*Special Report*
By George Ozalla
Flags drooped, drums rolled softly, and the bells of St. Peter’s Catholic Church tolled mournfully on Friday, 17th October 2025, as the ancient town of Adazi-Ani in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State bade farewell to one of its finest sons and a great patriot, Rt. Hon. Anthony Agunwa Anaekwe, OFR, (Ideanaocha) former Speaker of the House of Representatives during the Third Republic.
From the early hours of the morning, Adazi-Ani was transformed into a sea of humanity as political associates, benefactors, religious leaders, traditional rulers, captains of industry, and ordinary citizens gathered to honour a man who lived for truth, service, and faith. The Requiem Mass was celebrated by the Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, who described the late Speaker as “a man of courage and conscience who stood for justice even in turbulent times.” The Bishop reminded leaders that “public office is a sacred trust, not a personal possession,” urging them to emulate Anaekwe’s integrity and simplicity. He added that the deceased achieved much in his youth, continued to serve with humility, and has now paid his dues as God called him home.
Among the dignitaries who paid glowing tributes during the Mass was Senator Victor Umeh, who described the late Speaker as “a man who never compromised on principle, even when the pressures of politics made compromise easy.” According to him, Anaekwe’s life “challenges every public officer to serve not for self but for the greater good of society.”
Senator Osita Izunaso, who served as Chief Press Secretary to the late Speaker and chaired the National Burial Planning Committee, extolled his former principal as “courageous, meticulous, and one of the key figures that preserved our democracy.” He noted that Anaekwe mentored several politicians who have since risen to prominence, adding that “his leadership inspired discipline, vision, and service.”
Also speaking, Senator Patrick Ndubueze, who served alongside Anaekwe in the House of Representatives and now represents Imo North in the Senate, said, “He led and guided the Third Republic House of Representatives with wisdom through the challenges of a military-styled democracy, yet carried himself with dignity and direction.”
Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, who led the Anambra State Government delegation to the funeral, described the late Anaekwe as “a statesman of rare honour and one of the finest towering figures Anambra has ever produced, and by extension, Nigeria.” According to the Governor, “he led with humility and faith; he was proof that one could serve with clean hands and leave office with dignity.”
At the graveside, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Kalu Okezie Benjamin, described Anaekwe as “a moral giant and a torchbearer of true representation.” In a moving moment, he personally handed over the Nigerian flag that draped the casket to Mr. Ikenna Anaekwe, the first son of the deceased, marking a symbolic transfer of legacy, honour, and national service.
As the casket was lowered into the grave, the atmosphere shifted from solemn reflection to a celebration of life. Traditional masquerades paraded in colourful costumes, drummers and live bands filled the air with stirring rhythms, and mourners — including political leaders, traditional rulers, and guests — joined in dance and reflection.
It was at this moment that Senators Chris Ngige, fondly called Onwa (the moon), and Osita Izunaso, popularly known as Kpakpando (the star), stole the show with an electrifying dance. The two political giants moved rhythmically to the beat as they made their way to the condolence table, drawing resounding cheers from the crowd. The scene reached its climax when Ngige, in his characteristic flair, dug it harder with shouts of “Onwaaa!” echoing across the arena — a moment that turned grief into a glowing celebration of life, loyalty, and enduring friendship.
Guests were later treated to sumptuous meals and choice drinks that flowed freely as conversations, laughter, and shared memories filled the VIP tent and reception ground. Elegant souvenirs were presented to attendees as tokens of gratitude, rounding off a ceremony that was as dignified as it was memorable.
In his tribute, Bert Chucks Igwilo SAN (Ezeani Adazi-Ani) described Anaekwe as “a man of sterling intellect and unshakable faith in justice.” Ikenna Anaekwe, the first son, said his father “never wavered, always remained calm and steadfast in his purpose, humble in character, and full of poise and grace.” Late Anaekwe’s first daughter, Ijeoma Frances Obiago, recalled that her father instilled in her the value of education and hard work, promising that she still owes him a PhD in fulfilment of his dream for her.
Among other attendees were members of the National Assembly, in-laws, members of the National Burial Planning Committee, former commissioners, heads of government agencies, and traditional rulers from across Anambra and neighbouring states — all of whom affirmed Anaekwe’s extraordinary contribution to public service.
Rt. Hon. Agunwa Anaekwe (1958–2025) was a distinguished lawmaker, devout Catholic, and statesman. He served as Speaker of the House of Representatives during the Third Republic and earned wide respect for his integrity, modesty, and principled leadership. A native of Adazi-Ani, Anaekwe was a mentor to many younger politicians and a patron of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Anambra State Chapter who saw in him the ideal of honourable politics.
When the sun set over Adazi-Ani and the flags of different political parties fluttered gently in the evening breeze, it was clear that a chapter had closed — one written in faith, service, and truth. Rt. Hon. Agunwa Anaekwe went home not just as a leader remembered, but as a light that will continue to guide all lovers of democracy and by extension humanity!
