Senator Uche Chukwumerije, is dead.

The Senator representing Abia North Senatorial District, Uche Chukwumerije, is dead. He was 75. According to a statement by a family representative, Chidi, the Senator died on Sunday after a long but gallant battle with lung cancer. “On the evening of Sunday, the 19th of April, 2015, surrounded by his family, Comrade Uche Chukwumerije passed into the open arms of history, and of our Lord Jesus Christ, after a long but gallant battle with lung cancer,” the statement said. “His life is many volumes, which can only be told with care and time, of dedication and focus, integrity and discipline, and an unbroken love for the highest ideals of our shared humanity. “Details of burial arrangements will be announced in due course. We ask only for your prayers and good wishes.” Condolences have already started pouring in for the former Information Minister. His party, the Peoples Democratic Party, said it was “deeply saddened by the loss of this great Nigerian, a highly respected statesman who has made immense contributions to the development of our dear nation.” “Senator Chukwumerije lived a patriotic Nigerian and a brilliant lawmaker who gave his all and discharged his responsibilities with unequalled forthrightness, loyalty and commitment to the service of our dear fatherland. “He was a democratic icon and an outstanding party-man who remained committed to the ideology of the PDP and the visions of the founding fathers. “We will greatly miss him. Our hearts and thoughts go out to his family as we pray God to give them the fortitude to bear this great loss.” The Senate President lamented that Mr. Chukwumerije was one of the brightest and fertile minds in the Senate. ” He radiated intelligence, exemplary conduct in both public and private life. He was a team player who brought meaning to hard work . He was focused and determined to make positive difference”, Mr. Mark stated. “We shall miss him. No doubt he left a vacuum that would too hard to fill .