The Anyanwu family of Umueze, Chokoneze Autonomous Community in
Ezinihitte, Mbaise, Imo State has announced the transition of its patriarch, Professor Rowland Anyanwu, aged 84.

Rowland Azubuike Anyanwu, a professor of international relations, played a prominent role in the politics of the Second Republic having served as the deputy national secretary of the then ruling National Party of Nigeria (NPN) and later on as the Presidential Liasion Officer (PLO) to President Shehu Shagari.

He was a close associate of the likes of the late Dr. K. O. Mbadiwe, Chief MKO Abiola and Alhaji Maitama Sule. Professor Anyanwu also
initiated and led the presidential delegation that travelled to Ivory Coast to bring the late Chief Emeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu back from exile.

Popularly known as Oputa Obie (‘when he comes out, problems are solved’), the late Anyanwu was also a much loved and respected community leader in Mbaise, Imo State who pursued community causes with passion, trained and inspired many.

Announcing his death, his first son, Obinna Anyanwu in a statement described his father as a colossus who made an unforgettable impact at so many level

The funeral arrangements will be announced soon.

– Sundiata Post (except the headline and other inputs)