The late former Vice-President of Nigeria, Dr. Alex Ifeanyichukwu Ekwueme, has been described as a true patriot who devoted his entire life to the service of his country. The nation’s incumbent Vice-President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, made the remarks yesterday during the Evening of Tributes held for the late elder statesman at the International Conference Center in Abuja.
Professor Osinbajo, who spoke during the event that was held as part of the activities marking Dr. Ekwueme’s burial program, regretted that the nation lost the renowned patriot at a time his counsel was badly needed in the political arena.
The body of the late elder statesman arrived Abuja on Monday for the federal government’s Commendation Ceremonies at the Eagle Square in the federal capital. It is scheduled to depart Abuja for Enugu on Tuesday (today) where a Service of Songs had been scheduled at the Cathedral Church of the Good Shepherd, Enugu, while Southeast Commendation Ceremonies will be held for the deceased at Michael Okpara Square, Enugu, on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, officials of the federal and Anambra state governments are reported to have arrived at Dr. Ekwueme’s country home in Oko, to put finishing touches to the preparations for the burial of the remains of the renowned statesman this Friday.
Briefing newsmen in Oko, the federal Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, said the federal government was doing everything possible to ensure that Dr. Ekwueme gets a befitting burial.
Dr. Ngige, who is a member of the federal government committee for the burial, said the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, had been directed to maintain the roads leading to the hometown of the departed statesman.
He also told newsmen that the tomb of Dr. Ekwueme was being constructed by the federal government, while funds had been disbursed to the family to get all logistics ready. Dr. Ngige, who assured that he would be on ground to monitor the preparations, expressed satisfaction with the pace of work and urged the contractors to deliver on schedule.
