By Christian ABURIME
Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo of Anambra State has described the late Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife as a true Nigerian who lived out the true essence of patriotism.
The Governor who was speaking at the Commendation service held in honour of the former Governor at the International Convention Centre, Awka, remarked that the late Ezeife, also known as “Okwadike”, was his personal mentor who has been encouraging him all along.
Governor Soludo appreciated Nigeria for mourning the demise of Dr Ezeife with ndị Anambra, saying that he taught those around him who cared to listen the principles to live and die for as Nigerians.
While stressing that the values, principles and ideas that the late Ezeife stood for will not die, Governor Soludo said that those are part of the legacies that propel him. He assured thst he will keep the flag flying and continue to lay emphasis on an equitable and fair Nigeria just like Okwadike
The Governor added that as former Governor of Anambra State, Dr Ezeife laid the foundation for law and order which is why his burial is compliant to the state burial law.
The National President of Ohanézè Ndígbo Worldwide, Dr Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu who proclaimed the post humour title of “Hero Of Igbo land” on former Governor Ezeife, described him as a great Nigerian and appreciated Governor Soludo for doing so much to support the Igbo cause.
Dr Iwuanyanwu stressed that former Governor Ezeife stood and fought for the unity of Nigeria, based on equity, fairness and justice. He further stated that Ndị Igbo regard him as a shinning star which future leaders should have have as a reference point.
Former Governors Peter Obi as well as Virgy Etiaba eulogized him as a great pillar of the Nigerian nation, who vigorously stood for a Nigeria that cares for all.
For the former Governor of Enugu State, Chief Okwesilieze Nnia Nwodo and the Chief of Staff to the Senate President, Chief Sylvester Okonkwo, all paid tributes to Okwadike describing him as a man who stood and fought for the unity of Nigeria, based on equity, fairness and justice.
Former Governor Ezeife’s daughter, Dr Ogelue Ezeife-Ugorji praised her late father as a man who has a heart of genuine benevolence and kindness, pointing out that her father truly lived a life of impact.
The commendation service which was led by members of the Salvation Army Church, also featured the mounting of guard of honour for the former Governor at the Government House, Awka.
Anambra State Deputy Governor of Anambra State, Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim accompanied the Governor to the state event which was also attended by Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, former Governor of Anambra State, Senator Dr Chris Ngige and the National Chairman of All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa.
Others were the former Chairman of Police Service Commission, Chief Simeon Okeke, Members of Anambra State Executive Council, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu, members of Ezeife family, Traditional Rulers, the members of the academic community, among others.
