Former Reps Speaker Agunwa Anakwe dies at 74

Agunwa Anakwe, the Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives during the Third Republic, has died at the age of 74 after battling an undisclosed illness.

His death was confirmed on Saturday by Anambra State’s Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor.

Anakwe, who became Speaker at just 36 years old, was removed from office following the military coup led by General Sani Abacha that toppled Ernest Shonekan’s Interim National Government on November 17, 1993.

In his tribute, former Anambra State Governor Chris Ngige described the late Anakwe as a close friend and reliable political ally. He praised Anakwe’s leadership, saying he showed wisdom and calm while presiding over the House of Representatives during a highly unstable political era.

Ngige recalled how Anakwe supported him in challenging political godfathers during his time as governor, especially in restoring order to Anambra’s civil service after years of unpaid salaries and the closure of public schools.

The former governor also reflected on their last meeting in March, describing how the late politician remained cheerful despite his health challenges and even spoke about undergoing surgery. Ngige expressed shock at Anakwe’s passing, calling death “the biggest thief in the night.”

He further noted that Anakwe’s passing leaves a deep void in Nigeria’s political history, describing him as a man of rare integrity and accountability in public service.