Abia Federal lawmaker mourns Ikonne, suspends campaign

Member representing Isiala Ngwa North/South Federal Constituency, of Abia State, Hon. Darlington Nwokocha on Thursday expressed sadness over the demise of Professor Uche Ikonne saying it was shocking and devastating at this time that Abians needed him most.

In a statement which he issued on Thursday and made available to CAPITAL POST, in Abuja, Nwokocha who is the Chairman of House Committee on Insurance and Actuarial Matters described the late Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, governorship candidate as a multidisciplinary teacher and an illustrious son of Isialangwa who would forever be missed.

While commiserating with his immediate family, political family of the late politician and sons and daughters of Abia State, the Lawmaker suspended his campaign in his honour.

The statement read: “I have received with rude shock, the devastating news of the death of our Revered Professor Eleazar Uchenna Ikonne, an illustrious son of Isialangwa and the Abia State PDP Governorship Candidate for the 2023 general election who passed on, on Wednesday, 25th January 2023.

“Late Distinguished Professor Ikonne was the evergreen pride of the Isialangwa people, a multidisciplinary Teacher, a Renowned Professor of Optometry and a reputable Scholar with several inspiring laurels to show for his towering accompaniments.

“On behalf of my family and the good people of Isiala Ngwa North/South Federal Constituency, Abia State, I deeply commiserate with Dr Uche Ikonne Chikezie, the immediate family, the people of Isialangwa North, and the Government and People of Abia State over this irreparable loss.

“Accordingly, I hereby announce the suspension of my campaign activities in honour of our great son and Elder Statesman from my constituency, from Thursday, January 26th to Thursday, February 2nd, 2023 as we spend time to reflect and offer heartfelt prayers for his Family and our Constituency.

“My prayer is that God in His infinite Mercies will strengthen the entire family and grant all those who mourn the fortitude to bear this sad loss. May God grant the departed eternal rest. Amen”, he concluded.