By Flowerbudnews
Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State has extolled the sterling qualities of the late President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.
“Iwuanyanwu is a quintessential statesman who committed and devoted his life to the pursuit of peace and progress in Nigeria,” Mbah said during “A Day of Tribute” organised in honour of the Igbo leader in Enugu Saturday.
The governor described Iwuanyanwu as ‘an Iroko’, whose “exit will be greatly felt across the country, especially in Igbo land.”
According to him, Iwuanyanwu was such an iroko, deeply rooted in our culture.
“Iwuanyanwu raised himself, a towering example of generosity, courage and wisdom. Known as a bridge builder, he stretched his hands across communities and creed; thus, fostering unity in our troubled times.
“For me, the sense of loss in the loss of Iwuanyanwu evokes, is not such that time will heal.
“For anyone who has had an encounter with him will attest, Iwuanyanwu possessed a remarkable work ethic and humility that was truly genuine.
“His love for Ndigbo and strong devotion to Nigeria were not mutually exclusive. He has indeed proved that you could adore your tribe and country in equal measure,” he said.
Prof Uche Azikiwe, the widow of Nnamdi Azikiwe, first President of Nigeria, noted that Iwuanyanwu was unique in many ways, adding that he was a trailblazer.
Azikiwe said the late Igbo leader charted a part for younger generations of entrepreneurs and venture capitalists from civil engineering to newspaper publishing.
“The iconic leader demonstrated foresight, courage and the definitive can-do-spirit of the Igbo man. His capacity to create was only matched by his capacity to give,” she said.
The Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Okey Emuchey, noted that Iwuanyanwu was a quintessential statesman, an iconic pan-Nigerian and national colossus.
“Until his departure, our leader remained an absolute patriot who devoted his life for the pursuit of the peace and progress of Ndigbo and Nigeria,” he said.
Speaking, Chief Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu, President-General of Ohanaeze Youth Wing, said that Iwuanyanwu revived and sustained the youth wing to be vibrant and “to be a voice”.
Okpalaezeukwu said that being a lover of youths and their aspiration to grow; Iwuanyanwu would also carry the youths along and advise Ohanaeze youths on the right path to any issue.
“Iwuanyanwu remains a father to us all, a role model, an achiever to be emulated and a passionate leader that seeks the growth and uplift of youths.
“He utilises every opportunity to teach and mentor as well as willing to give his candid and beneficial advice at any time approached. We seriously miss our great leader,” he said.
