Breaking: Former Anambra State Governor, Mbadinuju Is Dead

By Akinwale Kasali

A former Governor of Anambra State , Chinwoke Mbadinuju, is dead.

Mbadinuju death was announced in a statement by his Son, Cheta, on behalf of family on Tuesday.

According to the statement, the former governor died at the National Hospital Abuja following a brief illness.

It reads: NOTIFICATION OF THE TRANSITION OF DR. CHINWOKE MBADINUJU (ODERA)

“With heavy hearts but utmost gratitude to God for a life well spent, we announce the passing our father, grand father, uncle, friend and associate, Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju, a former Governor of Anambra State and Elder Statesman.

“ODERA, as he was fondly called, passed peacefully at the age of 78 years on the morning of the 11th of April, 2023 at the National Hospital Abuja after a brief illness, surrounded by his family and loved ones.

“At this trying time, we pray for God’s grace and mercy upon him and those left behind to mourn him. His funeral arrangements will be announced in due course by the family.”

Born on 14 June 1945, Mbadinuju served as Governor of Anambra State from 29 May 1999 to 29 May 2003.

He was elected under the umbrella of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP.

But the Party did not give him a ticket for a second term in office, citing alleged poor performance as an excuse.

His tenure in office is best remembered by his “fights” with a couple of Anambra State billionaires led by  Chief Emeka Offor, the closure of schools for about two years, and the controversial, gruesome murder of Barrister Barnabas Igwe and his wife, Abigail,  in the streets of Onitsha.