President Bola Tinubu on Friday led dignitaries in honoring the late President-General of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, at his funeral held at the Cathedral Church of St. Matthew in Atta, Ikeduru LGA, Imo State.
Represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, Tinubu praised Iwuanyanwu as a “true hero, visionary leader, and committed nationalist” who dedicated his life to uniting communities and supporting the underprivileged. He described Iwuanyanwu’s passing as “a colossal loss to the nation” and extended condolences to his family.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Sen. Enyinnaya Abaribe, hailed Iwuanyanwu as a “trailblazer” with impactful contributions to business, politics, and social causes. Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma thanked South-East governors for their support in organizing the state funeral and announced the renaming of the state’s new International Conference Centre in Iwuanyanwu’s honor.
Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, delivered a sermon urging national leaders to serve selflessly and promote unity. He called on President Tinubu to convene a national conference for a new constitution focused on the people’s needs.
Iwuanyanwu’s eldest son, Jidechukwu, expressed gratitude to the guests, describing his father as a man of “great exploits” with a strong faith in God.
Among the distinguished attendees were Governors Alex Otti of Abia, Peter Mbah of Enugu, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, and former leaders like Dame Patience Jonathan, Peter Obi, Emeka Ihedioha, and Sen. Rochas Okorocha, along with traditional and religious leaders.
