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From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
Friends, family members and several other well-wishers from across the country gathered at the Presbyterian Church, Wuse 2, Abuja, yesterday evening, for the Service of Song for the late Senator Anyim Ude.
Conspicuously present were Mr. Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Deputy Speaker of House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu; former governors of Ebonyi State, Sam Egwu and Dave Umahi, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, former ministers, Joseph Ekumankama, Onyebuchi Chukwu, Frank Nweke Jnr.
Others were the former Director General, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC),
Dr. Arumah Oteh, several other serving and past senators and House of Representatives members, journalists, who he mentored through journalism career, among several others dignitaries from the political and business communities.
One after another, the speakers poured encomium on the late Senator Ude. While some made reference to his strong role in building their career, particularly journalists, other recalled his role in their family lives as well as businesses and faith.
Former Ebonyi State governor, Sam Egwu, said he made great impact during his time in the Senate, in addition to the cordial relationship they had.
He said: “I met him when Ebonyi was created, and we were first few executive members when Ebonyi was created. the late Senator Ude was confident to the point that he could confront the military rulers then with his superior suggestions. He was immersed in knowledge and skills, and that could be seen in his achievements.
“We were good friends. He was my close ally when I was Ebonyi state governor. I always reached out to him for advice and guide. In my second term in office, we convinced him to represent us in Senate and he obliged. I must confess that we lost a great man and personality in Ebonyi, but God knows why it happened this time.”
Abia Senator, Enyinnaya Abaribe, in his tribute, recalled the wonderful time he had with Ude.
“I had high regard for him because of his reputation and integrity. He distinguished himself in the broadcast industry, and trained several people. He mentored many, and he will be greatly remembered. He was a man of peace.”
Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, described his death as a big loss for the people of the south east and Nigeria in general.
“It’s unfortunate that South East lost a this great man this time that the region is seriously troubled, and needs his fatherly guide. Obviously, we have scarcity of men like him, and we hope that his good works and impact will continue to speak for him.”
He, thus charged his son to carry on with the quality of life his late father lived. He appealed to him to put down a book or documentary that would give a guide the future generations of the kind of man Senator Ude, was.
Nnanna, who spoke on behalf of the family, appreciated the impressive turnout of family members and well-wishers in honour of his late father.
He promised the Deputy Speaker of House of Representatives, Kalu, that two books have been written on the life and times of his late father. “One has been published, and the second one will be published on his first year anniversary.”
He appreciated the support, emotional and moral, that have come the way of the family during this time of mourning.
Presiding ministers also offered prayers for the family asking God to continue to protect the family and grant them the fortitude to bear the lost.
