A revered statesman, legal practitioner, and former Speaker of the Old Anambra State House of Assembly, Chief Benjamin Afagu Ekwealor, has reportedly passed away at the age of 89.
Naijaonpoint learnt that the elder statesman died last Saturday, July 26, 2025, at his residence in Nzam, Anambra West Local Government Area of Anambra State.
His family confirmed the development in a statement released on Wednesday.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Chuba Ekwealor described his late father as a man who used law as a tool for justice and progress.
“He brought his legal expertise to bear across various spheres of public service,” Chuba said.
Before venturing into law and politics, Chief Ekwealor had a fruitful career in education.
He served as a school principal until 1977 when he retired and answered the call of his community to enter politics.
That same year, he became actively involved with the defunct National Party of Nigeria (NPN) and was subsequently elected to the Old Anambra State House of Assembly in 1979.
He was re-elected in 1983 and eventually rose to become Speaker of the Assembly, which then covered present-day Anambra, Enugu, and Ebonyi States.
The trained lawyer, Ekwealor, served on the Anambra State Judicial Service Commission from 1998 as a representative of the Nigerian Bar.
He held the position for nearly a decade and was widely respected for his principled views and steadfast commitment to judicial ethics.
His legal acumen earned him recognition in legal and political circles alike, further cementing his legacy as a figure of integrity and service.
Outside his roles in public office, Naijaonpoint understands that Ekwealor was also a respected voice in Nzam and across Anambra State.
Known for his humility and dedication to communal progress, he served as a mentor to many and a custodian of traditional values.
His life’s work cut across education, law, and politics, making him one of the few Nigerians who seamlessly straddled multiple spheres of influence.
He is survived by six children and several grandchildren. The family has announced that details of his funeral arrangements will be made public in the coming days.
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