Draft:AGUNWA ANAEKWE

Agunwa Anaekwe (born c. 1956) is a Nigerian politician who served as the Speaker of the House of Representatives of Nigeria from 1992 to 1993 during the aborted Third Republic. He played a significant role in navigating the National Assembly through a turbulent political period marked by military interference and the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election. Hailing from Adaziani, Anaocha LGA, Anambra State, Anaekwe was elected Speaker at the age of 36, making him one of the youngest individuals to hold the position. Early Life and Education Agunwa Anaekwe was born around 1956 in Anambra State, Nigeria. Details about his early life, family background, and education are not widely documented in public sources. He emerged as a prominent political figure in the early 1990s during Nigeria's transition to civilian rule. Political Career Speaker of the House of Representatives (1992–1993) Anaekwe was elected Speaker of the House of Representatives in 1992, during the Third Republic under the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida. His tenure coincided with a critical period in Nigeria's political history, as the country was preparing for a transition to civilian governance. The National Assembly faced significant challenges, including Decree 52 of 1992, which limited its legislative powers, and persistent underfunding by the military government.[](https://www.thenigerianvoice.com/news/48574/anaekwe-unsung-hero-of-democracy.html) As Speaker, Anaekwe was noted for his efforts to maintain the independence of the National Assembly and represent public interest. He opposed the creation of additional local governments, which was seen as a potential tactic to delay the transition to civilian rule. Following the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, Anaekwe navigated the House through intense political pressure, including an attempt to seize the mace during a session, which was described as an audacious move toward establishing a life presidency. His leadership was credited with steering the House away from chaos during this crisis.[](https://www.thenigerianvoice.com/news/48574/anaekwe-unsung-hero-of-democracy.html) Anaekwe served as Speaker until November 17, 1993, when General Sani Abacha's military coup dissolved democratic structures, including the National Assembly.[](https://www.thenigerianvoice.com/news/48574/anaekwe-unsung-hero-of-democracy.html) Post-Speakership After the dissolution of the Third Republic, Anaekwe largely withdrew from the political spotlight. Reports suggest he maintained a low profile for several years. Around 2015, he reportedly joined the All Progressives Congress (APC), indicating a return to political activity. In an interview before the 2015 general elections, Anaekwe expressed support for General Muhammadu Buhari, citing his belief in Buhari’s ability to address corruption in Nigeria.[](https://blueprint.ng/agunwa-anaekwe-jimoh-ibrahim-where-are-they-now/) Legacy Agunwa Anaekwe is recognized for his role as a young leader who stood firm against anti-democratic pressures during a volatile period in Nigeria’s history. His tenure as Speaker is noted for its resilience in the face of military interference and attempts to undermine the legislative process. Commentators, such as Okeke Okeke, have described him as an "unsung hero of democracy" for his efforts to protect the National Assembly’s integrity.[](https://www.thenigerianvoice.com/news/48574/anaekwe-unsung-hero-of-democracy.html) Personal Life Little is known about Anaekwe’s personal life, including details about his family or personal endeavors after his political career. He is from Adaziani, Anaochs LGA, Anambra State and has been described as a principled figure committed to public interest.[](https://blueprint.ng/agunwa-anaekwe-jimoh-ibrahim-where-are-they-now/) References 1. "Agunwa Anaekwe, Jimoh Ibrahim: Where are they now?" Blueprint Newspapers Limited, 6 August 2021.[](https://blueprint.ng/agunwa-anaekwe-jimoh-ibrahim-where-are-they-now/) 2. "ANAEKWE: UNSUNG HERO OF DEMOCRACY." The Nigerian Voice, 25 March 2011.[](https://www.thenigerianvoice.com/news/48574/anaekwe-unsung-hero-of-democracy.html) 3. "Speaker of the House of Representatives of Nigeria." Wikipedia, 3 May 2007.[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Speaker_of_the_Nigerian_House_of_Representatives) 4. "10th Assembly Speakership And The North Central." Leadership.ng, 8 March 2023.[](https://leadership.ng/10th-assembly-speakership-and-the-north-central/)