The Kwara Chapter of Igbo Community Association in Ilorin has urged the Federal Government to immortalise the late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, describing him as 'a true democrat'.

Mr. Truelove Njoku, the President-General of the association, made the call during a programme organised to pay tribute to the late statesman.

He described Odumegwu-Ojukwu as a courageous leader, who believed in democracy, fair-play and protection of the rights of the weak.

"He will be remembered as a leader, who, though born of aristocratic background, was humble, loved his people and was ready to die for the cause of his people.

Government should immortalise this national hero by bestowing on him befitting national honours and dedicating worthy edifices to his name," Njoku said.

He said that Ndigbo in Kwara would observe Friday, the burial date of Odumegwu-Ojukwu, as a day of prayers and sober reflection.

According to him, Ndigbo will remain indoors on the day to pray for the repose of the soul of Odumegwu-Ojukwu as well as for peace, progress and unity of Nigeria.

He said Ndigbo in Kwara were expected to continue to observe a minute silence in his honour during all Igbo gatherings throughout the month of March.

In a speech, Mr. Donatus Agu-Ejidike, the Kwara Pillar of Sports, said that Odumegwu- Ojukwu would forever be a reference point to the struggle and liberation of Igbo people both at home and in the Diaspora.

He said that Odumegwu-Ojukwu should not be seen as a tribal leader but a firm believer in equity and justice.

Mr. Eze Ufomba, the Special Adviser to Kwara Governor on Inter-Community Relations, commended the harmonious relationship between Ndigbo in Kwara and indigenes of the host state.

He eulogised Odumegwu-Ojukwu and said the Kwara Government recognised his contributions to national development