Mbadinuju laid foundation for modern-day Anambra – Soludo

By Praise Chinecherem

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has described late former Governor of the State, Dr. Chinwoke Clement Mbadinuju as a man who devoted his life to serving the people of the State.

He also noted that Dr. Mbadinuju laid the foundation for the modern-day Anambra State.

The governor spoke while paying glowing tributes to late former Governor of the State, popularly known as Odera, who passed away at the age of 77.

He said, “Odera came in as Governor 24 years ago, and he left office 20 years ago. It is only fitting as a people, he devoted four good years of his life which he put on the line. We have gathered as a people to say goodbye.

“Odera founded Anambra State University, now called Chukwuemeka Odimegwu Ojukwu University. He built Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square and the Dora Akunyili Women’s Development Center.

“He did his best in infrastructural development. History will be kind to Odera, that he laid the foundation of a new Anambra of today.

“Ndi Anambra have assembled here today to say it is well with his soul.”

Earlier in his sermon, Archbishop of Province of the Niger, Most Rev. Alexander Ibezim consoled the wife and family of late Mbadinuju, stressing that Odera tried his best as Governor of Anambra State.

While enumerating the three kinds of death as physical death, spiritual death and eternal death, the Archbishop reminded every politician, religious and spiritual leader that the day of reckoning is imminent and urged them to live an upright life.

Among dignitories that graced the occasion were Former Anambra Governors Peter Obi, Dame Virgy Etiaba, Former Deputy Governor Emeka Sibuedu, Deputy Governor, Dr Onyedikachukwu Ibezim and Senator Uche Ekwunife.

Others were Anambra State House of Assembly Speaker, Rt Hon somtochukwu Udeze, Deputy Speaker Anambra House of Assembly, Hon. Chukwuma Okoye, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, Chief Judge of Anambra State, Hon. Justice Onochie Anyachelu

Also in attendance were members of Anambra State Executive Council, Sen. Uche Ekwunife, Catholic Bishop of Awka, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Mr Aderemi Adeoye, Anambra State Immigration Head, Mr Edirin Okoto, among others, attended the event.

Late Mbadinuju served as Governor of Anambra State from 1999 to 2003.