Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, former governor of Abia State, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Dr. Chris Asoluka, former member of the House of Representatives, who died on May 9 at the age of 70.
Fondly known as Okwuruoha, Dr. Asoluka died in Owerri, just nine days after celebrating his 70th birthday. A respected development and public policy strategist, politician and scholar, he was widely admired for his principled character, generosity, intellect and unwavering dedication to service. His family remembers him as a man of strength, compassion and profound wisdom, who devoted his life to family, community and the nation.
Senator Kalu praised his significant contributions to Nigeria’s political development and national growth, stating that his impactful legacy would continue to inspire generations to come.
“Dr. Asoluka was a consummate public servant and an exceptional individual. On behalf of the people of Abia North, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and political associates,” Kalu said.
Also reacting, former governor of Imo State, Dr. Ikedi Ohakim, said he lacked words to describe his state of mind since he learnt of the death of the man he described as his bosom friend and ally.
“The usual language is ‘shock’ but for me that is an understatement.
He added: “Just sometime last week, I called the editors of my forthcoming memoir that in spite of the apparent space constraint, that I have something very important to add to the book in other to properly put on record the immense contributions of the Dr Asoluka to the modest success we posted during my tenure as governor of Imo state. Two days later, the news of his death came to me!
“Chris was not a member of my cabinet but he stood by me in all the challenges I faced. As a management expert, I found his advice on vital administrative issues quite invaluable. Of course, I was not alone. Dr Chris Asoluka was highly sought after by everybody and institutions that placed a premium on organisational excellence. Chris was simply everywhere.
“Even though I knew of his ill health from which he was almost fully recovered. Chris’s death should be a very, very big lesson to those of us still alive. In the touchy message released by his family to announce his passage, it said Chris transited from the world “with the calm dignity that defined his life”. That testimony, “a man with calm dignity”, should resonate in the minds of those of us that are still alive today, especially those unrepentant destroyers: to strive to live a life of dignity and calmness no matter how terrifying the challenges might be.
“My condolence goes not just to the family but to all Nigerians. To our good people of Imo state, I say once again “take heart.” Coming just a couple of weeks after the demise of the late Paschal Dozie, another world acclaimed economist, Dr. Asoluka’s death is quite painful.
“But we cannot query God. As the late sage, Obafemi Awolowo, said, it is not life that matters but the courage with which it is lived. Chris was full of courage but we should even show more courage in mourning him and bearing this irreparable loss.
“Good Night Okwuruoha.”