May 8, 2022

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has said that the death of Senator Arthur Nzeribe is a big loss to the people of Imo State in particular and Nigeria in general.

Senator Nzeribe reportedly died on Sunday at the age of 83 according to family sources, having been born on November 2, 1938.

A statement by Governor Uzodimma’s Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser, Oguwike Nwachuku, said Senator Nzeribe will forever be remembered as a political juggernaut in Nigeria.

The Governor commiserated with the family members of Senator Nzeribe, the people of Oguta, his political and business associates, friends and well-wishers on his passing, urging them to pray for the soul of the deceased.

Governor Uzodimma who also said Senator Nzeribe’s death is a personal loss to his family, the government and people of Imo State, urged God to grant the soul of the deceased a peaceful repose.

Senator Nzeribe, Osi ji,  Ogbuagu Damanze,  represented Orlu senatorial zone between October 1983 and December 1983 in the Second Republic on the platform of the Nigeria People’s Party (NPP).

At the return of the third republic he also represented the people of Imo West between May 1999 and May 2007 on the platform of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

Meantime, the Chief Whip of the Senate, Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu, has described the death of elder statesman and philanthropist, Sen. Arthur Nzeribe as a huge loss to Nigeria.

Kalu, in a condolence message issued on Sunday in Abuja, joined family, friends and associates in mourning the death of the elder statesman.

He acknowledged the patriotic contributions of Nzeribe to nation building through various platforms and said that the late politician was bold, courageous and selfless in fighting for the cause of the people.

The former Governor of Abia further described the deceased as an accomplished business enigma, consummate politician and philanthropist of repute.

According to Kalu, Nzeribe carved a niche for himself in various endeavour.

He said, “I commiserate with the government and people of Imo State over the demise of the second republic politician, Senator Arthur Nzeribe.

“I equally convey my sincere condolences to the Nzeribe family over the painful loss.

“The deceased was a man of many parts, who stood out among his contemporaries be it in business, politics and philanthropy.

“His contributions to the social, economic and political development are enormous, remarkable and commendable.

“The late Senator lifted many people in the society through his business empire, political dynasty and Arthur Nzeribe Foundation.

“He lived a purposeful life dedicated to the service of humanity.

“I urge the Nzeribe family to uphold the good deeds of their late patriarch”.