After the passing of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, a false story began to circulate online. It claimed the respected elder statesman banned his wife from remarrying through a clause in his Will. The claim spread quickly across social media and gossip blogs, sparking public reactions.
But now, the executors of his estate have stepped forward to set the record straight — and they say there is no truth to the rumor.
Who Was Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu?
Chief Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Iwuanyanwu, fondly known as Ahaejiagamba Ndigbo, was one of the most influential personalities in Nigeria’s South-East. He was a successful businessman, philanthropist, political leader, and national icon who earned honors like CFR, OFR, and MFR.
Beyond his career achievements, he was widely respected for his role in promoting Igbo unity, supporting education, and investing in sports. He lived a life of dignity and service, making the recent rumors all the more painful for those who knew him.
Not long after his death and burial, several online platforms began spreading claims that Chief Iwuanyanwu had included a condition in his Will that forbade his wife, Chief (Mrs.) Frances Iwuanyanwu, from remarrying.
The story was shared widely, especially on blogs and social media platforms where sensational headlines often go unchecked. For many, the claim felt unusual and invasive. And for the family, it was deeply hurtful.
The Executors Speak: “There Is No Such Clause”
In response, the executors of Chief Iwuanyanwu’s estate released an official statement. They made it clear that the claim was not only false but deliberately misleading. According to the statement, nowhere in the late Chief’s Last Will and Testament is there any restriction against his wife remarrying.
The executors expressed disappointment that some individuals would use a period of mourning to spread misinformation. They described the rumor as a calculated attempt to tarnish the legacy of a man who stood for truth, dignity, and love throughout his life.
They also emphasized that Chief Iwuanyanwu was a man who treated his family with honor and never entertained such controlling ideas. His love and respect for his wife were evident in how he lived, and it is unfair to paint his memory with falsehoods.
See the statement here
Why These Rumors Hurt Families
This situation goes beyond just gossip. It highlights the real emotional harm that viral false stories can cause, especially during times of grief. The family is already dealing with the pain of losing a beloved husband, father, and public figure. Instead of peace, they’re forced to fight off lies and defend the integrity of his final wishes.
The executors also made it clear that spreading such unfounded claims is not just an insult to the family, but a serious affront to the memory of the deceased. They called on the public to be more responsible, especially when handling sensitive issues involving death and family matters.
Can Wills Really Ban Spouses from Remarrying?
In Nigeria, individuals have the legal right to include specific wishes in their Will. However, some types of conditions—especially those that attempt to control someone else’s personal life—may not hold up legally or morally.
It’s also important to note that a Will must be clear, witnessed, and made in good faith. Any clause that is vague or violates a person’s rights could be challenged in court.
In this particular case, the executors confirmed there is no such clause in Chief Iwuanyanwu’s Will. The story was completely fabricated, with no documents, legal backing, or credible source behind it.
The controversy serves as a reminder of how quickly false information can spread and how damaging it can be. Just because a story goes viral doesn’t make it true. As a society, we need to be careful about what we consume, share, and believe—especially when it concerns someone’s death and their family.
Chief Iwuanyanwu’s legacy deserves to be remembered for what it truly was—a life of impact, leadership, and service. False claims like this only serve to distract from the values he stood for.
Final Thoughts
Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu was more than just a prominent figure. He was a symbol of excellence, unity, and generosity. The viral story about his Will is not only false but dishonors everything he represented.
His executors have spoken clearly: there was no restriction placed on his wife’s future. The rumor has no foundation and should be dismissed for what it is—another case of online sensationalism.
As we remember the life he lived, let’s also honor his family’s call for peace, truth, and respect.
Summary FAQs
Q: Did Chief Iwuanyanwu’s Will ban his wife from remarrying?
A: No. The executors of his Will have publicly denied this claim, stating it is completely false.
Q: Who spread the rumor about Iwuanyanwu’s Will?
A: The false claim appears to have started from unnamed online sources and was shared by blogs and social media users without evidence.
Q: What did the family say about the rumor?
A: They said it was a disrespectful lie, especially painful during their time of mourning, and asked the public to stop spreading it.
Q: Is it legal to include a remarriage ban in a Will in Nigeria?
A: While people can express personal wishes, clauses that control a surviving spouse’s personal choices may not be legally binding or morally acceptable.
Q: What should people do when they hear such stories?
A: Always verify with official sources before sharing. Respect families in mourning, and avoid spreading unconfirmed reports.
