Eminent businessman and former Governor of Abia State, Dr. Orji Kalu, has lamented the death of Nigeria’s Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Barrister James Ocholi (SAN), who died alongside his wife, Blessing and first son, Joshua, in a motor accident along Abuja-Kaduna expressway on Sunday.
The former governor who described the late Minister as a committed patriot, whose contribution to national development was remarkable, having served in different capacities in the public and private spheres of life.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser, Kunle Oyewumi, Kalu said: “The demise of the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Barrister James Ocholi, his wife and son is tragic.
“Nigeria has lost a thoroughbred professional who was committed to impacting the society positively. He was easy going, humane and charismatic.
“It is, indeed, painful that Ocholi, his wife and son died in such a devastating circumstance.
Kalu, while urging the deceased’s friends, political associates and family, especially members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), to take solace in the fact that Ocholi will be remembered for his forthrightness and patriotism.
He extended his heartfelt condolences to the leadership and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Kalu prayed God to grant the departed souls eternal rest and also for the quick recovery of those hospitalised.