IN a public service announcement by the Secretary to the Anambra State Government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, all markets and businesses in the state would be closed on that day.
The announcement read in part, “As part of the funeral arrangements for the late Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Dr Alex Ifeanyichukwu Ekwueme (GCON), Anambra State Government hereby announces that … Thursday, February 1st, 2018 is work-free day in Anambra State.
“All markets and businesses will be closed on that day to enable Ndi Anambra, friends, associates and well-wishers to pay our last respect to the late Vice President.
“All those attending the commendation ceremony, including various social, cultural, religious, political, professional, educational, market men and women, and all other groups are to be seated by 10amprompt at Ekwueme Square Awka.
Born October 21,1932 , Ekwueme died on Sunday 19th November 2017 at a London hospital after a brief illness and would be buried on 2nd February 2018 in his country home, Oko, in Orumba North Council Area of Anambra State.
He served as first elected Vice President of Nigeria from 1979 to 1983 under a former President, Shehu Shagari.