In recent reports addressing the burial of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, the Senate has responded to claims suggesting that it did not honor him properly. These claims arose from accusations of the Senate’s absence at the burial ceremony held in Nnewi, Anambra State, sparking discussions among media outlets. However, images from the ceremony show the attendance of various senators, including notable figures like the Minority Whip Osita Ngwu, former Minority leader Enyinnaya Abaribe, Osita Izunaso, and Tony Nwoye. The Senate, highlighting the honor due to a fellow member, has issued a statement refuting the allegations of neglect and disrespect.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Publicity, Yemi Adaramodu, labeled these media accusations as “untrue and misleading.” He emphasized that the Senate dedicated an entire legislative day to celebrating the life and contributions of Senator Ubah before his burial—an unprecedented gesture in the history of the National Assembly. Furthermore, the Senate demonstrated its respect by placing a national flag over Ubah’s seat, symbolizing recognition of his service to the Senate and his constituents. This act alone was an expression of honor, showcasing the value the Senate places on its departed colleagues.
Adaramodu also pointed out that since the news of Ubah’s death emerged, the Senate has provided unwavering support to his family and community. The Senate has formally expressed its condolences to the people and government of Anambra State, ensuring that Ubah’s legacy was acknowledged both locally and nationally. This commitment to support illustrates the Senate’s collective grief over the loss of Ubah, further underscoring their dedication to honoring his memory and contributions to society.
Additionally, Adaramodu recounted the actions taken by the Senate leadership during this difficult time. Notably, Senate President Godswill Akpabio led a delegation comprising principal officers and senators to offer their condolences to Ubah’s family in Lagos. This personal outreach highlights the empathetic response from the Senate, showing that they prioritized comforting the bereaved family. Furthermore, nearly a hundred senators attended a valedictory session where tributes celebrated Ubah’s multifaceted contributions as a philanthropist, businessman, and political figure, indicating a broad respect for his life and work.
The Senate’s statement addressed the notion that the absence of some senators at the burial signaled a failure to honor Ubah appropriately. Instead, Adaramodu referred to this perspective as “preposterous,” suggesting that the critics expected a more ostentatious display rather than the dignified mourning that occurred. This reflects a certain ideology within the Senate about handling grief in a respectful and restrained manner, consistent with Ubah’s legacy and the circumstances surrounding his untimely passing.
Overall, the Senate has firmly rejected any insinuations of neglect regarding Senator Ubah’s burial and legacy. The commitment to honoring Ubah’s contributions and the memorial actions taken emphasize the Senate’s unified stance in remembrance of their late colleague. Through various acknowledgments and supportive gestures, the Senate has reinforced its promise to uphold Ubah’s memory and has encouraged the public to reject misleading narratives that undermine its genuine tribute to a respected member.
