President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has eulogised the sterling qualities of the Late Ikemba Nnewi, Chief Chukwuemeka Ojukwu particularly his commitment to the principles of justice, good governance, accountability, probity and professionalism.
Jonathan stated this Monday at the reception of the remains of Dim Chukwuemeka Ojukwu, held at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja.The President who was represented at the occasion by the Vice President, Arc Mohammed Namadi Sambo said “no words can adequately express the nature, character, legacy and lessons bequeathed by this soldier and gentleman.”
“Let it not be said that Ojukwu died when the country needed his services most. Let it rather be said that Chukwuemeka Odumegu Ojukwu lived and served with all his might when the Igbos and Nigerians needed him most,” he also said.
Similarly, Dr. Jonathan noted the legacy bequeathed to the Nigerian Army by Chief Ojukwu as its first Quartermaster-General, saying “he instituted systems that are now the hallmark of military processes and procedures which till date are in use.”
Speaking the Senate President, David Mark, stated that Late Chief Ojukwu had continued to draw accolades from Nigerians, adding that he was an officer and a gentleman and a dedicated leader, who stood for justice for the common man. He noted that the history of Nigeria cannot be complete without his mention.
In her remarks, the First Lady, Mrs. Patience Jonathan, noted that late Odumegwu-Ojukwu was not only an icon, but also the pride of his people. She, therefore, urged all Nigerians to emulate the good qualities of the late Chief Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu whom she described as an accomplished Nigerian Leader.
The event witnessed goodwill messages from the Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, Deputy Speaker House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha, Minister of the FCT, Senator Bala Usman and the Ezeigbo FCT, Abuja, Dr. Sir Nwosu Ibe, while Chief Tom Ikim presented the Keynote Address.
The occasion also witnessed a Military Funeral Parade and a brief Church Service, led by the Catholic Arch Bishop of Abuja Diocese John Onayekan.
Present at the occasion were the wife of Late Chief Ojukwu, Mrs. Bianca Onoh, Governor of Anambra State, Dr. Peter Obi, members of the Federal Executive Council, Military top brass and other top serving and retired dignitaries.
