Apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo in the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland have mourned the sudden death of its President General, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.
NewsBand reported that the Imo born businessman died at the age of 82 in Abuja after a brief illness.
In a statement signed by Chief Mrs Aqueen Ibeto, President, on behalf of the Exco, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, UK and Northern Ireland, described the death of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu as a “rude shock”.
Mrs Aqueen said Iwuanyanwu was an extra-ordinary man who was accomplished in diverse ways; in business, politics, and construction industry, amongst others.
The statement reads, “Ohanaeze Ndigbo, UK and the Northern Ireland received with a rude shock the passing of the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide Chief Engr. Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, MFR; OFR; CFR; FNICE; FNSE; FNIST; KSG (Ahaejiagamba Ndigbo). Almost all the Igbo communities in the UK could not withhold their tears.
“Reflecting on the roles of Chief Iwuanyanwu in uplifting the image of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, I recalled when Chief Iwuanyanwu intervened in a dispute that nearly rocked Ohanaeze in the UK. He displayed uprightness, equity and fairness. I can also cite how Iwuanyanwu travelled to Washington DC, USA to recruit the black Americans whose DNA tested Igbo.
“Chief Iwuanyanwu was an extra-ordinary man who was accomplished in diverse ways; in business, politics, and construction industry, amongst others. The most amazing of the Iwuanyanwu qualities is his total belief in God in all human affairs.
“Since Iwuanyanwu assumed Office as the President General, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo received improved image, impetus and clout. He created various committees which were so vital for the Igbo of the present and the future generations. Above all, he created a Committee on Diaspora which was hailed by all the sons and daughters of Igbo that are in many parts of the world.
“Since Ohanaeze Ndigbo was formed way back in 1976, Iwuanyanwu stood out as the most focused, most creative, innovative and a robust thinker. Above all, he was one of the most selfless Igbo leaders. In fact, Iwuanyanwu put all the energy and resources at his disposal in the service of the Igbo.
“Iwuanyanwu is gone but he left enviable footprints in the sands of time.
“While we prepare for a deserving befitting burial, I wish to convey the condolences of all the Igbo in the UK and Northern Ireland to the amiable wife, children and members of his immediate family.
“May the Almighty grant the soul of Ahaejiagamba an eternal rest in his bosom.”