The death of Second Republic politician, Senator Francis Arthur Nzeribe, has been confirmed by his family.

The family made the confirmation in a statement on Sunday titled, ‘Our mighty Iroko has fallen: Senator Chief Francis is dead’.

The statement was signed by Ojiabu Francis Anyegbu Nzeribe, Anthony Akpati Nzeribe, and Ojiabu Oliver Nwedo Nzeribe on behalf of the Nzeribe Royal Family.

The PUNCH had reported that the former lawmaker died at 83 in a foreign hospital.

The statement read, “Umudei Royal Village of Oguta in the Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, in total submission to the will of God Almighty and in appreciation of a remarkably worthy life hereby announces the death of our Son, Cousin, Uncle, Husband, Father, and Grandfather, Distinguished Senator, Chief Francis Arthur Uzoma Nzeribe (Ogbuagu, Oshiji, Damarae Oyirrba of Oguta) on the 5th day of May 2022 at the age of 83.

“While we are pained by this loss, we are proud of this African Legend who distinguished himself in various fields including sports, international business, and politics and gave the Nzeribe brand worldwide acclaim.

“The family has immediately commenced the necessary traditional consultations and will in due course release a programme for funeral rites.