Igbo socio-cultural organization, the Ogbako Ndigbo UK has described late Dr. Chukwuemeka Pius Ezeife as a great Igbo titan and administrator.
In a condolences message signed by the President Dr. Jude Eze; Vice President Dr. Daisy Nwaozuzu and the Secretary General Barr. Kenneth Udeoka, ONIUK said the one-time Governor of Anambra State as a true Igbo elder-statesman who was consistent in speaking truth.
Expressing deep sadness over his death the organization said it was a colossal loss to the Igbi nation and the Nigeria at large.
The condolences message reads: “Ogbako Ndigbo UK mourns the death of a great Igbo patriot and administrator, Dr. Chukwuemeka Pius Ezeife (Okwadike) on 14th of December 2023.
“We join all well-meaning Igbos, Nigerians, and Africa to mourn and celebrate the exemplary cum extraordinary life of this visionary leader. We appreciate his vision for Ala-Igbo which centers on self-reliance, cultural pride, and economic prosperity. He was an advocate of dialogue, peace, and reconciliation for Igboland and beyond.
“Okwadike’s administrative skills could be evidenced by his appointment as a Federal permanent secretary, becoming the first executive governor of Anambra, and a staunch Igbo front line leader.
“His administration was marked with great commitment to good governance and dedication to the welfare of the people. His leadership style was characterized by transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. Ezeife was a visionary leader who was always focused on the long-term development and progress of Anambra State. He is well known for ‘AKU LUO UNO’ (aimed at Igbos’s in Diaspora to think home philosophy on investment). He coined the slogan for Anambra State as ‘HOME FOR ALL’.
“Ogbako Ndigbo UK commiserates with the whole Igbo-Ukwu Community (his birth Town) in Anambra State, the Anambra State Government, Ndigbo worldwide and the Nigeria Government over the loss of an illustrious son.
“Adieu a great Igbo Son.
“Adieu Okwadike ”
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