The late elder statesman and former President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief (Engr. Dr.) Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, has stirred posthumous conversation with the release of his Will, which strictly bars his wife, Lolo Frances Iwuanyanwu, from remarrying if she intends to retain her inheritance.
The Will, made public on June 16, 2025, and executed by Chief Chukwuma Ekomaru (SAN), outlines how the revered businessman and political figure distributed his vast estate, which includes iconic properties, thriving businesses, and philanthropic projects.
One of the standout provisions is the bequest of the family’s famed “Legacy House” on Port Harcourt Road, Owerri, to his wife, Frances. However, the Will explicitly instructs that the house must never be sold. She also inherits Magil Furniture, originally managed by Iwuanyanwu’s late first wife, Eudora, as well as part ownership in key real estate assets in Orji, Works Layout, and Naze, all within Imo State.
But this inheritance comes with a caveat. The Will states unequivocally that, “Should Frances remarry, she shall forfeit all properties bequeathed to her under this Will.”
Speaking on the controversial clause, Chief Ekomaru said,
“Chief Iwuanyanwu was very clear in his instructions. His decisions were based on personal values and a desire to protect the legacy he built. It is not for us to question but to execute faithfully.”
The couple’s son has been assigned the family’s Abuja residence, while the London property is to be sold. Proceeds from that sale will be allocated as follows: 60% for the education of the youngest child, 30% to the first son, Jide, and 10% to Ezinne, who currently lives there, to help her secure alternate accommodation.
In a lasting act of community service, Chief Iwuanyanwu directed that the well-known “Glass House” near the Orji flyover be transformed into a public trust. This facility will be managed by an independent board and used strictly for charitable and community-based initiatives.
Other assets scattered across Abuja, Imo, and various parts of Nigeria have been equitably distributed among his five children. In a joint statement, the children described the Will as “honorable and just,” adding,
“Our father was a man of deep foresight and fairness. His final wishes reflect his values of discipline, legacy, and service to others.”
Credit: OtownGist
