The Abia State governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has expressed sadness over the death of a former Governor of old Anambra State and renowned Igbo leader, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife (Okwadike) who passed away on Thursday, December 14.
In the same vein, Anambra State governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, expressed profound sadness and a deep sense of loss at Ezeife’s passing.
Governor Otti, in particular, regretted that the respected Igbo leader and statesman bowed out at a trying time in the history of Ndi Igbo and Nigeria, when his guidance, support and stewardship were needed most, describing him as a man of courage and strong conviction whose services to Ndi Igbo in particular, and the Nigeria in general will be greatly missed.
Otti said: “I am saddened by the unfortunate news of the demise of our respected leader and statesman, His Excellency, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife (CON). The fact that Okwadike bowed out at a trying time in the history of Ndi Igbo in particular and Nigeria in general when his statesmanly guidance, support and stewardship were most needed makes it more painful and devastating.
“As a man of courage and strong conviction, he ensured that his voice was loudly heard at all times on subject matters that bothered on justice and good governance and stood firmly on the side of truth till the end.
“As difficult as it would be to fill the vacuum his death has created, I would urge all those who loved, cherished and supported him and his ideals while he lived, and who desire a better Igbo nation and Nigeria to draw inspiration from his exemplary conduct which helped immensely in deepening our democracy, strengthening the Rule of Law and opening the frontiers of opportunities associated with good governance” the statement concludes.
Governor Otti, on behalf of his family and the government and people of Abia State, conveyed his condolences to the Ezeife Dynasty of Igbo-Ukwu, the government and people of Anambra State and the entire nation over the death of the statesman, and prayed that God would grant his soul eternal repose in His bosom.
And from Anmabra, the late Ezeife’s home State, the government said:
“It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of loss that Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, mourns the passing of a distinguished son of Anambra State, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, who transitioned peacefully on Thursday, December 14, 2023, at the age of 85 years 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 between January 1992 and November 1993 during the aborted Third Republic.
“As a Harvard-trained economist, Dr. Ezeife once served with resolute dedication and integrity as a Federal Permanent Secretary, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in public service.
“As the first civilian Governor of Anambra State, he navigated the complexities of post-military rule with wisdom and foresight, laying the foundation for the vibrant State we know today.
“He once served as a Political Adviser to the former President Olusegun Obasanjo, just as he was also a Presidential Aspirant. Dr Ezeife was always driven by a deep desire to improve the lives of his fellow Nigerians.
“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.
“His departure leaves a void that will be difficult to fill.
“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.”
Soludo, on behalf of the government and good people of Anambra State, extended his deepest condolences to Dr. Ezeife’s family and loved ones.