The Senate on Thursday called on the Federal Government to immortalise the late former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chief Agunwa Anaekwe, in recognition of his distinguished service to the nation and his role in strengthening democratic governance.
The resolution was adopted during Thursday’s plenary session, following the consideration of a motion titled: “Demise of Rt. Hon. Chief Agunwa Anaekwe, OFR (Former Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives)”, sponsored by Senator Victor Umeh (LP, Anambra Central) and co-sponsored by seven other senators across party lines.
In a solemn moment, the Senate observed a minute of silence in honour of the late statesman, and mandated a delegation to visit the bereaved family, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Governor of Anambra State.
The upper legislative chamber also resolved to work jointly with the House of Representatives and the Anaekwe family to ensure a befitting state burial for the deceased.
Senator Umeh, while leading the tribute, described Chief Anaekwe as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s democratic history.
He recalled Anaekwe’s rise to prominence in 1992 when, at the age of 36, he became the youngest Speaker of the House during the country’s brief Third Republic.
“During his tenure, Chief Anaekwe offered principled and courageous leadership at a critical juncture in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
“He resisted anti-democratic forces seeking to undermine the independence of the legislature and firmly upheld the sovereignty of the people’s House,” Umeh said.
Although his term was cut short by the military coup of November 17, 1993, senators agreed that Chief Anaekwe’s legacy remains significant and enduring.
Born in Adazi-Ani, Anaocha local government area of Anambra State, Anaekwe was not only a seasoned lawyer and administrator but also an entrepreneur and committed party leader.
Until his passing, he served as a member of the All Progressives Ccongress (APC) National Caucus and an ex-officio member of the party’s National Executive Council.
The Senate praised his post-office contributions to national discourse and democratic consolidation, noting that he remained politically active and committed to the ideals of justice, equity, and national unity.
“Chief Anaekwe was a mentor to many leaders, a recipient of national honours, and an exemplary son of Anambra State and Nigeria as a whole,” Umeh stated.
As part of the resolution, the Senate urged the federal government to name a national institution or public edifice after the late Anaekwe to permanently honour his legacy and service to the nation.
