Nearly one year after the passing of esteemed elder statesman and former President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief (Engr. Dr.) Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, his final will and testament has reportedly been read and it’s already generating controversy within and beyond the family.
According to sources familiar with the reading of the will, one of its most striking provisions is a clause barring his widow, Frances Chinonyerem Iwuanyanwu, from remarrying with the risk of forfeiting her inheritance if she does.
While not yet publicly confirmed by legal representatives, has sparked public debate over its legality, morality, and enforceability, especially in modern Nigerian society. Many see it as a patriarchal overreach, while others defend it as a personal choice reflecting the late Chief’s values and expectations.
Legal experts say such clauses while uncommon are not entirely unheard of in Nigerian wills. However, their legal standing could be challenged in court, especially if seen as a violation of constitutional rights or undue control from beyond the grave.
“Wills are personal documents and can include unusual stipulations, but courts may not enforce provisions that infringe on basic rights, such as the right to remarry,” said Lagos-based legal practitioner, Barr. Ifeanyi Ndukwe.
Chief Iwuanyanwu, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 81, first married Lady Eudora Nnenna Ozinyereaku Iwuanyanwu, a marriage that lasted over 40 years until her death in 2011. In 2013, at age 72, he remarried Frances Chinonyerem Enwerem, a then-26-year-old woman from Imo State. Their age-gap marriage made headlines at the time and drew both admiration and criticism from various quarters.
Frances, now 38, was said to have played a key role as caregiver and companion to the elder statesman in his final years, and reportedly enjoyed his confidence and support in various business and philanthropic efforts.
Sources say that the reading of the will was conducted in the presence of family members, legal representatives, and close associates with the remarriage clause triggering tension and hushed conversations among attendees.
Although Frances has not made any public statement regarding the will, insiders say she has remained composed, and has continued to carry out her duties related to the family’s estate and legacy initiatives.
Social media, however, has been abuzz with divided reactions. While some argue that the late Chief had every right to protect his assets and honor his legacy, others view the clause as controlling and outdated, especially given Frances’ age and potential to rebuild her life.
“So a widow in her 30s is now banned from finding love again? Even in death, some men want to control women’s lives,” tweeted one user.
It remains to be seen whether the clause will be legally contested or simply respected out of loyalty or fear of losing entitlements. Legal analysts say Frances could potentially challenge the condition if she chooses to remarry, especially if it contradicts established laws regarding inheritance rights.
In the meantime, the late Chief Iwuanyanwu is remembered for his contributions to engineering, politics, philanthropy, and Igbo leadership, with many still mourning the void left by his death.
His will, however, may have just ignited a new legacy one not of cement and steel, but of love, power, and the complexity of family after death.
