The leadership of the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders’Forum (SMBLF) has expressed grief at the sudden demise of the former Governor of Anambra State, Chief (Dr) Chukwuemeka Ezeife.
The former governor of Anambra State died on Thursday, 14th day of December 2023 at the Federal Medical Centre, Abuja.
He was 85.
‘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.
in a statement jointly signed by leaders of the forum, states: “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 forum described the Havard-trained economist as a prominent Statesman, a politician of exceptional brilliance, high repute, and integrity. He was a man of firm resolve and typical modesty.
The forum added that the former governor 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.
“We extend our 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 grants us all the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss and for the peaceful repose of the noble soul of our dearly beloved departed Compatriot,” the statement said.