The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), under the leadership of Chief Edwin E. Clark, has expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the family of the late Chief Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. In a gesture of unity, the leadership of PANDEF, represented by Ambassador Dr. Boladei Igali, paid a condolence visit to the Iwuanyanwu family, highlighting the immense loss the nation has suffered with the passing of the revered leader.
late Chief Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu,
Fmr. President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide
During the visit, Amb. Dr. Igali delivered heartfelt messages from Chief Edwin Clark, stating that Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu’s death is not only a loss for the Igbo people but also a significant blow to the entire Nigerian nation. Chief Iwuanyanwu, who was described as a true patriot, was celebrated for his resolute commitment to Nigeria’s unity and progress.
Amb. Dr. Boladei Igali
“Chief Iwuanyanwu was a bridge-builder who transcended tribal and regional boundaries,” said Amb. Dr. Igali. “His contributions to nation-building were not confined to any single region. He established businesses and created jobs across the length and breadth of the country, irrespective of tribe or religion. His legacy stands as a proof to his belief in a unified Nigeria.”
In an emotional tribute, Amb. Dr. Igali assured the family of Chief Iwuanyanwu and the Igbo nation that PANDEF stands with them in this moment of grief. He emphasized that the Niger Delta people share in the mourning of the great leader, whose death resonates beyond the borders of his Igbo heritage. “We are not just mourning with you; we are mourning one of our own. Chief Iwuanyanwu’s death is a loss for all of us who value unity, peace, and development,” Igali added.
Prof. Mike Ozekhome, SAN
Also speaking at the condolence visit, renowned lawyer and human rights activist, Prof. Mike Ozekhome, SAN, paid glowing tributes to Chief Iwuanyanwu, describing him as a multifaceted leader who left his mark in various spheres of life. “Chief Iwuanyanwu was an octopus with many tentacles,” Ozekhome remarked, alluding to his influence in politics, business, entrepreneurship, sports, and community development. He further noted that Iwuanyanwu’s detribalized nature made him a leader for all, regardless of ethnic or religious affiliation. “The world will miss him, and Nigeria has lost a towering figure.”
The leadership of PANDEF concluded the visit with a call on the federal government to immortalize Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, recognizing the indelible mark he left on the nation. They argued that his contributions to national unity, economic development, and the advancement of Nigerian sports deserve to be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
Senator Ben Obi, CON
Responding on behalf of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator Ben Obi, CON, who serves as the Chairman of the Organizing Committee for Chief Iwuanyanwu’s funeral rites, expressed gratitude to the leadership of PANDEF for their solidarity. He commended the long-standing relationship between PANDEF and Ohanaeze, particularly the bond shared between Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu and Chief Edwin Clark. “The relationship between Chief Clark and Chief Iwuanyanwu is one built on mutual respect and a shared vision for a united and prosperous Nigeria,” Sen. Obi said.
Chief Dr. Simon Okeke Amb. Okey Emuchay Prof. Charles Nwekeaku
Adding their voices to the tributes, Chief Dr. Simon Okeke, Chairman of the Igbo Elders Consultative Forum, Amb. Okey Emuchay, Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, and Prof. Charles Nwekeaku, Secretary General of the Igbo Elders Consultative Forum, eulogized Chief Iwuanyanwu’s leadership and service to the nation. They praised him for his firm dedication to the development of the Igbo nation and Nigeria at large, while also thanking Chief Edwin Clark and PANDEF for standing by the Igbo people in this time of grief.
Chief Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, a man of immense influence and accomplishments, was a towering figure in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape. His business empire, which spanned several sectors, including construction, media, and manufacturing, provided thousands of jobs to Nigerians, further cementing his reputation as a visionary entrepreneur. Beyond business, Iwuanyanwu’s contributions to sports, especially his role in the development of Nigerian football, remain etched in the memories of many.
The PANDEF delegation’s visit highlights the importance of unity among Nigeria’s ethnic nationalities, especially in times of national loss. Chief Iwuanyanwu’s passing serves as a reminder of the need for leaders who, like him, work towards the collective good, transcending tribal and regional divides.
As Nigeria continues to mourn the loss of one of its great patriots, the call for the federal government to immortalize Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu resonates strongly. His legacy of nation-building, bridge-building, and service to humanity is one that will continue to inspire future generations.
SKJ