![Peter Obi (left), Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu (right) [X]](http://media.assettype.com/lagoslocalnews%2F2024-07%2F16d9abc1-9f73-4e97-86fe-26045c420a1b%2FDofoto_20240726_123625130.jpg?w=480&auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=max)
The presidential candidate of the Labour Party, during the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, has related the death of Mr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, as shocking.
Obi expressed his sorrow over the death of the Ohanaeze president in a social media post. He said Iwuanyanwu was a peacemaker and his legacies live on.
"I am deeply saddened by the passing of a respected elder statesman and President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu. The shocking news of his passing has deeply saddened everyone who knew him. He was more than a father figure to many; he was a dedicated advocate for peace and unity among all Nigerians,” he asserted.
Obi affirmed that Iwuanyanwu was certainly a patriotic Nigerian whose longing for equity, justice, progress, and development of the nation surpassed tribal boundaries. He was a respected, revered father figure who always offered wise counsel.
"He promised me of a speedy recovery so he could continue with his contributions to the progress of the nation. I prayed earnestly for his quick and full recovery. I sincerely sympathise with his family, Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, and the entire nation over the death of this esteemed elder,” he said.
Obi prayed for strength to cope with the loss and for God to grant Iwuanyanwu eternal rest.
Iwuanyanwu's demise was made known in a statement made available on Thursday by his son, Jide. Chief Iwuanyanwu passed on Thursday, July 25, 2024, after a brief illness. He was aged 82.
Iwuanyanwu, before his demise, was President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and President of the Owerri Peoples Assembly.