The governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano today at Ngodo, Isuochi, Umunneochi Local Government Area, Abia State bid farewell to the Late Senator Chukwumerije describing him as an uncommon Nigerian who distinguished himself in the service of Ndigbo and his fatherland.
Governor Obiano who spoke to newsmen after interment service held at the Methodist Cathedral Isuochi, said that he is very happy to be part of those who came to honour the the late Senator and statesman. Said Obiano," I am happy because, although we mourn the late Senator, he lived a fulfilled life. He was erudite, dedicated and God fearing and I believe he died a happy man."
Earlier in a Funeral Oration titled The Life and Times of Uche Chukwumerije, Dikeogu, the late Senator's son said of his father, "In private my father was the same mix of fire and steel. But the depths of love and compassion he carried, often not visible to those who knew him only from a distance, were everywhere on display the nearer one drew. There could not have been anywhere a better father."
Also paying glowing tributes to the fallen Comrade, Senator David Mark said, "It is difficult to quantify what Senator Uche Chukwumerije is. To me, I don't think he is dead. He is asleep. I believe he will rise again. Uche Chukwumerije was courage & eloquence, sometimes too frank. He was a Parliamentarian per excellence. We will work with the family to sustain his legacy. I don't think anyone can fill his shoes.”
Preaching during the Church Service, Prelate of the Methodist Church, His Eminence Archbishop Dr. S C K Uche, told the congregation that we are here to honour a very noble, excellent, gentlemen and lover of the poor. He recalled that the Late Senator's voice was one of the things that sustained Biafra. Even though we are missing him today, we have no reason at all to be bitter. He wanted an egalitarian Nigeria where there is equity and justice. The Bishop stated.
Prominent Nigerians who graced the occasion include the Senate President David Mark,governor Imo State, Owelle Rochas Okolocha, former governor Chris Ngige and former Ministers amongst many other dignitaries.