Former Vice President, Alex Ekwueme, has finally gone home to rest.
His remains were interred on Friday at his hometown, Oko, in Anamra State.
His burial programme which lasted a week was characterized by tribute from all and sundry, particularly, prominent people in and outside the country.
Ekwueme was praised for his love for the nation and unity, his contributions to the growth of the country, his fearlessness and contribution to democracy among other things.
His burial was attended by dignitaries including top government officials, political associates, family and friends.
Present at the occasion were Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Patience; former Vice President Namadi Sambo; Governor of Lagos State, Akinwunmi Ambode; Governor of Abia State, Okezie Ikpeazu; Governor of Delta State, Ifeanyi Okowa; Governor of Imo State, Rochas Okorocha and Governor Anambra State, Willie Obiano.
Ekwueme died at a London hospital on November 19, 2017.
He died of respiratory illness.
Born on October 21, 1932, Ekwueme started his career as an architect after earning a bachelor’s degree in architecture and city planning, as an awardee of the Fulbright Scholarship from the University of Washington in the United States.
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He later obtained a master’s degree in urban planning and also earned degrees in Sociology, History, Philosophy and Law from the University of London.
Furthering his education, he obtained a PhD in Architecture from the University of Strathclyde, before gaining the BL (honours) degree from the Nigerian Law School.
In 1979, Ekwueme became Nigeria’s first Vice President, serving as deputy to Shehu Shagari, until 1983 when they were ousted in a coup.
Over the years, he played several roles domestically and internationally, cementing his status as a statesman.
In the course of the week, tributes poured in from many prominent Nigerians and top government officials who shared experiences from their relationship with him and described him as a rare gem who will be greatly missed.
As he is finally laid to rest today, the hope of many is that his legacies live on and Nigeria continues to uphold the virtues of unity and integrity and selfless service as he had always practised.
