“Men Count Years, God Counts Fulfilment: Clerics Celebrate Legacy of Pastor Paul Erakhifu”
Pastor Paul Ikherovba Erakhifu was laid to rest a the age of 56 amid glowing tributes from family members, church leaders, colleagues, and friends who gathered in Lagos to celebrate a life devoted to God, humanity, and selfless service.
The wake-keep service held on May 14, 2026, at his residence in Lagos, was conducted by the leadership of the United Apostolic Church of Christ under the President and General Overseer, Rev. Dr. James ‘Bayo Owoyemi.
The solemn gathering attracted church members, community leaders, well-wishers, and staff of the Nigerian Ports Authority, where the late pastor diligently served in the Media Unit of the Corporate and Strategic Communication Division.
Tributes and testimonies during the wake service described Pastor Erakhifu as a humble, faithful, disciplined, and compassionate servant of God whose life positively impacted many within and beyond the Christian community. Speakers highlighted his unwavering commitment to the church, excellence in service, dedication to humanity, and willingness to support others at all times.
Delivering the wake-keep sermon, Prophet Dr. Gabriel Idowu Alo spoke on faith, eternal life, and purposeful living. He encouraged believers to remain steadfast in faith and committed to righteous living and service to humanity, noting that Pastor Erakhifu’s life reflected devotion, sacrifice, humility, and dedication to God’s work.
The funeral service held on May 15, 2026, at the General Headquarters of UACC featured a powerful sermon by Rev. Dr. Owoyemi titled, “Not How Long, But How Well.” The cleric stressed that the value of life is not measured by longevity but by fulfilment and impact. Quoting scriptures including 2 Timothy 4:7, Matthew 11:11, 2 Kings 23:25, and Acts 13:36, he explained that many biblical figures are remembered not for the number of years they lived, but for fulfilling divine purpose and positively impacting humanity.
According to him, “Men count years, God counts fulfilment.” He stated that although Pastor Erakhifu did not live to old age, his life was purposeful, impactful, and fully dedicated to God and humanity. He further emphasized that long life should not be regarded as the sole evidence of God’s love, noting that even Jesus Christ did not attain old age physically on earth.
The General Overseer described the late pastor as a pillar within UACC, whose selflessness, sacrifice, commitment, and unwavering dedication distinguished him. He assured the family that the church leadership would continue to honour and preserve his legacy while standing firmly with them in prayers and support.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr. Emmanuel Erakhifu expressed heartfelt appreciation to all who attended the funeral and supported the family during the period of mourning.
He stated that the sermon helped him realize that the true essence of life lies in what a person does with time and resources, as those deeds ultimately become the legacy left behind.
Among dignitaries and ministers present at the funeral service were Rev. Oluwatuase, Pastor Mrs. Adeola Adesomi, Rev. Samuel Afolabi, Pastor Samuel Areji, Pastor Dele Ishola, and hosts of others plus management and staff of Nigerian Ports Authority.
Until his passing, Pastor Paul Ikherovba Erakhifu served in the Media Unit of the Corporate and Strategic Communication Division of the Nigerian Ports Authority, where he was widely respected for his vast professional experience, unwavering commitment, supportive nature, and dedication to duty. Colleagues described him as an invaluable member of the organization whose absence and the vacuum created by his demise will be deeply felt across the entire NPA.
Ordained as a pastor in 1999, Pastor Erakhifu served in several capacities within UACC, including pioneer Prayer Coordinator of the Blessed Youth Organization, Lagos Campus Coordinator of the United International Bible College, Zonal Superintendent of UACC Ifeolorun Lagos Zone, Media Director of UACC Worldwide, and Chairman of the church’s Diamond Jubilee and 2026 Convention Planning Committee.
He will be remembered for his steadfast faith, excellence in service, and enduring impact on countless lives.