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Chief Tony Anenih, a founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has died at the age of 85.
The statesman, popularly known as “Mr Fix it” passed away on Sunday.
Anenih is a former chairman of the PDP board of trustees and an ex-minister.
The Edo state government has released a statement condoling with his family.
Edo state governor, Godwin Obaseki, said Anenih made immense contributions to the development of the state and the country, adding that his guidance will be missed as the 2019 election approaches.
Anenih resigned from active politics in 2016, saying “I am persuaded that I have no more ambition nor any point to prove in politics,” adding that he “shall, however, continue to avail the country of my experience, give suggestions and offer advice, as a statesman”.
In 2017, Anenih was bereaved twice. He lost one of his sons and his second wife who died aged 74 after a protracted illness.
In a statement condoling Anenih’s family, the PDP and the people of Edo state, President Muhammadu Buhari described the late politician as “a frontline figure in the annals of our country’s political history” attesting that “Chief Anenih lived a life of service, as State Chairman of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN), National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), chieftain of the PDP, and a former Minister of Works.”
According to presidential spokesman, Femi Adesina, who issued the statement, “President Buhari affirms that across the political spectrum of Nigeria, Chief Anenih was known for his strong views on issues pertaining to the unity and stability of the nation.
“The President prays almighty God to grant Chief Anenih’s soul eternal rest and comfort all who mourn the octogenarian.”