By Jennifer Amarachi
Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Saturday expressed sorrow at the tragic death of Ifeanyi Ubah, one of the 10th Senate’s ranking lawmakers.
Ubah, Capital Oil’s CEO, died in a hotel in London, United Kingdom, on July 27, 2024.
Akpabio expressed his emotions during a condolence visit to Ubah’s wife, Uchenna Ubah, at their Lagos home, attended by some politicians.
In a statement released by his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, Akpabio said, “I was jolted when I received the news of the death of a very dedicated and patriotic colleague, Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.
“When Senator Mpigi gave me the phone to talk to you, I had no idea it was to inform me of Senator Ubah’s passing. I was so shocked that I couldn’t even finish our conversation—I simply dropped the phone.
“We never expected this; we thought he would be with us for at least another 40 years. But who are we to question God?”
Akpabio referred to Senator Ubah as one of the cornerstones of the 10th Senate and apologized for not following up after the original call, citing the great sadness he felt at the time.
“We learned of your return to the country two days ago, and we decided to come and offer our condolences to you, the children, and the rest of the family,” he said
Addressing Ubah’s children, Akpabio said, “Your father brought you into this world and entrusted you to God. Keep his memory alive.
“Though death can come to anyone, my prayer is that none of us ever have to bury our children.
“Take pride in being able to bury your father, rather than the other way around.”
Akpabio comforted the family, reaffirming their support throughout the grieving time and vowing to help give Ubah a proper burial, while also acknowledging the late senator’s lasting legacy.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Chidi Orizu thanked the Senate President and his delegation for their visit and promised them that the family will keep the Senate leadership updated on the burial plans.
Accompanying the Senate President were Osita Ngwu, the Senate Minority Whip, Senators Saliu Mustapha, Sunday Karimi, and Tokunbo Abiru.
