By George Ozalla
One year after the transition of Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, a book launch was held at the prestigious Yar’Adua Center, Abuja, to mark his legacy and promote good democratic governance, rule of law, true federalism etc. The Ezeife Leadership Foundation (ELF) organized the event, which brought together dignitaries from various fields.
The book, titled “Constitutional Law, Politics and Good Governance: An Interdisciplinary Text,” is a 1,385-page compendium divided into two parts and 41 chapters. It explores critical subjects such as constitutionalism, federalism, the rule of law, democratic institutions, human rights, corruption, electoral jurisprudence, insecurity and gender mainstreaming.
Former Governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi, who was represented by former IPAC Chairman, Chief Peter Ameh, emphasized the need for Nigeria to go beyond merely enacting laws to ensuring they work for the people and cause real change across sectors. Ameh stated, “Nigeria is a very important country in the community of nations, and one of the things we have not gotten right is how to make sure that our laws that have been enacted for the good governance and development of this country, work in the actual sense,” he opined.
The book launch had in attendance notable speakers and guests, including Senior Advocate of Nigeria and law professor, Yemi Akinseye George, who described the book as timely and necessary. “I make bold to say that this book is historical, analytical, sociological, and inspiringly ecumenical for the leaders of yesterday, today, and the future,” he stated.
Some other important personalities in attendance included the Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, Represenative of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Dr Ezeife’s first daughter, Dr Ogelue Ezeife-Ugorji and her husband and Ebubedike Ezeife, first son of the late Dr. Ezeife, Iyom Josephine Anenih, Senator Ndi Ben Obi, Representative of the Niger State Government, Dr (Mrs) Chioma Uzuegbunam amongst others.
Ebubedike while fielding questions from newsmen stated that the book is a foundation for preserving his father’s legacy in addition to promoting good governance, fairness, equality amongst others.
The Ezeife Leadership Foundation plans to make the book available in universities and colleges of education, where it can be used for study and research. As the foundation continues to thrive, it is hoped that it will inspire a new generation of leaders to prioritize good governance and democratic values.
Obi, represented said, “So if you have this kind of compendium of information put in one book, and then the kind of information that is there to talk about the constitutional governance and law, it is very critical that we give it to people to examine, to a lot of people to read, so that we can use the information that has been provided by a very credible individual.”
He further added, “This book is a well-researched book, and it’s good that the importance of this book is not thrown away. It should be used to do a research, and then look at the best way to make laws for the good governance and prosperity of our people.”
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Torrey Umah, said the book aptly shows the values and legacy of the late Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife.
The Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar, in his reaction stated, “Honestly, I am short of words, but I thank Almighty God for giving us life and time to come and actually thank our dear friends.”
The book is a valuable resource for leaders, policymakers, and anyone concerned with Nigeria’s future. He praised late Ezeife’s virtues and consistency.
Obviously elated Chief Rob Ezeife, Dr Ezeife’s younger brother and Mrs Grace Ezeife, (Ugoeze) wife of late Okwadike separately thanked everyone that has been there over the years to identify with the family and her late husband’s legacy and ideology for peaceful co-existence amongst fellow citizens.
Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, the first civilian executive governor of Anambra State, left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s political landscape. His life was a testament to his dedication to public service and his commitment to the development of Nigeria as a whole. As a first class Harvard trained economist and respected nationalist, Dr. Ezeife’s leadership was characterized by a strong sense of vision and purpose.
During his tenure as governor from January 1992 to November 1993, Dr. Ezeife initiated several policies that had a lasting impact on the state. One of his most notable initiatives was the “Think Home” policy, which encouraged local investment and led to federal government takeovers of Nnamdi Azikiwe University and Federal Polytechnic, Oko.
Dr. Ezeife’s legacy extends beyond his achievements in office. He was a mentor, a leader, and a guiding light to many who knew him. His passing in 2023 was a loss felt deeply by many, but his legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the institutions he helped build.
It is expected that Ezeife Leadership Foundation (ELF) will continue to promote good governance and democratic values, it is also envisaged that Dr. Ezeife’s legacy will inspire a new generation of leaders to prioritize the needs of their people and work for better egalitarian society!
