Former Imo State Governor and Senator Rochas Okorocha has urged the Federal Government to release Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), as a way to honour the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah. Okorocha made the plea during a night of tribute held in Ubah’s honour on Monday at the Nigerian Air Force Conference & Suites in Abuja.

Reflecting on the sentiments expressed by both Ubah and the late President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Okorocha called on Senate President Godswill Akpabio to convey the message to the government.

“I want to say to you, my brother, Senate President, convey this message on behalf of these Igbos who are seated, that the best way to honour these great young men is the release of Nnamdi Kanu so that the Igbos can go home and reunite their place,” Okorocha said.

He emphasized the importance of peace and unity within the Igbo community, urging the people to set aside political differences and embrace reconciliation. Okorocha referenced prominent late Igbo leaders, such as Ikemba Ojukwu and Alex Ekwueme, and imagined their spirits calling for harmony among Ndi Igbo.

“Their meeting is about Ndi Igbo. And Ndi Igbo, hear me. What is the likely thing these leaders are discussing now, including the youngest of them, Ifeanyi Ubah?” Okorocha reflected. He added that disagreements and conflicts among Igbo leaders, such as those between Ojukwu and Ekwueme, were now seen as vanity in the afterlife. He urged the living to learn from their reconciliation.

The night of tribute was attended by notable figures, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and former Senate Presidents Anyim Pius Anyim and Bukola Saraki, among others. Friends, family, and political leaders gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of Ubah, who represented Anambra South Senatorial District until his death in London in July at the age of 52.

Ubah, a businessman-turned-politician, would have turned 53 on September 3, 2024. He will be laid to rest on Friday, November 22, 2024.