By George Ozalla
The President of the Senate, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON, has graciously approved a high-powered delegation of the Senate to attend the burial of the late Rt. Hon. Chief Agunwa Anaekwe, former Speaker of the House of Representatives. This was contained in information released by the Chairman of the National Burial Planning Committee, Senator Osita Izunaso, who stated that the delegation was constituted in honour of the late statesman’s remarkable service to the nation.
Rt. Hon. Agunwa Anaekwe, a respected lawmaker, political leader, and community figure, passed away in June this year after a brief illness. He was widely remembered for his immense contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development, particularly as Speaker of the House of Representatives during the Third Republic, where he played a pioneering role in shaping the country’s modern legislative practice.
According to the statement, the Senate delegation to the burial has been constituted as follows: Senator Mohammed Monguno (Team Leader), Senator Osita Izunaso, Senator Ned Nwoko, Senator Cyril Fasuyi, Senator Patrick Ndubueze, Senator Victor Umeh, Senator Tony Nwoye, and Senator Emma Nwachukwu. The delegation will represent the leadership and entire members of the Senate at the funeral ceremonies, signifying the chamber’s respect and recognition of the late Anaekwe’s distinguished public service.
Other burial rites for the late parliamentarian will continue on Thursday, October 16, 2025, with a Valedictory Session at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja, beginning at 9 a.m., followed by another Valedictory Session at the Anambra State House of Assembly at 2 p.m. His remains will be laid to rest in his country home in Anambra State on Friday 17th October, 2025, in a ceremony expected to attract top political leaders, associates, and well-wishers from across the nation.
Observers note that the Senate’s decision to send a high-powered delegation underscores its deep respect for the late Anaekwe’s legacy of legislative leadership, integrity, and commitment to national unity. Rt. Hon. Agunwa Anaekwe, who hailed from Adazi-Ani, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, was a distinguished parliamentarian known for his humility, eloquence, and dedication to democratic governance.
