By EMMA AMAIZE

WARRI—SOUTH- SOUTH leaders have admonished Igbo ethnic nationality to celebrate and not weep for the late  Ikemba Nnewi, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, saying he was an outstanding Nigerian with exceptional qualities.

They asserted during a condolence visit on the Igwe of Nnewi, Kenneth Orizu III, that the fallen hero was great Nigerian and illustrious son of Ndigbo who fought for social justice and equity during his time and also contributed immensely to the peace, unity, development and advancement of the nation.

The high-powered delegation of South-South leaders was led by national chairman of South-South Peoples Assembly, SSPA, and former governor of Edo State, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun.

Others included former governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, former Inspector-General of Police, Chief Mike Okiro, ex-Biafran warlord , Chief (Colonel) Joseph Achuzia, Colonel Mike Okwuechime (rtd) and former member of the National Assembly, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh

Chief Odigie-Oyegun extolled the leadership qualities of the late elder statesman, saying his demise had left a wide vacuum which might be difficult to fill in the political development of the nation.

The former governor acknowledged with the virtue of doggedness, humility and strong character that the fallen hero exhibited while on earth, adding that his insistence on social justice and fairness among Nigerians, irrespective of tribe, colour and religion, would be remembered for long.

Oyegun noted that the continued outpouring of goodwill for the Ikemba from all segments of the society and the international community was an attestation of his acceptance as a hero and the defender of the oppressed.

Responding, Igwe Orizu commended the people of South- South for the visit, saying Ojukwu was a great warrior who endeared himself to all Nigerians and the world at large by pursuing social justice and equity among all peoples of the world.

He commended the cordiality between the peoples of the South-South and South-East geo political zones and sued for the sustenance of the rapport between both zones.

The delegation  also visited the family home of Ojukwu and were received by Senator Onyeabor Obi and a brother, Mr. Lottanna Ojukwu.