Chief Benjamin Afagu Ekwealor, a distinguished legal practitioner, former lawmaker, and revered community leader, has passed away at the age of 89.
His family confirmed in a statement on Wednesday that he died peacefully on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at his residence in Nzam, Anambra West Local Government Area of Anambra State.
A man of remarkable intellect and public service, Ekwealor’s career spanned law, politics, and education. His son, Mr. Chuba Ekwealor, described him as a principled man whose professional life was rooted in justice, discipline, and service to humanity.
Trained as a lawyer, Chief Ekwealor brought his legal acumen to bear in various public roles. He was appointed in 1998 as a representative of the Nigerian Bar on the Anambra State Judicial Service Commission, where he served with distinction for nearly a decade. His tenure earned him accolades for upholding judicial ethics and championing integrity within the legal system.
Before venturing into law and politics, Ekwealor had a successful career in education. He retired as a school principal in 1977 and soon after answered the call of his community to join politics.
A founding member of the now-defunct National Party of Nigeria (NPN), he was elected into the Old Anambra State House of Assembly in 1979 and re-elected in 1983. He later rose to become Speaker of the Assembly, which at the time encompassed the present-day Anambra, Enugu, and Ebonyi states.
Chief Ekwealor’s contributions extended well beyond public office. He was widely regarded as a statesman and a voice of wisdom in his community, offering decades of mentorship, conflict resolution, and civic advocacy.
His legacy continues through his enduring impact on Anambra’s political and legal landscape, as well as the generations of students and legal professionals he mentored.
He is survived by six children and several grandchildren. Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in the coming days.
As tributes continue to pour in, Chief Benjamin Afagu Ekwealor is being remembered as a man who lived a life of purpose, humility, and selfless service.
