Igbo leaders call on FG to grant freedom to Nnamdi Kanu and immortalize Iwuanyanwu to strengthen peace efforts and national harmony.
On Saturday, during the service of songs and tributes for the late President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, there was a renewed call for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB).
According to OBASANJONEWS, Kanu is still being held in DSS custody despite numerous appeals from various Igbo leaders advocating for a political resolution to the issue.
Several speakers at the Saturday event expressed their sorrow that securing Kanu’s release was Iwuanyanwu’s final task before his passing.
They encouraged President Bola Tinubu to fulfill Iwuanyanwu’s last wish by releasing Kanu and also called for the immortalization of the late Ohanaeze PG.
The Umuada Igbo Nigeria and in Diaspora, the representative organization for Igbo women, also emphasized two key issues: the release of Kanu and the immortalization of Iwuanyanwu as a figure who transcended tribal divisions within Nigeria.
Lolo Kate Ezeofor, the President General and Founder of Umuada Igbo Nigeria and Diaspora, expressed her wish by saying, “May God bless President Bola Tinubu for honoring our request to immortalize Chief Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu and release Nnamadi Kanu from DSS custody.”
During Iwuanyanwu’s lying in state at the old Eastern Nigeria Government lodge in Enugu, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State referred to the late Ohanaeze PG as a towering figure and a bridge builder who promoted unity during challenging times.
Mbah praised him, noting his exceptional work ethic and the significant impact he made. He was a pioneer in fields such as media, sports, industry, engineering, and aviation; truly ahead of his time.
In his tribute, former Governor of Ebonyi State, Dr. Sam Egwu, praised Iwuanyanwu as a remarkable individual with an impressive stature and character. He noted that Iwuanyanwu’s actions set him apart and highlighted his distinct personality.
Chief Garry Igariwey, former President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, characterized Iwuanyanwu as a man deeply committed to Igboland and remarkable in every aspect of greatness.
“We earnestly request Mr. President to kindly respond to the appeal and release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu,” Igariwey urged.
Ambassador Okey Emuchay, the Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, noted that Iwuanyanwu consistently shared his Biafra experiences and stories from the civil war.
Professor Uche Azikiwe, the wife of Nigeria’s first President, urged the federal government to honor Chief Iwuanyanwu in perpetuity.
Peoplesmind
