Elechi Amadi, a man of many parts – Jonathan; ‘He changed Africa’s story’

Former President, Goodluck Jonathan, has praised the nationalism and patriotism of late novelist, Elechi Amadi, who died, Wednesday, aged 82.
In a statement issued by the former President’s media adviser, Mr. Ikechukwu Eze, Jonathan said the late writer ‘served his fatherland meritoriously.’
“Amadi was a renowned writer and patriot who served his fatherland meritoriously, through his literary works and exemplary performance in public service.
“As an author, his works helped change the story of a continent, by rendering accurate accounts of profound African life and traditions as a counterpoise to inexact stereotypes.
“A man of many parts, Amadi equally acquitted himself as a soldier, educator and dedicated administrator who was committed to the part of peace, unity and progress,” Jonathan said.
Amadi, the Rivers State-born poet and dramatist reportedly died, at the Good Heart hospital in Port Harcourt, the state capital, at the age of 82.
A member of the family, Bar Wabueze Amadi, who confirmed the development, said Amadi passed on at about 3: 45pm at the hospital.
A first generation African writer, Amadi’ s works include; The Concubine, The Great Ponds, Isiburu, Sunset in Biafra, Dance of Johannesburg, Peppersoup, The Road to Ibadan, The Slave , Estrangement.
It would be recalled Amadi celebrated his 80th birthday in Port Harcourt, in 2014 releasing a souvenir edition of one of his plays, Isiburu to mark his 80th birthday.
He was born on 12 May, 1934 in Aluu community, Ikwerre local government area. He attended Government College, Umuahia and went to the University College, Ibadan where he bagged a BSc degree in Physics and Mathematics.
He served in the 3rd Marine Commandos of the Nigerian Army. He was first Commissioner for Education in the old Rivers state and also served as Commissioner for Lands and Housing He had several honours to his credit. He was Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Education and a Member of the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He was awarded an honorary doctorate degree by the University of Port Harcourt in 2011. He was abducted by unknown gunmen in 2008 and later released after some days in their custody. He lived in his community, Aluu until his death.