The Anambra State government and other prominent Nigerians on Friday, paid glowing tributes to the first civilian governor and former governor of the state, Chukwuemeka Ezeife, popularly called Okwadike.
Governor Soludo described the former governor as a personal mentor who encouraged him all the while.
While describing him as a true Nigerian, Governor Soludo said that former Governor Ezeife taught him the principles to live and die for as Nigerians. He said that he laid the foundation for law and order which was why his burial is compliant with the state burial law, and that he lived the true essence of patriotism which are legacies that propel him.
On his part, former governor of the state, Mr Peter Obi, stated that the late Governor Ezeife lived a life of justice aspiration to have a Nigeria that cares for all just as former Governor Dame Virgy Etiaba described the Late Ezeife as a great pillar of the Nigerian nation, being a lover of human beings.
Speaking at the service, the former Governor of Enugu State, Chief Okwesileze Nnia Nwodo and the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio represented by his Chief of Staff, Chief Sylvester Okonkwo described the late Governor as a man who stood and fought for the unity of Nigeria, based on equity, fairness and justice.
The President of Ohaneze Ndígbo Worldwide, Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, while announcing the conferment of the hero of Igbo land on late Ezeife, thanked former Governor Ezeife for doing a lot for the Igbo people.
Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Professor Charles Esimone said that the late Ezeife made uncommon contributions towards the existence of the institution.
His first daughter, Mrs Ogelue Ugorji, eulogised her late father as a man who had a heart of genuine benevolence and kindness, pointing out that it is not a matter of several years lived, but the impact made.
She said Okwadike was a truly detribalised Nigerian who related to everyone, irrespective of tribe or religion.
The commendation service which was held in his honour at the International Convention Centre, Awka was led by members of the Salvation Army and featured the mounting guard of honour for the former governor at the Government House, Awka, and the state capital.
In attendance were the Deputy Governor of Anambra State, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Somtochukwu Udeze, former Governor of Anambra State, Senator Chris Ngige and the National Chairman of All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Mr Sly Ezeokenwa.
Others were the former Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Chief Simeon Okeke, Members of the Anambra State Executive Council, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu, State Chairman of APGA, Mr Ifeatu Obiokoye, National President of Anambra State Association of Town Unions, Mr Titus Akpudo, members of Ezeife family, Traditional Rulers, the members of the academic community and many others.
Dominica Nwabufo
