By Henry Umoru

ERSTWHILE Federal Commissioner for Information and South-south leader, Chief Edwin Clark, has described the death of former President- General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Ambassador Ralph Uwechue, as painful and came at a time the nation was in dire need of his services with his wealth of experience and wise counsel.

In a condolence letter to the President- General, Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief Garry Nnachi Ener- Igariwey,  Clark, who noted that the death of  Uwechue has left a vacuum which would be difficult to fill, said, “ It is with heavy heart I received the sad news of the painful exit of former President- General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, His Excellency, Amb. Ralph Uwechue.

”Regrettably, Amb. Uwechue’s death came at a time the nation was in dire need of his services with his wealth of experience and wise counsel. He was Nigeria Ambassador to Paris and many other countries.

” While I join the Igbo race and indeed, the entire Nation to mourn the exit of this illustrious son of Africa, I urge Ohaneze Ndigbo to find consolation in Amb. Uwechue’s distinguished service to his father land and his indelible footprints in sands of time!

”I therefore convey our heart – felt sympathy to the families and to Ohaneze- Ndigbo President, his successor in office. His death has left a vacuum which is difficult to fill.
” It is indeed a great loss not only to the family, but to the entire people of Delta state in particular and Africa as a whole.

” I pray the Almighty God to grant you the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. Once again, kindly accept my heart- felt condolences. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”