Eze Israel Kanu in Afaraukwu, Umuahia, Abia State.
IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Mr. Emma Powerful disclosed this
in a statement yesterday, noting that the burial of the late monarch
would hold on February 14.
The monarch died in December 2019, four months after his wife, Ugoeze
Sally Kanu died of illness arising from shock allegedly occasioned by
the invasion of her home by Nigerian soldiers who came for her son in
September 2017.
But in his statement, Powerful said: “IPOB leadership will not be
disclosing any information and has not disclosed any information
regarding the likely attendance or non-attendance of our leader to this
event.”
However, the statement said arrangements had been put in place “to
ensure the burial ceremony is held in a secure and safe atmosphere.
“The movement and anticipated presence of our leader in his home during
this period is yet to be finalised. As such, no confirmation or
otherwise will be issued to that effect.
“IPOB High Command will determine under what circumstance any
announcement will be made in the future,” the statement said.
The statement added that the late monarch would be buried according to
traditional rights of the people of Afaraukwu Ibeku and will begin with
a procession.
“The burial ceremony will begin with procession and preparations in line
with ancient customs and traditions. IPOB is a peaceful movement and
hope to maintain this approach until Biafra is completely restored.
“We are inviting every media outlet, local and international, print and
electronic to be present in Isiama-Afaraukwu on that day,” Powerful said
in the statement.