By Lukman Olabiyi
Chief Benjamin Afagu Ekwealor, a respecte elder statesman and former Speaker of the old Anambra State House of Assembly, has passed away.
He died on the evening of Saturday, July 26, 2025, at his country home in Nzam, Anambra West Local Government Area. He was 89 years old.
The news of his passing was announced by his son, Mr. Chuba Ekwealor, on behalf of the family.
Chief Ekwealor was a man of many callings, a renowned teacher, legal practitioner, community leader, politician, and administrator.
After a successful career in education, he retired as a school principal in 1977 and soon heeded the call of his people to serve in public office at the dawn of Nigeria’s Second Republic.
He became a prominent member of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in the old Anambra State and was elected into the State House of Assembly in 1979, which then covered the present-day Anambra, Enugu, and Ebonyi States.
He was re-elected in 1983 and subsequently became Speaker of the House, playing a central role in shaping legislative governance in the region.
In 1998, Chief Ekwealor was appointed to the Anambra State Judicial Service Commission, where he represented the Bar. He served in that capacity for nearly a decade, further demonstrating his commitment to public service and the rule of law.
A man of integrity and deep community roots, Chief Ekwealor is remembered for his unwavering dedication to justice, education, and the welfare of his people.
He is survived by six children and numerous grandchildren. The family noted that arrangements for his final burial rites will be announced in due course.
