The burial of late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah is currently going on in his hometown of Nneei in Anambra state
Prominent people from government and the private sector stormed Umuanuka Otolo Nnewi, Ubah hometown o honour the late politician.
Notably among them are former presidential candidate of Labour Party Peter Obi; another former govrnor of Anambra State and former Minister of Labour, Chris Ngige; Abia State Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe; Imo State senator Osita Izunaso and many others
Senator Ubah, who represented Anambra South Senatorial District, passed away on July 27, 2024, at the age of 52, due to cardiac arrest in London
Ekweanaedo reports that the atmosphere is filled with a mixture of sadness and celebration of his life.
Senator Ubah’s contributions to the state and nation will be remembered, including his role as the CEO of Capital Oil and Gas Limited, which he founded in 2001
However the event has been marred by security concerns, following a recent gun battle between local vigilantes and police operatives in the area ².
Despite these challenges, the family and loved ones of Senator Ubah remain committed to ensuring a dignified and respectful farewell to the late senator.
In response to rising tensions surrounding the burial of late Senator Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah, Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Soludo, ordered the closure of schools in Nnewi for a week.
The decision follows fears of potential violence, with reports of threats from non-state actors to disrupt the event unless certain unresolved issues were addressed.
The situation escalated further on Wednesday evening when gunmen attacked Nnewi, killing several people and setting a vehicle ablaze.
The incident, which occurred around 7:30 p.m., created widespread panic as residents fled for safety.
Meanwhile, the Anambra State Police Command has refuted claims linking the Nnewi attack to the burial.
Police spokesperson, Superintendent Tochukwu Ikenga, stated that the attackers were not non-state actors, as speculated. According to Ikenga, the incident was the result of a gunfight between security operatives and a suspect at a checkpoint.
The exchange of fire reportedly caused a Toyota Venza carrying police officers to catch fire after its fuel tank was hit, injuring two bystanders who are now receiving medical treatment.
Ikenga assured the public that the attack was unrelated to the burial, emphasizing that the Joint Security Forces had been deployed to maintain order and protect residents and visitors during the ceremonies.
