Chief Willie Obiano, immediate past governor of Anambra, has expressed deep sadness and sympathy over the passing of Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife.
Ezeife, also a former governor of the state, passed on at the National Hospital, Abuja, on Dec. 14 at the age of 85.
Chief Rob Nwakaire, the younger brother of the elder statesman, announced his death on Friday.
A statement released by Tony Nezianya, Publicist to Obiano, quoted the former governor as describing Ezeife as a highly esteemed figure in Nigerian politics.
Obiano said Ezeife’s vast knowledge and experience made him a valuable asset to the Nigerian government, particularly the Igbos whom he cherished so dearly.
He said the loss of Ezeife was a huge one for members of his family, friends, and the nation as a whole.
‘’I supported him in the very best way I could during my tenure as Governor. I intervened in several ways to lighten his burden of aging gracefully.
“We were indeed close,’’ noted Chief Obiano.
He said Ezeife, during his reign as Anambra governor from January 1992 to November 1993, made significant contributions to the development of the state while praying to God for the repose of his soul.
Before his governorship, Ezeife had a distinguished career as a Federal Permanent Secretary.
Ezeife’s death came about three weeks after Dr Chinwoke Mbadinuju, another former governor of Anambra, who died in April, was buried.
