Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi state, Friday, advised Ebonyians, especially the family of late Dr. Francis Orji to emulate the legacy laid by the deceased while alive.
Nwifuru gave the charge during the burial of the foremost founding father of Ebonyi state at his Ichita Ukpai villa home, Owutu Edda, Edda local government area of the state.
The burial was graced by Governor Francis Nwifuru, former President of the Senate, Anyim Pius Anyim as well as former governors Marthin Elechi and David Umahi among other prominent leaders of Ebonyi state.
Late Orji, a former deputy governor of Abia state, died at the age of 89, and his body was laid to rest after a church service presided by the Catholic Bishop of Abakaliki, Rev. Dr. Peter Nworie Chukwu.
Governor Nwifuru in his tribute described him as a patriotic and illustrious son of Ebonyi state, an upright politician and revered community leader, who would be greatly missed.
“Only our positive legacies survive after we are no more. I have said it many times that you can take everything out of a man but you can’t take away his legacies.
“Our father, His Excellency, Chief Francis Orji left tremendous legacies in Ebonyi State and Nigeria at large.
“His legacies will live forever. For this reason, we are here to pay our last respect to him.
“Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, late Chief Francis Ama Orji lived a sacrificial life thrived by patriotism, love, fear of God and humanity with a pure passion for excellence. He met wonderful people in his lifetime and made many friends around the world,” Nwifuru stated.
The first son of the deceased and former deputy speaker of the state House of Assembly, Chief Blaise Orji said he would miss his father greatly.
Other leaders, who attended the burial ceremony included a former secretary to old Anambra state, Senator Chris Nwankwo, Senate Deputy Chief Whip, Onyekachi Nwebonyi, member representing Afikpo/Edda federal constituency, Iduma Igariwey, former deputy governors of the state, Professor Chigozie Ogu and Dr. Kelechi Igwe, former ministers among others.
