The Anambra Governor, Chukwuma Soludo and residents have paid tributes to the late former Governor of the State, Chinwoke Mbadinuju, who passed away in April 2023 at the age of 77 after a brief illness.
Speaking at the occasion, the Governor described Mbadinuju as a man who devoted his life to serving the people of the State.
“Odera came in as Governor 24 years ago, and he left office 20 years ago. It is only fitting as a people, he devoted four good years of his life which he put on the line. We have gathered as a people to say goodbye,” Governor Soludo said.
Governor Soludo also noted that the late former Governor laid the foundation for the modern-day Anambra State.
“Odera founded Anambra State University, now called Chukwuemeka Odimegwu Ojukwu University. He built Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square and the Dora Akunyili Women’s Development Center.
“He did his best in infrastructural development. History will be kind to Odera, that he laid the foundation of a new Anambra of today
“Ndi Anambra has assembled here today to say it is well with his soul,” he said.
Earlier in his sermon, the Archbishop of Awka, Alexander Ibezim, while consoling the wife and family of late Mbadinuju, stressed that Odera tried his best as Governor of Anambra State.
While enumerating the three kinds of death as physical death, spiritual death and eternal death, the Archbishop reminded every politician, religious and spiritual leader that the day of reckoning is imminent and urged them to live an upright life.
Background
Born on 14 June 1945, the late Chinwoke Mbadinuju served as Anambra Governor from 29 May 1999 to 29 May 2003, elected on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) platform.
The late former Governor obtained a BA in Political Science and a doctorate in Government.
He also gained a law degree from one of the best English universities. He was an editor of Times International.
Before entering politics Mbadinuju was an associate professor of politics and African studies at the State University of New York.
He was personal assistant to the Governor of the old Enugu State, Jim Nwobodo between 1979 and 1980.
The late former Governor served as the personal assistant to President Shehu Shagari between 1980 and 1983.
He was married to Nnebuogo Mbadinuju, and they had five children
