Veteran singer and songwriter Charly Boy has shared a heartfelt tribute to Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the former President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, who passed away recently after a brief illness.
In a post on his official Facebook page, Charly Boy recounted an important moment when Chief Iwuanyanwu provided crucial support that helped launch his music career.
Charly Boy revealed that in 1981, upon returning from the United States and struggling financially, Chief Iwuanyanwu unexpectedly offered him $8,000.
This generous act occurred during a chance meeting in Charly Boy’s hometown, Oguta, after he had distanced himself from his family due to disagreements over his career aspirations.
Reflecting on the experience, Charly Boy wrote, “When I returned from the USA in 1981, all I had was a dream as a broke-ass Charly Boy wanna be. It was Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyawu who accidentally met me in my village, Oguta, after I disowned my parents for not buying into my dreams. He dashed me $8,000 at the time. I almost fainted. That gave me the impetus to build the brand as I started my Jankara studio in my village. He was the very first Nigerian who supported and believed in my dream.”
Charly Boy noted that Chief Iwuanyanwu’s kindness not only jump-started his career but also left a lasting impact on many others. He praised the late leader for touching lives and inspiring people, stating, “Legacy is really about the lives we touched, the inspiration we gave, altering someone’s plan—if even for a moment—and getting them to think, cry, laugh, argue.”
Concluding his tribute, Charly Boy expressed his deep gratitude and admiration for Chief Iwuanyanwu, acknowledging the role he played in his life and career.
“Chief, I can never forget how, out of the blues, you jump-started my career. I know many will share similar stories of how you touched their lives. I remain ever so grateful. Rest in peace, biggest bros/father,” he wrote.
