News

Former House of Reps Speaker, Dies at 74

Published by Tope Fakinlede on July 8th, 2025.

Former House of Reps Speaker, Dies at 74

Agunwa Anakwe, who served as Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives during the country’s Third Republic, has passed away at the age of 74 after a brief illness, according to the Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor.

Anakwe became Speaker at just 36, leading the legislative chamber during a politically tense era. His time in office was cut short when the military, under General Sani Abacha, toppled the Interim National Government headed by Ernest Shonekan on November 17, 1993.

Known for his firm stance against the politicized push for the creation of new local government areas—an effort he believed was being used to delay Nigeria’s democratic transition—Anakwe earned a reputation for his principled leadership.

Former Anambra State Governor, Chris Ngige, paid tribute to Anakwe in a heartfelt statement, remembering him as “a dependable friend and a loyal political partner.” Ngige praised Anakwe’s calm and strategic leadership style, noting that under his guidance, the House enjoyed relative stability compared to the Senate before the 1993 coup.

Ngige also recounted how Anakwe supported him in challenging political godfathers and reviving the state’s public service. “He led with wisdom, patience, and uncommon resolve during one of the most difficult periods in Nigeria’s democratic journey,” he said.

Anakwe’s death marks the end of a significant chapter in Nigeria’s political history.