The Anambra State House of Assembly is in mourning following the death of former Deputy Speaker Ikechukwu Oseke, who passed away on Monday at the age of 64.
Oseke, who had celebrated his 64th birthday on July 27, reportedly collapsed during his morning exercise at Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, the state capital. He was rushed to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Born in 1960 and hailing from Umuawulu in Awka South Local Government Area, Oseke represented Awka South 2 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly from 2011 to 2019 under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). He served as the Deputy Speaker during the sixth assembly.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Speaker of the Anambra State Assembly, Somtochukwu Udeze, expressed deep sorrow over Oseke’s passing, describing it as a “rude shock and devastating” loss to the legislative body.
Udeze highlighted Oseke’s commendable contributions during his political career, noting his efforts in empowering many people and initiating numerous constituency projects. “The late deputy speaker was known for his peaceful disposition, humane nature, philanthropy, legislative prowess, and conviviality. His community, Umuawulu, as well as the State House of Assembly, Anambra State, and Nigeria, have lost one of the finest politicians,” Udeze said.
The Speaker also extended his condolences to Oseke’s immediate family, urging them to carry on the legacy of his excellent service to God and humanity as a devoted Christian.
In addition to his political career, Oseke contested the APGA primary for the Awka North and Awka South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives but lost to the late Anayo Nnebe, who became the party’s flag bearer. Oseke later ventured into the freight forwarding business in Port Harcourt and began importing fishing feeds. He also pursued a legal education and recently completed a Ph.D. in Public Administration.
Oseke is survived by his wife, children, and other relatives.
