Tributes Flow for Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu at Memorial Service in Owerri

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Dignitaries, including President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, pay heartfelt tributes to the late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, former president-general of Ohanaeze N’digbo, during an interment service in Owerri, Imo State. The ceremony, held at the Cathedral Church of St. Matthew, celebrated Iwuanyanwu’s legacy as a visionary leader dedicated to national unity and community upliftment.

In a heartfelt ceremony held yesterday in Owerri, Imo State, dignitaries from various sectors gathered to pay tribute to the late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the former president-general of Ohanaeze N’digbo Worldwide. The interment service took place at the Cathedral Church of St. Matthew, Atta, where attendees shared fond memories and celebrated the life of a man recognized for his deep commitment to community service, national unity, and social justice.

Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, who passed away recently, was a prominent figure in Nigeria, revered for his exceptional contributions as a businessman, politician, and elder statesman. Representing President Bola Tinubu at the memorial service, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, extolled Iwuanyanwu’s virtues, calling him a “true hero” and a “visionary leader.” Akume reflected on Iwuanyanwu’s unwavering dedication to preserving the nation’s territorial integrity and his commitment to uplifting the less privileged members of society.

“In his lifetime,” Akume said, “Iwuanyanwu dedicated himself and his God-endowed resources to various endeavors aimed at uplifting communities, friends, and the underprivileged. As a nationalist, Iwuanyanwu championed nation-building by promoting unity and harmony among diverse communities, tribes, and religious divides.” Akume’s words resonated with many in attendance, as they reflected the sentiments of those who had been touched by Iwuanyanwu’s altruism and dedication.

The former president-general’s leadership tenure at Ohanaeze Ndigbo was noted for fostering general acceptability, collaboration, and unity among the Igbo people. Iwuanyanwu was instrumental in bridging divides within the community, advocating for the rights of the Igbo, and promoting inclusivity across various tribal lines. The late chief’s vision of a harmonious Nigeria where all ethnic groups coexist peacefully was a recurring theme in the tributes paid during the service.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who was represented by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, also delivered a poignant tribute, characterizing Iwuanyanwu as a “trailblazer” who excelled in various spheres, including business, politics, and social investments. Akpabio noted that Iwuanyanwu never shied away from national issues, always striving to make Nigeria a better place. “He pursued issues of justice and equity with a nationalistic consciousness,” he remarked, emphasizing the late leader’s unwavering commitment to the principles of fairness and equity.

Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma expressed his gratitude to the South-East governors for their collaborative efforts in honoring Iwuanyanwu’s legacy. “We must recognize that Iwuanyanwu died as a leader in service, fighting for the cause of mankind, the Igbo people, and Nigeria in general,” Uzodimma stated. He highlighted Iwuanyanwu’s vision of a united and peaceful Nigeria, where justice and equity reigned supreme, underscoring the importance of collective action in promoting national development.

Uzodimma further reflected on Iwuanyanwu’s life, describing him as a peacemaker, a selfless leader, and a compassionate father and husband. In a gesture of respect, he announced the renaming of the ultramodern International Conference Centre currently under construction in Imo State after the late nationalist. This move is symbolic of the state’s recognition of Iwuanyanwu’s enduring impact on the community and his significant contributions to the advancement of the Igbo people.

The service also featured an inspiring sermon by Most Reverend Henry Ndukuba, who took to the pulpit to speak on the theme, “Serving the purpose of God in our generation.” Drawing from the Acts of the Apostles 13:36, Ndukuba urged attendees to lead lives of service, emphasizing the importance of dedicating oneself to the welfare of others. He called for a collective effort to address the crisis of confidence facing Nigeria’s leadership, both religious and political, noting that the current climate demands humility, sacrifice, and a renewed focus on communal well-being.

“I am ashamed that while families in Nigeria struggle to feed themselves twice a day, our religious leaders are receiving car gifts in the name that they cannot die poor,” Ndukuba lamented. His comments were a clarion call for all Nigerians to demonstrate empathy and support for one another, especially during challenging times. He encouraged investments in youth empowerment and admonished the gathering to shun divisive tendencies that threaten national unity.

Ndukuba also addressed the political leadership of Nigeria, urging President Tinubu to convene a national conference aimed at producing a new constitution that reflects the aspirations of all citizens. “We need to come together to build a country that works for everyone,” he asserted, calling for a united front among the Igbo people in nominating a leader who would govern with integrity and the fear of God.

The atmosphere at the service was filled with solemnity as Iwuanyanwu’s eldest son, Jidechukwu, expressed gratitude to all the guests, particularly President Tinubu and the governors of the South-East, for their support during this difficult time. “God has always been with my father from time immemorial. He was a man of exploits who always had faith in God,” he reflected, sharing personal anecdotes that illustrated his father’s unwavering commitment to faith and family.

The ceremony attracted a multitude of dignitaries, including Governor Alex Otti of Abia State and Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, alongside other prominent figures in Nigerian politics. The national chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Abdullahi Ganduje, was also in attendance, as was Dame Patience Jonathan, the wife of former President Goodluck Jonathan. Their presence underscored the widespread respect and admiration for Iwuanyanwu across the political spectrum.

As the service concluded, it became evident that Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu’s legacy would endure far beyond his lifetime. The tributes paid to him highlighted not only his personal achievements but also the collective aspirations he embodied—a vision of Nigeria where justice, equity, and unity prevail. His contributions to the Ohanaeze Ndigbo and the broader Nigerian society will remain a source of inspiration for future generations.

The attendees left the service with a renewed sense of purpose, pledging to honor Iwuanyanwu’s memory by continuing the work he so passionately championed. They recognized the need to foster a Nigeria that celebrates diversity, promotes inclusivity, and embraces the ideals of justice and harmony that Iwuanyanwu stood for throughout his life. His death, though a profound loss, serves as a rallying point for all who seek to continue his mission of building a united and equitable nation for all Nigerians.