Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State has expressed his deep condolences on the death of Ms. Ifeoma Anumba, a journalist with the Federal Ministry of Information, Awka, to her family and the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Anambra State chapter.

Chief Obiano, who is away in United States of America for the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC), said the news of Ms. Anumba’s sudden death was sobering and depressing. ‘Every death takes something out of us but it is especially so when the deceased is plucked in the prime of life without warning as in the present case. Her sudden death has once more thrown up philosophical questions about the purpose and trajectories of earthly life.’

The Governor described the exit of the late journalist as not just a big blow to members of the fourth estate of the realm but personal loss to Ndi Anambra, pointing out that her contributions to state information will be sorely missed.

“I remember that in one of my informal interactions with Journalists, she made useful suggestions towards Government - media partnership for good governance,” he said.

Obiano regretted that the lively and outspoken journalist, who until her death was the state Secretary of the NUJ, was now being spoken of in the past tense. He noted that her vast potentials had gone untapped with her untimely transition even as she had made her mark as a union leader in a short time.

Governor Obiano called on the deceased’s family and relations to bear the loss with the spirit of resignation to God’s will.

He urged them to take consolation in the fact that longevity was not the measure of a good life but the sense of fulfilment.

Extending his condolences to the NUJ, the governor said the best tribute they could pay to the memory of their departed colleague was to stay united and progressive and continue the worthy endeavours they had started with her.

•Photo shows Obiano

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