The first Aviation Minister in Nigeria, Mbazulike Amaechi, has died at 93.
This was confirmed in a statement released by his son, Ezeana Tagbo Amaechi.
Ezeana revealed the politician died in the early hours of Tuesday.
“With total deference to the will of the Almighty God, the Ume Amaechi, Ezeana Ihidede families and Umu Mmara kindred of Amihe Ukpor in Nnewi south local government area of Anambra State announce the peaceful transition of our illustrious son, father and grandfather, Chief Mbazulike Amaechi,” the statement reads.
“We thank God for the fulfilled life that he lived, the lives he touched and service to God and country.”
The politician was among those who fought for Nigeria’s independence from Britain.
Before he was appointed minister in 1962, Amechi was elected into the house of representatives in 1959.
Amaechi on 2023 presidency
Amaechi said the only way an Igbo man can emerge as president in 2023 is for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and All Progressives Congress (APC) to zone their presidential tickets to the South East.
He stated this while speaking with journalists in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.
Amaechi maintained it would be difficult for Igbos to win unless the two parties concede their tickets to the region. While adding that even if either of the parties gives its ticket to the South East, it would be difficult.
He noted that the zone must remain united to achieve it. Stressing that as the only surviving member of the First Republic government, the Federal Government should respect his age and allow him to help make peace before returning to his maker.
Amaechi said he visited Ebonyi to brief Chairman of the South-East Governors Forum, Dave Umahi, on the outcome of the visit of some Igbo leaders to President Muhammadu Buhari on efforts of Igbo leaders to bring lasting peace to the South East, which has been ravaged by agitations of separatist groups.
He said Buhari was happy to receive the Igbo leaders. Adding that they had frank, sincere and useful deliberations aimed at finding lasting peace and true reconciliation in the zone.
