Igbo Leaders Call for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release and Tribute to Late Ohanaeze Leader Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu

During the service of songs for the late President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, prominent Igbo leaders called on the Nigerian government to fulfill one of Iwuanyanwu’s final wishes: the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPoB). These speakers urged President Bola Tinubu to consider this plea, which they described as an important aspect of Iwuanyanwu’s legacy.

Iwuanyanwu, who served as a prominent figure in advancing the interests of the Igbo community, was celebrated not only for his advocacy but also for his nationalistic ideals. At the event, leaders emphasized the importance of honoring Iwuanyanwu’s legacy, advocating for his memory to be preserved by the government. Many leaders called on the federal administration to immortalize him, acknowledging his impact on Nigerian society and his contributions to unity, especially during turbulent times.

Speaking at the event held in Enugu at the former Eastern Nigeria Government Lodge, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State described Iwuanyanwu as a towering figure and an influential bridge-builder within Nigeria. Reflecting on Iwuanyanwu’s varied contributions across media, sports, industry, engineering, and aviation, Mbah stated, “He possessed remarkable work ethics and left a profound impression on me. He was indeed ahead of his time.” Mbah’s remarks underscored Iwuanyanwu’s legacy as a visionary who, beyond his dedication to the Igbo people, promoted unity across ethnic divides.

Former Governor of Ebonyi State, Dr. Sam Egwu, echoed this sentiment, describing Iwuanyanwu as an exemplary figure whose contributions were extensive and impactful. Likewise, former Ohanaeze Ndigbo President General Chief Garry Igariwe emphasized Iwuanyanwu’s deep commitment to Igboland and his enduring greatness. He called on President Tinubu to heed the request of the Igbo community by releasing Kanu, a gesture Igariwe described as significant to the Igbo people.

The gathering also saw a heartfelt plea from Ambassador Okey Emuchay, Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, who highlighted Iwuanyanwu’s lifelong commitment to recounting the experiences of Biafra and the Nigerian Civil War. He reminded attendees of the late leader’s efforts to educate future generations on these critical chapters in Igbo and Nigerian history.

Adding to the calls for both Kanu’s release and Iwuanyanwu’s immortalization, Prof. Uche Azikwe, wife of Nigeria’s first president, and Lolo Kate Ezeofor, President General of Umuada Igbo Nigeria and Diaspora, also urged the government to honor these requests. Ezeofor expressed her hope, stating, “May God bless President Bola Tinubu as you oblige us with the immortalization of Chief Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu and the release of Nnamdi Kanu from DSS custody.”

As Igbo leaders unite in paying homage to Iwuanyanwu, their calls for Kanu’s release resonate as a significant aspect of the late leader’s enduring legacy.