The only surviving Zikist, Chief Mbazulike Amechi is dead. Amechi who died at the age of 93 years had only one regret in life: that is non- release of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu.
The nationalist had at several times led delegations to Aso Rock for the release of Kanu , all to no avail. According to a release from the family, signed by Azeana Tagbo Amechi, Chief Amechi died in the early hours of Tuesday, November 1, 2022
Until his death, Chief Amechi, who hailed from Amihe village in Ukpor, Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State was a Nationalist and the only surviving member of the Zikist Movement. The statement reads, “With total deference to the will of the Almighty God, the Ume Amechi, Ezeana Ihinede families and the Umu Mmara kindred of Amihe Ukpor in Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State announce the peaceful transition of our illustrious son, father and grandfather, Chief Mbazulike Amechi (Dara Akunwafor), Nationalist and First Republic Minister of Aviation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who transitioned peacefully in the early hours of today November 1, 2022.
“We thank God for the fulfilled life that he lived, the lives that he touched and his service to God and Country. We respectfully ask that you keep us in your thoughts and prayers at this time.” Meanwhile, the State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has expressed sadness over his death. Governor Soludo described the late Mbazulike Amechi as an outstanding patriot and nationalist who served the nation diligently.
According to the Governor, the late elder statesman lived an impactful and exemplary life worthy of commendation. “He was a renowned Nationalist, an active and staunch voice in the zikist movement as well as an accomplished elder statesman”, Governor Soludo recalled.
The Governor further stated that the death of Mbazulike Amechi was not just a loss to his community, Ukpor, in Nnewi South Local Government Area and to Anambra state but also a monumental loss to Ndigbo and the Nigerian Nation. The Governor, therefore, on behalf of the Government and people of Anambra State commiserates with the Mbazulike family over the irreparable loss. The governor condolence message was contained in a statement made available to Journalists in Awka, by his Press Secretary, Christian Aburime.
