The Governor of Abia State, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu has expressed deep sadness over the news of the death of Prince Vincent Eze Ogbulafor at the age of 73 years.
Governor Ikpeazu describes late Prince Ogbulafor as a first class gentleman, an authentic Nigerian Leader and one of the most outstanding Abians whose sojourn in politics and administration put Abia firmly on the map of Nigerian political development especially in the 3rd Republic.
The Governor recalls with pride, the giant strides of Late Ogbulafor as a Minister of Economic Planning, National Secretary and later National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
In the words of Governor Ikpeazu, “Prince Ogbulafor was clearly Abia’s biggest gift to Nigerian politics in the 3rd Republic. His activities kept Abia in the limelight and he served this country with unparalleled dedication. During and after his national assignment, he never forgot home as he made himself available at all times and was involved in the political process in Abia”.
Continuing, the Governor added, “Master of calm but result oriented political diplomacy, Prince Ogbulafor was a great bridge builder under whose watch as National Secretary and later National Chairman, our party witnessed her finest moments”.
“As Governor” , Ikpeazu adds, “I found in him a huge reservoir of political and administrative experience from which i drank regularly. He was willing all times to place his wide experience and contacts at my disposal”.
According to the Governor, Abia has lost a towering and quintessential political figure whose death by this time is most painful because of the imminent elections where his experience would have been a solid reference point for the party and the State.
Governor Ikpeazu noted with deep regret that Prince Ogbulafor was part of those inaugurated yesterday as members of the Advisory Campaign Council of the State PDP to provide guidance to the party as we get ready for campaigns for the 2023 elections.
The Governor takes solace and finds comfort in the exemplary life of service lived by the Late Prince and urges his immediate family to be strong and keep flying at full mast, the flag of excellence hoisted by their father.
The Governor, on behalf of the Government and People of Abia State, sends his deep condolences to the Ogbulafor Royal Family and the people of Olokoro Uvoma, Umuahia South LGA, the PDP family and all friends and associates of the Late Prince Ogbulafor, and prays for the repose of his soul.