The remains of Late Hon. Julius Ishaya Lepes, former Commissioner, were laid to rest in his hometown of Kaltungo.
At the burial, mourners paid glowing tributes, describing him as a vibrant, trusted, and honest gentleman who dedicated his life to impacting youths, society, the community, and the church.
The funeral service, held at ECWA Gospel Centre, Kalorgu in Kaltungo Local Government Area, was attended by the Deputy Governor of Gombe State, Dr Manassah Daniel Jatau,who joined thousands of sympathisers to pay last respects to the deceased.
Leading a high-powered government delegation, the Deputy Governor conveyed the condolences of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, the government, and the people of Gombe State to the family and all sympathisers.
Dr Jatau described death as a natural phenomenon for all mortals, stressing that what matters most in life is the impact made while alive. Quoting from John 9:4, he reminded the congregation of the need to serve God while strong and healthy, leaving behind legacies and cherished memories.
Reflecting on the challenges of the present day, he remarked that being able to bury loved ones is a privilege, noting that some die under suspicious circumstances or remain missing. He encouraged the widow, Mrs. Florence Lepes, their children, and the entire family to take solace in God, assuring them that time is a great healer.
The sermon was delivered by Pastor Daniel Manu Faruk of ECWA Gospel Church, Off-Ashaka Road, Gombe, where the deceased worshipped until his passing. Preaching from John 9:4 on the topic “Time Waits for No One”, Pastor Manu urged the congregation to use their time wisely to positively impact humanity. He cautioned against wasting opportunities on deception and negativity, instead calling for investment in kingdom-minded endeavours.
In his tribute, the Chairman of Kaltungo Local Government Council, Mr. Suleman Iliya, acknowledged death as a natural occurrence, citing the Biblical truth that there is a time for everything. Similarly, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Gombe Chapter, Rev. Fr. Joseph Alphonsus Shinga, sympathised with the family and appealed to politicians to support the children’s education. He recalled the late commissioner once requesting prayers against the temptation of lying in his role, describing him as a God-fearing man.
Other tributes came from the representative of the Mai Kaltungo, Engineer Saleh Mohammed; the District Head of Ture, Habila Garba; the Chairman of the Nigeria Youth Congress, Gombe Chapter; the Boys Brigade; and representatives of ECWA Gospel Centre Kalorgu and ECWA Gospel Off Ashaka Road, Gombe, where the deceased worshipped.
Family representative and a trusted friend of the deceased, Mr. Richard James, political associate Barr. Rambi Ayala, the Wazirin Kalorgu, and the Chairman of Kalorgu Development Association, Gombe Chapter, also described Hon. Julius Lepes as a trustworthy leader committed to his community, society, and the church.
The Deputy Governor was accompanied by the former Senator Representing Gombe South Senatorial District,Sen.Joshua Lidani, Member representing Kaltungo/Shongom Federal Constituency,Dr.Obed Paul,a Federal
Permanent Secretary,in the office of Head of civil service of the federation Dr.Danjuma Kalba as well as Commissioner of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Dr. Barnabas Malle; the FRSC Sector Commander, Mr. Samson Kaura; the Controller of Correctional Services, Mr. Felix Agada Audu;Rear Admiral Nuhu Jidere Bala (Rtd.) and the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Larai Maigari, among others.
Jack.A.Tasha
Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media and Publicity,
(Deputy Governor’s Office)
