The Movement for the Survival of Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) has urged the Federal Government to honour Ijaw leaders who sacrificed to keep Nigeria united during the Nigeria civil war.

MOSIEND listed Cap Samuel Owonaro, Major Isaac Adaka Boro and Nottingham Dick for a posthumous recognition for the immense role they played in keeping Nigeria together during the civil war, and for dedicating themselves to the service of the nation.

The group noted that such honours would serve as a morale boost to the military officers engaged in the war against insurgency across the federation.

The National President of MOSIEND, Mr. Kennedy Tonjo West, made the call while speaking to journalists at the Kaiama hometown of late Ijaw icon, Owonaro, during a condolence visit to the bereaved family.

West recalled that the late Owonaro lost his left eye after being tortured by the military and could not walk in the last 19 years of his life as a result of the bullet injury he sustained while fighting for ‘one Nigeria’ alongside the Nigerian Army.

He expressed displeasure that the army did not send tribute to such a great man who assisted them to defeat the then Biafran separatists.

He said that, as a sign of recognition of the role played by Owonaro, the Federal Government should buy into the Bayelsa State International Airport, and also stressed the need for the Niger Delta governors to focus on resource ownership going forward.

While commiserating with the bereaved family, the MOSIEND President urged the Ijaw nation to see the late hero’s burial as a means of reconciliation and to also speak with one voice, while promoting peace and unity.