Veteran singer and activist Charles Oputa, known as Charly Boy, is mourning the loss of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, who passed away on July 25. Charly Boy described Iwuanyanwu as his “biggest brother” and “father,” reflecting on how the late Ohanaeze President played a crucial role in his life.

Iwuanyanwu was the first Nigerian to truly believe in Charly Boy’s dreams and support him financially.

This support included a significant gesture of $8,000, which helped Charly Boy pursue his aspirations. In his tribute, Charly Boy highlights Iwuanyanwu’s importance in his journey and the deep impact he had on his life.

Charly Boy wrote,

“When I returned from the USA 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. Dat 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.

“My people, 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. More than anything, we are remembered for our smiles; the ones we share with our closest and dearest, and the ones we bestow on total strangers, who needed it right then, and God put us there to deliver.

“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 live (sic).

“I remain ever so grateful.

“Rest In Peace

“Biggest bros/father.”

“After I disowned my parents for not buying into my dreams, he dashed me $8,000” .