The Eze Ndigbo Ifako Ijaiye Lagos, Eze Michael Ezekwobi (Oyiomanatumba Ndigbo Gbaagburugburu) has described the Late Ikemba and Eze Igbo gburugburu, Dim Odumegwu Chukwuemeka Ojukwu as the father of Ndieze Ndigbo in the Diaspora.
Former Minister of Aviation, Chief Osita Chidoka had delivered the Memorial Lecture with the theme “Harnessing the Power of Education for National Development: Lessons from the Life and Vision of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu”
where he said Ojukwu symbolized a blend of strength and sophistication and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
In a statement, Ezekwobi said Ojukwu decision to establish Ezeship in the Diaspora is the greatest legacy he left for Ndigbo as this wonderful arrangement has continued serve as basis of unity for the Igbo nation.
“Dim Ojukwu knew that the majority of Igbo sons and daughters live outside Igboland and for them not to lose their cultural identity, called for establishment of cultural leader known as Eze Ndigbo na Uzo Ije.
“Their main duty is to see to cultural well-being of Ibos in their domain.
Through this arrangement, festivals like New yam are championed and organised by these Ezes, who are purely ceremonial and submissive, to the traditional ruler of their communities anytime they travelled home.”
The Eze urges Ndigbo to emulate Ojukwu virtues by being patriotic and eschew any attitude that will put them in bad light.