Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State, and former senators Ben Murray-Bruce and Shehu Sani have expressed their condolences following the death of Ifeanyi Ubah.

Mr Ubah passed away on Friday in London at the age of 52.

Mr Obi, who hails from the same state as the late senator, took to X on Saturday to mourn Mr Ubah’s passing.

He wrote: “I was deeply shocked this morning to learn of the death of my dear younger brother and Senator representing Anambra South Senatorial District, Ifeanyi Ubah. We were together on July 12 at the burial of Chief Pius Onwuzo in Nnewi, Anambra State. May God Almighty, who has called him home, forgive his sins and grant him eternal rest. May He also grant his family, Anambra South Senatorial District, Anambra State, Nigeria, and all of us the strength to bear this irreplaceable loss. May God Almighty continue to protect and bless his family.”

Messrs Ben Murray-Bruce and Shehu Sani also issued statements mourning Mr. Ubah.

Mr Bruce wrote, “With a heavy heart, I extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah. His contributions to our nation, both in the oil sector and public service, will never be forgotten. May his soul rest in peace, and may his family find strength during this difficult time.”

Mr Sani wrote, “I received the sad news of the demise of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, representing Anambra South. The nation has lost a great politician, an accomplished businessman, and an outstanding promoter of football. May his soul rest in peace. Ameen.”

Mr Ubah reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away in London yesterday, according to family sources cited by Peoples Gazette.

In 2014, Mr Ubah ran for governor of Anambra under the Labour Party but lost. He then moved to the Young Progressive Party (YPP), winning a Senate seat in both 2019 and 2023.

Later in 2023, Mr Ubah defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He explained that his joining the APC was to ensure the South-East aligns with the government at the centre.