Prominent figures, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Yoruba leader Pa Ayo Adebanjo, are expected to attend the burial ceremony of the late Ohanaeze leader, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, on November 3, 2024.
Senator Ben Obi, Chairman of the National Burial Planning Committee, announced this in Abuja over the weekend, noting that many distinguished Nigerians have committed to participating in the ceremony.
He also mentioned that governors from the five Eastern States have reiterated their support for the event.
Represented at the media briefing by Professor Ike Ikechukwu, Chairman of the Media Sub-committee, Obi stated, “We have been engaging respected elder statesmen and women, as well as stakeholders, friends, and well-wishers both within and outside the country.”
“The South East governors, in their recent meeting, reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring our leader receives the dignified farewell he deserves.”
“This, along with the backing of national stakeholders and the diaspora community, who are organizing various activities to honor Ahaejiagamba, reflects our collective effort.
“As previously communicated, the series of tributes leading up to this occasion will culminate in his final interment on November 1, 2024.”
Professor Ikechukwu, who led a team from the burial committee to the media briefing, described Iwuanyanwu as a remarkable gift to Ndigbo and the nation, highlighting his impactful contributions to countless lives, communities, and sectors throughout his distinguished life.
“He made significant investments in nation building, group cohesion, and the pursuit of equity in our national affairs,” he remarked.
He revealed that former President Obasanjo, Pa Adebanjo, and Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe (rtd) have shown interest in joining the South East governors, leaders from the Middle Belt Forum, Afenifere, and other dignitaries from across the country at Iwuanyanwu’s final interment on November 1, 2024.
He expressed gratitude to all Nigerians, well-wishers worldwide, and the media for their overwhelming support ahead of the burial of this late icon.
Chris Isiguzo, National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), who attended the briefing, praised the late Igbo leader as a worthy Nigerian deserving celebration by all.
Iwuanyanwu, who passed away on July 25 this year, was the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and a presidential aspirant with the now-defunct National Republican Convention (NRC).
