Okere died in Abuja after a protracted illness following a motor accident in February 2012.
Senator Mark described late Okere as a very hard working and passionate officer who believed in the unity of Nigeria.
He recalled his days with late Okere at the Nigeria Military School, Zaria and later in their working career and described him as an intelligent officer who served the nation meritoriously in different capacities.
Senator Mark said Okere was a workaholic and forthright officer who would surely be missed by the management and staff of the National Assembly.
He was however consoled that late Okere lived and truly left his positive foot prints on the sands of time.
Signed:
Paul Mumeh, Chief Press Secretary to the President of the Senate.
It will be recalled that Col Okere's daughter was stripped naked and flogged by some Naval officers in Lagos years back.The incident was captured on camera spread like wild fire on social media leading to the prosecution of the Naval officers and their leader, a Real Admiral.
Initial report on his accident in 2012
The head of the Sergeants-at-Arm in the National Assembly, Mr. Emeka Okere had a fatal accident a few days ago, it was learnt at the weekend.
He is receiving treatment at the National Hospital in Abuja.
Okere, who has been in the intensive care unit of the National Hospital since Saturday, February 25, was reportedly moved to the general outpatient ward on Friday.
The Nation learnt that Okere was involved in the accident shortly after leaving the National Assembly Saturday last week to inspect the construction of some security structures at the entrance of the National Assembly gate.
According to a source, who does not want his name in print, the Head of the Sergeants-at-Arms is lucky to still be alive due to the serious nature of the accident.
He said: “He was driving home after checking some additional security structures being erected a the National Assembly gate when a motorist veered off its track and headed straight for him near the Defence College in Garki.
“In an effort to avert a head-on collision, Okere veered off the road and hit a pole. He was subsequently rushed to the National Hospital.
“If you had seen the wreckage of his car, you will know he is lucky to still be alive.”
Sources said the management of the National Assembly is considering flying the security chief to South Africa or Germany for further treatment.
When The Nation called Okere’s mobile phone, a female relative, who claimed to be his niece, picked the call.
Her words: “He is still here at the National Hospital. But we want to evacuate him to another hospital because they are not giving him enough treatment here.