The latest to send their tributes to Ezeife are Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma and former Anambra State Governor Willie Obiano.
By Jeffrey Agbo
Tributes have not stopped pouring in since the former governor of Anambra State, Chukwuemeka Ezeife, breathed his last on Thursday at the National Hospital, Abuja.
Ezeife, popularly referred to as Okwadike of Igboukwu, was the first democratically-elected governor of Anambra between 1992 and 1993. He died aged 85.
The latest to send their tributes to Ezeife are Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma and former Anambra State Governor Willie Obiano.
In a statement by his chief press secretary and media adviser, Oguwike Nwachuku, the Imo governor described the late elder statesman as a “consistent voice for good governance and progressive politics”.
Uzodimma said that Ezeife would be missed sorely by all who came in contact with him.
According to the governor, Ezeife’s commitment to the good of all – both the common man as well as the high and mighty – marked him out as a man who came to serve God and humanity.
The governor said that Ezeife’s legacies as former governor, former permanent secretary and former political adviser will remain indelible in the minds of the people.
He further described his death as “painful and regrettable”.
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Uzodimma noted that the vocal voice and contributions of Ezeife on issues that border on good governance in his state, Nigeria, and the society at large cannot be forgotten in a hurry.
Obiano, on his part, expressed deep sadness over the passing of Ezeife.
A statement released by Tony Nezianya, Obiano’s publicist, quoted the former governor as describing Ezeife as a highly esteemed figure in Nigerian politics.
Obiano said Ezeife’s vast knowledge and experience made him a valuable asset to the Nigerian government, particularly the Igbos whom he cherished so dearly.
He said the loss of Ezeife was a huge one to members of his family, friends and the nation as a whole.
“I supported him in the very best way I could during my tenure as Governor. I intervened in several ways to lighten his burden of ageing gracefully. We were indeed close,” noted Obiano.