The leadership of Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has expressed shock over the demise of the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, saying that Nigeria has lost a patriot and extraordinary leader.
PANDEF in a press statement on Saturday signed by Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, , its National Chairman stated that the organisation received the news of the demise of Chief Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, on Thursday, 25th July 2024, with profound shock and sadness.
“We’re greatly pained by this incident. We have not just lost an exemplary leader, but a true patriot, and a highly esteemed statesman.
“Iwuanyanwu’s demise at this crucial juncture in the nation’s history represents a monumental loss not only to the Igbo nation and Ohanaeze Ndigbo but to the entire country. Nigeria has, indeed, lost a genuine patriot and an extraordinary leader.
“Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, in his capacity as President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, was unwaveringly dedicated to our collective principles of equity, justice, fairness, and inclusivity in the pursuit of a better Nigeria. He was a man of peace who will be remembered for his resourcefulness, civility, and forthrightness.
“He was a consummate entrepreneur, industrialist, politician, publisher, philanthropist, and community leader. His tireless and lifelong contributions to the advancement of Ndigbo and the Nigerian nation, over the years, are immeasurable. He excelled in various domains, spearheading numerous initiatives in sports development, communications, production, and human capital enhancement.
The organisation added, “In the private sector, through sheer diligence, Chief Iwuanyanwu played a pivotal role in the industrial progress of our country, fostering job creation, and serving as a role model for our youth in embracing the ethos of entrepreneurship and innovation. In the realm of communication and mass media, he established a renowned national media conglomerate, the Champion newspaper group, which stood as one of the most esteemed national brands of its era.
“Chief Iwuanyanwu also established the Iwuanyanwu Nationale Football Club (now Heartland F.C.), which achieved several national and international accolades.
“He was deeply engaged in community development and the affairs of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex socio-cultural organisation of the Igbos, for decades. He held various leadership positions before being unanimously endorsed by his people on 20th April 2023, as the 11th President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, succeeding the late President-General of the body, Professor (Amb.) George Obiozor, who passed on in December 2022.
“On behalf of the National Leader, Chief Dr. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, OFR, CON, the Board of Trustees, and the National Executive Committee of the Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF, I extend heartfelt condolences to the Igbo Nation, the Government, and the people of Imo State, his family and loved ones, as well as the leadership and the entire membership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.
“We’ll deeply miss his leadership, yet find solace in the knowledge that he lived a remarkable life, leaving behind legacies that will endure for generations to come. His life and accomplishments will continue to serve as an inspiration to current and future generations, imparting lessons on diligence, perseverance, tolerance, unity, and harmonious coexistence.
May his Noble Soul Rest in Peace,” PANDEF stated.
