Action Congress of Nigeria, Anambra State Chapter has noted with deep concern the degenerate attendance of negative publicity, after the name, candor and dignity of our illustrious son and father in Anaigbo, which in our considered view is avoidable.
The world over, there are thin lines between heroism and villaincy. In the circumstance it is easy to allow those who thrive on individual and sub-group interest to perforate gaping holes in the image of Ezeigbo Gburugburu, hence lowering the profile attained by the Igbo nation in the last one year.
We are discerning and appreciative enough to understand that the commemorative events of the last one year which have reverberated n over 250 great cities of the world has made the name of Dim Chukwumeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu a tradable asset, which all sons of Anambra State and Anigbo cherish with all their heart and therefore ought to be able to defend by all means at their disposal.
Being a tradable asset, we need to observe that nations and sub-nations have been known to go to war to defend their assets and as such, it is our considered view that the name of Dim Ojukwu Ikemba Nnewi, Dike di Ora mma Ndigbo and Ezegburu Guru Igbo, must be protected against all sorts of assailment by interested parties in the enclave of the biological and political family .
In doing this, we do no suggest the censorship of the press nor desire to shield individuals with blood and political ties to the late Ikemba Nnewi from pursuing their micro-interests tied around the subject. Such will be impracticable. But the scions of Ojukwu can do more of meeting behind closed doors than firing individuals shots in the media.
What we find,not just practicable, but expedient is that the larger interest of the Igbo nation who now have a vested interest in keeping this valuable name holding out vast potentials for our joint economy particularly in the areas of history, preservation and tourism should give rise to a eminent group to urgently create clear ethical boundaries in pursuit of these little interests against the weight of the larger image of our legend.
Unfortunately ,we note with pain that the political leaders of at least Anambra and Imo states as well as the last wife of Ikemba are all involved one way or another in one pursuit of interest or another in this matter.
We therefore call on the Traditional ruler of Nnewi, His Royal Highness, and Igwe Orizu to step in and seize the initiative to call all biological and political sons of the late Ikemba Nnewi to come under one roof and provide them with some home wisdom .
This glowing image must never sink under the resurgent wave of negativism, which would gladly be celebrated by centrifugal tendencies against Igbo core values in and outside Anigbo with representatives in major sectors including the media.
He may wish to invite the governors of Abia, Enugu and Ebonyi to assist him along with a few eminent taken from across the Igbo nation, particularly outside the rank of those with direct vested interest.
For: ACTION CONGRESS OF NIGERIA, ANAMBRA CHAPTER
Okelo Madukaife
