From Paul Osuyi, Asaba
Delta State governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa has commiserated with Governor Willie Obiano and the people of Anambra State on the death of former Vice President, Dr. Alex Ekwueme who died on Sunday in a London hospital at 85 years.
Governor Okowa also conveyed his condolences to the family of the late elder statesman particularly the Oko people, describing him as a committed patriot who served the nation at the highest levels with an uncommon sense of patriotism and unwavering dedication.
A statement in Asaba by his Chief Press Secretary, Charles Aniagwu, the governor said he was saddened by the demise of the former Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
The statement read: “I am deeply saddened by the death of elder statesman and former Vice President of Nigeria, Dr. Alex Ekwueme (GCON), who passed on at the age of 85 years.
“He was a committed patriot, an astute politician and altruistic Vice President who worked assiduously to better the lots of his people and Nigerians in general.
“Through his purposeful leadership and development strides, the late Ekwueme influenced the establishment of the Federal Polytechnic Oko which brought about unprecedented development of the Oko in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State,”
Governor Okowa remarked that as a democrat, the late Ekwueme etched his name in the annals of Nigeria’s democratic advancement by working courageously for the emergence and consolidation of the Fourth Republic in 1999 when he joined forces with other leaders to form the PDP.
“Before venturing into politics Ekwueme brought great pride to the country through his exemplary and pioneering efforts as the Doyen of Architecture in Nigeria.
“His good works as a dedicated family man, accomplished professional, selfless politician and great philanthropist would continue to live after him.