The governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma and Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Dr Somtochukwu Udeze, have mourned elder statesmen and ex-governor of Anambra State, Chukwuemeka Ezeife, who died on Thursday at 85.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser, Mr Oguwike Nwachuku, the Imo governor

described the late elder statesman as a “consistent voice for good governance and progressive politics.’’

Mr Ezeife, popularly referred to as Okwadike of Igboukwu, was Anambra governor between 1992 and 1993.

The ex-governor died at the National Hospital, Abuja, according to his family.

Mr Uzodimma said that the late Ezeife would be missed sorely by all who came in contact with him.

According to the governor, Mr 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.

Mr Uzodimma said that Mr Ezeife’s legacies as a former governor, former permanent secretary and ex-political adviser would remain indelible in the minds of people.

He further described his death as “painful and regrettable.’’

The governor noted that Ezeife’s vocal voice and contributions on issues bordering on good governance in his state, Nigeria, and society cannot be forgotten in a hurry.

He, therefore, prayed to God Almighty to grant the deceased soul a peaceful repose and his family the strength to bear the loss.

Also, Mr Udeze, in a condolence message on behalf of the state legislature, said that the late Ezeife governed Anambra when the state was nascent in all facets with no formal institution or organ.

“As the first Executive Governor of Anambra State after the state’s creation in 1991, Mr Ezeife laid a solid progressive foundation for the development of the state. He used his wealth of experience as a renowned Harvard-trained economist and retired federal permanent secretary to hold the shaky economy of Anambra during his tenure as governor.

“His ‘Think Home Philosophy ‘, introduced in 1991, led to the establishment of various indigenous industries and companies in the state by Anambra business executives. His numerous achievements as governor in his barely two-year tenure motivated former President Olusegun Obasanjo to appoint him as his Special Adviser on Political Matters.

“He led a fulfilled life as an accomplished politician, distinguished public servant and revered community leader with the title of ‘Okwadike Igboukwu’,” he said.

The Speaker described Mr Ezeife’s death as a big loss to Anambra State and Nigeria at large.

He urged the people of Anambra to rekindle his vision and called on politicians to emulate Mr Ezeife’s humility, selflessness, prudence and dedication to duty. He also prayed to God to grant his soul eternal rest. 

(NAN)