The nation is in mourning following the death of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.
His passing has elicited heartfelt tributes from prominent figures, including the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, Peoples Democratic Party candidate Atiku Abubakar, President Bola Tinubu, former President Muhammadu Buhari, and the Igbo socio-cultural group Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
Peter Obi expressed his profound sorrow, calling Iwuanyanwu a father figure and a bridge builder committed to the peaceful coexistence of all Nigerian groups. Obi recalled visiting Iwuanyanwu in the hospital on July 11th with the Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Ambassador Okey Emuchey, where Iwuanyanwu had promised a swift recovery. Obi’s heartfelt condolence extended to Iwuanyanwu’s family, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and the entire nation, hoping for the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss.
Atiku Abubakar, through his X handle, shared his shock and sadness over Iwuanyanwu’s death. He praised Iwuanyanwu’s integrity, business acumen, philanthropy, and political prowess. Atiku conveyed his condolences to Iwuanyanwu’s family, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the government, and the people of Imo State, emphasizing that Iwuanyanwu’s absence would be profoundly felt.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari highlighted Iwuanyanwu’s immense contributions to journalism, sports, politics, and nation-building. He described Iwuanyanwu as a visionary who revolutionized Nigeria’s media and sports sectors and had a passionate commitment to the nation’s unity and development. Buhari extended his sympathies to Iwuanyanwu’s family, friends, and the South-east region, marking his death as a significant loss for the country.
President Bola Tinubu, in a statement by his special adviser on media and publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, acknowledged Iwuanyanwu’s remarkable legacy. Tinubu offered his condolences to the Imo State Government, Iwuanyanwu’s friends, associates, and the Igbo community. He prayed for comfort for the family and for the soul of the departed elder statesman.
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo, grieving their leader’s death, described the day as a tragic one for the Igbo community. Publicity Secretary Alex Ogbonnia confirmed the sad news, noting that Iwuanyanwu was the second Ohanaeze President-General to die in office after his predecessor, Prof. George Obiozor. Iwuanyanwu, born in September 1942 in Umuohii, Ikeduru LGA, Imo State, was a successful businessman and politician, survived by his wife, Lady Princess Frances Iwuanyanwu, and many children and grandchildren.
Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu’s passing marks the end of a significant chapter in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to the nation’s unity and progress. The family has announced that burial details will be shared after further consultations.
