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 (IPOB), as a way to honor the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.
Okorocha made this appeal during a night of tribute held in memory of Ubah on Monday at the Nigerian Air Force Conference & Suites, Abuja.
Speaking to a distinguished audience, Okorocha highlighted Ubah’s prior plea to the government, aligning it with the sentiments previously expressed by the late President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.
“Before Iwuanyanwu’s death, he appealed to the Federal Government. Similarly, Ifeanyi Ubah made the same request,” Okorocha remarked. He urged Senate President Godswill Akpabio to relay the message to the government.
“My brother, Senate President, convey this message on behalf of the Igbos gathered here. The best way to honor these great men is to release Nnamdi Kanu, so the Igbos can return home and rebuild their region,” he added.
Reflecting on the divisions within the Igbo community, Okorocha called for unity and peace, urging the people to set aside political differences.
He also spoke of the enduring legacy of prominent Igbo leaders, imagining them united in the afterlife and calling for harmony among the living.
“I’ve not died before, and I don’t intend to die soon,” Okorocha joked, “but I believe the spirits of leaders like Ojukwu and Ekwueme are in a meeting somewhere. They’re asking: ‘Why do Igbos play the politics of hate? Why do you hate one another?’ Even those who disagreed in life, like Ojukwu and Ekwueme, are now reconciled. It’s time we emulate them,” he said.
The night of tribute drew notable political figures, friends, and family of the late senator. Among those present were former President Goodluck Jonathan, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and former Senate Presidents Anyim Pius Anyim and Bukola Saraki.
Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, who represented Anambra South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, passed away in London in July at the age of 52. A successful businessman-turned-politician, he would have turned 53 on September 3, 2024.
Ubah will be laid to rest on Friday, November 22, 2024, following the series of tributes organized in his memory.
