The Anambra State House of Assembly has held a valedictory session in honour of its late former Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Afam Obi.
Obi represented Ekwusigo Constituency in the 4th Assembly from 2007 to 2011.
In his tribute, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, described the late Obi as a pillar of stability, a voice of wisdom and a peacemaker.
Before presenting the condolence register, Udeze noted that Obi was not only an officer of Parliament but also a champion of grassroots development and a defender of equity.
He said, “He was a politician who believed that leadership was about service and not status. He possessed a rare principled character and gentle diplomacy.
“From my encounter with Afam Obi, he stood out as a man of conscience. To his family, we know that no words spoken can fully heal your hearts. The loss of a husband, father and leader is a big burden for one family to carry alone. Anambra grieves with you.”
Also paying tribute, the Majority Leader of the Assembly and member representing Ekwusigo Constituency, Sir Ikenna Ofodeme, described Obi’s death as disheartening.
“This is a journey that all of us must partake in one day, and it is a big loss not just for his family but for the entire Anambra State. May his soul rest in peace,” he said.
Hon. Ejike Okechukwu, the lawmaker representing Anaocha two Constituency, also commended the late former Deputy Speaker for the services he rendered to the people of Anambra State.
He said the death of Obi was a reminder that public offices and positions of authority were temporary.
“This is a reminder that the seat we occupy today will be occupied by someone else, and a day shall come when we will all lie here like late Afam Obi,” Okechukwu said.
The member representing Nnewi North Constituency, Hon. Augustine Ike, while commiserating with the family of the late Deputy Speaker, described his death as heartbreaking.
Former Chief Whip, Rt. Hon. Gabriel Onyeweife, who represented Ayamelum Constituency in the 4th and 5th Assemblies, recalled Obi’s role during the budget controversy involving the House.
He described his late colleague as a “jolly good fellow” and an easy-going man.
“Afam Obi remained loyal to the then Speaker, late Rt. Hon. Anayo Nnebe, despite the differences until they were resolved. Even when his election was nullified, his position as Deputy Speaker remained vacant until he was reinstated.
He was truly loved,” Onyeweife said.
He added that Obi had contributed his quota to the development of the state through legislation.
“Afam Obi has played his part and contributed his quota through legislation. Death is a necessary end, and one day, we will meet to part no more,” he said.
The member who represented Orumba North Constituency and served as Deputy Majority Leader of the 4th Assembly, Sir Uche Ogbonnaya, described Obi as a very quiet and unassuming person who demonstrated strength, forthrightness and commitment to service of humanity during his time in the House.
He said, “Let us remember that life and power are transient. What matters most is what we have done while alive. Afam Obi has done his best and has gone to meet his Maker. The opportunity we have today is to ensure the wellbeing of our constituents. “May God strengthen and comfort his immediate family,” he prayed.
On his part, Hon. Ikenna Amaechi described the late Afam Obi as a diplomat, articulate, industrious and enterprising man.
Amaechi, however, noted that improved access to quality healthcare could have extended the life of the late lawmaker, and called on relevant authorities to prioritise healthcare delivery.
“With good healthcare, late Afam Obi may have been with us a little longer. I call on all authorities to really think about good and quality healthcare,” he said.
In a vote of thanks, a member of the Obi family expressed gratitude to the Speaker and members of the 8th Assembly for their solidarity and support.
Angel Network News (ANN) reports that the House adjourned after the valedictory session and is expected to reconvene on Tuesday, September 29, 2026.
