OGWASHI-UKU -President Goodluck Jonathan said on Friday that the late former President-General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Amb. Ralph Uwechue, served the nation in the defence of her unity, peace and stability. Jonathan made the remark in a tribute to the late publisher during his funeral in Ogwuashi-Uku in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State. The President, represented by the Secretary to the Federation, Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim, described Uwechue as “an epitome of the ideals of international diplomacy and uncommon commitment to dedicated service to fatherland.” He condoled with the family and prayed God to grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. Gov. Emmuanuel Uduaghan of Delta, on his part, said he was touched by the death of Uwechue whom, he said, had been very much involved in conflict resolution in the country and beyond. Uduaghan said that there were many diplomats of Uwechue’s calibre in the country today and appealed to them to use their wealth of experience to assist the country in meeting her security challenges. “Nigeria currently needs your expertise. There is no doubt we have a very serious issue at hand and many international communities are coming to assist. “I also believe that the best assistance will come from within. For those of us who have the expertise, let us lend our hands of fellowship and support to Mr President.” The governor also urged Nigerian youths to emulate the virtues of the late ambassador, pointing out that the virtuous would always be celebrated. Also, former Secretary-General of Commonwealth, Emeka Anyaoku, described Uwechue as “an uncommon Pan Africanist”, who had unsurpassable passion for the African continent.” Anyoku said the late diplomat believed in the huge potential of a united Africa for development. The Catholic Bishop of Isselu-Uku Diocese, Most Rev. Michael Elue, reminded Nigerians that death was inevitable but was always the desire of human beings to live long. Elue stressed the need for all mortals to serve humanity well while on earth in order to merit the kingdom of God. The bishop, however, observed that the death of a loved one was always painful, adding that “the resurrection of Christ cushioned the pains of death.” (NAN)
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