Buhari, Saraki, Okowa pay tribute to Tony Anenih

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.

President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki also commiserated with the Anenih family and the government and people of Edo State, over his death.

Saraki described Anenih as a  consummate politician, master strategist and committed statesman, who contributed greatly to the development of Nigeria’s democracy.

“Chief Tony Anenih was a patriot, bridge builder and astute politician who played several defining roles in building Nigeria’s democracy.

“He will be remembered for his wisdom and his insight into national issues.

READ: Foreigners to pay $4,000 for overstaying in Nigeria

The governor of Delta State, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has also commiserated with the family of the late statesman, describing him as a patriot.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Charles Aniagwu, Okowa said that he was saddened by the demise of the former Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

“I am deeply saddened by the death of elder statesman and former Chairman Board of Trustees of the PDP, Chief Tony Anenih (CFR), who passed on at the age of 85 years”.

“He was a committed patriot, an astute politician and a former Minister of Works who worked to better the lots of his people and Nigerians in general.

“Through his purposeful leadership and development strides, the late Anenih influenced the dualisation of the Benin Asaba road, Benin Warri Road and the Benin bypass road which brought about unprecedented development to the Niger Delta region,” he said.