The late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu’s final will has stirred public debate after banning his wife from remarrying or risk losing her inheritance.
The will, unveiled on June 16, 2025, by administrator Chief Chukwuma Ekomaru (SAN), details how the elder statesman and leader in Ohanaeze Ndigbo divided his wealth between family and community.
Central to the controversy is the clause stating that his widow, Lolo Frances, may keep the iconic Legacy House in Owerri only if she never remarries.
She also inherits Magil Furniture previously run by Iwuanyanwu’s first wife Eudora and parts of several Imo State properties.
However, the condition stands clear: any remarriage automatically nullifies all assets left to her.
- Frances keeps Legacy House on Port Harcourt Road, Owerri, never to be sold.
- She also receives ownership of Magil Furniture and shares in properties across Orji, Works Layout, and Naze in Imo State.
- Their son takes over the Abuja residence.
- A London property will be sold, with proceeds split: 60% for youngest son’s education, 30% for eldest son Jide, and 10% for Ezinne’s relocation.
- The “Glass House” near Orji flyover transforms into a public trust for charity.
- Other assets in Abuja, Imo, and further were distributed among his five children, who described the directives as “honorable and just.”
While Frances and the Iwuanyanwu children have not publicly responded, the remarriage clause has ignited national debate over modern inheritance values and gender rights.
The will leaves about 15 properties unassigned, likely due to Chief Iwuanyanwu’s declining health before his demise.
These are expected to enter legal review as administrators and family members proceed with estate planning.
The clause restricting Frances’s remarriage is at the heart of the story.
Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu’s will may have been intended as a final testament to tradition and family, but its unexpected condition demanding his wife’s lifelong loyalty has jolted public opinion.
