How Senator Uche Chukwumerije died — Family
The Senator representing Abia North Senatorial District, Uche Chukwumerije, is dead.
He was 75.
According to a statement by a family representative, Chidi, the
Senator died on Sunday after a long but gallant battle with lung cancer.
“On the evening of
Sunday, the 19th of April, 2015,
surrounded by his family, Comrade Uche Chukwumerije passed into the
open arms of history, and of our Lord Jesus Christ, after a long but
gallant battle with lung cancer,” the statement said.
“His life is many volumes, which can only be told with care and time,
of dedication and focus, integrity and discipline, and an unbroken love
for the highest ideals of our shared humanity.
“Details of burial arrangements will be announced in due course. We ask only for your prayers and good wishes.”
Condolences have already started pouring in for the former Information Minister.
His party, the Peoples Democratic Party, said it was “deeply saddened
by the loss of this great Nigerian, a highly respected statesman who
has made immense contributions to the development of our dear nation.”
“Senator Chukwumerije lived a patriotic Nigerian and a brilliant
lawmaker who gave his all and discharged his responsibilities with
unequalled forthrightness, loyalty and commitment to the service of our
dear fatherland.
“He was a democratic icon and an outstanding party-man who remained
committed to the ideology of the PDP and the visions of the founding
fathers.
“We will greatly miss him. Our hearts and thoughts go out to his
family as we pray God to give them the fortitude to bear this great
loss.”
In a statement by his spokesperson, the Senate President, David Mark,
said “Nigeria has lost an erudite and extra ordinary nationalist.” .
The Senate President lamented that Mr. Chukwumerije was one of the brightest and fertile minds in the Senate.
” He radiated intelligence, exemplary conduct in both public and
private life. He was a team player who brought meaning to hard work . He
was focused and determined to make positive difference”, Mr. Mark
stated.
“We shall miss him. No doubt he left a vacuum that would too hard to fill .
He was a consummate and passionate Nigerian who believed in the sanctity
of the peace and unity of the nation,” the Senate President said.
