Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has passed away at the age of 82. His son, Jude Iwuanyanwu, confirmed the sad news shortly after his father’s death on Thursday, July 25, 2024. According to Jude, the well-known Igbo leader and businessman passed away after a brief illness. The family will announce the burial arrangements at a later time.
Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu was not only a prominent businessman but also an influential leader among the Igbo people. He had a wide range of business ventures, including the ownership of Champion Newspapers. His death marks a significant loss for the Igbo community and Nigeria as a whole.
When Did Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu Pass Away?
The Iwuanyanwu family officially announced that Chief Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Iwuanyanwu, their patriarch, passed away on Thursday, July 25, 2024. He was 82 years old. According to Channels TV, his death followed a short illness, and his family is now making arrangements for his burial.
Chief Iwuanyanwu’s Legacy
Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu had a long and distinguished career as the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. Before his death, he also served as the president of the Owerri Peoples Assembly. His contributions to the Igbo community, and Nigeria in general, were widely recognized. He was a respected elder statesman and a unifying figure among the Igbo people.
He is survived by his wife, Lady Princess Frances Iwuanyanwu, and his children and grandchildren. His family will release further details about his burial once they complete all necessary consultations.
How Did Iwuanyanwu Become President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo?
Chief Iwuanyanwu became the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide in January 2021. His election took place during a convention in Imo State, where he emerged as the consensus candidate. His leadership was seen as a crucial step toward uniting and strengthening the pan-Igbo socio-political organization.
Iwuanyanwu was widely accepted by Igbo leaders and stakeholders. His efforts brought stability to Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and he played a vital role in advancing the interests of the Igbo people during his tenure.
Iwuanyanwu’s Role in Stopping the 1966 Coup
During his time as a leader, Iwuanyanwu also spoke about the role of the Igbo people in stopping the 1966 military coup. According to reports, Iwuanyanwu clarified that the Igbo were not responsible for the coup led by Chukwuma Nzeogwu and Emmanuel Ifeajuna. He credited Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi, an Igbo military leader from Umuahia, with mobilizing forces to stop the coup, which had toppled Nigeria’s young democracy.
The coup, which occurred just six years into Nigeria’s independence, led to a series of events that shaped the country’s history. Iwuanyanwu’s insights into this critical time in Nigeria’s past helped clear misconceptions about the Igbo people’s involvement in the coup.
Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu’s Impact on Igbo Leadership
Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu was a leader who worked to promote the unity and development of the Igbo people. His leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide was marked by efforts to reposition the organization and address the challenges facing the Igbo community. His vision and leadership were instrumental in guiding Ohanaeze Ndigbo through a period of growth and progress.
Under his leadership, Ohanaeze Ndigbo worked to protect the interests of the Igbo people, both politically and socially. He was a champion of the Igbo cause, always advocating for the unity and progress of the Igbo nation.
Conclusion
The passing of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu is a great loss to the Igbo community and the entire nation. His contributions to business, leadership, and Igbo unity will be remembered for years to come. As the family prepares for his burial, tributes are pouring in from across the country, recognizing the immense impact he had on Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.
