FAREWELL to a Statesman: Dr. Chris Chigoziri Asoluka

The passing of Hon. Dr. Chris Chigoziri Asoluka on May 9, 2025, has left a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, colleagues, and the wider Nigerian public. Fondly known as Ndaa Chris, Okwuruoha, and the Scholar-Statesman, Dr. Asoluka was not just a towering intellect but a man whose leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to progress resonated far beyond his community of Ihiagwa and the state of Imo.

From political corridors to academic halls, from boardrooms to town squares, the impact of his life is echoed through heartfelt tributes that reflect both sorrow and deep admiration.

A Brother, A Mentor, A Pillar:

Chief Charles Orie, in a deeply emotional tribute, described Dr. Asoluka as an “iconic figure of Imo State” and a “man of scholarly distinctions who inspired the youth and our communities at large.” The shock of his death, Orie noted, was destabilizing, yet he found the strength to reach out and console others mourning the loss.

“His death is a loss of warmth, kindness, influence, leadership, and positivity,” he wrote. “I mourn a renowned scholar, an institution, and a mentor of the political landscape of Nigeria.”

A Leader in Times of Need:

Chief Sir Henry Njoku (Harritex) expressed profound grief at the loss of a leader and brother. “No one will envisage that our dearest brother and leader will depart planet earth at the time his leadership is needed most,” he lamented. Yet, he reminded all to lean on faith: “We can’t question God… we pray for the fortitude to bear this great loss of a patriarch.”

A Comrade in Political Struggle:

A former federal legislator recalled their shared political journey in 1998, when both men contested for federal legislative seats under the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP). “We ran the best and most enlightened campaign ever seen in Owerri Zone,” he remembered. Although the military transition cut short their ambitions, a lifelong bond was formed. “Real men of pedigree and substance are passing on. This is one death too many.”

The Orator, The Strategist, The Cultural Torchbearer:

Bidwell Nkemakolam Okere captured the spirit of Dr. Asoluka in both poetic and emotional terms. “Okwuruoha lived a life of many firsts and references — brilliant in elocution, smart in organizing, super in strategy, and unabashed in his Igboness and Owerriness.” Citing one of his favorite proverbs — “Onwu agbala anyi ohoho, anyi a’ga itu ya ugha” — Okere mourned his friend as both legend and teacher, stunned by the sudden departure just as birthday celebrations were being planned.

A Gentleman of Vision and Policy:

For former Minister of State for FCT, Chuka Odom, Dr. Asoluka was a trusted mind who shaped national housing policy. “When I served as Minister under President Yar’Adua, I chose Chris to lead the review of the National Housing Policy. He did a fantastic job,” Odom recalled. “He was a thoroughbred intellectual and a perfect gentleman… a life well lived, even briefly, is better than a million meaningless existences.”

A Generational Inspiration:

Deacon Chike John Okafor, Ph.D, Member of the House of Representatives and former Imo Commissioner for Finance, traced his admiration for Asoluka back to his university days. As a student leader at Imo State University in the 1990s, he invited Asoluka to speak to students — an invitation that was honored. Years later, as Finance Commissioner, Okafor received Asoluka in his office and reminded him of their earlier connection.

Asoluka beamed with pride, saying:

“I feel very proud and fulfilled sitting not just before the Commissioner for Finance of my state, but before a young man who once looked up to me… I can’t be more proud.”

Okafor wrote, “Chris Asoluka was and will remain an inspiration and a mentor. Imo State has lost yet another great and cerebral mind.”

A Man of Wisdom Across Arenas:

Chief Chris Anukam (Omeudo-Irete) added another layer to the multifaceted legacy of Dr. Asoluka. “He was indeed a man of great knowledge and wisdom who knew how to navigate the tough terrains of politics, boardroom matters, academic arena, and public discourse — especially on maritime issues where he played an active role,” Chief Anukam noted. “One of Imo’s and indeed Nigeria’s finest has left us so suddenly, leaving us wondering what happened.”

Describing him as “an amiable, visionary gentleman and a people person,” Anukam bid farewell to “a husband, father, grandfather, and statesman who has now joined the saints triumphant.”

A Legacy Etched in Minds and Memories

Across titles and timelines, what remains consistent is the deep respect and affection for Dr. Chris Chigoziri Asoluka — a scholar, statesman, mentor, and cultural custodian. His life was a rare blend of intellectual rigor, public service, and personal humility.

As tributes continue to pour in, it is clear that his legacy will endure — not only in policies and institutions, but in the hearts and actions of those he touched.

May the soul of Ndaa Chris rest in eternal peace.

DSG HERALD NEWS