A notable legend and hero of the first republic of Biafra, Late Emmanuel Nworah Nwobosi, was committed to mother Earth last Friday in his home country, Uganmuma village obosi, Idemili North council area, Anambra State.
The late Biafran colonel was accorded a befitting (State) burial by Anambra State government; in alliance with traditional chiefs of the State, who flanked his casket in their full traditional outfits.
He died on November 24, 2020, after a brief illness associated with old age.
Colonel Nwobosi was born on January 21, 1939. He joined the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst in 1960 and was commissioned as a second Lieutenant, where he rose to the rank of a Captain in the Nigerian Army, before the Nigeria-Biafra war in 1967.
Nwobosi was one of the Nzeogwu-led officers that launched the (January 15, 1966) first ever coup in Nigeria. The coup was geared to exterminate corrupt leader; hence, putting an end to – corruption – the disease that infected the new Nigeria. He was subsequently arrested, sequel to the failed coup, and detained in the Old Eastern Nigeria.
He was later released by Ojukwu upon declaration of Biafra on May 30, 1967 and promoted him to Lt .Colonel in the Biafran army,during the war he led the defence of enugu against Nigeria army but was injured in battle, immediately he recovered Ojukwu made him chief of staff.
He flew out of the country, when Biafra retreated to join the Nigerian State. He returned to his hometown, Obosi, following his retirement. He was fondly called “Ogene Obosi,” due to his relentless service to his community .
The burial ceremony took place at St John’s Catholic Church, Obosi, Nnewi Catholic diocese. It was graced by prestigious individuals from Anambra state and beyond.
Speaking on behalf of his family, the first son Hon. Emma Nwobosi, said his father was a nationalist who fought the Noble course of his belief.
One remarkable statement Colonel Nwobosi prior to his death was that he should be buried with the Biafran flag.
Lolo Ijeoma Njoku reporting, Obinwannem News
