Unveiling Ojukwu’s Untold Legacy: Kanayo Esinulo’s Book Presentation Slated for January 30
● Chijioke Ogbodo
The much-anticipated public presentation of the book, Ojukwu: Exile, Diplomacy and Survival by Kanayo Esinulo, is set to take place on Thursday, January 30, 2025. Admission to the presentation is free, and lovers of history, diplomacy, and leadership are encouraged to attend and support this intellectual masterpiece.
The event will be held at the prestigious Golf Section of the Enugu Sports Club, located at 11 Park Avenue GRA, Enugu. The book offers a unique narrative on the life of the late Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, delving into his time in exile, a subject that author Kanayo Esinulo describes as “an untapped dimension of his illustrious life.”
Speaking about his motivation for writing the book, Esinulo remarked, “I wanted our people to realize that exile, for Emeka, was not a bed of roses nor a luxury park. He worked hard and exemplified the vibrancy and dynamism of the Igbo spirit.” Esinulo further highlighted Ojukwu’s enduring pursuit of peace, recounting his efforts at the Aburi Accord during Nigeria’s turbulent civil war era. “Ojukwu represented peace, not war,” the author emphasized. “His exile was marked by courage, resilience, and discipline, and this book captures the political battle that brought him home in dignity.”
The event promises to be a gathering of intellectuals, politicians, and notable personalities. Chief John Nnia Nwodo Jr., former President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and a former Minister of Information and Culture, will serve as the chairman of the occasion. Known for his eloquence and deep understanding of Igbo heritage, Nwodo has expressed his enthusiasm for the book’s launch.
Renowned accounting professional and politician Ben Etiaba is leading the organizing team for the event. With a reputation for integrity and a commitment to fostering intellectual discourse, Etiaba’s involvement adds prestige to the event. Commenting on his role, he said, “This is more than a book launch; it’s a celebration of an extraordinary leader and the resilience of the Igbo spirit.”
Colonel Robert Nnaemeka Akonobi (Rtd.), former military administrator of the old Anambra State, has endorsed the book. After receiving his pre-presentation copy, he lauded Esinulo’s effort to document this crucial aspect of Nigerian history. “This book fills a significant gap in understanding Ojukwu’s life beyond the war. It’s a commendable effort,” Akonobi stated.
Professor Kingsley Moghalu, President of the African School of Governance in Kigali, Rwanda, has also expressed admiration for the work. Receiving his copy in Enugu, Moghalu described the book as “a compelling narrative of leadership, sacrifice, and survival.”
Among other dignitaries who have pledged their support is Bishop Obi Onubogu, founder of Rock Family Church and a former Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to Ojukwu. Onubogu, who also received a pre-presentation copy, praised the author’s firsthand account. “This book reminds us of Ojukwu’s humility, strength, and unwavering commitment to his people. I look forward to its public unveiling,” he said.
Esinulo’s account sheds light on Ojukwu’s industrious nature during his exile in Côte d’Ivoire, where he built businesses and contributed to the local economy. “With three companies listed on the Ivorian Stock Exchange, he demonstrated the breadth of the Igbo entrepreneurial spirit,” Esinulo noted.
The book also narrates the political efforts and sacrifices that culminated in Ojukwu’s honorable return to Nigeria. According to the author, “This was a battle for dignity, not just for Ojukwu but for the Igbo people.”
The presentation will undoubtedly spotlight Ojukwu’s legacy as a peace advocate and a leader who sought to navigate some of Nigeria’s darkest periods with courage and resolve. Esinulo invites the public to “come and support this great intellectual work.”
With the stage set for January 30, history enthusiasts and admirers of Ojukwu’s legacy have a unique opportunity to relive an important chapter of Nigeria’s past through Esinulo’s lens. GMTNewsng