By Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo
President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday led the way in paying tributes to the late first military Governor of Old Imo State and Lagos State, late Rear Admiral Godwin Ndubuisi Kanu whose remains were committed to mother earth at his country home in Ohoroho Ovim Isukwuato Local Government of Abia State.
The funeral service held by the Methodist Church Nigeria, Ohoroho Ovim Circuit Isuikwuato Diocese, was graced by an array of dignitaries from all spheres of life across the nation.
Speaking at the event President Buhari described late Kanu as a courageous gentleman who always stood for truth and justice and was loved and respected by all, adding that he impacted much on his Isukwuato clan.
Represented by the Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Mr. Uche Ogah, the President condoled the bereaved family and urged them to live in peace, and harmony, imbibing the brotherhood their patriarch represented across the country.
Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu represented by his deputy, Ude Oko Chukwu, stated that the government and people of Abia were proud of their late illustrious son who had contributed immensely to the economic and socio political development of the state and Nigeria in general.
He lauded the governments of Lagos and Imo States for the series of honours done to late Rear Admiral Kanu to immortalise his name by naming state facilities after him.
Ikpeazu urged the immediate family and entire Isukwuato community to bear the loss of their highly valued son as death is something beyond the control of man.
He prayed to God to grant them the fortitude to bear the loss and grant eternal repose to the soul of the deceased.
In their separate tributes the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma represented by his deputy, Prof. Placid Njoku and his Ebonyi State counterpart, Chief Dave Umahi, represented by his deputy, Mr. Kelechi Igwe, extolled the virtues of the late Kanu, pointing out his patriotism and promotion of peaceful coexistence among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic nationalities.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral A.Z.S. Gambo, described the deceased as a fine soldier and astute administrator who not only contributed to the peace of the country, but strived so hard to leave indelible marks in government through his selfless service.
The Prelate of Methodist Church Nigeria, Dr. Samuel Chukwuemeka Kanu Uche, enjoined all to have the fear of God in them by living lives that will keep them in right standing before God when they are no more. He described late Ndubuisi Kanu as “a tremendous Icon, a peace lover that promoted justice, fair play and spirit of nationalism.”
Though he was of military background and participated actively in military rule, Kanu was one of the activists that fought under the umbrella of NADECO to restore democracy in Nigeria. Until his death at the age of 77, Rear Admiral Kanu remained an advocate for democracy and good governance.
