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It was a solemn yet celebratory farewell on Friday, February 20, 2026, as family members, friends, associates, and dignitaries gathered in Utagba-Uno, Ndokwa West Local Government Area of Delta State, to bid a final goodbye to Late Chief David Ugbo Anite, who passed on at the age of 90.
The funeral rites commenced with a Vigil Mass held on February 18 at the Annunciation Catholic Church, Bazunu, Warri, where prayers and reflections were offered for the repose of his soul. The funeral Mass proper took place at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, followed by interment at Ndueze Secondary School, Utagba-Uno.
In his homily titled “Know God and Repent from Your Sins Today,” the officiating priest, Rev. Fr. Fabian Ekwerem, CM, anchored his sermon on Matthew 25:31–46. He emphasized that knowing God and genuine repentance are not merely nominal practices but fundamental requirements for Christians who aspire to eternal life. He urged the congregation to remain heavenly-minded, stressing that earthly pursuits and carnal desires are temporary, while spiritual investments endure beyond the grave.
The cleric noted that the remarkable turnout at the burial ceremony was a testament to the impactful and exemplary life lived by the late Chief David Ugbo Anite. He encouraged all present to embrace a life of faith, service, and righteousness, reminding them that everlasting bliss awaits those who walk faithfully with God.
In an emotional tribute, Hon. Charles Ugbo Anite, the first son of the deceased, returned all glory to God for granting his father a fulfilled and purposeful life spanning nine decades. He expressed deep appreciation to dignitaries and sympathizers who attended the final rites in honour of their patriarch.
Describing his father as a devoted Christian and humanitarian, Charles recounted that Late Chief David Ugbo Anite dedicated his life to the service of God and humanity. As a Personnel Manager with the renowned construction giant Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, he facilitated employment opportunities for countless individuals, empowering many families and contributing significantly to societal development.
He further highlighted his father’s commitment to community welfare, recalling how the late chief personally facilitated water supply to the community, earning him recognition as a selfless benefactor and community helper.
In a pledge to sustain his father’s enduring legacy, Charles Anite announced his commitment to contributing regularly to the upkeep of the church in cherished memory of his father, whose life of discipline, humility, courage, and deep faith remains worthy of emulation.
He described his late father as his guiding light, a man of wisdom and strong moral character, whose purpose-driven life left an indelible mark on family, church, and society at large.
Among dignitaries present at the burial ceremony were High Chief Tunde Smooth, the Bolouwei of Ijaw Nation; Olorogun Chief Elijah JP, former Vice Chairman of Ndokwa West LGA; Chief Paul Ekewenu (aka Palepa); Dr. Ojobor Tex; Chief Gabriel Onwubolu; Odogwu-abi of Ushie, Anim B.S.; Oduah Ikechukwu, and several other notable personalities.
Late Chief David Ugbo Anite is survived by his children — Charles Anite Ugbo, Joy Eke Anite, Winifred Iwomi, Eunice Ugbo, Ike Anite Ugbo, Emeke Anite Ugbo — and numerous grandchildren.
As the sun set over Utagba-Uno, it marked not just the burial of a patriarch but the celebration of a life well spent in service to God, community, and humanity.
