Former Honourable Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah (CON), FCA, has expressed shock over the demise of Professor Joe Irukwu, CFR, describing him as a Pan African and a Nationalist.
P.M.EXPRESS reports that Prof. Irukwu died on 7th July, 2023, at the age of 89.
In a statement issued on Monday, Dr. Uche Ogah described the late insurance guru as “a Pan African, Nationalist and illustrious son of Abia State and a Nigerian statesman,” adding that he “contributed immensely in both public and private sector of Nigeria’s economy”.
While praying for the peaceful repose of Prof Irukwu’s soul, the former Minister and industrialist commiserated with the Irukwus over their loss.
Dr Ogah said, “It is with great shock that I received the news of the death of Professor Joe Irukwu, CFR, a Nationalist, legal luminary, Insurance guru and former President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide”.
“At 89, Prof Irukwu, contributed immensely in both public and private sector of Nigeria’s economy, as the pioneer Managing Director of Nigeria Reinsurance Corporation and founder of African Development Insurance Company and many others.”
“Death is a necessary end for every mortal but for a man like Dee Ogboo, who came, saw and conquered in all facets of human endeavour, his death is a big blow because the void created by same would be too difficult to fill.”
“On behalf of my family and all persons of good spirit, I sympathise with the Irukwu family, the people of Amokwe Item, Abians, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Nigeria Bar Association and the Insurance sector on the loss of this Pan African, Nationalist and illustrious son of Abia State and Nigerian statesman.”
“To the Irukwus, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this moment of grief and I urge you to put your trust in God and build upon the legacies Prof. Irukwu left behind while praying that God accepts the soul of this iconic figure and grant him eternal rest.
Laa Nke Oma Dee Ogboo!” Dr. Uche Sampson Ogah concluded.