Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo has expressed sadness and pains at the news of the death of former Senator representing Anambra Central Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Chief Annie Okonkwo, popularly known as Okaka Ojoto.
Soludo in a statement signed by his Press Secretary, Christian Aburime noted that as a prominent son of Anambra State who hails from Ojoto in Idemili South Local Government Area of the State, the late Senator has paid his own dues trying to serve the State.
The Governor, on behalf of Anambra State Government and the entire people of the State, commiserates with the family and friends of the deceased over this painful loss.
The Governor further prayed the good Lord to grant Okonkwo’s soul eternal rest and the family he left behind the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
Meanwhile, the philanthropist, business mogul and former senator who represented Anambra Central, in the Senate, Senator Annie Okonkwo died in the United States.
Okonkwo, whose name made the round as a foremost businessman in the 80s, 90s as he championed Clemco Industries, before joining politics hails from Ojoto, in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State.
He once represented Anambra Central in the Senate, and also vied more than once for the position of Anambra State governor during his active days in politics.
He was also a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Okonkwo was last seen in public glare, when his son, Uche Okonkwo, who won a seat in the House of Representatives paid him a visit to present to him his certificate of return.
In the recent past, there had been rumours of him having health issues and having treatment abroad, following his long absence from public focus and politics.
A statement shared on social media by Dr Uche Nworah, who claimed to be close to the family, and a beneficiary of Okonkwo’s kindness is published below.
“I just woke up to the sad news of Agunaechemba’s passing (Senator Annie Okonkwo). Agu was a kind man and benefactor to many. A colossus in community affairs and Nigerian politics.
“He was a pioneer businessman that inspired many Igbo people in the 80s, 90s and in later years with his positive exploits at Clemco Industries, RelTel Wireless and other chains of businesses.
I am a beneficiary of his kindness and the kindness of the Okonkwos.
“He has finished his race on earth and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with the entire Okonkwo family at this time.
May his soul rest in peace, Amen.
Chief Uche Nworah, Ph.D
Ezeudo Enugwu-Ukwu na Umunri
