Eulogies At Ojukwu's Final National Burial In Enugu

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The final burial rites of the late Dim Odumegwu Ojukwu had a national stamp on it today in Enugu with the presence of Vice President, Namadi Sambo, representing President Goodluck Jonathan.

Jonathan said that Ojukwu had in death brought healing to the crisis associated with the Civil war and Nigeria’s chequered history.

The remains of Ojukwu were brought into Opara Square at about 11 a.m. by top military officers in company of his wife, Mrs. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu and her children.

After the military burial formalities by a team of clergy drawn from the different denominations, tributes were paid by prominent Nigerians and former Ghanaian head of state, Ft. Lt. Jerry Rawlings.

Many dignitaries such as Prof.Wole Soyinka, Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, Chief Emeka Anyeaoku, all governors of South Eastern states, Chibuike Amaechi, Chairman of Governors’ Forum also attended the burial.

Mr. Sullivan Chime, the host governor, said it was not by coincidence that the final national burial took place in Enugu because Ojukwu lived his remarkable life in the Coal City of Enugu.

Chime said Ojukwu governed the old Eastern Region from Enugu and married his beautiful wife Bianca from there.

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Governor Amaechi said that with the Civil war fought by the Igbos led by Ojukwu, Igbos can no longer be ignored in the political equilibrium of the country.

Significantly, Bishop Emmanuel Chukwuma called on the Federal Government to name Onitsha bridge after Ojukwu to immortalise.

One of the late Igbo leader’s daughters, Miss Chiemenem Odumuegwu Ojukwu read the first lesson, while Senator Ben Obi read the second.

Monisgnor Prof Obiora Ike in his brief tribute described Ojukwu as one personality so controversial and most misunderstood by his family, friends and the political class.

Ironically, he said,Nigerians seem to have come to terms with the reality of his vision that every human being should be treated equally no matter the race and ethnic background.

By Okafor Ofiebor/Enugu

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