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Tag: Ifeanyi Ubah

  • Reactions trail alleged Ifeanyi Ubah’s non-recognition by church

    Reactions trail alleged Ifeanyi Ubah’s non-recognition by church

    From Elekwachi Chinedum, Onitsha

    Reactions have greeted alleged non-recognition of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah’s contributions to the building of Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral Church, Nnewi, Anambra State.

    The ultramodern cathedral was dedicated last Wednesday during a solemn mass that attracted scores of Bishops, including Francis Cardinal Arinze, Peter Cardinal Okpalaeke and John Cardinal Onaiyekan.

    Former governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi, Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Sen. Victor Umeh, several top government functionaries, captains of industries, among others were also in attendance.

    A knight of the Catholic Church, Sir James Okoye, had, immediately after the dedication service, protested alleged omission of the late Uba’s name during the service. He renounced Christianity as a way of demonstrating his disappointment with the church.

    Reports have it that the cathedral was first started by the late senator, who volunteered to build the cathedral for the church.

    “He worked on the project to about 85 per cent completion, before a new Bishop was posted to Nnewi in 2022, who directed that Ubah should hands off the cathedral.

    “The directive was said to have caused rift between the Bishop and the Senator,” the reports said.

    However, Okoye, aka Ebube Anaedo, during the church dedication, in a sharp protest, described as unfair, the treatment meted out to the late lawmaker.

    The visibly devastated man had removed his shoes and cap, signifying end to his knighthood, shouting as he exited the church, “Ifeanyi Ubah, sorry for you!”

    He added: “It’s unfair that not even in the brochure or orally was your name acknowledged as a contributor, even when you constructed over 85 per cent of the edifice.

    “How could anyone believe the cathedral, which Ifeanyi Ubah saved to build could be inaugurated without a mention of his name! This is bad and awful. This is my last day as a Christian. I’m done with Christianity!”

    But the Catholic Diocese of Nnewi in a media briefing, dismissed Okoye’s criticism as a blatant lie, insisting that the church has not in any way abandoned or neglected the late Ubah.

    Chairman of Media and Publicity Committee of the dedication of the cathedral, Rev. Fr Hygi Aghaulor, said the church appreciated the late Ubah and was still happy with him.

    He said individuals that contributed hugely to the completion of the cathedral, including the late Ubah, were mentioned during the dedication service.

    Aghaulor admitted that the late senator was a major benefactor to the diocese, but noted that he did not either build the cathedral singlehandedly or initiated the building project as alleged.

    He disclosed that the late lawmaker contributed about 75-80 per cent of the money that went into the building.

    “The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Nnewi, Most Rev. Dr Jonas Okoye, during the inauguration, appreciated people that contributed hugely to the completion of the cathedral.

    “In page 10 of the brochure, it was categorically stated that the late Senator Ubah offered his assistance to the then Bishop, Most Rev. Odili Okeke, to ensure the completion of the cathedral.

    “The late Ubah remained a major benefactor before his unfortunate demise. He was copiously mentioned in the brochure.

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    “Nothing can be enough except what God has done. People that are giving; are giving to God not the church or individual. The work of God will continue, we pray for our benefactors who have passed on to continue to rest in the Lord.

    “The best gift for the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah is prayer. Structure can be brought down, but the church don’t joke with documents, the late Ifeanyi Ubah happened to be immortalised in our brochure and in the hearts of the entire 147 parishes in Nnewi Diocese,” he said.

    He disclosed that the Catholic Diocese of Nnewi composed a prayer for months, which was called a Daily Prayer In view of the Dedication of Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral, Nnewi.

    “The church has for months composed prayers for the dedication of the cathedral, revered our benefactors, raised those who have passed on before the Lord, among whom are Ifeanyi Ubah and Ajulu Uzodike, who were part of the cathedral building committee from day one,” he added.

    Reacting to Okoye’s renunciation of Christianity, Aghaulor said he committed sin of apostasy, which he described as public and total rejection of Christian faith received in baptism.

    “According to Canon Law, Canon 194, paragraph 1 no 2 and then Canon 751, if somebody committed apostasy, that is sufficient to make one lose one’s office or title in the Catholic Church.

    “If he dies in the situation without remorse, the church will not bury him,” he added.

  • One year after Ifeanyi Ubah’s demise

    One year after Ifeanyi Ubah’s demise

    On July 27, 2024, the nation was plunged into shock and disbelief with the announcement of the passing of the distinguished Senator Ifeanyi Patrick Ubah, who breathed his last in London, United Kingdom. A hush fell over Anambra State and the entire Ndi-Igbo community as they collectively mourned the loss of a bold and courageous son, taken from them far too soon. Ifeanyi Ubah’s remarkable journey from humble beginnings to national prominence is a testament to resilience and hard work, inspiring many across the land. After several attempts to govern Anambra State, which unfortunately did not yield success, he transformed the relatively obscure Youth Progressive Party (YPP) into a formidable political force, winning the Anambra South Senatorial seat in 2019 replicating it in 2023.

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    In his hometown of Nnewi, Senator Ubah was known as a dedicated philanthropist, whose generosity seemed boundless. His home became a sanctuary for countless individuals seeking assistance, with the doors always open to those in need. As many people frequented his residence, it was said that no one left in tears; instead, they departed with renewed hope and smiles on their faces. Ubah had an extraordinary ability to provide succor and comfort, earning him the title of a true lifeline for his community. His untimely death sent shockwaves through the state, leaving many who relied on his support heartbroken and visibly grieving at his residence, echoing sentiments of sorrow with phrases like, “Our helper is gone.” While his passing came as a heart-wrenching blow, the reality of life’s impermanence is something that many have tried to accept.

    Family members, friends, supporters, and associates made their way to Nnewi in large numbers to honor Ubah’s memory, mirroring the emotional outpouring that marked the six-month memorial observance. One year after his passing, a heartfelt memorial service was held, attended by his wife, children, and other family members, who expressed gratitude for the unwavering support they received during their period of grief. Clergymen conducted the service, leading prayers and reflecting on Ubah’s commendable deeds during his lifetime. The atmosphere was charged with emotion, as tears flowed freely down the cheeks of many attendees who reminisced about the impactful legacy he left behind. In their remarks, the family emphasized their commitment to preserving Ubah’s ideals and values, promising that his legacy would continue to resonate within the community despite his absence.

  • Anambra: Who steps into Ubah’s shoes?

    Anambra: Who steps into Ubah’s shoes?

    The death of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has created a vacuum that is yet to be filled. Aspirants across party lines are already warming up for the by-election in Anambra South District, Southeast Bureau Chief NWANOSIKE ONU reports

    Senator Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah’s death on July 27, 2024, the Anambra State political arena has never been the same.

    The late Ubah’s political shoes appear too big for some politicians. Many aspirants in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the state have expressed the wish to step into Ubah’s shoes. However, none of them possesses Ubah’s quality.

    Governor Chukwuma Soludo appears interested in securing the seat for his ruling APGA at all costs. Who would eventually emerge victorious in the bye-election where three or four major political parties would participate?

    Anambra State is the stronghold of the ruling APGA. The other major contender is the APC.

    The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is no longer as strong as it used to be in Anambra State. The Labour Party (LP) may not be a strong contender in the race; it is still trying to find its feet.

    Ubah won the Anambra South seat on the ticket of the Young Progressive Party (YPP) before leaving the opposition party to join the ruling party at the centre, the APC.

    His reason for joining the APC was to team up with the party at the centre to bring the people of Anambra closer to the government. He opined that the party in the state cannot take his beloved state anywhere, being that it only controls Anambra and does not make an impact in any other place

    Before now, the APGA had no representative in the Senate and Ubah’s death has handed the party the opportunity to grab it. Anambra State is currently being represented in the Senate by two LP lawmakers — Senators Victor Umeh (Anambra Central) and Tony Nwoye (Anambra North). The late Ubah represented the third constituency (Anambra South).

    The vacuum created by his demise has given the APGA leadership and Soludo the opportunity they have been yearning for. Soludo has anointed one of the aspirants on the APGA platform for the seat.

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    The governor’s hasty move to anoint one of the aspirants without subjecting them to a transparent primary may backfire in the build-up to his re-election for a second term on November 8.

    The Nation has observed that some APGA chieftains have started singing discordant tones over the governor’s choice for Ubah’s replacement. Those gunning for Ubah’s seat are Dozie Ikedife, Jr of APC, Sir Azuka Okwuosa of APC and Sir Jude Emecheta of APGA.

    Other aspirants on the platform of the APGA are Ebuka Onunkwo, Akai Egwuonwu and Pascal Agbodike.

    For now, no serious aspirant has emerged on the LP platform. The Anambra chapter is made up of opportunists. Apart from the party’s presidential candidate during the last general election, former Governor Peter Obi, Senator Victor Umeh who represents Anambra Central at the Senate and his Anambra North counterpart, Senator Tony Nwoye, others are insignificant.

    Dozie Ikedife Jr (APC)

    Dozie Ikedife Jr is the party’s organising secretary in Anambra State. He is also the son of the late Dr Dozie Ikedife (Ikenga Nnewi), the former Ohanaeze President-General and the one-time Presidential Liaison Officer to former President Shehu Shagari, between 1979 and 1983.

    Ikedife was one of the closest allies and confidants of. Both of them hail from Otolo Nnewi. Politically, he is not all that strong but relies mainly on the iconic name of his father and some of Ubah’s allies.

    Ikedife Jr may not get the APC ticket unless on compassionate grounds, based on his closeness to the late Ubah’s family.

    Besides, he does not have the wherewithal required in modern-day politics to win the hearts of the electorate, which was Ubah’s major weapon.

    Jude Emecheta (APGA)

    The Ozubulu, Ekwusigo Local Government Area-born advertising guru, is a team player and humble. He is a foundation member of the ruling APGA and at a time served as the Managing Director of the Anambra State Advertising Agency (ANSA) .

    Emecheta who holds the traditional title of the Nwachinemelu Ozubulu was the coordinator of the APGA support group that produced the governor.

    Observers believe he may get the ticket, having been a loyal servant of the party for many years. Some party said that Soludo has already prevailed on him to step down for his preferred aspirant.

    However, what his supporters are saying is that the party should organise a primary for the contestants to make their choice instead of handpicking.

    As it stands, the party is at a crossroads because of the governor’s decision and some of the chieftains are already threatening that Soludo’s endorsement would not stand. But Emecheta, according to sources, has been suing for peace.

    If the APGA wants to continue being intact ahead of the governorship election in November, the party should organise a free, fair and credible primaries for all the contestants, otherwise, it might backfire at the end.

    Ebuka Onunkwo (APGA)

    Some party faithful see Chief Onunkwo as the man to mount the saddle because he is Soludo’s anointed aspirant. He is in the race, not only as the governor’s choice, but also as the choice of one of the pillars of that area and moneybag, Sir Emeka Offor.

    As the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of Seahorse Lubricants Industries Ltd, they see him as the aspirant with the capacity for the contest, like Ubah. They also see him as someone who has invested heavily in Anambra South. He is popular among the ordinary folks on the streets, like the late Ubah.

    Ubah emphasised the importance of personality over political party, and they are looking for someone with a proven track record of human capital and community development.

    Onunkwo is from the Mbosi community in Ekwusigo Local Government Area, like Emeka Offor.

    But he is inexperienced in politics as he has not been an APGA chieftain before now. However, he is a young man who knows what he wants. The presence of his godfathers has already secured the ticket for him.

    Pascal Agbodike (APGA)

    Agbodike, who currently represents the Ihiala Constituency in the House of Representatives, is the former Deputy Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly.

    Azuka Okwuosa (APC)

    The Oraifite-born politician has seen some days in the politics of Anambra State. Initially, it was rumoured that he had joined the 2025 governorship race, but a few days later, his name was mentioned as a contender for the Senate ticket

    Sir Okwuosa was commissioner for Works and Transport during the era of late Governor Chinwoke Mbadinuju.

    He had aspired to govern the state in 2021 without success because of either zoning crisis. Described by his supporters and those who know him closely as a good man, Okwuosa has a billionaire brother who has been pushing him for long in politics.

    The position fits him because he is mature and intelligent. He has negotiated through the muddy political waters and knows the terrain. However, his swag betrays him as an ‘arrogant’ politician, seeing him from a distance. But those close to him see him differently as a humble man.

    If members of APC know what they want. He deserves the senatorial ticket more than any other aspirant. However, they should watch Soludo and his APGA closely. They’re desperate about the Senate seat.

    Akai Egwuonwu (APGA)

    Chief Egwuonwu owns Stine Group (rice dealers). He is more popular than other aspirants because of his relationship with bloggers in Anambra State.

    However, he is still an unknown quantity in Anambra politics, despite his huge investments in the state. Indeed, he is the epitome of the popular Igbo adage aku ruo uno, which literarily translates to let wealth come home, which the governor has been preaching to the wealthy businessmen from the state who prefer to invest in other states, rather than their homes.

  • Senate denies allegations of neglect during late Ubah’s burial

    Senate denies allegations of neglect during late Ubah’s burial

    The Senate has dismissed reports claiming it failed to participate in the burial of its late member, Ifeanyi Ubah, as false.

    In a statement, Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Publicity, clarified: “Contrary to the misconceptions being circulated, the Senate paid full honours and performed all rites befitting a sitting senator before his burial in Nnewi on Friday.”

    “For the first time in the history of the National Assembly a whole Legislative day was dedicated to paying Tributes to our departed colleague.

    “His seat was adorned with the national flag which was huge honour and recognition of his contributions to the Senate and the good people he represented.

    “The Nigerian Senate did not abandon the late Senator and his family right from the moment the news of his death became public knowledge.

    “In fact, the Senate commiserated with the people and government of Anambra State over his death.

    “The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, it would be recalled, had immediately after the demise of our late colleague was made public, led a high powered delegation of some principal officers and members of the Senate to the Lagos residence of the late Senator to commiserate with his wife and children.

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    Almost 100 Senators of the 109 members attended a valedictory session held in his honour, where senators including Vice President Kashim Shettima paid tribute to his accomplishments as a philanthropist, businessman and politician.”

    These actions, the Senate said, were a demonstration of the Senate’s respect and appreciation for Senator Ubah’s contributions.

    “Substantial members of the Senate were in Nnewi on behalf of the Senate which had earlier reached out to the family before his burial.

    “Having done all that in his honour and some sections of the media saw that as an abandonment, it shows that the minds behind the ill-informed story were expecting distinguished Senators to storm Nnewi in a show-off, while mourning the untimely demise of their colleague.

    “It is preposterous that anyone under any guise would suggest that the Senate failed in its role to honour the memory of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah,” Adaramodu said.

  • Ifeanyi Ubah laid to rest in Anambra amid tears  

    Ifeanyi Ubah laid to rest in Anambra amid tears  

    Anambra State governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, was all tears yesterday as Senator Ifeanyi Ubah was laid to rest, asking the deceased if death was part of the last discussion they had in May.

    The governor, who was sober throughout the burial ceremony of the man that described himself as the “Street General of Anambra Politics”, said he never knew it was the last time they would have such a conversation

    He expressed shock and sadness over Ubah’s sudden death, consoling the family, the Nnewi community and the people of Anambra over his untimely death

    Soludo said: “I still remember the last time we met in May, when I asked him is it true you are nursing an ambition of something?

    “He replied, ‘I want to be part of it and the only way out of it is for Sir Emeka Offor to convene a meeting at our instance.’”

    In his sermon, the Bishop of Ekwulobia, Peter Cardinal Okpaleke, described the death of Ubah as a lesson to those alive.

    His emphasis was on the importance of people living exemplary lives to be remembered after passing.

    It was at the St. Peter Clever Parish, Umuanukam, Otolo Nnewi, in Anambra State.

    The cardinal recalled the philanthropic life of Ubah, noting that he always strived to touch people’s lives in meaningful ways.

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    Okpaleke praised Ubah’s commitment to service and his exemplary life, which he said should serve as a model for others.

    “His demise is a lesson to us all,” Cardinal Okpaleke said.

    “We must strive to live a life that will be remembered for good.

    “We must touch lives. We must make a difference and we must leave a lasting legacy.”

    On her part, Senator Uche Ekwunife described Ubah as a rare gem committed to youth development.

    She hailed Ubah’s leadership, kindness and compassion, noting that his impact and legacy would be remembered for generations.

    “You were an avatar, sports enthusiast, a rare gem committed to youth development, whose kind comes only once in a lifetime

     “In you, we saw the true essence of leadership and the true definition of kindness; not just in titles and positions, but in words and deeds,” Ekwunife said.

    Ubah was buried at his country home in Umuanukam, Otolo Nnewi, amidst tears and tributes from dignitaries, friends and family members. Before then, the Senate had held service of songs for the late politician in Abuja while another service of songs was held in Nnewi on Thursday.

    Security on the occasion was topnotch as the military, the police, the Civil Defence, Navy and avalanche of vigilance groups were on ground at Nnewi to shut up the non-state actors who wanted to cause chaos during the burial ceremony.

  • BREAKING: Soludo, others weep as Senator Ubah is laid to rest in Anambra

    BREAKING: Soludo, others weep as Senator Ubah is laid to rest in Anambra

    Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, was overcome with emotion on Friday as he mourned the passing of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah during the burial ceremony at St. Peter Claver Parish, Umuanukam, Otolo Nnewi, Anambra State.

    Reflecting on their last conversation in May, Soludo questioned whether death was part of their plans, expressing shock and sadness over the senator’s untimely demise.

    “I still remember our last discussion when I asked him if he was nursing any ambition,” Soludo said, recalling Ubah’s reply: ‘I want to be part of it, and the way forward is for Sir Emeka Of to convene a meeting at our instance.’ He added, “Death was not part of that conversation.”

    He expressed shock and sadness at Ifeanyi Ubah’s sudden death while consoling the family, the Nnewi community, and the people of Anambra for his untimely death

    During the ceremony, the Bishop of Ekwulobia, Peter Cardinal Okpaleke, described Ubah’s death as a lesson for the living, urging attendees to live impactful lives.

    “We must strive to leave a lasting legacy,” he said, commending Ubah’s philanthropic efforts and commitment to service.

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    Senator Uche Ekwunife also paid tribute, calling Ubah a rare gem devoted to youth development and leadership.

    She praised his kindness, compassion, and the enduring impact of his legacy, which she said would inspire future generations.

    The ceremony served as a poignant reminder of Ubah’s contributions to Anambra politics and his dedication to uplifting his community.

    “You were an avatar, sports enthusiast, a rare gem committed to youth development, whose kind comes only once in a lifetime.

     “In you, we saw the true essence of leadership and the true definition of kindness; not just in titles and positions, but in words and deeds.”

    Ubah was laid to rest at his country home in Umuanukam, Otolo Nnewi, amidst a sea of tears and heartfelt tributes from dignitaries, friends, and family members.

    Before the burial, the Senate held a service of songs in Abuja, followed by another in Nnewi on Thursday.

    Security was exceptionally tight, with the presence of the Military, Police, Civil Defense, Navy, and numerous Vigilance groups in Nnewi to thwart any attempts by non-state actors to disrupt the burial ceremony.

  • Nnewi shooting not to disrupt Ifeanyi Ubah burial – Police

    Nnewi shooting not to disrupt Ifeanyi Ubah burial – Police

    The Police Command in Anambra says the shooting in Nnewi on Wednesday was not to disrupt the burial of late Sen. Ifeanyi Ubah.

    It said  the shooting was from another security agency which mistook the police operatives as unfriendly forces and shot at them.

    Superintendent of Police (SP) Tochukwu Ikenga, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state disclosed this to newsmen on Thursday in Awka.

    “The command is aware of the shooting incident that took place at Izuchukwu Junction,

    Nnobi/Nnewi road by 7 pm on Wednesday, were security operatives mistook the police operatives as unfriendly forces and opened fire at them.

    “We emphasise that the attack on the operatives was not from non-state actors or any attempt to disrupt the burial of late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah,” he said.

    Ikenga said that preliminary information showed that the security operatives on investigation trailed a suspect to a security checkpoint before the gun duel ensued.

    According to him, unfortunately, bullets hit the fuel tank of the Toyota Venza Sedan carrying the men, and it was razed down.

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    “Two innocent passers-by were injured and they have been taken to the hospital. He sued for calm to allow for investigations into the incident as the issue was under control’’, he said.

    The PPRO said that joint security forces have been deployed to ensure Nnewi is calm throughout the burial ceremonies of the late senator.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ubah, who was Senator, representing Anambra South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, died in London in July at the age of 52.

    Ubah would be buried November 22, 2024 at his home Otolo, Nnewi.

    (NAN)

  • Shettima joins senators to pay Ifeanyi Ubah final tributes

    Shettima joins senators to pay Ifeanyi Ubah final tributes

    It was a rain of tributes yesterday for the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah at the Senate Chamber.

    Vice President  Kashim Shettima was at the chamber to join senators in paying tributes to the Nnewi-born senator.

    It was during a valedictory session organised by the Senate to bid farewell to the Anambra South Senator who died on July 26.

    The casket bearing the remains of the late  Senator was brought into the foyer of the White House Wing of the National Assembly Complex where it laid in state throughout the duration of the Senate’s valedictory session.

    Senate Leader  Michael Opeyemi Bamidele (APC – Ekiti Central)  upon commencement of plenary moved a motion: “That the Senate do now pay tributes in honour of the late Senator.

    Ubah, Patrick Ifeanyi (Anambra South) (3rd September, 1971 – 26th July, 2024).”

     Ubah’s widow,  her children and  relatives, friends of the deceased and leaders from Anambra including Senator Chris Ngige, some members of the House of Representatives from the Southeast and other states attended the session.

    The wives of Senators including Mrs Barau, Mrs Opeyemi Bamidele and wives of Principal Officers led by the wife of the Senate President, Mrs Nnoma were at the session.

    Wife of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation  who is  a member of the House of Representatives,  Regina Akume, graced the occasion.

    Senator Ubah’s seat in chamber was dressed with the nation’s  Flag and a flower placed on top with candles  on his desk.

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    At about 12.30pm, the Senate Leader moved a motion that the Senate should suspend its relevant rules and allow strangers  and relatives of Senator Ubah  be admitted into the chambers.

    Shettima in his eulogy said: “The last time I met my brother, Senator Ifeanyi Ubah was when you (Akpabio) came with him along with the Majority Leader, Senator Micheal Opeyemi Bamidele and the beautiful Hadiza Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to condole with me over the loss of my mother in-law.

    “The youngest member of the ninth Senate was also one of its brightest stars. His age belied his political dexterity and grassroots affiliation.

    “His generosity knows no bounds. There was a time when the Boko Haram viciously attacked a community in Borno State.

    “Senator Ifeanyi Ubah reached out to me. He sent to my account a donation of N50 million and said please i do not want this donation to be publicised. Ifeanyi Ubah was a good man.

    “His rebuilding capacity elevated his political journey beyond others and more established in the arena.

    “I want to align myself with the earlier speaker, Osita Izunaso, who quoted John Donne, who said that ‘in mankind, never send to know for whom the bell tolls. It tolls for thee.’

    “Death is an inevitable destiny that is hanging on everyone’s neck. We are all travelers on our journeys home. From where? From God to God.

    “My condolences to his family, friends, and political associates. Most especially to you, good folks, who are planning to go on the journey.  I will miss my friends. Thank you very much.”

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio said: “We dedicate this day to his (Ubah) memory and the services he rendered to this great country.

    “We mourn the death of one of the most erudite parliamentarian in Nigeria.

    “He was a member of APC. So I condole with the APC, and the APC’s  family in the Senate.

    “He was an accomplished businessman. His death has numbed all of us into political turmoil. He was a champion of the alleviation of the sufferings of others. Let us not just mourn, let us celebrate his life and times. He believed in and celebrated friendship.”

    Deputy President of the Senate,  Barau Jibrin, said the Chamber was in deep morning.

    He said: “He is a big loss to us. Ifeanyi Ubah was an epitome of courage. He was always determined and focussed on his goals.

    “He came into the Senate in 2019 on the platform of Young Progressives Party (YPP), but before you know it, he said he was the leader of YPP caucus in the Senate.

    “He became a power broker in the Senate. He spent his life for his people. A philanthropist to the core.

    “We have lost a brother and a friend. We need to follow-up to ensure that his children are well taken care of.”

    The Minority Leader , Senator Abba Moro, described the death of Ubah as a sad day for the 10th Senate.

    Moro said: “This is sunset at noon. Today presents us with a stark reality that Senator Ifeanyi Ubah is no more alive.

    “To the rest of us the activities of today will show us the vanity of life. I have lost a friend and a fantastic colleague. He was a consumate politician who used  both known and unknown instruments to advance his political career.”

    Senators Tokunbo Abiru, Adams Oshiomhole, Orji Uzor Kalu, Osita Ngwu, Enyinnaya Abaribe, Sani Musa, Osita Izunaso, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, Ireti Kingibe, Victor Umeh, Tony Nwoye, Yahaya Abdullahi and  Ali Ndume  eulogized  the dead.

    The Senate observed a minute silence in Ubah’s honour and proceeded on a procession. They  filed past the casket and  resolved to send a powerful delegation made up of the Committee of the Wholeto his burial.

    The Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters, Senator Basheer Lado, also expressed sorrow over the passing  of Senator  Ubah.

    In a statement after Senate’s valedictory session in honour of Ubah, Senator Lado described him as a grassroots politician whose unwavering dedication, integrity, and firm yet frank nature earned him widespread respect among colleagues and constituents alike.

  • Shettima, Akpabio pay tribute to late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah

    Shettima, Akpabio pay tribute to late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah

    …says Ubah’s free spirit pulled down political, ethnic barriers

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has joined his former colleagues at the Senate in honouring the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, praising his exceptional ability to bridge political and ethnic divides.

    Shettima’s tributes followed the valedictory session held at the Senate Chambers in honour of the late senator whilst his remains were laid at the foyer of the White House Wing of the chambers.

    In a statement issued by senior special assistant to the president on media and communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said the free spirit of the late lawmaker who passed on earlier in the year, broke down political and ethnic barriers.

    Reading his tribute during a valedictory session on Tuesday, the Vice President described the late Senator Ubah as “the youngest member of the 9th Senate and one of its brightest stars, whose age belied his political dexterity and grassroots affiliation.

    “His bridge-building capacity elevated his political journey beyond older and more established giants in the arena and he was easily on his way to bigger conquers when the lord called him home,” Senator Shettima noted.

    Recalling one of his encounters with the late Anambra-born Senator, while serving as Governor of Borno State, the VP recalled that Senator Ubah’s generosity “knew no bounds and his free spirit broke down political and ethnic barriers.”

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    While condoling the family, friends and associates of the late lawmaker, the Vice President reminded the gathering that “death is an inevitable destiny that is hanging on everyone’s neck,” adding that “we are travellers on our journeys home, from God to God.”

    Earlier in his remarks, the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio announced that the day had been set aside to honour the life and time of Senator Ubah, drawing the attention of Senators to their departed colleague’s seats adorned with the Nigerian flag and four symbolic candles as a mark of respect.

    Senator Akpabio described the late businessman from Otolo, Nnewi North, Anambra State as a visionary leader with extraordinary empathy for all and a champion for economic empowerment and community development.

    The Senate President said the death of Senator Ubah has created a huge deficit in the political terrain of the country, regretting that the vacuum created will be difficult to fill.

    Senators took turns during the valedictory session to pay tributes to their departed colleague, praying to God to give the family the fortitude to bear the loss.

  • BREAKING: Senate ready to pay tributes to late Ubah

    BREAKING: Senate ready to pay tributes to late Ubah

    The Senate is set to pay tributes in honour of late Senator Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah.

    The casket bearing the remains of the late Anambra South Senator is lying-in-state at the foyer of the White House wing of the Nation Assembly Complex.

    There is only one item on the order paper for today titled: “Valedictory Session.”

    Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC – Ekiti Central) would upon commencement of plenary move a motion: “That the Senate do now pay tributes in honour of late Senator

    Ubah, Patrick Ifeanyi (Anambra South) (3rd September, 1971 – 26th July, 2024).”

    Read Also: Ifeanyi Ubah: 1971-2024 (1)

    The immediate family, close relatives, friends of the deceased and leaders from Anambra and other South East states are already in the Senate awaiting the commencement of plenary.

    Senator Ubah died on July 27, 2024 in London, at 52.

    Details shortly…