•Late Ezeife
The Eastern Union (EU), a political pressure group for the people of the Old Eastern Region, has mourned the first governor of Anambra State, Okwadike, Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife (CON), who died recently at 85.
The EU, in a statement signed by its National President, Hon. Charles Anike, made available to our correspondent in Lagos, said the death of Ezeife, its patron, came at a time Ndigbo and Nigerians needed his elderly counsels the most.
The EU’s letter partly reads: “With a very heavy heart, the Eastern Union (EU) mourns the passing on to the glory of our Grand Patron, First Executive Governor of Anambra State, a respected elder statesman of Nigeria and a foremost Igbo leader of repute.
“There is no doubt the EU, the global Igbo Community and indeed Nigeria have lost an institution, a reliable pillar and a father to the Nigerian youths.
“Okwadike, your counsel, support, encouragement and expectations shall continue to propel the Eastern Union as we march on in the spirit of our shared goals and objectives, seeing you live on in our hearts.
“You excelled, you shone like a million stars and you kept your integrity intact, speaking up and out for the voiceless and rising to the occasion at all times.
“We at the EU will surely miss you, our revered grand patron, whose doors are always open to receive us, even at odd times.
“Though the vacuum of your departure will take time to fill, we shall continue to take solace in your legacies.
“Okwadike Ndigbo Gburugburu, fare thee well, Man of the People and Voice of the Voiceless.”
