Former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has expressed his condolences over the death of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President-General of the Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, who passed away at the age of 82.
In a condolence letter dated July 26, 2024, and addressed to the family, Obasanjo conveyed his mixed feelings of sadness and gratitude to God for Iwuanyanwu’s impactful life, noting that the country would miss his contributions to building a new Nigeria.
“I received the news of the death of my friend, brother, and one of our nation’s most intrepid entrepreneurs, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, with mixed feelings of sadness and gratitude to God. I was sad because we will miss his contribution to the building of a new Nigeria of his dream, but I am grateful to God for such a life well spent in the service of our fatherland,” Obasanjo wrote.
Obasanjo highlighted Iwuanyanwu’s widespread recognition and noted that his name has become a household name across Nigeria, despite its Igbo origins.
“This is typical of the man behind the name. I met Chief Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu many years ago, and over this period, we established a relationship based on mutual respect and deep appreciation of each other’s capabilities and attributes,” he added.
Obasanjo lauded Iwuanyanwu’s ability to overcome obstacles and cited his remarkable achievements, particularly in sports, where he owned the renowned Iwuanyanwu Nationale Football Club.
“But it must be obvious to all observers that the same dedication, organizational ability, acumen, and strong social motivation which gave birth to the famous Club found expression in many other facets of the Chief’s life in which he succeeded beyond the common measure,” Obasanjo stated.
The statement further described Iwuanyanwu as a giant in various sectors, including the church, politics, business, publishing, engineering, aviation, agriculture, industry, insurance, banking, real estate, shipping, hospitality, sports administration, and philanthropy.
“And through these businesses, he created thousands of jobs for many Nigerians irrespective of tribe and religion. Above all, he was a patriot and nationalist of no mean order. He belonged to that rare breed of Nigerians whose interests and associations cut across all sections of the nation, symbolizing the finest qualities of the traditional and the modern,” Obasanjo stated.
Obasanjo noted Iwuanyanwu’s philanthropic efforts, such as awarding scholarships to over 5,000 indigent students, building and equipping a blood bank for Imo State Government, constructing a one-billion-naira cathedral for St. Matthew Anglican Church, and contributing significantly to the building of Imo Airport.
“It is also worthy of note that Chief Iwuanyanwu acquitted himself as a peace-loving, unassuming, and committed patriot. He was a firm believer in democracy and participatory governance. Until his death, he built for himself an impressive profile of immense goodwill and affection among his people,” Obasanjo wrote.
Obasanjo also praised Iwuanyanwu’s commitment to his people, which led to his role as President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, advocating for their needs and development until his last breath.
“He was a Nigerian Ibo rather than an Ibo Nigerian,” Obasanjo stated.
Obasanjo also highlighted the numerous honors Iwuanyanwu received from various institutions, reflecting his widespread impact and achievements.
“The great outpouring of sympathy for the family and his loved ones since his death was announced is also an eloquent testimony to the enduring, nationwide bonds of comradeship and friendship which Emmanuel forged in his many years of service to our nation. He was a great philanthropist,” Obasanjo added.
“My thoughts and prayers are with you and other members of his family at this time as you mourn the passing of this illustrious son of Africa. On behalf of my family and on my own behalf in mourning the loss, I express sincere condolences and pray God to grant you all the grace to bear this great loss. May the gentle soul of the dear departed rest in perfect peace.”
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