Obi: Iwuanyanwu’s death disheartening — he was a father who gave useful advice

Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 election, has condoled with the family of late Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.

The president-general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide died on Thursday aged 81.

In a statement posted on his X page, Obi described Iwuanyanwu as “a bridge builder who remained committed to the peaceful coexistence of the nation”.

The former Anambra governor said the late elder statesman “was one of those revered father figures” who always rendered useful advice.

He added that Iwuanyanwu was a true patriot, dedicated to promoting unity, fairness, and advancement in Nigeria, with a focus that extended beyond regional loyalties.

“I am greatly disheartened by the death of an elder statesman and President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu,” Obi wrote.

“The devastating report of his death has left all who knew him heartbroken. He was not just a father to many, but a bridge builder who remained committed to the peaceful coexistence of all groups in the nation.

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

“I recall visiting him at the hospital, on the 11th of this month with the Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Ambassador Okey Emuchey.

“He promised me that he would soon be alright, to continue with his contributions to the progress of the nation. Since then, I continued to pray for his quick and full recovery, till I received the sad news of his death.

“I sincerely condole with his immediate family, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, and the entire nation over the death of this revered patriarch. May God grant us all the fortitude to bear his sad loss and grant him eternal rest.”