Former President GEJ mourns Ojo Maduekwe, Elechi Amadi

Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has lamented the death of the Secretary of the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party, Chief Ojo Maduekwe and foremost writer, Elechi Amadi, describing the exit of both elder statesmen as a sad loss for the country.

The former President who stated this in separate messages of condolence to the families of the deceased emphasised that both men made significant contributions to Nigeria’s growth and development. Jonathan described Chief Maduekwe as “a nationalist, foremost administrator and intellectual giant who contributed so much to the task of nation building.”

In a statement issued by Mr. Ikechukwu Eze, the former President’s media adviser, Jonathan stated further:

“In service to fatherland, Maduekwe, at different times, held critical leadership positions where he made significant contributions to Nigeria’s growth and the evolution of the nation’s democracy. “He was urbane in his disposition to politics and was blessed with an uncommon clarity of mind and thought which he freely deployed in the search for answers to the nation’s development challenges.

“Whether as a lawyer, politician or diplomat, Maduekwe was deeply committed to the process of building national and international bridges, for which he will always be remembered.”

Speaking on the demise of the literary giant and renowned journalist, the former President said: “Amadi was a renowned writer and patriot who served his country meritoriously, through his literary works and exemplary performance in public service.

“As an author, his works helped change the story of a continent, by rendering accurate accounts of profound African life and traditions as a counterpoise to inexact stereotypes. “A man of many parts, Amadi equally acquitted himself as a soldier, educator and dedicated administrator who was committed to the path of peace, unity and progress.”