Cynthia Ezegwu
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, on Thursday led lawmakers and dignitaries in a solemn valedictory session held in honour of the late former Speaker of the House, Agunwa Anaekwe, who died in July 2025 at the age of 69.
Anaekwe, who presided over the House during the short-lived Third Republic between December 1992 and November 1993, was remembered for his integrity, discipline, and unwavering commitment to democratic ideals.
At the session, attended by top government officials including Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu and former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, the casket bearing Anaekwe’s remains was brought into the National Assembly lobby, where lawmakers from both chambers paid their final respects.
Speaker Abbas, in his tribute, described Anaekwe as “a disciplined and principled leader who upheld the sanctity of the legislature even during turbulent political times.” He said the event was not just ceremonial but “an opportunity to assess the essence of leadership and honour a man who led with conviction and clarity.”
He added, “By allowing his remains to lie in state within this institution he once led, the National Assembly affirms the enduring significance of his contribution. Rt. Hon. Anaekwe exemplified responsible leadership rooted in service and integrity.”
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu praised the late Speaker’s democratic credentials, noting that “At just 36, he bore the weight of a young democracy on his shoulders and proved that politics is not a career but a call to serve the people.”
Similarly, Senator Osita Izunaso, a member of the National Burial Committee, recounted how Anaekwe defended democracy during the military era. “He fought for June 12 and stood firm against military interference when it was risky to do so,” he said.
Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central, described the deceased as “a gentleman in politics, never associated with controversy, and respected for his humility and bridge-building efforts.”
Representing the Senate President, Senator Muhammed Monguno lauded Anaekwe for championing legislative independence. “He led the House to reject a draconian decree that sought to cripple the legislature and defended democracy at great personal risk,” Monguno said.
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Former Speaker Yakubu Dogara described Anaekwe as “a dove with the heart of a lion,” while Kwankwaso, who served as his deputy during the Third Republic, humorously remarked that Anaekwe “would have joined the New Nigeria Peoples Party today to do the right thing for the nation.”
The House announced that a delegation led by the Deputy Speaker will represent the 10th House at Anaekwe’s burial, scheduled to take place on Friday in Adazi, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Anaekwe, a lawyer and statesman, was widely regarded as one of the key figures who defended democracy during one of Nigeria’s most fragile political transitions.