Peter Obi mourns death of Former Lawyer

Nigerian politician and the 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed deep sadness following the passing of Professor Ben Nwabueze, a distinguished constitutional lawyer and former Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide.

Professor Ben Nwabueze, aged 91, breathed his last on Sunday evening at his residence.

In a heartfelt condolence message delivered on Tuesday, Peter Obi, a former Governor of Anambra State, described the late Ben Nwabueze as a father figure who had played an instrumental role in his political journey.

The news of the elder statesman’s demise has left Obi and many others with an irreplaceable void.

Recalling the invaluable support and guidance he received from Ben Nwabueze throughout his political career, Obi extended his sympathies to the grieving family and all those mourning this significant loss.

“I am saddened by the death of a very revered Nigerian and a respected father figure, foremost patriot, constitutional lawyer, and erstwhile Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide, Professor Ben Nwabueze, SAN,” Obi expressed.

“Prof Ben Nwabueze was a seasoned academician, thoroughbred administrator, and experienced politician.

“An uncommon jurist and scholar, Prof Nwabueze was Nigeria’s first academic Senior Advocate of Nigeria. He was also the former Minister of Education and Youth Development. As a father figure whose desire for a great Nigeria was well known, he remained supportive of me in my political journey.”

Obi also acknowledged the critical role Nwabueze played in his tenure as Governor of Anambra State, where the elder statesman’s wisdom and guidance contributed to the state’s successes during that period.

Despite his health challenges, Nwabueze continued to provide invaluable counsel even after Obi left office.

Peter Obi recalled a significant moment in 2019 when he was the Vice Presidential Candidate of the PDP, with Professor Nwabueze heading their legal team at the Presidential Election Tribunal.

This gesture highlighted Nwabueze’s unwavering commitment to justice, peace, and progress in Nigeria.