The remains of the late President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, have been laid to rest in his hometown, Attah, Owerri, Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State.
The burial took place on Friday, November 1, with the burial service conducted at the Cathedral Church of St. Matthew, Atta in Ikeduru Anglican Diocese.
Chief Iwuanyanwu, the late publisher of Champion newspapers died on July 25 this year, aged 82.
The event drew a who’s who of Nigeria’s political, business and social elite, who gathered to pay tribute to the revered statesman and businessman.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a message delivered by the Secretary to Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, described Iwuanyanwu as “an illustrious son of Nigeria,” who served the nation with courage and unwavering dedication.
“Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu was courageous, defiant of injustice, and uncompromising,” the President said, highlighting his impact on the country’s economic and social landscape.
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, who is also Chairman of the South East Governors Forum, echoed the sentiment of national loss, emphasising that Iwuanyanwu’s contributions to the State were immense.
To honour his legacy, Governor Uzodimma announced the renaming of the ongoing Imo International Conference Centre (IICC) in Owerri after the late Ohanaeze Ndigbo President – General.
“We are celebrating him, not mourning him,” Uzodimma declared, emphasizing the enduring impact of Iwuanyanwu’s life.
The event was filled with tributes to Iwuanyanwu as a peacemaker, philanthropist and champion of unity.
His diverse contributions to engineering, sports, aviation, media, banking, insurance, real estate, and entrepreneurship were widely acknowledged.
The funeral service was marked by a sense of unity and respect, with all present, including prominent politicians like Senate President Godswill Akpabio, former President Goodluck Jonathan’s wife, Dame Patience, and prominent political figures across the country, united in their grief and celebration of Iwuanyanwu’s life.
Primate and Metropolitan of All Nigeria Church (Anglican Communion), the Most Revd. Dr. Henry Ndukuba delivered the sermon urging the congregation to live a life of service and emphasising the importance of leaving a lasting positive impact on the world.
He also called for a national dialogue on key issues facing the country, reflecting on the need for unity and progress in light of Iwuanyanwu’s legacy.
Iwuanyanwu’s family, led by his heir apparent, Jide, expressed gratitude to the nation for their support in their time of grief.
Courtesy, Newshaus
