KEY POINTS
- Ex-Methodist Prelate calls for Nnamdi Kanu’s release, citing national unity.
- Samuel Kanu-Uche praised late Chief Iwuanyanwu for his dedication to Nigeria’s peace and unity.
- Iwuanyanwu’s daughter expressed deep emotions about her father’s passing and legacy.
Samuel Kanu-Uche, a former Methodist prelate, has urged President Bola Tinubu to unconditionally free Nnamdi Kanu, pointing to the necessity of enduring peace and Nigerian unity.
During the Icon’s service of songs and night of tribute in Lagos, Kanu-Uche paid homage to the late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.
Advocating for unity
Kanu-Uche emphasized Iwuanyanwu’s legacy as a patriotic and devout Christian who fought for a united Nigeria. He underlined that Iwuanyanwu fought tenaciously for national unity and against the tyranny and marginalization of any minority.
His statement, “We want one united Nigeria where nobody is oppressed,” emphasized the necessity of resolving long-standing political problems.
Kanu-Uche also drew attention to the discrepancy between recent initiatives, such a Yoruba petition for Oduduwa State, and the ongoing detention of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu.
In order to promote national healing, he urged President Tinubu to grant Iwuanyanwu’s demand that Kanu be released prior to his death.
Tribute to Iwuanyanwu
Kanu-Uche recalled Iwuanyanwu’s role in the Nigerian Civil War and commended his efforts to promote peace following the battle, calling him a nationalist and a “quintessential gentleman.”
“He was part of the core group of army engineers who created the Ogbunigwe, which Nigeria refused to use,” he said.
Vanguard reports that Kanu-Uche also praised Iwuanyanwu’s dedication to preventing another conflict and emphasized the value of communication and peacemaking in resolving present conflicts.
Iwuanyanwu’s eldest daughter, Nwadiuto, spoke movingly of her father’s unwavering courage and insight.
According to her, he was a devoted father who carried the burden of the world. “I already miss him; I cry in my private space.” During her homage, she said, “God will give us strength.”
