By The New Diplomat Political Desk
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo state, among a host of other Nigerians have begun to mourn the demise of the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.
The New Diplomat reports that Iwuanyanwu passed away on Thursday at the age of 82 years. His demise was confirmed by his son, Jide Iwuanyanwu.
Reacting, Tinubu extended his heartfelt commiserations to the Iwuanyanwu family on the sad loss of their beloved patriarch.
In a statement by Tinubu’s Special Adviser to the President, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu also condoled with the Imo State Government, friends and associates of the deceased, and Ndi Igbo over the unfortunate loss.
The statement reads in part: “The President affirms that Chief Iwuanyanwu will always be remembered for his remarkable legacy.
“President Tinubu prays for the repose of the soul of the departed elder statesman and comfort to his family.”
Also, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, described the demise of Iwuanyanwu as a great loss to Nigeria.
Obi who took to his X handle on Friday said: “I am greatly disheartened by the death of an elder statesman and President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Mr Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.
“The devastating reports of his death have left all who knew him heartbroken.
“He was not just a father to many, but a bridge builder who remained committed to the peaceful coexistence of the nation.”
Similarly, Governor Uzodimma said he was deeply pained on hearing of the death of the revered Nigerian elder statesman.
Uzodinma who is also the Chairman of the Progressives Governors’ Forum and chairman of the South-East Governors’ Forum, took to his social media handle to lament over the death of Iwuanyanwu, noting that the deceased’s exit has left a void that would be felt across the country.
He wrote: “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.
“I am deeply pained since learning of the passing of the revered elder statesman, Aha eji eje mba Ndi’Igbo, the President General of Ohanaeze Ndi’Igbo Worldwide, Chief Engr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu CFR, after a brief illness. His departure leaves a void that will be profoundly felt across Imo State, Igbo land, and Nigeria at large.
“Chief Iwuanyanwu was not only an eminent philanthropist and leader but also a true nationalist whose contributions transcended ethnic boundaries. His tireless efforts towards national unity and peace were instrumental in ensuring that the government’s efforts in the restoration of peace materialized.
“He was a guiding light in turbulent times, providing wisdom and expertise that were indispensable. His dedication to the betterment of society and unwavering commitment to the Igbo cause have made Ndi Imo and the entire Igbo community immensely proud.
“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.”
The New Diplomat reports that Iwuanyanwu was born on September 4th, 1942 in Atta, Ikeduru local government area of Imo State, Nigeria. He was a civil engineer, industrialist, politician and philanthropist.
Iwuanyanwu attended St. Patrick’s School, Rukpoku, Port Harcourt, Rivers State from 1948 to 1954. He thereafter, enrolled at New Bethel College in Onitsha, Anambra State. He had his undergraduate studies at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he studied civil engineering between 1963 and 1970. Other academic exploits include; a D.Sc. Engineering Morgan State University Baltimore, Maryland, USA; L.Ld (Hon) Shaw University Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; DBA Hon University of Nigeria Nsukka; D.Sc Hon University of Jos; D.Sc Hon University of Calabar; D.Tech Federal University of Technology Owerri; DBA Hon Edo State University and D.Sc (Hon) Engineering, Imo State University.
Iwuanyanwu was one of the few Nigerians who blazed the trail in the elusive search for making the private sector the engine of the national economy.
His pioneering traits took him into newspaper publishing and that move saw the birth of the Champion newspapers.
Iwuanyanwu is a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). He is a member of the PDP Board of Trustees.
He has served as Chairman of Ohanaeze Ndigbo State Creation Committee, Chairman Ohanaeze Ndigbo Planning and Strategy Committee, Chairman Ohaneze Political Committee, Board Chairman of Federal Road Maintenance Agency, Board Chairman of Nigerian Investment Promotion, Founding Chairman of Raw Materials Research and Development Council of Nigeria, Chairman National Productivity Merit Award, Chairman Nigerian Sports Development Council, Founding Chairman Nigerian National Lottery, Chairman National Orthopedic Hospital Igbobi, Lagos and presently Pro-Chancellor University of Calabar.
He also founded the Iwuanyanwu Nationale Football Club of Owerri (now Heartland F.C.), which won several national and international championships.
