Peter Obi Honors Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu as a “Bridge Builder” at His Burial in Imo State

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Labour Party’s Peter Obi commends late Ohanaeze Ndigbo President, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, as a champion of unity, justice, and national progress. Obi joined other dignitaries in Imo State to pay tribute to the statesman’s legacy of peaceful coexistence and his lifelong dedication to Nigeria’s development.

Mr. Peter Obi, a prominent Nigerian politician and former presidential candidate from the Labour Party (LP), honored the memory of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the late former President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. Obi described Iwuanyanwu as a devoted leader, bridge builder, and an advocate for justice, peace, and equity who dedicated his life to the advancement of Nigeria.

Iwuanyanwu, a revered Igbo leader and elder statesman, passed away after years of service to both his community and the nation. On Friday, November 1, 2024, he was laid to rest in his hometown of Atta, located in the Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State. The burial was attended by notable figures across Nigeria, including political leaders, traditional rulers, and members of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the leading socio-cultural organization representing the Igbo people. The attendance reflected the far-reaching impact Iwuanyanwu had in Nigeria and underscored the respect he commanded across ethnic and political divides.

In a heartfelt message shared on his X handle (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, Mr. Obi expressed his admiration for Iwuanyanwu’s unwavering commitment to building bridges across Nigeria’s diverse communities. “Yesterday, I was in Atta, Ikeduru LGA of Imo State, where I joined other prominent Nigerians to pay my last respects to an elder statesman, father figure, and former President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, as he was laid to rest,” Obi wrote. He emphasized that Iwuanyanwu’s life was a testament to the power of unity, empathy, and dedication to national growth.

Obi described the burial ceremony as “well-attended,” symbolizing the enduring legacy Iwuanyanwu leaves behind. This gathering of prominent individuals from various backgrounds underscored the positive influence the late statesman had on the lives of many. Obi noted that Iwuanyanwu’s legacy extends beyond his contributions to the Igbo community, highlighting his efforts to foster unity across Nigeria. As a leader of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Iwuanyanwu consistently advocated for peaceful coexistence and collaboration, embodying a sense of patriotism that transcended ethnic boundaries.

Throughout his life, Iwuanyanwu was known for his staunch support for justice and fairness. He often voiced the importance of equality for all Nigerians, regardless of ethnicity, religion, or socio-economic background. This commitment, as Obi noted, was a fundamental part of his legacy. “He was not only a bridge builder committed to fostering peaceful coexistence in the nation but also a deeply patriotic Nigerian dedicated to justice, equity, and the progress and development of Nigeria,” Obi continued in his tribute. These qualities, he said, positioned Iwuanyanwu as an exemplary leader whose contributions will continue to inspire future generations.

Beyond his work with Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Iwuanyanwu held various positions of influence that allowed him to advocate for the rights and welfare of Nigerians. He served as a role model and a source of guidance for younger leaders, promoting a vision of Nigeria built on mutual respect and shared prosperity. According to those who knew him closely, Iwuanyanwu’s work was driven by a deep belief in the potential of a united Nigeria. His efforts helped to bridge the gaps often seen in Nigeria’s political and cultural landscape, a task he carried out with dignity and resilience.

Peter Obi extended his deepest condolences to Iwuanyanwu’s family, as well as to the broader Ohanaeze Ndigbo community, who regarded him as a father figure. “Once again, I extend my condolences to his immediate family, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, and the entire nation on this irreplaceable loss,” Obi shared. “May God grant us all the strength to bear it and grant him eternal rest.” He concluded his message by offering prayers for Iwuanyanwu’s family, expressing a hope that they find comfort and peace in the legacy he left behind.

As the nation reflects on Iwuanyanwu’s contributions, his life stands as a reminder of the importance of leaders who prioritize unity, justice, and collective progress. His passing marks the end of a significant chapter in Nigerian leadership, but his values and ideals will continue to resonate, particularly among those who seek to uphold these principles in public service.

Iwuanyanwu’s memory lives on as a symbol of the power of purposeful leadership rooted in empathy and inclusion. His influence, as noted by many of the mourners, will likely inspire others to work towards a more cohesive and just Nigeria.