Nigerian entertainer and activist, Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charley Boy or Area Fada, took to his Instagram account to express his deep sorrow over the passing of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, who died on July 25, 2024.
In his emotional post, Charley Boy referred to Iwuanyanwu as his “biggest bros” and “father,” recounting how the Igbo leader played a pivotal role in his life when he returned from the United States in 1981. Charley Boy shared that he had disowned his parents for not supporting his dreams, and it was Chief Iwuanyanwu who accidentally met him in his village, Oguta, and gave him $8,000 to help kick-start his career.
“It was Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyawu who accidentally met me in my village Oguta, after I disowned my parents for not buying into my dreams,” Charley Boy wrote. “He dashed me $8.000 at the time. I almost fainted. Dat gave me the impetus to build the Brand as I started my Jankara studio in my village.”
Charley Boy emphasized that Chief Iwuanyanwu was the first Nigerian who believed in his dream and supported him. He went on to reflect on the importance of legacy, stating that it is about the lives we touch, the inspiration we give, and the moments we alter someone’s plan.
“Chief I can never forget how out of the blues, you jump started my career,” Charley Boy wrote. “I know many will share similar stories of how you touched their live (sic). I remain ever so grateful. Rest In Peace Biggest bros/father.”
The news of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu’s death has sent shockwaves through the Igbo community and Nigeria as a whole, as he was a respected leader and influential figure. Charley Boy’s heartfelt tribute serves as a testament to the impact Iwuanyanwu had on the lives of many, and his legacy will undoubtedly live on through the countless individuals he inspired and supported throughout his life.
The post ‘I Remain Ever So Grateful’: Charley Boy On How Chief Iwuanyanwu’s $8,000 Launched His Career appeared first on TheNigeriaLawyer.