By Chibuike Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – Professor of Practice in International Human Rights Law and former Chairman of Nigeria’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Chidi Odinkalu, GCoF has eulogised Chief Emeka Anyaoku on the ocassion of his 93rd birthday, describing him as Nigerian Diplomat who helped shape a freer Commonwealth.
Odinkalu who stated this when he took to his X handle on Sunday said,
“Eminent diplomat and elder statesman, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, on Monday marked his 93rd birthday, drawing renewed attention to a remarkable life that has spanned some of the most defining moments in modern global and Nigerian history.”
“Born in 1933, barely two months before the first inauguration of United States President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Anyaoku’s life journey has mirrored key turning points in world affairs. His intellectual brilliance was evident early, earning him admission to University College Ibadan, now the University of Ibadan, where he graduated with a degree in Classics as a College Scholar.”
“Three years before Nigeria attained independence in 1960, Anyaoku began his diplomatic career with the United Kingdom’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office, a rare feat for a young Nigerian at the time. This early exposure to international diplomacy laid the foundation for what would become one of the most distinguished careers in global public service.”
“In October 1983, Anyaoku was appointed Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs. However, his tenure was short-lived following the military coup led by Major-General Muhammadu Buhari in December of the same year, which overthrew the civilian government less than three months after his appointment.” “Fortuitously, Anyaoku returned to the Commonwealth Secretariat, where his career would soon reach historic heights.”
“Six years later, he was elected Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, becoming one of the most influential voices in multilateral diplomacy. During his tenure, Anyaoku presided over landmark developments, including the liberation of Namibia and critical negotiations with the African National Congress that culminated in the end of apartheid and the emergence of majority rule in South Africa in 1994.”
“Perhaps one of his most enduring legacies was steering the Commonwealth decisively into the realm of human rights advocacy through the adoption of the Harare Declaration, widely known as the Harare Principles. This framework redefined the Commonwealth as a values-based organisation committed to democracy, rule of law and respect for fundamental human rights.”
“Beyond his global achievements, Chief Anyaoku remains deeply rooted in his heritage. He hails from Obosi in Anambra State, South-East Nigeria, where he is the senior-most titled chief and holds the revered traditional title of Adazie Obosi.”
“As tributes poured in from across Nigeria and beyond, his 93rd birthday served not only as a celebration of longevity but also as a reminder of a life devoted to principled leadership, diplomacy and service to humanity.”
At 93, Chief Emeka Anyaoku stands as a towering symbol of Nigerian excellence on the world stage, an enduring moral compass whose legacy continues to inspire generations.
Happy 93rd Birthday, Adazie Obosi, Odinkalu added.
