Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra state has mourned the passing of the President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.
Soludo in a statement signed by the Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Christian Aburime described late Iwuanyanwu as a distinguished statesman, notable patriot and a renowned businessman.
Iwuanyanwu passed on Thursday July 25, 2024 at the age of 82 years after a brief illness.
In his condolence message, Governor Soludo expressed profound sadness on the passage of the elder statesman, describing the death as a monumental loss not only to his immediate family and the Igbo nation but to Nigeria as a whole.
The Governor further described Chief Iwuanyanwu as a personal mentor, a great supporter as well as an influential figure whose life and wise counsel were a tribute to exceptional leadership, patriotism, and steadfast dedication to the progress of the Igbo nation and Nigeria as a country.
“His contributions to the socio-economic development of Nigeria are immeasurable. As the publisher of the Champion Newspapers and owner of several other businesses, his entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropic endeavours have left an enduring legacy in our nation, “he said.
Governor Soludo also recalled and praised what he described as the significant contributions of Chief Iwuanyanwu as Chairman, Planning Committee of Ohanaeze, a strategic position Governor Soludo also occupied in the past in Ohanaeze
He also said that as the 11th President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, he provided exemplary leadership, fostering unity, and championing the interests of Ndigbo even while building bridges of peace across Nigeria.
The Governor, therefore, extended his deep condolences to the bereaved family, friends, and associates of Chief Iwuanyanwu, Ndigbo and the nation at large, praying that his soul would rest in peace and for God to grant the family the fortitude to bear the great loss.
