Former Imo State Governor, Senator Rochas Okorocha, has called on the Federal Government to release Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra as a tribute to the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.
Okorocha made the appeal during a night of tribute held in Ubah’s honour on Monday at the Nigerian Air Force Conference & Suites, Abuja.
In his speech, Okorocha highlighted Ubah’s advocacy, linking it to a similar appeal made by the late President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.
“Before the death of Iwuanyanwu, he made a plea to the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Ifeanyi Ubah made a statement in the same line,” Okorocha said, urging Senate President Godswill Akpabio to deliver the message to the government.
He continued, “I want to say to you, my brother, Senate President, convey this message on behalf of these Igbos who are seated that the best way to honour these great young men is the release of Nnamdi Kanu so that the Igbos can go home and reunite their place.”
Okorocha also addressed the divisions within the Igbo community, calling for unity and peace among its people. Reflecting on the legacies of late Igbo leaders, he expressed concern over political discord within the region.
“I’ve not died before, and I don’t intend to die soon, but I do know that the Ikemba Ojukwus, the Ekwuemes, and these great leaders of note who have left us, since the spirit never dies, I’m sure they are having a meeting somewhere. I can only imagine what kind of meeting it is. Their meeting is about Ndi Igbo. And Ndi Igbo, hear me, what is the likely thing these leaders are discussing now, including the youngest of them, Ifeanyi Ubah?”
Okorocha pondered the late leaders’ concerns, adding, “The question they are asking is, ‘Igbos, why do you play the politics of hate? Why do you hate one another?’”
He urged the Igbo people to take inspiration from those who reconciled in the afterlife despite past differences. “Ojukwu recalls his quarrels with Ekwueme, and now they say it is vanity. Inwanyi recalls his quarrels with Enwerem, and now they are in one place. And so, they are asking Igbos to embrace peace,” he said.
The event saw the presence of notable political figures, friends, and family of the late Ubah, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and former Senate Presidents Anyim Pius Anyim and Bukola Saraki, among others.
Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, who represented Anambra South Senatorial District, passed away in London in July at the age of 52. He would have turned 53 on September 3, 2024.
The late businessman and politician will be laid to rest on Friday, November 22, 2024.
