The House of Representatives on Thursday held a valedictory session in honour of the late Rt. Hon. (Chief) Agunwa Anaekwe, OFR (Ide Anaocha), who served as Speaker of the House of Representatives during the Third Assembly between December 5, 1992, and November 17, 1993.
The solemn ceremony, which featured the lying-in-state of his remains within the atrium of the National Assembly Complex, admitted invited guests into the Chamber in accordance with House rules to observe proceedings in his honour. The session was attended by his family members, former presiding officers, and members of the National Assembly, particularly those who served in the Third Assembly.
In his tribute, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, GCON, described the occasion as “a moment of institutional reflection to honour the life and service of a former Speaker whose contributions have left a lasting imprint on Nigeria’s democratic journey.”
Several dignitaries took turns to pay glowing tributes to the late former presiding officer, including Senator Osita Izunaso, OFR; Chairman of the National Burial Committee, Senator Victor Umeh, OFR (LP, Anambra Central); Senator Chris Ngige, Senator Patrick Ndubueze, and H.E. Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, who served as Deputy Speaker of the House between 1992 and 1993.
Others who paid tribute included Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, CFR, representing the Forum of Former Presiding Officers of the House; Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, PhD, CFR, Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives; and Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, who represented the President of the Senate.
Prayers for the repose of the deceased were offered by Rt. Hon. Alhassan Ado Doguwa (APC, Kano) and Rep. Uyinme Idem (APC, Akwa Ibom), while the Vote of Thanks was delivered by Mrs. Ifeoma Obiagu, daughter of the late Speaker.
The House extended its heartfelt condolences to his widow, the entire Anaekwe family, the Government and people of Anambra State, and all Nigerians who mourn the passing of a distinguished statesman and patriotic leader.
Funeral rites for the late former Speaker will continue at his country home in Adazi-Ani, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State.
