Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has voiced concerns about threats to his life allegedly orchestrated by certain anti-Igbo elements.
In a briefing held at the Ohanaeze Ndigbo secretariat in Enugu, he revealed, “Some people said they were hired to come and burn my house; that people said they were hired to come and kill me; all sorts of stories like that.” He further narrated an incident where one individual reconsidered after realizing that Iwuanyanwu had supported his brother’s university education through a scholarship program.
Expressing dismay over the situation, Iwuanyanwu, aged 82, reflected on his long career of service and stated, “I feel sad that I should be confronted by some of these types of spectre of threats just because I want to serve my people.” Despite the challenges, he affirmed his determination to serve the Igbo people.
Highlighting previous instances, Iwuanyanwu recounted how his predecessor, Prof George Obiozor, faced threats culminating in an attack on his village home, resulting in his death. He also mentioned a similar incident involving former president general Nnia Nwodo, where a bomb was thrown into his house in Ukehe, Enugu state.
Drawing attention to a troubling trend, he lamented, “Evidently, we the Igbo destroy the Igbo in diverse ways; and turn around to claim that others are after us.” He cited examples where baseless accusations led to violence against Igbo leaders.
Refuting claims made in viral audio recordings, Iwuanyanwu denied any plans by Ohanaeze Ndigbo leadership to apologize for events related to the January 15, 1966 coup. He reaffirmed his commitment to serving the Igbo community despite the threats, emphasizing the need to address internal divisions and support their leaders.
