Atiku, Obi Mourn Iwuanyanwu

Former Vice President and Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general election, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and his Labour Party (LP) counterpart, Peter Obi, have described the death of Ohanaeze Ndigbo President-General, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, as “shocking”.

In the condolence messages posted on their respective X handles, both political actors expressed sadness over the exit to the great beyond of the “Elder Statesman, astute businessman, and philanthropist par excellence.”

Atiku wrote in his message thus; “I am shocked and saddened by the passing of Chief (Dr) Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.

“He was a man whose name was renowned for uprightness, firmness, and industry. He was an astute businessman, philanthropist and consumate politician.”

The Wazirin Adamawa further said; “I join the multitude of his admirers to sympathize with his immediate family and pray to the Almighty to grant the family the fortitude to bear the loss of a patriarch.

“My condolences also go to the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, which he led with distinction until he breathed his last, also the government and people of Imo State. He will be sorely missed. May his soul rest in peace. – AA”

Iwuanyanwu, a bridge builder – Obi
On his part, the Labour Party Standard bearer and former Anambra State governor, while expressing sadness over the Ohanaeze president’s demise, described him as a bridge builder who would be remembered for so many positives.

Writing on his X handle, Obi said; “I am greatly disheartened by the death of an elder statesman and President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Mr Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.

“The devastating reports of his death have left all who knew him heartbroken. He was not just a father to many, but a bridge builder who remained committed to the peaceful co-existence of the nation”.

He said Iwuanyanwu was undoubtedly a patriotic Nigerian whose desire for justice, equity, progress, and development of the nation transcended tribal boundaries, adding; “He was one of those revered father figures who had always given me useful advice.”

According to the former Governor; “He promised me that he would soon be alright to continue with his contributions to the progress of the nation. I continued to pray for his quick and full recovery.

“I sincerely condole with his immediate family, the Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, and the entire nation over the death of this revered patriarch”.

He prayed that God should grant us all the fortitude to bear his sad loss and grant him eternal rest.