The demand for the liberation of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), resonated strongly during the service of songs and tributes held on Saturday in honor of the late President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.
Reports indicate that Kanu remains in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) despite ongoing appeals from various Igbo leaders advocating for a political resolution to his situation.
At the tribute event, multiple speakers expressed their sorrow, noting that securing Kanu’s release was one of Iwuanyanwu’s final wishes before his passing.
They urged President Bola Tinubu to fulfill Iwuanyanwu’s last request by releasing Kanu, while also advocating for the immortalization of the late Ohanaeze leader’s legacy.
The Umuada Igbo Nigeria and in Diaspora, which represents Igbo women, emphasized the dual issues of Kanu’s release and the need to honor Iwuanyanwu as a unifying figure beyond tribal lines.
Lolo Kate Ezeofor, President General and Founder of Umuada Igbo Nigeria and Diaspora, stated, “May God bless President Bola Tinubu as you fulfill our request to immortalize Chief Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu and release Nnamdi 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 praised the late Ohanaeze leader as a towering figure and a unifier during challenging times.
“He exhibited exceptional work ethics and left a lasting impact on me. He was a pioneer in various fields including media, sports, industry, engineering, and aviation. Truly, he was ahead of his time,” Mbah remarked.
Dr. Sam Egwu, former Governor of Ebonyi State, also paid tribute, recognizing Iwuanyanwu as a remarkable individual with a distinguished character.
Chief Garry Igariwey, the former President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, spoke of Iwuanyanwu’s deep commitment to Igbo land and his embodiment of greatness in every regard.
“We humbly ask the President to listen to our plea and release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu,” Igariwey urged.
Amb. Okey Emuchay, the Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, reflected on Iwuanyanwu’s dedication to sharing the stories of Biafra and the experiences of the civil war.
