The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), yesterday, lamented the death of Nigeria’s first Aviation Minister of Igbo extraction, Chief Mbazulike Amaechi, at the age of 93. IPOB described the late ex-minister as an icon, who wished to see Biafra as a nation in his lifetime.

A statement issued by the group’s Spokesperson, Emma Powerful, reads: “IPOB and the entire Biafrans mourn the death of an icon, who stood for better life of Biafrans.

“IPOB will not forget the struggle and achievements of the late Amaechi during the liberation struggle of Nigeria from its colonial masters, and his efforts towards the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, who was kidnapped from Kenya to Nigeria by Federal Government.”

According to IPOB, in spite of his age and failing health, the late ex-miniter led Igbo elders’ visit to Aso Rock, Abuja, to plead with the Muhammadu Buhari led Federal Government to release Kanu as his last wish.

“The president claimed that only the judiciary would decide Kanu’s fate. Even after the same judiciary had discharged and acquitted Kanu, Federal Government has ignored the request of an elder statesman, as well as the court’s verdict, because of the hatred towards Ndigbo.”

IPOB stated that before his death on Monday, late Amaechi was the only living icon that fought for independence of Nigeria in 1960.

“Buhari must understand that the late Amaechi was not happy with his government, even in death, for ignoring his appeal for the release of Kanu,” the group added.

It noted that when the late Amaechi was pursuing the independence of Nigeria from Britain, Buhari was in primary school.

While the entire Biafrans, especially Ndigbo mourn the loss of this great Icon, IPOB prayed God to give his family the fortitude to bear the loss.”