By Barth Ikiebe.
The National Assembly has begun activities leading to the final rites of passage for the late former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Agunwa Anaekwe, with a Night of Tributes scheduled among other ceremonies.
The programme was unveiled at a World Press Conference held at the Senate Building, Abuja, by the Joint National Burial Committee comprising leaders of the Senate and House of Representatives, family members, close associates, and friends of the deceased.
Speaking at the event, Senator Osita Izunaso, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Capital Market and Institutions and head of the burial committee, described Anaekwe’s passing at the age of 69 as a painful loss.
According to him, the Southeast and Nigeria at large would miss the “vast lessons of his life’s trajectory and immense wealth of political experience.” He urged all to take solace in the will of God.
The committee announced that events will begin with a Requiem High Mass in Abuja on October 2, 2025, followed the same day by a Night of Tributes at the National Ecumenical Centre.
Other activities include valedictory sessions at the National Assembly, Anambra State House of Assembly, and Adazi-Ani community on October 16; a Vigil Mass and wake at his country home that evening; a Funeral Mass and interment at Adazi-Ani on October 17–18; and an Outing/Thanksgiving Mass on October 19.
Among dignitaries present at the press conference were former Anambra State Governor, Senator Chris Ngige; Dr. Ijeomah Anadiogbu, APC South East Vice Chairman; BC Igwilo, SAN; Hon. Bartholomew Anaekwe, brother of the deceased; as well as two of his sons and other associates.
Anaekwe, who served as Speaker of the House of Representatives in the 3rd National Assembly (1992–1993), was the youngest ever to hold the position at 36. His tenure ended abruptly following the November 17, 1993 military coup led by the late General Sani Abacha, which toppled the Interim National Government of Chief Ernest Shonekan.
Known for his courage and principles, Anaekwe opposed moves to create additional local governments during the transition period, warning that it was a ploy to prolong military rule.
In his tribute, Senator Ngige described Anaekwe as a “close friend and trusted political ally,” noting that he demonstrated “dexterity, wisdom, and patience” in presiding over the House of Representatives during a turbulent era.
“He brought greater stability to the House than what was obtainable in the Senate before the military struck after the annulment of MKO Abiola’s election victory,” Ngige said. He recalled that Anaekwe also stood by him in his political battles against entrenched godfathers and in restoring functionality to Anambra’s civil service.
Rt. Hon. Agunwa Anaekwe is remembered as a trailblazer whose political career was cut short but who left enduring lessons in leadership, courage, and service.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
