onathan Mourns Chukwumerije, Says He Was Man of Integrity

Chukwumerije

• Tambuwal Shocked, Saraki too

Jaiyeola Andrews, Muhammad Bello in Abuja, and Hammed Shittu in  Ilorin

President Goodluck Jonathan on Monday extended his heartfelt condolences to the Chukwumerije family as well as the government and people of Abia State on the death of Senator Uche Chukwumerije.

The president described the deceased as a man of integrity who worked for the unity and progress of the country while alive.

The president in a statement by his spokesman, Dr. Reuben Abati, equally commiserated with the Senate over the passage of the senator.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has expressed shock and sadness over the death of Senator Uche Chukwumerije which occured Sunday in Abuja.

In a statement issued by his spokesman, Malam Imam Imam, he described the deceased as a fine legislator and a refined gentleman whose passion for the unity and progress of Nigeria is well-documented.

The chairman, Senate Committee on Environment and Ecology, Senator Bukola Saraki also described the death of Senator Uche Chukwumerije as shocking and saddening.

In a statement he personally signed and made available to newsmen in Ilorin, Kwara state, on Monday, Saraki said he received Chukwumerijes's death with rude shock.

Jonathan described the deceased as an ardent believer in national unity, peace, political stability and progress while alive.

He joined the deceased family in mourning the late patriot and nationalist who, according to him, left behind an impressive legacy of discipline, honesty, integrity and hard work in public service.

The president said he believed that the late Senator Chukwumerije, who had a distinguished career as a journalist, social critic, Minister of Information and Senator, will  be long remembered for his dedication and passion for a just and equitable society