Chief Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Iwuanyanwu, the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has passed away at the age of 82. The Iwuanyanwu family confirmed his death in a statement released on Thursday,
The statement read, “The Iwuanyanwu family of Umuohii Atta, in Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State announces the demise of our patriarch Engr Chief Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Iwuanyanwu—Ahaejiagamba Ndigbo, Chief Iwuanyanwu died on Thursday, July 25, 2024, after a brief illness.”
Born on September 4, 1942, Chief Iwuanyanwu was a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, business, and sports. He graduated with a degree in engineering from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and went on to establish one of Nigeria’s first indigenous construction companies, Hardel and Enic Construction Company.
Throughout his career, Chief Iwuanyanwu made significant contributions to various sectors. He founded the Iwuanyanwu Nationale Football Club, now known as Heartland Football Club, which achieved success in both local and international competitions. He was also the publisher of the Daily Champion newspaper, further cementing his influence in Nigerian media.
In the political arena, Chief Iwuanyanwu made several unsuccessful bids for the Nigerian presidency. Despite these setbacks, he remained an influential figure in Igbo politics, serving as the chairman of the Council of Elders of Ohanaeze Ndigbo before ascending to the position of President General.
Chief Iwuanyanwu’s passing marks the second time in recent history that a sitting president-general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo has died in office, following the death of his predecessor, George Obiozor.
The Iwuanyanwu family noted that the late Chief is survived by his wife, Lady Princess Frances Iwuanyanwu, and numerous children and grandchildren, including Dr. Mrs. Nwadiuto Iheakanwa, the Managing Director of Champion Group of Newspapers.
“Details of the burial will be announced later by the family after due consultations,” the statement noted.
