Former Vice-President of Nigeria, Dr. Alex Ekwueme is reportedly in a coma after he collapsed at home. The Elder Statesman who celebrated his 85th birthday on the 10th of October is said to have collapsed at about 2am last Saturday, at his residence in Independence Layout, Enugu.
We also learned that the former Vice President is currently in the Intensive Care Unit of Memfys Hospital for Neurosurgery in Trans-Ekulu, Enugu State. Confirming the sad news, a relative, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, told the Punch:
“He was trying to get something from the table when he suddenly collapsed and immediately someone raised the alarm, we proceeded to revive him while cautious enough not to attract neighbours,” “When it became obvious that he had lapsed into coma, we rushed him to a hospital (unnamed) in GRA (Government Reserved Area), but we were referred to Memphys Hospital by medical consultants who had critically examined his condition.”
“When there was no sign of improvement on Monday afternoon, we rallied round and informed the former governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, who is like a son, and he has been making plans to fly him overseas,” the source added. Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State who paid a visit to Ekwueme on Tuesday evening couldn’t hide his emotion as he reportedly broke down in tears on seeing him at the Intensive Care Unit.
“My namesake, Ifeanyichukwu, do not leave us now! Even if you must go, please wait to see your daughter become the deputy governor of Anambra State before you leave us,” The governor said as he visited the former President. The first daughter of Ekwueme, Lady Chidi Onyemelukwe, is the running mate to Oseloka Obaze, the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party for the November 18 poll in Anambra State.
Source: News agencies
