Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State has received with ‘great shock’ the news of the death of Ambassador Ojo Maduekwe, a native of Asaga in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State.
The governor described the late former minister as his personal mentor, confidant and father, stressing that in him, Nigeria and Abia State in particular has lost a great and worthy leader, adding that he was one of the strongest pillars of his administration, offering invaluable advice and guidance.
The governor, who recalled his last moments with Maduekwe, said that he was constantly in touch with the late Maduekwe even up until last weekend when he (Maduekwe) phoned in from abroad to apologise to him for missing a meeting he (governor) held with the Minister of Trade and Investment, Mr. Okechukwu Enelama, Abia State National Assembly Caucus and Political Leaders from Abia State last week Wednesday in Abuja, saying he had to travel outside the country for a brief meeting.
The late Maduekwe’s last official outing in the state with the governor was Abia North Senatorial Zone Town Hall Meeting held at his native Ohafia where the late leader gave the vote of thanks and urged political elite in Abia State to allow the governor continue on his path of remarkable development and not to distract him with undue financial requests.
Although Maduekwe’s death is a national loss as he loyally served his country in numerous capacities, it is a particularly a heavy loss for Abia State as he was one of our brightest products who distinguished himself in the various high offices he occupied for the nation.
The governor condoled with the immediate Maduekwe family and assured them of the prayers and support of the Abia State Government as they prepare to bid the late colossus a befitting farewell.
Maduekwe, a cerebral diplomat, died at 71.
