Former Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, who represented the Anambra South senatorial district. Ngige emphasized that Ubah’s untimely demise will create a significant void in the political landscape of Anambra State.
In a tribute delivered from Maryland, USA, Ngige, also a former Governor of Anambra State, lamented the loss of his colleague, noting that Ubah’s death adds to a list of many of his old and young friends and mentees who have passed away in the last six weeks.
Ngige said, “Yet again, I received the news of the death of Senator Ubah here in Maryland, USA with great shock and grief. This death is one too many among the old and young friends and mentees of mine who died within the past six weeks. They include Ferdinando Agu, Barrister Obi Igwedibia, Chief Ajulu Uzodike, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, and now, Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.
“It is raining and pouring and, as the Ibos will say to death, ‘Onwuzilulikenu,’ meaning death go and rest, ‘Onwuemeliego’ (death has won), and ‘Onwubikonu’ (death please take it easy).
“The sudden death of Ifeanyi, no matter the complexity of his business and political relationships with his erstwhile associates, is a very big blow to the National Assembly, his Nnewi community, Anambra State, and Nigeria in general, as well as to some of us, his family friends.”
Ngige described Ubah as a prominent figure in the Petroleum, Oil & Gas Industry, as well as a philanthropist and sports promoter of national repute. He stressed that Ubah’s passing will leave a considerable void in contemporary Anambra State politics, where he had been an active player.
Ngige highlighted Ubah’s contributions in the Senate, noting that he was not a bench-warming senator. “His colleagues at the Senate will miss his very incisive and well-researched contributions, especially on issues relating to Oil and Gas Resource management,” Ngige added.
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