Former Governor of Anambra State, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, is dead.
His death was confirmed in a statement signed by Chief Rob Ezeife on behalf of the family.
According to the statement, the 85-year-old Ezeife died at the Federal Medical Centre, Abuja on Thursday.
“On behalf of the Ezeife Dynasty of Igbo-Ukwu, I wish to announce the promotion to glory of our most distinguished son, ‘Okwadike’, Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife, CON, a former Federal Permanent Secretary, a former governor of Anambra State, a former Political Adviser to the President and former Presidential aspirant.
“This sad event took place yesterday at 6 pm at the Federal Medical Centre, Abuja.”
“More details about the deceased and the arrangements for his state burial will be announced later,” the statement read.
Born on November 20, 1938, he was governor of Anambra state between January 1992 and November 1993 during the ill-fated Third Republic.
Meanwhile, tributes have started to trail the elder statesman’s demise.
Teacher, university lecturer, economist, federal permanent secretary, 1st elected governor of current @Anambrastate_ng, Okwadike Igboukwu, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, now immortal. #RIP pic.twitter.com/f3p7uKkiRu
— Chidi Odinkalu, CGoF (@ChidiOdinkalu) December 15, 2023
Rest in Peace Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife. You're a nationalist, an elder statesman, and a detribalized Nigerian. pic.twitter.com/eJVg2A7wjj
— Stanley Ezinna, MBA. (@Stazingar) December 15, 2023
OH! HEAVEN GAINED A WARRIOR.. RIP CHIEF EZEIFE.
He was purely Obidient when he was alive and never supported evil. You will be missed sir. pic.twitter.com/JMlu2xqNoW
— BUCOS (@TENIBEGILOJU202) December 15, 2023
The 1st elected governor of old Anambra State, Chief Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife ( Okwadike of Igboukwu) has gone to meet his maker. Few weeks ago, he celebrated his 85th. The Gentleman to the core, RIP!
You lived a fulfilled life. pic.twitter.com/fce0GYkOlp
— Ndubuisi Nicholas I. (@Mr_NickND) December 15, 2023
I just read about the passing away of Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife, former governor of Anambra state.
My deepest condolences to the Ezeife's family. pic.twitter.com/hyNrRISkfK
— Pastor Okezie J. Atañi… (@ONsogbu) December 15, 2023
RIP 🕊️ to the late Okwadike Ndigbo Chief Chukuwemeka Ezeife, a former governor of Anambra state.
Fare thee well Sir! pic.twitter.com/nJKs9AHxPt
— BIG JOE OF AFRICA 🇳🇬🇫🇷 (@JosephOnuorah) December 15, 2023