By Tony Okafor, Awka
The Senator representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, Chief Victor Umeh, has described the demise of a former governor of Anambra State, Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife, as a huge loss to Nigeria and Ndigbo in particular.
Umeh stated this in a tribute signed by himself to the fallen elder statesmen.
The Senator said with the demise of the Harvard trained economist, death had robbed Nigeria and Ndigbo of a great icon and patriot.
Umeh regretted that Ezeife died without seeing Nigeria of his dream.
The former National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), who won the 2023 Anambra Central Senatorial District poll on the platform of the Labour Party (LP), said, he received the news with sadness.
The Senator’s statement read in part,” I received the News of the death of His Excellency, Dr. CHUKWUEMEKA PIUS EZEIFE this morning with sadness.
“Dr. Ezeife’s death is another huge loss to Nigeria and Ndigbo in particular.
“Dr. Ezeife who is more known as Okwadike Igboukwu was a man who grew from Grass to Grace through uncommon hardwork and perseverance.
“From very difficult beginning, he fought with resilience to acquire education to the top level of bagging a doctorate degree in the renowned Harvard University in America, despite not having a formal Secondary School Education.
“On his return to Nigeria, he joined the Federal Civil Service where he distinguished himself and retired as a Federal Permanent Secretary.”
Continuing, Umeh said Ezeife joined politics and was elected governor of Anambra State through the SDP, and was sworn in on the 2nd of January, 1992, adding,”Despite his ouster through the Military Coup of November, 1993, he remained undaunted and rebounded with the return of Democratic Rule in 1999.
“He served Nigeria in several capacities and was a well-known Social Crusader.
“When he retired from active politics, he devoted the rest of his life in campaigning for equity and fairness for his Igbo people in Nigeria.
“He was a frontline advocate of equality of civil rights for all Nigerians.Dr. Ezeife was an Inspirator and Motivator.
“He was very brave and never shielded away from speaking his mind and the truth, no matter whose Ox is gored!
“I mourn his exit, particularly as I am certain that he did not see a Nigeria of his dream before his departure, just like the rest of his compatriots who transited before him.
“We shall miss his Indefatigable Spirit and huge sense of humour.
“The Igbo Nation, nay Nigeria has lost one of the greatest sons that bestrode this Country.
“I send my deep condolences to his Family members and all his Associates who will be definitely sorrowful with his death.May his gallant Soul rest in perfect peace, Amen.”
