President Muhammadu Buhari said Chief Tony Anenih, a former chairman of the Board of Trustees of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, lived a life of service.
Buhari said this today in a tribute to the late 85 year-old statesman, who retired from politics two years ago.
President Buhari described Anenih as a frontline figure in the annals of Nigeria’s political history.
Anenih, who was born in Uromi, Edo State, had a career in the Nigerian police before he joined politics in the early 80s, as chairman of the National Party of Nigeria in the old Bendel State.
He was also the chairman of the Social Democratic Party under the Ibrahim Babangida democratic transition programme that was cut short with the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election. Anenih later became the chairman of the PDP board of trustees and minister of works.
Buhari affirmed that Anenih was known for his strong views on issues pertaining to the unity and stability of the nation, across the political spectrum of Nigeria.
The president extended heartfelt condolences to the Anenih family and the government and people of Edo State and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The President prayed Almighty God to grant Chief Anenih’s soul eternal rest and comfort all who mourn the octogenarian.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Government has commiserated with the Anenih family over the death of its patriarch.
Governor Godwin Obaseki, in a statement on Sunday evening, said that the entire state was saddened by the loss.
Obaseki described the late politician as a leader who made immense contributions to the development of the state and the country.
He also said that the guidance of the deceased elder statesman would be missed, especially as the country prepared for the 2019 general elections.
Credit: NAN
