Deputy Governor of Imo State, Gerald Irona has described late Commissioner for Environment in the State Chief Tony Okere as a selfless and noble man.
The Deputy Governor stated this while speaking at a funeral Church Service in honour of the late Commissioner at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Obiakpu, Egbema, weekend.
In the emotion-laden speech, the Deputy Governor described late Tony Okere as a brother and dependable ally that will be greatly missed.
He said: “It is very painful that we are here to discuss death and burial, instead of discussing development of our area. I feel really sad, because, I had previous discussions with my brother, late Hon. Tony Okere on how to develop our area.
“Tony Okere was a peaceful man; he had love for one another and knew what relationship meant. He was selfless in public service; a relentless crusader of justice. Two days after he was inaugurated as Commissioner, he wrote me and we met to discuss how to use our respective offices to wipe the tears of our people. Unfortunately, death struck and snatched our brother- a peacemaker.
“This morning, his body was received at the Imo State Executive Council Chambers, where members of the expanded executive paid their last respect to him. I am sure that if it was about care, Tony would not have died. His family and the Government of Imo State stood for him; If it was about money, he would have been alive, because we were determined to have him live, but God’s will prevailed. Our prayer is that God receives his soul.”
He assured the late Okere’s family of the continued support of the State Government under the leadership of Emeka Ihedioha.
Speaking earlier, during the Valedictory session in honour of the fallen Commissioner, Ihedioha described death as inevitable, urging citizens to strive to live godly lives.
Members of the Imo State expanded Executive Council participated actively at the funeral, which was attended by thousands of sympathizers.