MORE condolence messages have continued to pour in following the death of former Minister of Works, Chief Anthony Anenih who died at 85 on Sunday in Abuja.
While former Governor of Edo State, Chief Lucky Igbinedion expressed grief over the passing-on of Anenih, the Iyasele of Esanland, the Edo state People’s Democratic Party (PDP) described Anenih who was affectionately called National leader as a unifier, builder of men and a great political strategist.
In a statement in Benin yesterday, by the PDP Chairman, Chief Dan Orbih, he said that the deceased politician who was popularly known as “Mr Fix-it” for his ability to solve and navigate knotty political situations was the party’s pillar in Edo state, a light, pathfinder, bridge builder and detribalised leader.
Igbinedion who was governor between 1999 and 2007 said he received the news of the demise of the elder statesman with a heavy heart and a great shock, noting that his death has created a huge vacuum in the political life of Edo State and Nigeria at large.
The ex-governor described the late political titan as an enigma of note and a bridge builder with a large heart.
He enjoined his immediate family, political sons and daughters, associates, friends and well-wishers to take consolation in the fact that Anenih, a former Chairman, Board of Trustees of PDP, invested his time, life and resources in the mentoring and development of humanity.
He saluted his contributions in the restoration of democracy in Nigeria and for launching his dear state, Edo, to political limelight in the comity of Nigerian states.
The former governor while praying God to comfort the Anenih family this trying time and at all times, said he and his immediate family would sorely miss the late political icon.
Orbih eulogised: “He shone brightly and lit many candles. He was a leader par excellence. Coming from a minority zone and from a minority tribe in our state, he exceeded natural barriers so that others can aspire without fear or Man imposed limitations. A great organiser, mobiliser and an inspiration to men and women of goodwill.”
The Edo PDP chairman added that as the party awaits further details from the family, he called on all his admirers to continue to pray to God to grant Him eternal rest.