be remembered as a man of faith, service, and humility whose legacy will continue to inspire the Federal Polytechnic Oko community.