The leadership of the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders’Forum (SMBLF) has expressed grief over sudden demise of the former Governor of Anambra State, Chief (Dr) Chukwuemeka Ezeife on Thursday 14th day of December 2023 at the Federal Medical Centre, Abuja. He was 85.
The statement was jointly signed by Chief (Dr.) E.K. Clark for Southern people, Chief Ayo Adebanjo Leader of Afenifere, Chief Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, President-General, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Dr. Pogu Bitrus – President, Middle Belt Forum and Senator Emmanuel Ibok-Essien, FNSE – National Chairman, PANDEF
Thestatemwnt reads, “‘Okwadike’ as he was fondly called was a founding and staunch member of the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders’ Forum; a strong promoter, and an unshaken believer in the unity and progress of Nigeria, based on equity, fairness, and justice.
“We recall that he actively participated in the last meeting of the Forum (SMBLF) in Abuja on Thursday 26th October 2023, where far-reaching decisions were made in the overall interest of the country.
“The Havard-trained economist was a prominent Statesman, a politician of exceptional brilliance, high repute, and integrity. He was a man of firm resolve and typical modesty. Ezeife loved his people and Nigeria with passion.
“We will sorely miss his inspiring personality, brilliant ideas, vibrant contributions, and steadfast solidarity in our pursuit of an egalitarian Nigerian State that would be fair and just to all irrespective of tribe, religion, or political inclination.”
The statement extended its deepest condolences to his family in particular, as well as the Government and people of Anambra State, the Igbo Nation, and Nigeria, which he served dedicatedly.
“We pray the Almighty God ro grant us all the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss and for the peaceful repose of the noble soul of our dearly beloved departed Compatriot.