By Our correspondent
Sir Paul Chukwuma, the Pro-Chancellor of Olivia University, Burundi has consoled the family of the late Akunnia Obiefuna Benjamin Nwabueze(SAN), the Oduah Afo-na-isagba of Atani who passed away at the age of 94 in October 2023 stating that the late Elderstatesman will be missed.
Sir Paul Chukwuma stated this during the burial of the late sage which was held on March 1, 2024, at Atani, Ogbaru, Anambra State.
He stated that the late sage was larger than life and influenced a lot of kids in Anambra and beyond including himself while growing up. He added that his commitment and pursuit of Igbo interest has earned him an unforgettable reputation in the heart of Ndigbo
“Pa Ben’s mastery in constitutional law had a great influence on me while growing up and has contributed to my current pursuit of being a legal luminary. Till his death, he was the oldest lawyer in Nigeria and also the most published with over 300 publications. He was also the first academic in Nigeria to become a SAN( Senior Advocate of Nigeria) based on publications. He has influenced millions of people across the continent where his legal mastery shone. His contributions to constitutional democracy in Nigeria can not be matched”
” Prof’s love for the Unity of Ndigbo is immeasurable- he spent all his life for Ndigbo. He was a war survivor and after the war, working with others he founded Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide and became the pioneer Secretary-General of the socio-cultural group for 26 years, thus earning the enviable status of the longest occupant of that office. During that time he vocally championed Igbo interests and ensured the right of Ndigbo in Nigeria was protected and defended. Till his last days, he continued to seek Igbo unity and greater collaboration between Igbo states in Nigeria. He was a teacher of teachers and a great advocate of constitutional democracy.
Paul Chukwuma urged the family to take solace in the fact that their patriarch lived an eventful life and made impacts that can not be forgotten for decades. He further called on Governors of the South East to immortalise the memory of the late sage.
Sir Paul Chukwuma was represented by Barr. CJ Chinweuba alongside APC LGA Chairman and Party Officials from Anambra North.
