Late Chief’s Alleged Will Bans His Young Widow From Remarrying

The final will and testament of the late elder statesman and former President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief (Engr. Dr.) Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, was presented to his family one year following his passing, reportedly containing a contentious clause.

It is recalled that Chief Iwuanyanwu was married to his first wife, Lady Eudora Nnenna Ozinyereaku Iwuanyanwu, for over 40 years until her death on August 28, 2011, at age 63.

Subsequently, in 2013, Chief Iwuanyanwu, then 72, wed 26-year-old Frances Chinonyerem Enwerem (read here).

He passed away on July 25, 2024, at age 82, leaving behind his 37-year-old widow. Their marriage resulted in the birth of a son.

On June 16, 2025, TheWill News Media publicized what is claimed to be Chief Iwuanyanwu’s will.

Per the report, the will, administered by Chief Chukwuma Ekomaru (SAN), outlines the distribution of the esteemed businessman and politician’s estate among his immediate family and designated beneficiaries.

A significant provision includes bequeathing the iconic “Legacy House” on Port Harcourt Road, Owerri, to Frances, though she is explicitly prohibited from selling the property.

In addition to the residence, she inherits Magil Furniture—a company formerly managed by Iwuanyanwu’s late first wife, Eudora—and partial interests in real estate holdings in Orji, Works Layout, and Naze, all in Imo State.

The will specifies that if Frances opts to remarry, she will automatically relinquish all these inheritances.

The couple’s son has been given ownership of the family’s residence in Abuja.

Meanwhile, the London property is to be sold, with proceeds allocated as follows: 60% for the education of Iwuanyanwu’s youngest son, 30% to his first son, Jide, and 10% to Ezinne, the current resident, to aid her relocation.

Iwuanyanwu instructed that the “Glass House” near the Orji flyover be converted into a public trust, with an independent board managing its use for charitable and community-oriented initiatives.

Other valuable assets across Abuja, Imo, and various locations in Nigeria have been fairly distributed among Iwuanyanwu’s five children.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli