By George Ozalla
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Chief Agunwa Anaekwe, former Speaker of the House of Representatives in the short-lived Third Republic. Chief Anaekwe, who died at the age of 69, was described by the President as a courageous democrat and disciplined parliamentarian whose life embodied selfless service and patriotic commitment.
In a condolence message released on Tuesday, according to a statement signed by the President, he recalled his personal experience with the late lawmaker during their days in the National Assembly in the early 1990s, noting that Chief Anaekwe stood firmly against military dictatorship and the truncation of democratic governance.
President Tinubu described the late Anaekwe as “a bold, courageous, and disciplined leader who provided the needed leadership in parliament during utter chaos and rudderlessness,” adding that his name remains etched in the annals of Nigeria’s democratic struggle.
The President further noted that with the return of civil rule in 1999, Chief Anaekwe continued to play an active role in nation-building, particularly as a founding member and first interim chairman of the Action Congress (AC) in Anambra State in 2006, a political platform that later evolved into the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He expressed confidence that the late statesman’s exemplary public service would continue to inspire generations of legislators and administrators across the country.
President Tinubu prayed for the repose of his soul and for divine comfort to his family, the government, and the people of Anambra State.
Chief Agunwa Anaekwe, who hailed from Anambra State, served as Speaker of the House of Representatives between 1992 and 1993 during the Third Republic and was widely known for his outspoken defense of democracy and legislative independence.
