Imo State Governor and Chairman of the South East Governors’ Forum, Sen. Hope Uzodimma, has expressed deep sadness over the passing of elder statesman Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife.
In a personally signed statement in Owerri, Governor Uzodimma described Ezeife as a leading economist, bureaucrat, and nationalist, whose departure will be keenly felt by all Nigerians.
According to Uzodimma, the former Anambra State Governor and ex-Federal Permanent Secretary will be remembered as a bold advocate of justice and equity in a united federal republic of Nigeria.
Uzodimma characterized Ezeife as a progressive symbol of selfless service to the fatherland, highlighting his consistent efforts in championing the mutual coexistence of all Nigerians, ensuring a level playing field for every citizen to realize their potential without hindrance.
Although Ezeife left office as the first democratically elected governor of Anambra state in 1993, Uzodimma emphasized that he remained relevant in the country’s political sphere due to his incisive, intelligent, patriotic, and dispassionate contributions to national issues. These contributions, while at times radical, were consistently focused on preserving the Federal project.
Uzodimma also acknowledged Ezeife as a foremost Igbo leader, underscoring his unparalleled passion for the growth and progress of the Igbo race. He expressed condolences to President Bola Tinubu and Nigerians, Gov Charles Soludo, the government and people of Anambra state, and the Ezeife family over the statesman’s demise.
