Former Imo State Governor Dr. Ikedi Ohakim has expressed profound grief over the passing of Dr. Chris Asoluka, describing the loss as beyond ordinary shock. In a heartfelt statement released on Sunday, Ohakim highlighted Asoluka’s exceptional character and significant contributions to his administration despite not holding an official cabinet position.
“I lack words to describe my state of mind since I learned of the death of my bosom friend and ally, Dr. Chris Asoluka,” Ohakim stated. “The usual language is ‘shock,’ but for me, that is an understatement.”
The former governor revealed a poignant coincidence that just days before Asoluka’s passing, he had contacted editors of his forthcoming memoir specifically to add content acknowledging Asoluka’s invaluable contributions to his administration.
“Chris was not a member of my cabinet, but he stood by me through all challenges I faced,” Ohakim noted. “As a management expert, I found his advice on vital administrative issues quite invaluable.”
Ohakim emphasised that Asoluka’s expertise was widely sought after by individuals and institutions that valued organisational excellence. While acknowledging awareness of Asoluka’s previous health challenges—from which he had nearly fully recovered—Ohakim reflected on the deeper lessons of his passing.
The former governor drew particular attention to the family’s announcement that described Asoluka as transitioning “with the calm dignity that defined his life,” suggesting this quality should inspire others, especially those he characterised as “unrepentant destroyers.”
“That testimony, ‘a man with calm dignity,’ should resonate in the minds of those of us still alive today,” Ohakim remarked. “We should strive to live a life of dignity and calmness no matter how terrifying the challenges might be.”
Ohakim extended condolences not only to Asoluka’s immediate family but also to all Nigerians and particularly to the people of Imo State, noting that this loss follows shortly after the passing of renowned economist Paschal Dozie, compounding the state’s grief.
Concluding with a quote from the late sage Obafemi Awolowo—”It is not life that matters but the courage with which it is lived”—Ohakim affirmed that while Asoluka embodied such courage, even greater courage would be required to bear this “irreparable loss.”
