President Bola Tinubu has mourned legal luminary and former Minister of Education, Prof. Ben Nwabueze (SAN), who died at 91.
Nwabueze was former secretary-general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
In a statement yesterday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, the President condoled with the family, as well as Anambra State. He described Nwabueze’s death as a profound loss, saying his knowledge of the law was outstanding.
The statement reads,
“Prof. Nwabueze’s contribution to the precedents and principles of the constitution is notable. His involvement in the drafting of 1979 Constitution is a legacy that stands him out as well as his contributions to the legal profession.”
Ohanaeze said Nwabueze’s death was unfortunate and a huge loss to Southeast and Nigeria.
Vice President (Southeast), Damian Okeke-Ogene, said Igbo and Nigeria lost a gem. “It’s sad and unfortunate we lost Nwabueze at this moment. The defender of the defenceless and apostle of a corruption-free society. He will be missed for his fatherly advice.
Lawmaker, Afam Ogene, described it as painful for him and his constituents.
In a text, he said the former Ohanaeze chief died on Sunday.
President-General of Atani town Union, (the deceased’s community), Arinze Nzeli, confirmed Nwabueze’s death. Nzeli said the legal icon passed on in his Lagos home, about 4pm Sunday. He had been ill for some time, he added.
Nwabueze was born in 1931 and hailed from Atani, Ogbaru Local Government of Anambra.