In a solemn ceremony today, the late Senator Annie Okonkwo is being bid a final farewell as he is laid to rest in his hometown of Ojolo, Idemili North Local Government Area, Anambra State. The funeral proceedings commenced on this Wednesday morning, drawing mourners from far and wide to pay their respects to a distinguished statesman.
Senator Okonkwo, who represented the Anambra Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly from 2007 to 2011, is being honored with a funeral service at Saint Paul’s Catholic Church in Ojolo. The ceremony is a poignant tribute to a man who dedicated himself to both public service and his faith.
Annie Okonkwo’s passing on June 8, 2023, at the age of 63 in the United States, after a prolonged illness, deeply saddened the nation. The loss was felt keenly by the Catholic community to which he was devoted, and where he held the esteemed title of Knight of Saint John.
As the community gathers to bid farewell, prominent figures in Nigerian politics and society have come together to pay their respects. Present at the funeral are Godswill Akpabio, the President of the Senate, Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, accompanied by his wife. Senator Ifeanyi Uba and numerous other dignitaries also grace the occasion with their presence.