President Bola Tinubu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Abia State Governor Alex Otti and other prominent Nigerians have called for stronger national unity, patriotism and selfless service as Abia State commemorated the 60th memorial of Nigeria’s first military Head of State, Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi.
The leaders made the call on Wednesday in Umuahia during a ceremony marking the anniversary of Aguiyi-Ironsi’s assassination on July 29, 1966.
They urged Nigerians to reflect on the country’s history and work together for a peaceful, united and prosperous nation.
Tinubu Praises Aguiyi-Ironsi’s Legacy
Represented by the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), President Tinubu described Aguiyi-Ironsi as a courageous and disciplined military officer who assumed leadership at a difficult period in Nigeria’s history.
He said although the late Head of State spent a short time in office, his commitment to preserving national unity, restoring stability and protecting the country’s territorial integrity remains worthy of emulation.
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Tinubu said the values of patriotism, discipline, integrity and selfless service demonstrated by Aguiyi-Ironsi are still relevant to Nigeria’s development.
He urged Nigerians to embrace the country’s diversity as a source of strength and also commended Governor Otti for his leadership in Abia State.
Otti Calls for Merit, National Interest
Governor Otti said the memorial was not only to honour a fallen leader but also to remind Nigerians of the need to uphold unity, merit and sacrifice.
He said Aguiyi-Ironsi’s willingness to die for the country should inspire leaders and citizens to place national interest above ethnic and personal considerations.
According to Otti, appointments in his administration are based on competence and integrity rather than state of origin, stressing that Nigeria stands to benefit more when its people remain united.
Obasanjo, Others Pay Tribute
Former President Obasanjo, former Chief of Army Staff, General Azubuike Ihejirika (Rtd), and former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan described Aguiyi-Ironsi as a patriotic Nigerian whose sacrifice should not be forgotten.
They commended the Abia State Government for preserving the country’s history and urged Nigerians to continue promoting peace, unity and selfless service.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Louisa Aguiyi-Ironsi said the memorial was organised to preserve the legacy of her father and honour his sacrifice for Nigeria’s unity, not to reopen old divisions.
She urged current and future leaders to embrace justice, accountability, discipline and commitment to the common good.
Wreath-laying Ceremony
The event featured prayers and the consecration of Aguiyi-Ironsi’s tomb by the Catholic Bishop of Umuahia Diocese, Most Rev. Michael Kalu Ukpong.
A wreath-laying ceremony followed, led by the President’s representative, Governor Otti, representatives of other state governments, Dame Patience Jonathan and other dignitaries.
Serving and former public officials, military officers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, members of the diplomatic community and members of the Aguiyi-Ironsi family attended the ceremony to honour the late Head of State’s contribution to Nigeria’s unity and nation-building.
Source: Channels Television
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.