By Ayomide Otitoju
The President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, has passed away at the age of 82. An accomplished businessman and notable politician, Chief Iwuanyanwu’s death has elicited widespread condolences and tributes from across the nation.
President Bola Tinubu, through his Special Adviser Chief Ajuri Ngelale, expressed his condolences to the Imo State Government, friends and associates of the deceased, and Ndi Igbo. “Chief Iwuanyanwu will always be remembered for his remarkable legacy,” Tinubu stated, offering prayers for the repose of the elder statesman’s soul and comfort for his family.
Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, also expressed his sorrow over Iwuanyanwu’s passing. “I am greatly disheartened by the death of an elder statesman and President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Mr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu,” Obi wrote on X. He praised Iwuanyanwu as a father figure and a bridge builder committed to national unity and peaceful coexistence.
The Iwuanyanwu family announced that Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu passed away on Thursday, July 25, 2024, after a brief illness. “The Iwuanyanwu family of Umuohii Atta, in Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State, announces the demise of our patriarch, Engr Chief Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Iwuanyanwu-Ahaejiagamba Ndigbo,” his son, Jide Iwuanyanwu, said in a statement. Burial details will be announced after consultations.
Born on September 4, 1942, to Pa Bernard Iwuanyanwu and Madam Hulder Iwuanyanwu, Chief Iwuanyanwu was a distinguished Nigerian politician and businessman. He became the 11th President-General of the Igbo socio-cultural organization on April 20, 2023, succeeding George Obiozor.
Among the many tributes, Charly Boy (Charles Oputa) highlighted Iwuanyanwu’s profound impact on his life. In a heartfelt Facebook post, Charly Boy described how Iwuanyanwu supported him financially when he returned to Nigeria in 1981, which helped him build his career. “Chief, I can never forget how, out of the blue, you jump-started my career,” he wrote.
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma also mourned the loss of the revered statesman. “On behalf of the Government and the good people of Imo State, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Iwuanyanwu family, the people of Ikeduru LGA, Imo State at large, and Ohanaeze Ndi’Igbo Worldwide,” Uzodimma wrote on social media. He praised Iwuanyanwu as a philanthropist and leader whose contributions to national unity and peace were invaluable.
“Chief Iwuanyanwu’s legacy will continue to inspire and guide us in the quest for a peaceful and united Nigeria. May God grant his soul eternal rest and provide his family the fortitude to bear this immense loss,” Uzodimma concluded.
Chief Iwuanyanwu is survived by his wife, Lady Princess Frances Iwuanyanwu, many children, and grandchildren.
