Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has mourned the passing of the distinguished statesman, renowned businessman, and President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.
Iwuanyanwu was reported dead on Thursday at the age of 82, after a brief illness.
Soludo, in a condolence message signed by his Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, expressed sadness on the passage of the elder statesman, describing it as a monumental loss not only to his immediate family and the Igbo nation but to Nigeria as a whole.
The Governor further described Chief Iwuanyanwu as a personal mentor, a great supporter as well as an influential figure whose life and wise counsel were a tribute to exceptional leadership, patriotism, and steadfast dedication to the progress of the Igbo nation and Nigeria as a Country.
Soludo said Iwuanyanwu’s contributions to the socio-economic development of Nigeria are immeasurable, noting that his entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropic endeavours have left an enduring legacy in the nation.
Soludo also recalled and praised the significant contributions of Chief Iwuanyanwu as Chairman, Planning Committee of Ohanaeze, a strategic position he (Soludo) occupied in the past in Ohanaeze
“As the 11th President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, he provided exemplary leadership, fostering unity, and championing the interests of Ndigbo even while building bridges of peace across Nigeria,” he said.
Soludo, in the message, extended his deep condolences to the bereaved family, friends, and associates of Chief Iwuanyanwu, Ndigbo and the nation, praying that his soul rests in peace as God grants the family the fortitude to bear the loss.
