Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State has expressed shock at the untimely death of Chief Emeka Ojukwu, the Ikemba of Nnewi.

Governor Uduaghan in a statement, signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Sunny Ogefere, lamented the death of Chief Ojukwu. The governor described his death as “a sad loss to the country whose initial news of recovery from his hospital bed had gladdened his heart, only for the shock announcement of his demise.”

Governor Uduaghan in his condolence message to the family, the government and people of Anambra State over Ojukwu’s death recalled that he was in his life a colossus who made significant contribution to the growth and development of the country.

“Chief Ojukwu was in his life time a bright and courageous military officer, politician of immense talent, capable administrator, who even though led a secessionist struggle, came back from exile to participate in deepening the process of healing and reconciliation of the country.

“Ojukwu until his death was a strong proponent of handshake across the Niger, a vision he promoted to reconcile the peoples of south-south and South east as part of efforts to heal the wounds of the civil war. I am sure history will be kind to him.”

He prayed God to grant the family, the people and government of Anambra state the fortitude to bear the loss.