By James Isaac, Abuja
The National Committee for the internment of the late Rt. Hon. Agunwa Anaekwe, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, has been unveiled, with Senator Osita Izunaso named as Chairman.
Speaking during the unveiling held on Thursday, 4th September 2025, Senator Izunaso described Anaekwe as a man whose name is etched in Nigeria’s political and democratic history, noting that the programme is meant to honour his remarkable legacy.
Born 69 years ago in Adazi, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, Anaekwe made history in 1992 when he emerged as Speaker of the House of Representatives during the aborted Third Republic. At just 36 years old, he became the youngest Nigerian ever to hold that position.
During his short-lived but impactful tenure, Anaekwe provided courageous and principled leadership at a critical juncture in Nigeria’s democratic evolution. He was reputed for resisting attempts by anti-democratic forces to undermine the independence of the legislature.
Tributes poured in at the event, with Senator Dr. Chris Ngige and the APC Vice Chairman for the South-East Zone extolling Anaekwe’s humility, philanthropy, and accommodating nature. They described him as more than a political leader — a patriot, bridge-builder, and relentless advocate for justice, fairness, and human dignity, who distinguished himself as a true statesman.
The National Committee on his internment is chaired by Senator Osita Izunaso, with the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, as Co-Chairman. Other members include Senator Victor Umeh and Senator Chris Ngige.
It would be recalled that Anaekwe passed away on 5th July 2025. He will be laid to rest in his hometown, Adazi, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, on 17th October 2025.
