Known by his stage name Okwadike, Ezeife, 85, passed away on December 14 at the Federal Medical Centre in Abuja following a prolonged illness.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Enugu was informed by Mr. Vincent Ezekwueme, the Chairman of CLO in Anambra, that Ezeife was a well-known Igbo leader who aspired to a progressive Nigeria and mankind as a whole.
He claimed that CLO was shocked to learn of the passing of the champion of good governance and think home philosophy at a time when our country needed his services more than ever.
"Ex-Governor Ezeife was a kind, wise, patriotic, humane, and selfless public servant.
He was a key figure in the establishment of the new Anambra State and promoted the responsible and open use of public funds for the general welfare.
"Ezeife held town hall meetings every Wednesday in order to learn about the needs, expectations, and effects of the policies and programs of his administration. He also solicited input from a variety of citizens."
"He had an impeccable character and was a man of uprightness, integrity, justice, and truth," he remarked.
Ezekwueme said that he had supported Chief MKO Abiola, the election winner, during the June 12, 1993, controversy.
His willingness to give up his noble position rather than support injustice made him stand out as a special gift to humanity.
As a permanent secretary, Ezeife was highly patriotic, diligent, astute, and aware of his obligations, the CLO head added.
He stated: "We recall with affection his humility, caution, openness, and altruism as governor, which required him to leave a substantial amount behind when he left office.
Importantly, Ezeife provided former President Olusegun Obasanjo with the information he required in his capacity as presidential adviser.
"The height of his patriotism was his refusal to celebrate his birthday until Mazi Nnamdi Kanu was freed and an Igbo-American president of Nigeria was established, two things he was deeply committed to."
According to Ezekwueme, comfort should be taken by his loved ones, the Igboukwu community, Aguata council area, Anambra, and all Igbo people in general from his "selfless, patriotic, outstanding and remarkable life," which is deserving of praise, admiration, and admiration.
The head of CLO asked for God to provide his wife, children, the Igboukwu community, the Aguata council area, Anambra State, and the Igbo people the grace and courage to suffer the irreversible and irreplaceable loss, as well as the everlasting repose of his sweet and humble soul.
"CLO begs for ardent prayers for God's intervention about the recent spate of deaths of notable Igbo leaders, including Chief Mbazulike Amaechi, Prof. Ben Nwabueze, former Governor Chinweoke Mbadinuju, and currently Ezeife