By Chukwudi Nweje, Lagos
Prominent sociocultural groups in Nigeria,, including Aka Ikenga, the Igbo think-tank intelligentsia group, the Cultural Credibility and Development Initiative (CCDI), a non governmental organisation (NGO), and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Dr Olukayode Ajulo, have described the death of the former governor of Anambra State, Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife, as a loss of inestimable value.
President of Aka Ikenga Chief Chike Madueke noted that Ezeife was an intellectual of high moral standing. who was a strenuous protagonist of the Igbo cause.
Similarly, Chief Goddy Uwazurike, President of CCDI described Ezeife as “a great man, a cerebral scholar, a motivator, public leader and charisma personified.”
For Dr Ajulo, SAN, Ezeife was a man of unparalleled dedication and service to his country, an iconic figure who made a profound impact in various spheres of life.
An intellectual of high moral standing – Aka Ikenga
President of Aka Ikenga, Chief Chike Madueke said, “It is sad to hear the news of the news of the passing on of the former governor of Anambra State Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, Okwadike Igboukwu. A product of Harvard university and an intellectual of high moral standing. He was and will be remembered as a strenuous protagonist of the Igbo cause and he will be missed badly. We pray the Almighty God to grant him a restingplase in his bosom. He was a good man.”
He could not live to see Kanu’s release – Uwazurike
According to Uwazurike, the death of Ezeife on the eve of the Supreme Court Judgment on the case of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) is painful as the former Anambra State governor would not be alive to see the conclusion of a struggle he initiated.
He further said, “On Friday, November 19, 2021 at 10 am, Chief Mbazulike Amaechi, Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife, Bishop Sunday Onuoha and myself, Chief Goddy Uwazurike met the then President of Nigeria General Muhammadu Buhari at Aso Rock to persuade him to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu to us unconditionally. He said he will not say no to us but he will give us an answer later. In November 2022, Chief Mbazulike Amaechi died without hearing from Buhari. Some hours ago, Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife died on the eve of the Supreme Court Judgment on the Mazi Nnamdi Kanu case. Ndigbo have lost great men and women of inestimable value in rapid succession -Chief Guy Ikokwu, Prof George Obiozor, Prof Joe Irukwu, SAN, Prof Ben Nwabueze, SAN, and Chief George Uwachue, SAN – but we are reassured that the great ones did not walk alone. The great ones left solid footprints in the sand of time for us to follow. We shall keep the flag flying.”
A man of unparalleled dedication and service – Ajulo
For Dr Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, Ezeife was “a man of unparalleled dedication and service to his country, an iconic figure who made a profound impact in various spheres of life. From his distinguished tenure as the Governor of Anambra State to his role as a former Federal Permanent Secretary, Political Adviser to the President, and Presidential Aspirant, his contributions to the growth and development of our great nation were immeasurable.”
Ajulo stated that Ezeife would be remembered for his unwavering loyalty, compassion, and genuine concern for the well-being of others.
“Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife extended his care and support to all who crossed his path, including myself. I was fortunate enough to experience his kindness firsthand, as he constantly showered me with kind words, attention, always calling to monitor my progress and offer words of advice. He was quick to tell me of his humble beginning, how he did not attend secondary school, but taught himself privately to end up with a doctorate degree from Harvard University. His presence in my life was a beacon of light, a source of strength, and a reminder of the profound impact one person can have on another.
“Dr Ezeife’s leadership was marked by integrity, wisdom, and a deep sense of justice. He was a visionary who advanced the cause and interests of the Igbo and Yoruba nations at the most critical time.
“His commitment to the service of his people was unwavering, and his passion for justice was infectious. He leaves behind a legacy of selflessness and an indelible mark on the sands of time.
“As I mourn the loss of this extraordinary leader, I won’t also fail to celebrate the incredible life he lived. I urge that we honor his memory by embracing the values he held dear – compassion, loyalty, and unwavering dedication to the betterment of our society. Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife’s impact will continue to resonate through the lives he touched and the positive change he inspired.
“To his family, friends, and loved ones, I extend my deepest condolences and support during this difficult time. May you find solace in the memories shared, the love given, and the indomitable spirit that Dr Ezeife embodied.
“Okwadike Igboukwu, Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife, CON, thank you for your unparalleled service, your unwavering dedication, and the profound impact you made on our nation. Your legacy will forever inspire us to strive for a better tomorrow.
“Rest in eternal peace, my dear leader. Your light will continue to shine brightly in our hearts. With heartfelt condolences,” Ajulo stated.