- Soludo, South East Governors mourn death of ex Anambra Governor
From Emmanuel Uzor, Awka
Torrents of condolence messages have continued to pour in as the news of the death of the former governor of Anambra State, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife was announced with prominent Igbo leaders and groups sending in their condolence messages.
Dr Ezeife, the former governor of Anambra State, elected on the platform of Social Democratic Party (SDP) from January 1992 to November 1993 died on Thursday, 14th December, 2023 at the age of 85.
Among numerous contributions of Dr. Ezeife was his involvement in a delegation to the then President Muhammadu Buhari to seek the release of leader of the detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kalu.
Governor of Anambra State, Prof Chukwuma Soludo has expressed shock over the demise of the ex Governor, describing him as a bridge builder.
Governor Soludo in a statement signed by his Press Secretary, Christian Aburime expressed profound sadness and deep sense of loss over the death of Ezeife whom he said laid solid foundation for the greater Anambra State.
The statement read in parts, ” Prof Chukwuma Soludo mourns the passing of a distinguished son of Anambra State, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, CON, who transitioned peacefully on Thursday, December 14, 2023, at the age of 85 at the Federal Medical Centre, Abuja”
“A most illustrious son of the Ezeife Dynasty of Igbo-Ukwu area of Anambra State, Dr. Ezeife, a man of many hats, was a titan in the annals of our state and nation. fondly called ‘Okwadike’, he was elected governor of Anambra State on the platform of the Social Democratic Party, SDP between January 1992 and November, 1993 during the aborted Third Republic”
Soludo in the statement further disclosed that Ezeife as the first civilian Governor of Anambra State navigated the complexities of post-military rule with wisdom and foresight, laying the foundation for the vibrant Anambra state of today.
“A scholar, a visionary, and a man of deep compassion, his gentle demeanour and thoughtful counsel endeared him to all, regardless of political affiliation. He was a bridge-builder, a voice of reason, and a tireless advocate for the unity and progress of Anambra State and Nigeria as a whole”
However, we find solace in the knowledge that his legacy of service, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the common good will continue to inspire us all. On behalf of the government and good people of Anambra State, Governor Soludo extends his deepest condolences to Dr. Ezeife’s family and loved ones” the statement read.
The South East Governors’ Forum in their statement described the death of the former Governor as great loss to the zone and Nigeria in general.
Director General of the South East Governors’Forum, Senator Uche Ekwunife expressed deep condolences to the Ezeife family, Anambra State government and the entire Igbo community over the death of Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife.
“His distinguished service as the first executive governor of Anambra state, a federal permanent secretary, and a political luminary marked a significant chapter in our nation’s history. Dr. Ezeife’s unwavering commitment to the betterment of his people and his pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s sociopolitical sphere makes his loss even more profound”
Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife is as an icon, and a figure many Nigerians looked up to, leaving an indelible mark in the sands of time. He spent the greater part of his life working for good governance and humanity, becoming a source of pride not just for the Igbo community but for the entire nation.”
Ekwunife further said “as we mourn this iconic leader, let us be mindful of his enduring legacies, exemplary leadership, and laudable role in democratic transitions of Anambra State and Nigeria at large. May God grant his soul peaceful repose and comfort the bereaved family.”