Soludo, Uzodimma, Obi mourn Ben Nwabueze
Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has expressed condolences on the passing of the former Secretary-General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, a most distinguished Anambra State-born legal luminary and national patriot, Prof. Ben Nwabueze, SAN, NNOM, CON, who died on Sunday 29, October 2023.
Governor Soludo in his tribute to the late legal luminary and elder statesman remarks that Prof. Nwabueze’s influence extended far beyond his home state, noting that he lived all his life inspiring generations of legal minds and citizens alike to strive for a more just and equitable society.
As a towering figure in the field of constitutional law and an elder statesman of unparalleled integrity in Nigeria, the legacy of Prof. Nwabueze will forever be etched in the annals of our nation’s history. His unyielding commitment to the cause of constitutionalism, justice and equity has left an indelible impact on Nigeria.
Governor Soludo further said his wisdom and tireless efforts in advocating for democratic ideals have also guided our nation through some of its most pivotal moments.
The government and the good people of Anambra State, join in mourning the loss of this great son and patriot, whose phenomenal contributions to our state and country will never be forgotten.
We pray that the Almighty God grant his soul eternal rest as we also extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his wisdom and dedication.
May his legacy continue to inspire generations to come!
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has expressed deep sadness over the passing of foremost Nigerian Constitutional lawyer and former Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Prof. Ben Nwabueze, saying his death is, not just a big loss to Anambra State, but to the Igbo nation and Nigeria.
Prof. Nwabueze reportedly passed on Monday in his house, according to his family, aged 94.
Governor Uzodimma in a statement he personally signed, said it was a privilege sharing in the life and times of Prof Nwabueze whose wisdom and dedication to the Igbo cause and unity of Nigeria were second to none.
Governor Uzodimma’s statement read: “It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I, on behalf of the Government and the good people of Imo State, extend our deepest condolences to the Nwabueze family and indeed, the entire community of Anambra State, on the loss of a true luminary, Prof. Ben Nwabueze SAN, CON. His passing is not just a loss to Anambra State but to the entire Igbo nation and our great country, Nigeria.
“Prof. Nwabueze was not just a renowned academic and constitutional lawyer; he was a symbol of unwavering dedication to the Igbo cause and the unity of our nation. His wisdom and guidance were invaluable, especially during these times of great need. His legacy will forever be etched in the annals of our history.
“As we mourn his passing, we also acknowledge the grace that allowed us to share in his life and times. May God grant his soul eternal rest and provide his family with the strength to bear this immense loss.”
The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the February 25, 2023 election, Peter Obi has described the former Minister of Education and a renowned constitutional lawyer, Prof Ben Nwabueze as an uncommon patriot who was a father figure in all ramifications.
Obi in a condolence message to the Nwabueze family and Ohanaeze Ndigbo where he was a Secretary General said Nigeria will miss his wise counsel.
“I am saddened by the death of a very revered Nigerian and a respected father figure, Foremost patriot, Constitutional lawyer, and erstwhile Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide, Professor Ben Nwabueze, SAN.
“Prof Ben Nwabueze was a seasoned academician, thoroughbred administrator, and experienced politician. An uncommon jurist and scholar, Prof Nwabueze was Nigeria’s first academic Senior Advocate of Nigeria.
“He was also the former Minister of Education and Youth Development.
Obi noted that as a father figure, whose desire for a great Nigeria was well known, Prof Nwabueze remained supportive of me in my political journey.
“Throughout my years as the then Governor of Anambra State, his wise counsel and guidance, added to the success my administration achieved in the State which due considerably to his wise counsel.
I continued to enjoy his cordial relationship and wise counsel even after leaving office.
The LP flagbearer recalled how, in 2019, when he was the Vice Presidential Candidate of the PDP, he headed the legal team at the Presidential Election Tribunal, despite his health challenges.
“He was a man who desired justice, peace, and progress in our country.
“While I mourn his irreplaceable loss, I am comforted by his immense contribution to our nation, especially in the areas of education and legal practice, especially his specialization of constitutional law.
Obi finally prayed to God to comfort the entire Nwabueze family and all of us who mourn him and grant him eternal rest.