Former Information Minister and Chairman, Senate Committee on Education, Senator Uche Chukwumerije, yesterday, passed on after a long combat with lung cancer.
The Senate President, David Mark, has expressed shock over the death of Sen. Uche Chukwumerije.
Mark in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Paul Mumeh, said Nigeria lost an erudite and extra ordinary nationalist.
He noted that Chukwumerije was one of the outstanding senators in the National Assembly.
“He radiated intelligence, exemplary conduct in both public and private life. He was a team player who brought meaning to hard work.
“He was a shining light and a pathfinder, who was focused and determined to make positive difference.
“He was also a consummate and passionate Nigerian who believed in the sanctity of the peace and unity of the nation.
“No doubt he left a vacuum that would be too hard to fill; we shall miss him,” the statement quoted Mark as saying.
Announcing his demise, yesterday, his son, Chidi Chukwumerije, in a four-paragraph statement said his family has lost an inspirational icon.
Rumoured to have died last December, which he refuted as the handiwork of “a few ungodly and irresponsible individuals,” Chukwumerije’s death threw the Igbo community and some leaders into mourning. Ohanaeze will miss his robust contributions – Nwaorgu.
We have lost a perfect gentleman, intellectual gem –Etiebet, Maeba .
Senator Lee Maeba described Chukwumerije “He was a perfect gentleman and I pray May his gentle soul rest in peace.
” His battles will never be in vain –Ikokwu.
It is the exit of a Lion Senator — Ekweremadu.
It is a big loss –Wogu.
PDP mourns:
.”We are indeed deeply saddened by the loss of this great Nigerian, a highly respected statesman who has made immense contributions to the development of our dear nation.
Senator Chukuwumerije lived a patriotic Nigerian and a brilliant lawmaker who gave his all and discharged his responsibilities with unequalled forthrightness, loyalty and commitment to the service of our dear fatherland.
He was a democratic icon and an outstanding party-man who remained committed to the ideology of the PDP and the visions of the founding fathers.
We will greatly miss him. Our hearts and thoughts go out to his family as we pray God to give them the fortitude to bear this great loss,’’ he said.
