Lady Okonkwo
By Anthony Iwuoma
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The family of the late Distinguished Senator Clement Annie Okonkwo on Monday, December 16, marked the first anniversary of his passing.
The highly accomplished businessman-turned-lawmaker transited to glory on June 7, 2023, aged 63 years.
The family used the occasion to launch a Foundation in honour of the mogul, who bestrode the political and business turfs like a colossus during his lifetime.
Okonkwo had represented the Anambra Central Senatorial District in the Red Chambers of the National Assembly between May 29, 2007, and 2011, a tenure that recorded landmark achievements and is still being remembered fondly and celebrated by the constituents.
Also known by his chieftaincy title, Agunaechemba, Okonkwo sat atop a business empire, which had as many as 7,000 employees.
He created the Agunaechemba Foundation in 2007 to express his commitment to essential support for the welfare of the less privileged through healthcare, educational aid, and poverty alleviation programmes.
Okonkwo, widely acknowledged for his philanthropy during his lifetime, sponsored the education of hundreds of young Nigerians, who enjoyed his grants and scholarships in Nigeria and abroad.
However, as provided for in his will, the Agunaechemba Foundation has been renamed The Annie Okonkwo Foundation, TAOF.
The Foundation launch at Harbour Point, Wilmot Point Road, Victoria Island, was preceded by a memorial anniversary Mass at the Church of Assumption, Falomo, Ikoyi, Lagos.
It was graced by eminent dignitaries, including the former governor of Anambra State and presidential candidate of the Labour Party in last year’s general election, Mr. Peter Obi, Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State, who was represented by his Senior Special Assistant; Prof Pat Utomi, former Aviation Minister, Osita Chidoka, representative of the Speaker of House of Representatives, Abass, Hon. Peter Ogene, Alhaji Imam Kasshim among several A-list guests.
The late Senator’s son, Hon. Uche Okonkwo, who is a member of the House of Representatives, said te gathering was not to mourn but to celebrate the remarkable life of Annie Okonkwo. He promised that the family would continue what he stood for, describing his father as a gentle, hardworking man, who believed in generosity and left a mark in the lives of people he met. Uche recalled that the late Senator always admonished them that one should ensure they make an impact in this life no matter what they do, adding that it has remained his guide. The young man also promised to live by what his father stood for and the stories he taught them.
On his part, Annie’s younger brother, Tony Okonkwo said the Foundation was all about instruction left by the departed senator, promising that it would be implemented to the letter because the senator made provisions for it before his transition
Lady Chinyere Okonkwo, his widow, recounted the history of the foundation and highlighted its vision and objectives, including cardiovascular and cancer care, education, empowering communities, etc.
There was much to eat and drink while the Lagos Gospel Choir enlivened the event with soulful music and songs.
More details later…
