The Nigerian Senate came together on Tuesday to honor and bid farewell to the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, who passed away in July 2024 while on vacation in London. The event was marked by heartfelt tributes from Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and numerous senators who shared their memories of Ubah, celebrated his contributions, and mourned his untimely demise. Ubah represented Anambra South Senatorial District and served as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Petroleum (Downstream) until his death on July 26, 2024.
The valedictory session, held in Ubah’s memory, began solemnly as his casket was brought to the foyer of the White House Wing at the National Assembly Complex, where it lay in state. A motion was introduced by Senate Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele to honor the late senator, emphasizing his service to the country and his constituents.
The session was attended by Ubah’s family, including his wife and children, as well as close friends, political allies, and other dignitaries. Among them were former Senator Chris Ngige, House of Representatives members from the Southeast, and wives of senators led by Mrs. Nnoma Akpabio, wife of the Senate President. Senator Ubah’s seat in the chamber was draped with a Nigerian flag, flowers, and lit candles, symbolizing his service and legacy.
Vice President Shettima, while eulogizing Ubah, recalled the senator’s acts of kindness and political acumen. He shared a personal story of Ubah’s generosity, mentioning how Ubah donated ₦50 million to support victims of a Boko Haram attack in Borno State, insisting the gesture remain private. Shettima described Ubah as a selfless leader and a symbol of resilience, whose contributions elevated his political career and endeared him to many.
Senate President Akpabio also paid glowing tributes to Ubah, highlighting his accomplishments as a businessman and legislator. Akpabio expressed his deep sorrow at the loss, noting that Ubah’s death had left the Senate and the nation in mourning. “Let us not just mourn,” Akpabio urged, “but celebrate his life and the impact he made during his time with us.”
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin expressed similar sentiments, describing Ubah as a courageous and determined individual who championed the causes of his people. Jibrin emphasized Ubah’s dedication to public service and philanthropy, urging colleagues to ensure his family, especially his children, are well supported in the years to come.
Other senators also contributed to the tributes. Minority Leader Abba Moro called Ubah’s death a stark reminder of life’s brevity, describing him as a consummate politician and a friend. Senator Adams Oshiomhole praised Ubah’s commitment to national development, while Senator Orji Uzor Kalu highlighted his unwavering dedication to his constituents.
In addition to the tributes, the Senate observed a minute of silence in Ubah’s memory and filed past his casket in a solemn procession. The chamber resolved to send a high-powered delegation to accompany the late senator’s remains back to his home state for burial, underscoring the Senate’s commitment to honoring his legacy.
Senator Ifeanyi Ubah’s passing has left a profound void in the Nigerian Senate and among his constituents in Anambra South. As tributes poured in, one message stood out: Ubah’s life was defined by service, generosity, and an unyielding drive to make a difference. His colleagues pledged to carry forward his ideals while ensuring that his legacy remains alive in the halls of the National Assembly and beyond.
