From Stanley Uzoaru,Owerri
The departed President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu who was laid to rest at his Ata Ikeduru hometown in Imo State yesterday received commendations from notable personalities who graced his funeral ceremony.
Among the dignitaries was President Bola Tinubu, who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume.
Akume while delivering the president’s speech, described the late Igbo leader as a visionary and peaceful leader who worked tirelessly to see to the unity of the country.
His speech reads in part “We’re gathered here to honour and commit to mother earth, a true patriot, visionary leader and an icon of our time, the late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu after a very memorable and fulfilled journey on earth. Let me begin by conveying my condolences to the good people of Nigeria and his family, the government of Imo State, the South-East and Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide. May the Almighty God grant you the fortitude to bear the loss.”
He described the late Iwuanyanwu as a man of distinction, adding that “he remained committed to transparency and integrity. He led by example and led from the front. Chief Iwuanyanwu laid the foundation for growth and service delivery to Nigeria at each service station. Looking back, it would be apt to say that history has already recorded Chief Iwuanyanwu at the right side because in his lifetime he dedicated himself and God endowed resources to several endeavours aimed at developing different communities, always reaching out to the left-out.
“Late Iwuanyanwu championed unity by promoting peace and harmony among diverse communities, tribes and religious divides. His leadership as the 11th President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo was accosted by general acceptability, collaboration and unity.
“He employed the power of his office to drive development across the nation while underscoring the main benefit of protecting the lives and investments of Nigerians, irrespective of their communities of origin.” The president described Iwuanyanwu’s death as a colossal loss, pointing out that the bereaved would be consoled by his track record of achievements and service to humanity and God, which he said would continue to be shining vessels and reminders that a giant passed through our land. Also, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State immortalised Iwuanyanwu by naming the Ultra Modern Conference Centre after the late Ohanaeze President General. Uzodimma said nothing could be measurable to what Iwuanyanwu has done to Ndigbo and the nation at large.
“We in Imo are innocently proud of this man. His real estate, sports development, and other companies are practical examples to grow the economy of Nigeria and strengthen its unity. Nigeria stands indebted to him for his contributions in our economic growth and stability.”
Lawmakers also poured out their encomiums on Iwuanyanwu. The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio represented by Enyinnaya Abaribe described him as a trailblazer and a business mogul whose impact was felt by all. He was also highly commended for his support of youth development in the country.
Dignitaries present at the event include Dame Patience Jonathan, wife of former President Goodluck Jonathan, former presidential candidate of Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi, Governors of Enugu and Abia, and representatives of Governors of Anambra and Eboyi states.
Also at the event was National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Abdullahi Ganduje, former Senate Presidents Ken Nnamani and Adolphus Nwagbara, Rt Hon Emeka Ihedioha, former Governor Ikedi Ohakim, Senator Ike Nwachukwu, Senator Enyinna Abaribe, and others.
