By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Business mogul and erstwhile Senator representing Anambra Central Senatorial Zone in the National Assembly, Senator Annie Okonkwo, has reportedly died.

Okonkwo, whose name made the rounds as a foremost businessman in the 80s, 90s as he championed Clemco Industries, before joining politics hailed from Ojoto in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State.

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he unsuccessfully vied more than once for the position of Anambra State Governor.

Okonkwo was last seen in public when his son, Uche Okonkwo, who won a seat in the House of Representatives, paid him a visit to present to him his Certificate of Return.

In the recent past, there had been rumours of him having health issues and having treatment abroad, following his long absence from public focus and politics.

Breaking the sad news of Okonkwo’s death, a statement shared on social media this Thursday morning by Dr Uche Nworah, a friend to the family, and a beneficiary of Okonkwo’s kindness, said:

“I just woke up to the sad news of Agunaechemba’s passing (Senator Annie Okonkwo). Agu was a kind man and benefactor to many. A colossus in community affairs and Nigerian politics. He was a pioneer businessman that inspired many Igbo people in the 80s, 90s and in later years with his positive exploits at Clemco Industries, RelTel Wireless and other chains of businesses. I am a beneficiary of his kindness and the kindness of the Okonkwos. He has finished his race on earth and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with the entire Okonkwo family at this time.

“May his soul rest in peace, Amen.

“Chief Uche Nworah, Ph.D

“Ezeudo Enugwu-Ukwu na Umunri”.

Update news