The lawmaker representing Anambra Central Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Senator Uche Ekwunife, has expressed shock over the demise of Senator Annie Okonkwo, describing his death as the lost of a Colossus.
Senator Ekwunife said, “It is with the deepest sense of loss that I mourn the passing on to glory of a dear friend, distinguished parliamentarian, an IROKO, accomplished businessman and a philanthropist of high repute, Distinguished Senator Annie Okonkwo (Agunechemba)”.
“The news of his demise came to me like a thunderstorm. I pondered for hours on the unfortunate reality that Agunechemba, a man whom I celebrated his 63rd birthday few days ago, is no more.”
“Senator Annie Okonkwo was more than a friend to me. He was a leader, brother, confidant and political associate. Agunechemba was a fantastic being; a man of unmatched humility who deployed his time, intellect and resources in serving humanity. His death has further confirmed the reality that life is truly transient and ephemeral. In Annie Okonkwo we lost a man of means who greatly invested in virtually everyone who crossed his path. I lack words to describe Distinguished Senator Okonkwo’s milk of human kindness. He was a jewel of inestimable value.”
“Despite leaving office in 2011 after his exemplary service to Anambra Central Senatorial District, where he held sway as Senator between 2007 and 2011, Senator Okonkwo remained a beckon of hope and rallying point for many in the state and nation at large. He was a progressive individual and complete gentleman. Annie was kind, humane, generous; he was a philantropist and practicing Christian.”
“On behalf of my family and the good people of Anambra Central Senatorial District, I express my deepest condolences to the Okonkwo’s family, Ojoto community and Ndi Anambra over the death of this great son of our state. May God almighty grant Okaka Ojoto eternal rest, and give us the courage to mourn him.”
“Annie jee nkeoma, I will miss you, Anambra Central will miss you, Anambra State will miss you and Nigeria will miss!” Senator Uche Ekwunife concluded.