IKONNE, THE ABIA PDP’S GUBERNATORIAL CANDIDATE, HAS DIED.

Professor Uche Ikonne, the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) governorship candidate in Abia State, has been reported dead.

The former Vice Chancellor died Wednesday at the National Hospital Abuja, according to his son, Dr Chikezie Uche-Ikonne.

Chief John Okiyi, Commissioner for Trade and Investment and Director of Strategic Engagement, Ikonne Campaign Organization, issued the statement on his Facebook page.

The statement obtained by Vanguard read in part:” I regret to announce the death of my dear father, Prof Eleazar Uchenna Ikonne, who died at the National Hospital Abuja today, 25th January 2023 by 4 am after a brief illness.

“He was recovering after receiving proper treatment in the UK, but relapsed a few days ago, resulting in multiple cardiac arrests from which he did not recover.”

“Further details and arrangements would be made known to the public after deliberations and meetings within the family,” according to the statement.

Professor Ikonne was last seen in public in November 2022, at the Umuahia Township Stadium, following his public presentation as PDP governorship candidate.

Details about his health status have been speculative since then, until the Isiala Ngwa North Professor’s death was confirmed.