Sh*ckwaves In Nigerian Politics: Ex-House Speaker Agunwa Anakwe Dies At 68

Agunwa Anakwe, a former Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, has died at the age of 68. Anakwe, who led the third House during Nigeria’s brief Third Republic under the Ernest Shonekan-led Interim National Government, reportedly passed away on Saturday following an illness.

His death was confirmed by Anambra State’s Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, in a phone conversation with The Cable on Monday.

Elected Speaker at just 36 years old, Anakwe served from 1992 until November 17, 1993, when General Sani Abacha overthrew the Interim Government. During his time in office, he was recognized for his strong opposition to attempts aimed at derailing Nigeria’s democratic transition.

One of his key stances was resisting the creation of new local governments, which he believed was a ploy to obstruct the country’s return to democratic governance.

In a tribute, former Anambra State Governor and ex-Minister of Labour, Dr. Chris Ngige, described Anakwe as a skilled and patient leader who brought stability to the House. According to Ngige, “He steered the House with a lot of dexterity, wisdom, and patience—qualities that helped maintain more stability in the House than in the Senate—until the military coup of November 17, 1993, which followed the annulment of MKO Abiola’s presidential victory.”

Ngige also recalled Anakwe’s political courage, especially during his own tenure as governor. “He stood with me in the battle against the political godfathers who had held Anambra hostage during Governor Mbadinuju’s tenure—an era marked by unpaid salaries and closed schools. With his support, we reversed that trend, restoring prompt payment of salaries and gratuities,” Ngige said.

He noted that he had visited Anakwe in late March after learning of his illness and upcoming surgery. “That evening, the joy on his face and the bond we shared lifted our spirits. We had no idea that death—the greatest thief in the night—was near, ready to take our friend and brother, Ide Anaocha,” Ngige added.

He concluded by describing Anakwe’s death as a deep loss: “His passing leaves behind a huge void—one that is difficult to fill, especially in a political landscape that sorely lacks principled, accountable, and honest individuals.”