Buhari has spent N1bn on Ekwueme so far’ -Ngige

Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr.

Chris Ngige, while inspecting facilities for the burial of Dr. Alex Ekwueme, at the hometown of the late former Vice President in Oko, Anambra State, told newsmen that President Buhari had committed about N1bn to Ekwueme from the day the FG took over his medical bills to date.

According to Dr. Chris Ngige, the road rehabilitation alone in Anambra State and neighbouring communities of Imo and Abia states in preparation for Ekwueme’s burial had gulped about N480m.

The Minister who disclosed that FG was considering naming a national monument after Ekwueme to immortalise him, went further to disclose that Buhari-led Government is leaving no stone unturned in ensuring that Ekwueme’s family enjoys the role their late patriarch played in building a better Nigeria.

“You know that I belong to the Ekwueme family; I’m part of that family.

I’m in various committees and subcommittees for the burial of this great statesman. I can tell you authoritatively that Mr President (Buhari) is committed and passionate in ensuring a befitting burial for Ekwueme. .

If he doesn’t come for the burial himself, I’m sure the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, will be here for the burial as a matter of right. The FG is building the mausoleum, which will contain a modern library and other facilities and I also know the cost of that too. .

And remember that the FG took up all the medical bills of flying him abroad and bringing him back to Nigeria from London upon his death. The cost of hiring an air ambulance is not a joke. So, Buhari has honoured this Igbo son in all ramifications. .

He has committed not less than N1billion in this project because he is passionate about it.”

The funeral programme of former Vice President Alex Ekwueme scheduled to hold on 2nd February is out. The late statesman will be paid last respect in London, Lagos, Abuja, Enugu and Anambra.