Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has called on the Senate to consider allowing the widow of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah to succeed him as the representative of Anambra South Senatorial District. Ndume made this plea during a valedictory session on Tuesday held in honor of the late senator.
Emphasizing the importance of preserving Senator Ubah’s legacy, Ndume argued that such a gesture would not only pay tribute to his contributions but also ensure continuity in representing his constituency.
“I appeal to you, Mr. President, that we uphold the spirit and aspirations of Ifeanyi,” Ndume said. “This is not unprecedented. When Chuba Okadigbo, a great politician, passed away, his wife, Margery, joined the Senate and carried forward his legacy. Similarly, our First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, served in this chamber with the goodwill inspired by her husband’s legacy as a former governor.”
Ndume cited additional examples, including Senator Tokunbo Abiru, who succeeded his father as a senator in 1979, and Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua, who continues his family’s political legacy. He also mentioned Senator Iyabo Obasanjo and Senator Ede Dafinone, who both followed in their fathers’ footsteps in the Senate.
Highlighting the readiness of Ubah’s widow to take on the role, Ndume noted, “His wife, who is about 50 years old, has been an incredible support system to him throughout his career. I urge you, Mr. President, and my distinguished colleagues, to support the idea of a spiritual representative from his family in this chamber. This would honor the memory of Senator Ubah while ensuring continuity for the Anambra South Senatorial District.”