Abia govt shuns Chukwumerije’s burial

The Abia State Government on Friday shunned the burial of the remains of the Senator representing Abia North Senatorial District, Uche Chukwumerije, at his Isuochi country home in Umunneochi Local Government Area of the state.

Anambra State Governor, Mr. Willie Obiano, and his Imo State counterpart, Chief Rochas Okorocha, were among the dignitaries that attended the burial.



When asked why the state government was not represented at the burial, the Special Adviser to the Abia State Governor on Political Matters, Chief Ama Abraham, said the deceased’s children failed to carry the state along.

Abraham said, “The family refused to carry the state government along which is a serious indictment. Chukwumerije was elected into the senate twice and the state government gave him all the support he needed,” wondering why the deceased’s family members would decide not to consult with the state over his burial.

Speaking at the event, Senate President, David Mark, said Chukwumerije would be missed by his colleagues.

According to him, the presence of about 85 senators at a valedictory session held in the deceased’s honour in Abuja was a testimonial of his popularity.

In his sermon entitled: “Judgement at the Wesley Cathedral,” the Prelate of the Methodist Church of Nigeria, Dr. Samuel Uche, said the late senator prepared for death by reconciling with members of his family six days to his death.

He urged everyone, especially politicians to prepare for God’s judgement.

The cleric flayed corruption among public officials and therefore called on Nigerians to unite in fighting the menace.

Uche, however, called on the President-elect, Gen. Mohammadu Buhari, not to renege in effecting the change he promised.

Commending Chukwumerije for living a patriotic life, the cleric reminded the congregation that hell was real and urged them to mend their ways.

Meanwhile, pick pockets had a field day at the event as they dispossessed mourners of their personal items, including phones and money.

An Abia based journalist and a friend of the late Senator was dispossessed of his expensive android phone while another woman lost N15, 000 to hoodlums.

Other dignitaries at the burial included the former Vice-President Alex Ekwueme and his wife; Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo- Iweala ; Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu ; Senate Leader, Ndoma Egba; and Deputy House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha.

Others were Lawan Farouk; President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Garry Enwo- Igarriwe; the All Progressive Grand Alliance National Chairman, Chief Victor Umeh; APGA governorship candidate in Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti; and former Minister of Labour, Chief Emeka Wogu, among others.