Ifeanyi Ejiofor, lawyer to the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has expressed sadness over the sudden demise of Dr Obadiah Mailafia.
“The news hit me with a great shock. I could not believe it until I made calls to close contacts who confirmed it true,” Ejiofor said.
“Hmmmm, what is life but fleeting moment? Today we’re here, tomorrow we’re no more.
“Permit me to say that Dr. Mailafia is a fine gentleman who stood on the side of truth. He was well read and a man of the letters who was bold to persuade the people of the middle belt to tender apology to the Igbos for the role they played against the Biafrans during the civil war.
“It was a horrible experience for the people of the South East, the massacre is better imagined than experienced. Our people lost the battle after three years due to the roles played by her neighbours. Torture, rape, starvation, illness and diseases ravaged our people and our neighbours never lifted a finger to help. They rather joined forces with the oppressors and unleashed terror on our land.
“It is now history, yet that history is being subdued so that present and future generation are not aware of the evil done to their forefathers. Yet, Dr. Mailafia, even though of the Northern extract stood out and acknowledged the ills done to the Igbos and sought for forgiveness, peace and reconciliation. That is the true example of sportsmanship.
“It is often said that good people don’t last. A rare gem is lost! We cannot question God because He alone gives and takes when it pleases Him.
“Dr. Mailafia, may your soul find rest with your maker, may mercy speak for you and may God grant the family you left behind the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss Amen.
“Adieu, my dear friend. Rest, until the resurrection morning”.
