The Ebonyi State Government has renamed the popular PrescoJunction situated along the ever-busyAbakaliki-Enugu federal highway after late SenatorOffia Nwali,who was one of the founding fathers of the state.
Engr. Umahi, whomade the announcementon Fridayduring Nwali’s funeralat the Onueke Township Stadium, Ezza South Local Government Area of the state, noted that it was a way of immortalising him.
He added that a “beautiful statuteof Nwali would be erected at the junction so that people coming from both ends of the junction would behold its magnificence.”
The Governornoted that the moment called for sober reflection on man’s journey on earth as the date of his tragic and painful demise shall remain a historic reminder of the moment that not just Ebonyi or Nigeriaand humanity was diminished by this colossal loss.
“I praise Nwali’s courage, resilience and forthrightness while alive, as he was a huge blessing and figure of genuine distinction and pride to his family, Ezza clan, Ebonyi, Igbo race and Nigeria,” Umahi said.
He noted that nobody would believe that over two years ago, Nwali contested the state’s governorship position and was the first man to courageously confront the so-called anointed man of the past administration, who claimed to be called to lead the state.
“He (Nwali) told him that no one sent him to lead the state as it was better for him to go back to his work. His action was a courageous virtue thatis worthy of emulation,” the Governor told a crowd that gathered to pay their last respects to the late Senator.
Engr. Umahi urged his family, relatives and people of the state to be consoled bythe legacies Nwali left behind and pledged that the state government would always identify with the family.
President of the Nigerian Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki, described Nwali as a seasoned politician, ardent scholar and erudite educationist who made significant contributions to the growth and development of his people.
Saraki, represented by Chief Obinna Ogba,noted that Nwalidisplayed exceptional discipline, character and exemplary statesmanship worthy of emulation.
Ebonyi State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kelechi Igwe, noted that Nwali represented many things to many people; while to some, he was an enigma, to others, a godfather and yet to others, an embodiment of perseverance with uncommon composure and comportment.
His family members, individuals and groups from all sectors of human endeavour from the state, national and across the globe, paid glowing tributes to the late statesman and icon.
Nwali was the first blackman to obtain a Doctorate degree in Computer and Analytical Studies from the prestigious Harvard University, United States. He represented AbakalikiSenatorial District under the old Anambra State at the National Assembly between 1979—1983.
