Buhari and Soludo, have lent their voices to other Nigerians to mourn the passage of Iwuanyanwu, describing his death as a sad event for Nigeria.
By Emma Ogbuehi
Former President Muhammadu Buhari and Anambra state governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, have lent their voices to other Nigerians mourning the passage of the President-General of the Ohanaeze Igbo, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, describing his death as a sad event for Nigeria.
The former President in his tribute, highlighted Chief Iwuanyanwu’s contributions to journalism, sports, politics and nation-building.
A statement issued by Mallam Garba Shehu, quoted Buhari as saying, “He was a visionary who revolutionized the nation’s media and sports. He made notable strides in the media industry, construction, sports, business, and politics.
“I had several opportunities to interact with him to know about his passionate commitment to the unity, peaceful coexistence, and the development of Nigeria.
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“His rich contributions have left indelible memories on the media, sports, politics, and business where he made extraordinary achievements.
“My condolences to his family, friends and associates, and the entire people of the South-east. His death is a loss to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
Soludo on his own, described the late Ohanaeze chieftain as a distinguished statesman, notable patriot and renowned businessman.
Iwuanyanwu died on Thursday July 25, 2024 at the age of 82 years after a brief illness.
In condolence message signed by his Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, Governor Soludo expressed profound sadness on the passage of the elder statesman, saying it is a monumental loss not only to his immediate family and the Igbo nation but to Nigeria as a whole.
The Governor further described Chief Iwuanyanwu as a personal mentor, a great supporter as well as an influential figure whose life and wise counsel were attributes to exceptional leadership, patriotism, and steadfast dedication to the progress of the Igbo nation and Nigeria as a country.
“His contributions to the socio-economic development of Nigeria are immeasurable. As the publisher of the Champion Newspapers and owner of several other businesses, his entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropic endeavours have left an enduring legacy in our nation”, the release stated.
Governor Soludo also recalled and praised the significant contributions of Chief Iwuanyanwu as Chairman, Planning Committee of Ohanaeze, a strategic position Governor Soludo also occupied in the past in Ohanaeze
The governor further recalled that as the 11th President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the departed chieftain provided exemplary leadership, fostering unity, and championing the interests of Ndigbo even while building bridges of peace across Nigeria.
“Governor Soludo, therefore, extends his deep condolences to the bereaved family, friends, and associates of Chief Iwuanyanwu, Ndigbo and the nation, praying that his soul rest in peace as God grants the family the fortitude to bear this great loss”, the release added..