In what has been described as a politically symbolic moment, former Senate President and National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, and former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, reunited at the burial of late Justice Emmanuel Nri Ezedi — the judge credited with reversing Obi’s controversial impeachment during his first tenure as governor.
The event, held on Thursday, August 1, 2025, at St. James Church, Nri, in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, attracted an array of political heavyweights, legal giants, and religious leaders. Also present was the incumbent Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo.
Justice Ezedi, who served as the Chief Judge of Anambra State during Obi’s administration, made national headlines in 2006 when he led the judiciary to declare the impeachment of Governor Obi illegal and nullify the action of the state House of Assembly, thereby restoring Obi to office. His decision has since been hailed as a landmark in Nigerian democratic jurisprudence.
The burial ceremony reflected the esteem in which the late jurist was held. Most Reverend Alexander Ibezim, Archbishop on the Niger and Anglican Bishop of Awka, presided over the funeral service. The gathering served not only as a moment of mourning but also of reflection on Justice Ezedi’s enduring legacy in the fight for judicial independence and constitutional order.
Senator David Mark’s arrival in Anambra was met with a show of strength by the ADC. He was received at the Chinua Achebe International Airport by a massive crowd of ADC supporters led by the party’s governorship candidate in the forthcoming November 8 election, Mr. John Nwosu, and his running mate, Chief Ndubuisi Nwobu. ADC flags waved high as party loyalists showcased the growing influence of the party in the state.
Observers noted the symbolic presence of both Mark and Obi at the burial, although each arrived separately and did not share the same vehicle to the venue. While the former Senate President did not make any public comment, Peter Obi took to his official X handle (formerly Twitter) after the event to eulogize Justice Ezedi for standing firm in the face of political pressure.
Obi wrote, “Justice Ezedi’s ruling was a bold affirmation of the judiciary’s role as a defender of democracy. His decision in my case restored not just my mandate but the confidence of many Nigerians in the legal system.”
Although no formal political declarations were made, the appearance of the two respected leaders at the same event has ignited speculation of a possible alignment. Many ADC supporters believe it could be the beginning of a new political alliance, especially as the party gears up for the governorship election in November.
The event has been seen as a powerful blend of solemnity and political messaging, offering a glimpse into the evolving dynamics of Anambra’s political landscape. It reaffirmed the ADC’s increasing grassroots momentum and its capacity to mobilize support at high-level engagements.
While the future remains uncertain, Thursday’s event served as both a tribute to a man of integrity and a subtle signal of the shifting political tides in southeastern Nigeria.