Former Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr Uchechukwu Ogah, has mourned the passing of the former President General of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Professor Joe Irukwu (CFR).
In a condolence message made available to newsmen in Umuahia, Abia State, Ogah described the late Irukwu as a nationalist, legal luminary and insurance guru.
He noted that the deceased made impactful contributions in the public and private sectors of the Nigerian economy, as the then pioneer Managing Director of Nigeria Reinsurance Corporation and founder of African Development Insurance Company and many others.
The ex-minister described Professor Irukwu’s death as a big blow which has created a void that would be difficult to fill.
He said, “Death is a necessary end for every mortal but for a man like Dee Ogboo who came, saw and conquered in all facets of human endeavour”.
Ogah, however, on behalf of his family, joined all persons of good spirit to sympathise with the Irukwu’s family, the people of Amokwe Item community in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) and the Insurance sector on the loss of this pan- African, authentic Nigerian statesman and illustrious son of Abia State.
“To the Irukwus, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this moment of grief and I urge you to put your trust in God and build upon the legacies Prof Irukwu left behind while praying that God accepts the soul of this iconic figure and grant him eternal rest. Laa Nke Oma Dee Ogboo,”Dr Ogah also added.