The recently revealed last will and testament of the late elder statesman and former President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief (Engr. Dr.) Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, has sparked controversy over a reported clause restricting his widow from remarrying.

Chief Iwuanyanwu, a renowned businessman and political figure, passed away on July 25, 2024, at the age of 82. His will was reportedly read to his family on June 16, 2025 — nearly a year after his death — and made public by TheWill News Media.

Iwuanyanwu was first married to Lady Eudora Nnenna Ozinyereaku Iwuanyanwu, with whom he spent over four decades until her death in 2011 at the age of 63. Two years later, in 2013, he remarried 26-year-old Frances Chinonyerem Enwerem. Their union produced one son.

Now 37, Frances is named as a significant beneficiary in the will. Among her inheritances is the iconic “Legacy House” located on Port Harcourt Road, Owerri. However, the will expressly forbids her from selling the property. In addition, Frances is granted full ownership of Magil Furniture—a business formerly run by Iwuanyanwu’s first wife—as well as stakes in several real estate assets in Orji, Works Layout, and Naze, all situated in Imo State.

However, a notable clause in the will reportedly stipulates that should Frances choose to remarry, she will automatically forfeit all of these assets.

The couple’s son is assigned ownership of the family’s Abuja residence. Meanwhile, the family’s property in London is to be sold, with the proceeds distributed as follows:

• 60% towards the education of Chief Iwuanyanwu’s youngest son (Frances’s child),
• 30% to his first son, Jide,
• 10% to Ezinne, the current occupant of the home, to assist in her relocation.

In a philanthropic gesture, Chief Iwuanyanwu directed that his “Glass House” property near the Orji flyover be converted into a public trust, to be overseen by an independent board and used for charitable and community-focused initiatives.

Other properties and business interests across Abuja, Imo State, and other parts of Nigeria are said to have been equitably distributed among his five children.

While the will has yet to be officially confirmed by the family, the reported clause regarding Frances’s remarriage has stirred public debate about inheritance rights, tradition, and gender equity within prominent Nigerian families.