*TRIBUTE *
By George Ozalla
Death is one of those inexplicable mysteries of God, and it is intended that by it, we the living should have a sense of sobriety, restraint, and caution in our daily living—recognizing the very fact that one day, we shall all individually appear before the judgment seat of God Almighty. In that quiet moment of reflection, as we ponder the inevitable truth of mortality, our hearts are drawn to the life and legacy of one of Nigeria’s finest parliamentarians, Chief Rt. Hon. Agunwa Anaekwe, the Ide Anaocha, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, whose transition has rekindled deep memories of his patriotism, humility, and uncommon leadership in the service of motherland.
The Holy Scripture steadily rechoes in 2 Timothy 4:7, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” These timeless words fittingly pull the story of Rt. Hon. Anaekwe—a man who, in his journey through life, fought valiantly for democracy, served selflessly, and finished his race with dignity and grace. His life remains a vivid narrative that true leadership is not measured by years in power, but by the depth of impact left behind.
The passing of Rt. Hon. Anaekwe marks the end of an era, a closing chapter in the story of Nigeria’s early democratic journey—one marked by high hopes, great courage, and a painful interruption. Elected into the House of Representatives in August 1992 under the banner of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Agunwa Anaekwe became the Speaker of the House of Representatives on December 5, 1992, during the administration of General Ibrahim Babangida’s transition programme that birthed the short-lived Third Republic. He was, at the time, only in his mid-thirties, yet he carried himself with rare composure, wisdom, and foresight far beyond his years. His service as Rt. Hon. Speaker, which lasted until November 17, 1993, was tragically cut short when the military struck again, abruptly ending the budding democratic experiment under General Sani Abacha.
During that brief but historic period, Anaekwe distinguished himself as a unifier and consensus builder, presiding over a House that included some of the brightest young minds of that era. His Deputy then was Hon. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, who would later become Governor of Kano State and one of Nigeria’s most prominent political figures. In the Senate of that same Third Republic, several figures who would later shape the country’s democratic destiny were also serving. Among them was Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, now President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who represented Lagos West under the same SDP platform. Other contemporaries in that historic assembly included Senators Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele and Anthony Adefuye, alongside other emerging leaders who would later play defining roles in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
The Third Republic represented a fleeting but defining moment in Nigeria’s political history—a time when the ideals of service, sacrifice, and nation-building were sincerely pursued by young men and women who believed that Nigeria could be governed by vision and principle. As Speaker, Agunwa Anaekwe perfectly crystalized that hope. He was known for his calm temperament, intellectual depth, and strong moral compass, all of which guided his leadership of the Green Chamber. Despite the challenges of that fragile democracy and the eventual military interregnum that disrupted their legislative work, his tenure remains one of the most respected in Nigeria’s parliamentary history.
Leadership, said the late Nelson Mandela, “is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge.” Those who worked with Rt. Hon. Agunwa Anaekwe attest that he lived by this creed—leading with empathy, humility, and a deep devotion to the good of all. In today’s world often marked by the arrogance of power, he stood out for his simplicity, patience, and sense of balance. He understood the power of listening, the necessity of fair compromise, and the responsibility of stewardship. Through his measured voice and unwavering convictions, he helped lay the foundation for a democratic legislature that would, years later, find its full expression in the Fourth Republic.
Following earlier tributes and memorial events held in Abuja, preparations have now reached their peak for the continuation of his final journey home. The burial rites for the late Rt. Hon. Chief Agunwa Anaekwe will continue on Thursday, October 16, 2025, with a Valedictory Session at the National Assembly, Abuja, beginning at 9 a.m., followed at 2 p.m. by another Valedictory Session at the Anambra State House of Assembly, Awka. The remains of the late statesman will thereafter be flown to Anambra State, accompanied by family members and some members of the National Burial Planning Committee. On arrival, the Igwe-in-Council and the Adazi-ani Town Union will hold a Valedictory Session at the Igwe’s Palace, Adazi-ani, by 4 p.m., followed at 5 p.m. by a Vigil Mass and Wake Keep at his Country Home, Adazi-ani. On Friday, October 17, 2025, the lying-in-state will begin at 9 a.m. at his Country Home, to be followed by the Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Adazi-ani, while interment will take place by 1 p.m. at his residence. A reception will follow immediately after the interment at the same venue. Condolence visits by family members, in-laws, and well-wishers will continue on Saturday, October 18, 2025, while the final outing and thanksgiving Mass will hold on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at 10 a.m. at the All Saints Catholic Church, Adazi-ani.
Credit must go to the National Burial Planning Committee, ably led by Senator Osita Izunaso, which has continued to work tirelessly to ensure a befitting and dignified burial for the late former Speaker. The Committee, in collaboration with the Anaekwe family and the Adazi-Ani community, has shown uncommon commitment and attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of the programme reflects the honour due to a great son of Nigeria whose memory will never fade.
To those who knew him closely, Rt. Hon. Agunwa Anaekwe was a man of deep faith and discipline, a lawyer by training and a leader by conviction. His political life was guided by humility and an unshakable belief in fairness and justice. Beyond politics, he was known for his large heart, his passion for education and youth empowerment, and his belief in service above self. Through his actions, he taught that leadership is not about privilege, but about purpose; not about what one gains, but what one gives.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Chinwe, children, and grandchildren who will continue to uphold the values of integrity, simplicity, and service that defined his life. His passing has left a void that may take long to fill, yet his legacy will remain an enduring light. The name Rt. Hon. Agunwa Anaekwe, Ide Anaocha, will forever be remembered with reverence and gratitude—as that of a quintessential patriot, and statesman who lived for others, served with honour, and departed this world having fought the good fight and kept the faith.
Adieu Ide Anaocha!
Adieu Rt Hon Anaekwe!
*Publisher & Editor-in-Chief of NEWSCOUNT & member of the National Burial Planning Committee.
