Exactly one year after the painful passing of Hon. Surveyor Ifeanyi Nwaru, the former Vice Chairman of Aninri Local Government Area, emotions once again filled the hearts of family members, friends, political associates, and the entire Aninri community as tributes poured in to honour a life remembered for service, humility, and uncommon generosity.
Leading the voices of remembrance was the State Youth Leader of the New Face of Enugu Movement for Peter Mbah, Hon. Charles Ilodi, who described the late Hon. Nwaru not only as a political leader but as a rare friend and mentor whose impact transcended office and titles. According to Ilodi, Hon. Nwaru lived a life of purpose and compassion, touching lives selflessly until his final breath.
Hon. Ilodi recalled that although one year has passed since the tragic exit of the former vice chairman, his absence still feels as fresh and as painful as yesterday. He noted that Hon. Nwaru departed “in a blazing light,” leaving behind enduring legacies of kindness, loyalty, and dedication to public service, which continue to inspire those who had the privilege of working closely with him.
In an emotionally charged reflection, Ilodi emphasized that Hon. Nwaru was the kind of leader who gave his all to others, often placing the needs of the people above personal comfort. He described him as unforgettable, stressing that his gentle leadership style, open heart, and generous spirit set him apart in both governance and personal relationships.
Beyond the tribute, Hon. Ilodi used the solemn occasion to commend His Excellency, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, the Executive Governor of Enugu State, for what he described as a humane, thoughtful, and compassionate decision in the aftermath of Hon. Nwaru’s death. He expressed deep gratitude to the governor for finding the late leader’s wife, Mrs. Mary Oluchi Nwaru, worthy to step into her husband’s shoes as the Vice Chairman of Aninri Local Government Area.
Ilodi stated that the decision did not only ensure continuity in governance but also brought healing and reassurance to a grieving family and community, demonstrating Governor Mbah’s people-centered leadership and sensitivity to human realities beyond politics.
He assured that the memory of Hon. Ifeanyi Nwaru would continue to be cherished, while prayers would never cease for the eternal repose of his soul, noting that though death took him away physically, his legacy remains alive in the hearts of many.
Below is the full text of the tribute note released by Hon. Charles Ilodi to mark the one-year remembrance:
“ONE YEAR REMEMBRANCE: TRIBUTE TO MY BOSS AND FRIEND
Today marks one year Hon. Surv. Ifeanyi Nwaru, Vice Chairman of Aninri LGA left this world in a blazing light.
I remember your kindness and generous spirit always.
You are an unforgettable friend and boss who gave his all to others.
I am grateful to His Excellency Dr. Peter Mbah for finding your dear wife, Mrs. Mary Oluchi Nwaru worthy of replacing you as the Vice Chairman of Aninri LGA.
We shall continue to cherish your memories of great and eventful life and pray for the eternal repose of your soul. Amen.
Hon. Charles Ilodi
State Youth Leader,
New Face of Enugu Movement for Peter Mbah.”
As Enugu State continues to record strides in governance under Governor Peter Mbah, voices like that of Hon. Charles Ilodi serve as reminders that leadership is ultimately measured not just by policies and projects, but by compassion, empathy, and the ability to honour those who served with sincerity. One year on, Hon. Ifeanyi Nwaru’s name remains etched in honour, his legacy undimmed by time.