Senate Leader Victor Ndoma-Egba yesterday described the death of Senator Uche Chukwumerije "as a sad loss for Nigeria".

Senate Minority Leader Senator George Akume and Senate Committee on Environment and Ecology Chairman Bukola Saraki expressed deep sadness and shock.

In a statement in Abuja, Ndoma-Egba also described the late Chukwumerije as a political giant and one of the nation's finest legislators.

He said: "He was eclectic, cerebral and did not suffer fools gladly. He was one of a kind."

Ndoma-Egba insisted that Chukwumerije would forever be remembered for his deep love for Ndigbo, which was manifested in his relentless struggle for the total political and social emancipation of the race over time.

Akume said the nation had lost one of its legislative titans.

He added that Chukwumerije was an embodiment of hardwork, patience, experience and a quintessential gentleman-activist.

The Senate Minority Leader said the late Abia North senator would be remembered for his principled stand on the issue of unity, patriotism and love of his geopolitical zone and country.

Akume said: "Senator Chukwumerije was a nationalist, true democract, courageous and respected elder statesman whose robust debates on national/international issues will be greatly missed. I pray Almighty God to console the family and grant his soul eternal rest."

Saraki described the late senator as one of the towering pillars of the 7th Senate.

He described his debates and contributions on the floor of the red chamber as incisive and thought provoking.

The Senator representing Kwara Central said: "Chukwumerije would be remembered for the many truce he brokered between the Federal Government and the academic and non-academic staff of the nation's tertiary institutions which in no small measure led to stability and academic growth in the country.

"His loss is a painful one. His contributions to Nigeria will not be easily forgotten."