Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has announced that his administration will approve the construction of monuments to commemorate the women involved in the historic 1929 Aba women’s uprising, as well as other notable women from the state.
Governor Otti made this commitment on Wednesday at the funeral service for the late Chiamaka Joyce Ibekwe, wife of Nnamdi Ibekwe, the lawmaker representing Bende North State Constituency, held in Igbere, Bende Local Government Area of Abia State.
The governor stated that these honours are in recognition of the invaluable contributions of these women to society and history, asserting that such acknowledgements serve as an inspiration for women who have made significant impacts on societal progress.
He emphasized the crucial role women play in sustaining families, businesses, and the broader community, noting their continuous efforts in areas like food production, education, and economic stability, and stressed the need for them to receive appropriate recognition.
Governor Otti also expressed concern over the lack of female representation in the Abia State House of Assembly and used the occasion to advocate for increased female participation in governance.
Describing the late Mrs. Ibekwe as a "divine gift," Governor Otti urged attendees not to mourn with despair but with hope in resurrection, expressing his belief that she is in a better place.
He stated that the late Mrs. Ibekwe was a gift from God, and as such, her departure was determined by the giver, not by human choice.
In his tribute, Mr. Ibekwe referred to his late wife as his "paragon of peace" and "tranquilliser," whose presence brought serenity and piety. He highlighted her dedication to prayer and her positive influence on many lives.
Mr. Ibekwe reiterated his prior motion in the Abia State House of Assembly to erect monuments honouring historical women, specifically mentioning the heroines of the 1929 Aba women’s uprising. He appealed to the governor to support this initiative, suggesting it would be a fitting tribute to his late wife and an enduring legacy.
"I want to request that monuments be erected in honour of the heroines of 1929. If you do this, Chiamaka will rest in peace," Mr. Ibekwe appealed.
Maureen Aghaukwa, Abia’s Commissioner for Women Affairs, also eulogized the deceased as a woman of virtue, a mentor, and a role model, noting that her absence would leave a significant void.
Eucharia Okezie, speaking on behalf of the wives of members of the Abia State House of Assembly, described the late Mrs. Ibekwe as a fervent prayer warrior who was dedicated to her faith and actively shared the Christian message among her peers.
In her sermon, Pastor Oyiks Alfred of Word-Based Assembly encouraged mourners to find solace and hope, urging the family and friends of Mrs. Ibekwe to reflect on their own lives and turn to God.
Earlier, Chimezirim Ibekwe, the deceased's second son, remembered his mother as a devoted wife, loving mother, and quiet philanthropist whose positive impact continues to resonate through the lives she touched.
(NAN)
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