Buhari, PRONACO want Ojukwu immortalised
Lagos – Former Head of State, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, on Sunday described the late Chukwuemeka Odimegwu-Ojukwu as a tireless, intelligent, focused and frank negotiator who kept to his words.
Buhari, in a condolence message through his spokesman, Mr Yinka Odumakin in Lagos, said Ojukwu symbolised many things to people.
According to Buhari , Ojukwu and himself were partners in progress, searching assiduously for solutions to the problems confronting Nigeria.
“In the process of our friendship and guests in each other’s homes and in all our transactions and engagements on and off the political scene, I find Dim a most forthright and honourable player.
“No doubt, the understanding and trust that developed between us and between him and other political players contributed in no small measure to the overall success of the process of national integration.’’
He noted that with Ojukwu’s death, the nation had lost a leader of great humanity and a political actor of great colour and character.
“Ndigbo has lost a brave captain who has now passed to the status of a legend.
“His death in many ways can be said to be truly irreparable. ’’
Meanwhile, the Pro National Conference Organisation (PRONACO) says it will immortalise the late Ojukwu.
In a condolence message signed by its spokesman, Mr Wale Okuniyi, PRONACO stated that it would consult with other patriotic leaders in the country on how to immortalise Ojukwu.
“The consideration is based on Ojukwu’s inestimable contributions to the good course of the Nigerian people.
“We regret that Ojukwu, one of the key pillars of our movement, will be no more to make his usual enigmatic inputs.“
According to the group, Ojukwu will be remembered for hosting some of the crucial activities of PRONACO in 2006.
The group pointed out that Ojukwu’s fluent command of Yoruba, Hausa and other major languages in Nigeria, in addition to his native tongue, proved him to be a detribalised person.
“Ojukwu is undoubtedly an esteemed pro democracy icon. ’’
Also, the Igbo Youth Group (IYG), has appealed to President Goodluck Jonathan to restore Ojukwu’s military rank and name a national monument in his honour.
The IYG President, Mr Bright Ezeocha, told NAN in Lagos that restoring Ojukwu’s rank was the greatest way to appreciate his contributions to the nation.
“Ojukwu was never a corrupt man. His fight against marginalisation was out of genuine love for his people.
“He deserved to be honoured more than most other people that were being given national honours in Nigeria.’’
He said Ojukwu deserved to be honoured “for posterity and history“.
“Ojukwu remains a great man and a hero who meant well for the nation despite all odds.
“He was the only true Igbo voice. He loved his people. He was not like other leaders that will use the Igbo people to bargain for their selfish interests.“ (NAN)
