A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has commiserated with former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, over the death of his aide, Mr. Ifeanyi Izeze.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday, Eze described the demise of Izeze as shocking, devastating and a painful loss, not only to Atiku but to Nigeria’s media and political landscape.
The APC stalwart noted that the late Izeze was a pioneering member of Atiku’s media team and a dependable strategist who played a vital role in shaping communication within the former Vice President’s political structure.
According to Eze, Izeze was an admirable, focused and fearless media professional whose contributions would be sorely missed, especially at a time the country needed voices of courage and clarity.
“The news of the death of my friend and brother, Pastor Ifeanyi Izeze, came to me as a rude shock. It is painful to lose such an enigma and resourceful communication strategist at a time his services were needed most,” Eze said.
He further described the deceased as an asset in media management, adding that Atiku had lost one of his most trusted and dependable allies.
Eze, who worked closely with the late Izeze during their time in the defunct Action Congress (AC) Presidential Campaign Media Team, recalled his exceptional leadership and coordination skills.
“As Manager of Atiku’s Media Team and a prominent member of the AC Presidential Campaign Media Team, Izeze proved himself as a true manager of men and resources. With great minds like Malam Shehu Garba and Lai Mohammed, he managed us all professionally without any complaints,” he stated.
Eze also recounted his long-standing relationship with the deceased, noting that after the 2007 presidential campaign, Izeze facilitated his return to Abuja to settle outstanding entitlements before he was deployed to Rivers State to support Prince Tonye Princewill’s governorship campaign.
He said their relationship remained cordial over the years, with constant communication until the news of Izeze’s passing.
“I must confess that I am totally devastated. As recently as last Friday, he read my messages without any indication that he was about to leave. Death has dealt me a painful blow,” Eze lamented.
The APC chieftain disclosed that the late Izeze had only recently shared a message of prayers and encouragement with him, expressing deep sorrow that such a thoughtful and inspiring personality was gone.
Eze further revealed that the deceased had, just weeks before his death, discussed plans with him on how to collaborate in efforts to address Nigeria’s political challenges.
“Right now, I am left without a great and inspiring partner. Nigeria has lost a fearless voice committed to truth and national progress,” he added.
He prayed for the repose of Izeze’s soul and urged God to grant Atiku, his family, and associates the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
“Our hearts and thoughts are with His Excellency and the immediate family of the deceased in this difficult time. May God grant his gentle soul eternal rest,” Eze concluded.
