06/06/2025
Biafra Govt Honours Late Barr. Emmanuel Chukwuka with National Burial for Lifetime Service to Biafran Cause
Umuaghara, Aboh Mbaise – June 6, 2025
By John Paul Asuquo
In a historic and deeply emotional farewell, the Biafra Internal Government formed by Chief Dr. Ralph Uwazuruike on Friday, June 6, 2025, accorded a full national burial to the late Barr. Eze Emmanuel Chukwuka (aka Old Soldier), who passed on February 21, 2025, at the age of 69.
Barrister Chukwuka, revered as MASSOB’s senior legal voice, was celebrated for his unwavering dedication to the non-violent Biafran struggle. For decades, he stood as the legal backbone of the BIM-MASSOB movement, defending its leader and members during trials, persecution, and public misinformation.
“He gave his life, voice, and time to the Biafran cause without fear. No one will dare intimidate his family — such a person has not been born,” said Chief Larry Odimmah, Biafra’s Minister of Sports, during the official government condolence visit.
The burial ceremony was held in his hometown Umuaghara Okwunakuwa, Uvuru, Aboh Mbaise, and featured:
A military parade by the Abia State BIM-MASSOB Command, led by Commander Alex
Peacekeeping and order by the Imo State BIM-MASSOB Security under the command of Nwafor Lawrence (Son of Man)
A spiritual mass anchored by the Biafra Ministry of Religion, led by Archbishop Gregory E. Asiegbu
Top national and States officials from the Biafra Internal Government graced the event, including:
Comrade Ijeomah Anthony (Minister of Information), Comrade Mentus Ngwoke (Minister of Records and Statistics), Dr. Lambert Obikaizu (Former Prime Minister), Chief Linus Ohajianya (Chief Minister of Okigwe State), Chief Michael Ijeomah (Chief Minister of Orlu State), Chief Canice Anojuru (Representing Chief Minister of Owerri), regional admins from the 3 states and
members of BIM-MASSOB from Imo state.
Throughout his legal career, Barr. Chukwuka consistently argued that MASSOB was a peaceful and law-abiding organization. He challenged unjust detentions, defended Chief Uwazuruike when falsely accused, and condemned biased rulings — including the controversial one-month imprisonment of the BIM-MASSOB leader without legal representation.
He cited favorable judgments from the Edo State Magistrate Court and remained firm even during internal sabotage attempts, including the case involving the expelled member Gen. Innocent Orji.
Barr. Chukwuka is survived by his wife Mrs. Juliet Chukwuka, children Beloved, Ugobeke, and Nnemoma, and elder brother Chief Joseph Chukwuka. The family expressed deep appreciation to the BIM-MASSOB and the Biafra Internal Government for honoring their late patriarch.
“Barrister Emmanuel Chukwuka’s death is a monumental loss, but his legacy is a monument of courage,” said one mourner.
“He didn’t just defend Biafra in court; he carried Biafra in his heart.”
As his remains were lowered to rest amidst prayers and tears, one thing was clear:
The Biafran nation has lost a hero, but gained a martyr.
May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.