Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has mourned the death of the President-General of Ohanaeze N’digbo Worldwide and President of the Owerri Peoples Assembly, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.
He described the passing of the elder statesman as a colossal loss to Nigeria, particularly to the Igbo nation and the media industry.
Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed his condolences in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile.
He described Iwuanyanwu, an accomplished businessman and media mogul who died on Thursday at the age of 81 after a brief illness, as a respected elder statesman and a detribalized Nigerian.
The governor extended his sympathies to the Ndigbo both at home and abroad over the loss of their President-General.
He also conveyed his condolences to the Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum and Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, and to the people of Imo State for the loss of their illustrious son.
Sanwo-Olu also sympathized with the deceased’s wife, Lady Princess Frances Iwuanyanwu, his children, friends, and associates, as well as the management and staff of Champion Newspapers and other businesses associated with the late Chief Iwuanyanwu.
“On behalf of my family, the Government, and the people of Lagos State, I mourn the death of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President-General of Ohanaeze N’digbo Worldwide.
“Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu was an active participant in Nigerian politics, serving his party in various capacities and contesting for Nigeria’s presidency on three occasions.
He contributed significantly to the development of his people and the country at large. His passion for the interests, growth, and development of all Igbo people at home and in the diaspora was evident.
“As a media proprietor and accomplished businessman, he made substantial contributions to the economy of Lagos State by creating job opportunities for many young residents through his media ventures and other businesses.
“He was also a philanthropist who dedicated his life to serving his community, state, and country in various sectors.
His legacy in sports development, notably through the founding of Iwuanyanwu Nationale Football Club (now Heartland F.C.), which won several national and international championships, will not be forgotten for many years to come,” Governor Sanwo-Olu said.
He prayed for God to grant eternal rest to the soul of the late Iwuanyanwu and to provide the Ndigbo, the deceased’s family, friends, and associates with the strength to bear this irreparable loss.
“I pray for the repose of the soul of the late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu and ask that God grants the Ndigbo, the deceased’s family, friends, and associates the fortitude to endure this great loss,” the governor concluded.
Tribune
