The Pan NigerAA Delta Forum (PANDEF) has described the death  of president general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, as painful, adding that it would deeply miss his leadership.

The Niger Delta socio-political organisation said Iwuanyanwu’s death at this crucial juncture in the nation’s history represented a monumental loss not only to the Igbo and Ohanaeze Ndigbo but to the entire country.

National chairman of PANDEF, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, in a statement, said the association was “greatly pained” by Iwuanyanwu’s death, noting that they had not just lost an exemplary leader, but a true patriot and a highly esteemed statesman.

He said Iwuanyanwu in his capacity as president-general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, was unwaveringly dedicated to the collective principles of equity, justice, fairness and inclusivity in the pursuit of a better Nigeria.

“He was a man of peace who will be remembered for his resourcefulness, civility and forthrightness.

“He was a consummate entrepreneur, industrialist, politician, publisher, philanthropist and community leader. His tireless and life-long contributions to the advancement of Ndigbo and the Nigerian nation over the years are immeasurable. He excelled in various domains, spearheading numerous initiatives in sports development, communications, production and human capital enhancement.

“In the private sector, through sheer diligence, Chief Iwuanyanwu played a pivotal role in the industrial progress of our country, fostering job creation, and serving as a role model for our youth in embracing the ethos of entrepreneurship and innovation. In the realm of communication and mass media, he established a renowned national media conglomerate, the Champion newspaper group, which stood as one of the most esteemed national brands of its era.

“Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu also established the Iwuanyanwu Nationale Football Club (now Heartland F.C.), which achieved several national and international accolades.

“Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu was deeply engaged in community development and the affairs of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex socio-cultural organisation of the Igbos for decades. He held various leadership positions before being unanimously endorsed by his people on April 20, 2023, as the 11th president general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, succeeding the late Professor George Obiozor.