The family of former Second Republic Vice President, Dr Alex Ekwueme, confirmed last night that he suffered a health crisis and was rushed to the hospital. It identified the problem as chest infection, adding that he will remain under close medical attention in the mean time even though declared stable by his doctors.

Earlier reports said doctors at the Memfys International Hospital, Enugu, where Ekwueme was rushed were working on the theory that he suffered a partial stroke, after he allegedly collapsed in his residence on Sunday.

But a statement signed by his brother, Prof. Laz Ekwueme, who is also the Monarch of Oko community, Ekwulobia Local Government, Anambra State, said the former Vice President was infected in the chest.

The statement reads: “DR ALEX I. EKWUEME, GCON, the former Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, was on Sunday 29th October 2017, admitted into hospital for a chest infection.

“It will be recalled that the former Vice President had a quiet celebration of his 85th birthday on the 21st of October 2017 in the company of his family members and he remained in high spirits up till his recent health challenges.

“His doctors confirm that he is stable, but he will remain under close medical attention in the mean time.

“The family would like to express its profound gratitude to all Nigerians who have shown concern over this development and requests their sustained support and prayers as he continues to make a full recovery.”

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