Chief Emeka Anyaoku, former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, a prominent Igbo leader and respected Nigerian patriot.
In a heartfelt statement, Chief Anyaoku mourned the loss, praising Iwuanyanwu’s commitment to the country’s unity and his significant contributions to various sectors.
Chief Anyaoku lauded Iwuanyanwu’s role as an advocate for solidarity among Nigeria’s diverse peoples. “Chief Iwuanyanwu was a committed advocate of solidarity among the various peoples across the Y-shaped Niger and Benue rivers of Nigeria,” Anyaoku stated, reflecting on Iwuanyanwu’s efforts to foster unity in a country marked by its ethnic diversity.
The statement also highlighted Iwuanyanwu’s recent activities, including his participation in the obsequies of the late Professor Ben Nwabueze in Atani earlier this year.
Anyaoku noted, “I participated with him in the obsequies of the late Professor Ben Nwabueze in Atani in March 2024,” adding that Iwuanyanwu had planned to attend a significant meeting in Enugu to discuss the socio-economic development of the South East region alongside former President Olusegun Obasanjo and the five Governors of the zone. Unfortunately, Iwuanyanwu’s illness prevented him from attending.
Chief Anyaoku praised Iwuanyanwu’s legacy in his professional field and his exemplary leadership. “He has left a legacy of admirable service in his profession of engineering and more importantly of a life that demonstrated true leadership of his and other peoples of our diverse country Nigeria,” Anyaoku remarked, underscoring the wide-reaching impact of Iwuanyanwu’s work and character.
Anyaoku the offered prayers for Iwuanyanwu’s family and friends, wishing them comfort in their time of grief. He also expressed a heartfelt prayer for Iwuanyanwu’s soul, saying, “I pray that the Almighty will comfort his family and friends while his soul rests in perfect peace.”
Ozioma Samuel-Ugwuezi
– Arise News.