One year memorial of late Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the former Biafra warlord

 Sunday, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Nnewi, Anambra State, the family of late Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the former Biafra warlord, marked the one year memorial church service of his death.

He died last year in the U.K after a brief illness, at the age of 78. The death of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, former leader of the breakaway Republic of Biafra, removes a charismatic, larger-than-life figure from the Nigerian political scene. Although deeply controversial in his lifetime, he will be missed in Nigeria far beyond his own Igbo people.

 President Goodluck Jonathan's tribute spoke of Ojukwu's "immense love of his people, justice, equity and fairness which forced him into the leading role he played in the Nigerian civil war".

In his preaching at the service, Reverend Father Cletus Chukwuemeka stressed the need for peace, adding that the late Ojukwu lived a life worthy of emulation.

In his remarks, Ojukwu’s son, Emeka, thanked Nigerians who had continued to stand by them, especially Governor Obi, who had continued to show love and support for the family.

Among those present at the memorial service were Chief Ralph Uwazuruike, MASSOB leader; Chief Rommy Ezeonwuka, leader of Igbo Youths Movement and Spiritual leader of Igbo nation, Chief Victor Umeh, the embattled APGA chairman and notable dignitaries.