The Abia State Governorship Candidate of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Prof Gregory Ibe has expressed deep shock at the sudden death of the President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Prof George Obiozor.
Speaking to newsmen in his Uturu country home on the heels of the unfortunate news, Prof Ibe bemoaned the demise of the Ohaneze leader who he described as “a seasoned diplomat, political juggernaut, cultural revivalist and mentor par excellence”.
According to Prof Ibe,” I am totally traumatized by news of the sudden death of the President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo,Prof George Obiozor. This is a sad development that has resulted in the unfortunate loss of a seasoned diplomat, political juggernaut, cultural revivalist, my personal mentor and coach”.
Prof Ibe stated that he maintained close relationship with the late Ohaneze leader from his days as Nigeria Ambassador to Israel and USA, High Commissioner to Cyprus and Director General of Nigeria Institute of International Affairs.
In his words,” Our relationship blossomed during his diplomatic tenures as Nigerian Ambassador to Israel and USA, High Commissioner to Cyprus and Director General of Nigeria Institute of International Affairs. The relationship was further strenghtened when I served as Consultant to the South East Delegation at the 2014 National Conference where Prof Obiozor played active role as a major leader from Imo state. But it was when I started organizing Igbo Uturu Cultural Carnival and World Igbo Summit that he became my mentor by offering to act as convener, a role which required that I speak to him for instructions every other day. Why did death snatch him now that I need his political counsel most?You can understand why I am so devasted by this sad news”.
Prof Ibe stated that as a mark of respect he had cancelled all scheduled political programmes for three days and appealed to his supporters to join in mourning the unfortunate loss of the great Igbo leader.
“Please join me in mourning this renowned diplomat, passionate patriot and acclaimed academic. While praying for peaceful repose of his soul, let us also do remember his bereaved family in our prayers”, he concluded.
News of the sudden death of Prof Obiozor was recently announced by the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma.
Sleek Ogwo
Director, Media & Public Relations
Prof Gregory Ibe Campaign Organization