Dr Pope Chijioke Ekweghi, political Icon, Youth and community leader who once served as the Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) South East zone is dead.

According to a release signed by one of his close associates, Sir Jega Okoro KSM, Pope who at different times served as Chairman, National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Imo State chapter, Vice President, National Youth Council of Nigeria South East and later as Special Assistant II on Homeland Security transited to the great beyond on March 3, 2026.

The release further stated that “the deceased until his death was widely known as an astute politician, an exceptional youth leader, and a passionate advocate for youth development and empowerment across Imo State, the South-East region, and Nigeria at large. He served meritoriously as Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Imo State Chapter, and also distinguished himself as Vice President of the NYCN, South-East Zone, where his leadership, vision, and commitment significantly advanced youth participation in governance and nation-building.

Dr. Pope was also actively involved in partisan politics. He served as Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), South-East Zone, where he contributed meaningfully to political discourse, party organization, and regional engagement. In recognition of his dedication to public service, he further served the Government of Imo State during the first tenure of the administration of His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, Executive Governor of Imo State, as Special Adviser II on Homeland Security, discharging his responsibilities with remarkable diligence, patriotism, and loyalty”.

Fondly called “Dr. Pope” by friends and associates, the late youth icon was a devout Christian of the Anglican faith, a respected community leader, and an inspiring youth mobiliser whose life was marked by service, courage, and an unwavering commitment to societal development.

His passing has created a profound vacuum not only within the youth constituency but also within the broader socio-political landscape of Imo State and beyond. We therefore mourn the loss of a committed patriot, visionary leader, and tireless advocate for youth empowerment.

The family will, in due course, announce the burial arrangements. In the meantime, we humbly use this medium to solicit the support and solidarity of friends, colleagues, and well-wishers in giving our departed brother and friend a befitting burial in recognition of his immense contributions to youth development, community leadership, and public service.

Kindly bear with us for adding you to this platform without prior notification, as we seek collective support and unity in honouring the memory of our dearly departed”.