In a solemn ceremony, the Anambra House of Assembly gathered on Friday to bid farewell to the esteemed former Speaker, Mr. Anayo Nnebe, who departed on January 23rd at the age of 61.
Nnebe served as the Speaker of the Anambra fourth Assembly from 2007 to 2011 and later represented the Awka North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives from 2011 to 2015.
Until his demise, Nnebe played a pivotal role as the Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo, providing astute guidance on legislative and assembly affairs.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), former speakers and House members also graced the valedictory session held in honor of the deceased.
In his farewell speech, Speaker of the Assembly, Dr. Somtochukwu Udeze, paid tribute to the late Nnebe, lauding him as a selfless leader and astute lawmaker who tirelessly advocated for the rights and welfare of his constituents, leaving an enduring legacy in legislative circles.
‘Late Nnebe dedicated himself whole-heartedly to public service and betterment of Anambra and the country. His legacy will forever endure in the annals of our history and continue to inspire generations to come.
‘To the Nnebe family and the people of Awka, we extend our deepest condolences to you over the death of a respected elder statesman and icon. Take heart,’ he said.
While offering condolences to the family of late Nnebe, Gov. Charles Soludo of Anambra remarked on the immeasurable loss felt by the executive council, recognizing the absence of his invaluable wisdom and advice.
Through his Deputy, Dr. Onyekachi Ibezim, Soludo praised Nnebe’s role in cultivating a productive working relationship between the executive and the legislature, leaving an indelible mark on governance.
Mr. Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, reminisced about the amicable and cooperative rapport he shared with the fourth Assembly during his tenure as governor of Anambra.
‘Late Nnebe as the Speaker of the 4th Assembly was a bridge builder between the executive and the legislature, despite the different political affiliations then.
‘He lived his life well and has gone home to rest with his maker. I urge the current Assembly to work harmoniously with the executive for the good of Anambra people,’ Obi said.
According to NAN, additional current and former Speakers, alongside legislators adorned in pristine white attire, shared heartfelt tributes, painting a vivid picture of late Nnebe’s remarkable character.
Representing the family, Mr. Kanayo Nnebe, son of the deceased, expressed gratitude to the state government and the Assembly for their heartfelt condolences.
Following this, lawmakers observed a moment of silence lasting one minute, paying their respects as they solemnly walked past the late legislator’s remains.
The Assembly then decided to suspend proceedings until Tuesday, March 26, according to report.