President Bola Tinubu, former President Muhammadu Buhari, governors, and other notable figures mourned the passing of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, on Thursday. The elder statesman’s family confirmed his death in a statement, revealing that Iwuanyanwu passed away on July 25, 2024, after a brief illness at the age of 82.
In their announcement, the Iwuanyanwu family stated, “The Iwuanyanwu family of Umuohii Atta, in Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State, announces the demise of our patriarch, Chief Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Iwuanyanwu – Ahaejiagamba Ndigbo. Chief Iwuanyanwu died on Thursday, July 25, 2024, after a brief illness. He was aged 82. He was an accomplished businessman and notable politician.”
Chief Iwuanyanwu was a prominent businessman who owned The Champion Newspapers and a conglomerate of over 20 companies, including Enic Advertising Ltd, Magil Industries Limited, National Post Newspapers, Sunrise Insurance Brokers, Oriental Shipping Lines Limited, Paradise City Hotel in Calabar, and Oriental Airlines. He assumed office as the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide on April 30, 2023, after the Imeobi Ohanaeze ratified his nomination following the death of his predecessor, Prof George Obiozor.
Dr. Alex Ogbonnia, National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, confirmed Iwuanyanwu’s demise. The Vice-President, South-East, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Damian Okeke-Ogene, described Iwuanyanwu’s death as a colossal loss to the Ndigbo, highlighting his efforts to unite the Igbo people and foster unity in Nigeria.
In a condolence message, President Tinubu expressed his grief, emphasizing Iwuanyanwu’s remarkable legacy and praying for the repose of his soul. Former President Buhari extended his condolences, acknowledging Iwuanyanwu’s visionary contributions to media, sports, business, and politics.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, also expressed shock and sorrow, praising Iwuanyanwu’s tireless efforts to preserve Nigeria’s unity through his leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. Similarly, Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, described Iwuanyanwu as a distinguished statesman and notable patriot whose entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropic endeavors left an enduring legacy.
Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, lamented the loss of another Igbo icon, noting the passing of other prominent figures in recent times. Senators and members of the House of Representatives from Abia State also expressed their sorrow over Iwuanyanwu’s death.
Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu’s passing marks a significant loss for the Igbo nation and Nigeria as a whole, as leaders and citizens alike mourn the loss of a dedicated statesman and unifying figure.