-Deborah Akinyosoye
Igbo leaders have emphasised the urgent need for Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s release from the custody of the Department of State Services.
They made the call at the service of songs and tributes for the late President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.
They noted that securing Kanu’s freedom was Iwuanyanwu’s final mission before his passing and appealed to President Bola Tinubu to grant Iwuanyanwu’s last wish by releasing Kanu.
The event, which was held on Saturday in Enugu, the capital of the Eastern region, saw speakers highlight Iwuanyanwu’s remarkable contributions to Nigeria, characterising him as a true nationalist who embodied nationalism, patriotism, and statesmanship.
They passionately urged the Federal Government to immortalise Iwuanyanwu, recognising his lasting impact on the nation.
The Umuada Igbo Nigeria and in Diaspora, the umbrella body of Igbo women, also stressed the two issues of the release of Kanu and the immortalisation of Iwuanyanwu as a detribalised Nigerian.
President General and Founder of Umuada Igbo Nigeria and Diaspora, Lolo Kate Ezeofor, said, “May God bless President Bola Tinubu as you oblige us with the immortalisation of Chief Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu and the release of Nnamdi Kanu from DSS custody.”
Speaking at Iwuanyanwu’s laying in state at the old Eastern Nigeria Government lodge in Enugu, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State described the late Ohanaeze PG as an Iroko and a bridge builder who fostered unity during troubled times.
“He possessed a remarkable work ethic and left a profound impression on me. He was a trailblazer in the media, sports, industry, engineering, and aviation. He was indeed ahead of his time,” Mbah eulogised.
Former Governor of Ebonyi State, Dr Sam Egwu, in his tribute, said that Iwuanyanwu was a great man with a great frame and personality, acknowledging that Iwuanyanwu’s actions distinguished his character.
Former President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Garry Igariwey, described Iwuanyanwu as a man who believed in Igboland and was great in every sense of the word.
“We crave the indulgence of Mr. President to please heed the call and release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu,” Igariwey pleaded.
The Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Amb Okey Emuchay, recalled that Iwuanyanwu never failed to tell his Biafra story and the civil war sojourn.
The wife of the first President of Nigeria, Prof Uche Azikwe, pleaded with the federal government to immortalise Chief Iwuanyanwu.