Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti has announced plans to immortalise the heroines of the historic through the construction of monuments, in a move aimed at recognising the contributions of women to society and promoting greater inclusion in governance.
The governor made the disclosure during the burial ceremony of late Mrs. Chiamaka Joyce Ibekwe, wife of the lawmaker representing Bende North State Constituency, , held in Igbere, Bende Local Government Area.
Speaking at the event, Otti emphasised the need to honour historic women whose sacrifices and roles have shaped society, noting that such recognition would inspire present and future generations of women.
“I want to thank the honourable member for the request he made here because the request was not about him and it was not even about Chiamaka, it was about Abia women from inception. Our women have always been great women. If you do not know, then you do not know history,” the governor stated.
He lamented that women have not received adequate recognition despite their immense contributions, assuring that the proposal for the monuments would not only be considered but approved.
Otti further highlighted the central role of women in food production, child upbringing, education, and economic stability, stressing that they deserve to be accorded their rightful place in society.
The governor also expressed concern over the absence of female lawmakers in the Abia State House of Assembly, calling for increased female participation in governance.
In his tribute, described his late wife as a “paragon of peace” and “tranquilliser,” whose life embodied calmness, faith, and compassion. He renewed his call for monuments to honour historic women, particularly the heroines of the 1929 uprising.
“Your Excellency, I want to request that monuments be erected in honour of the heroines of 1929. If you do this, Chiamaka will rest in peace,” he said.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, , described the deceased as a virtuous woman, mentor, and role model whose passing leaves a significant void.
On behalf of the wives of members of the State House of Assembly, Mrs. Eucharia Okezie extolled the late Mrs. Ibekwe as a prayerful woman committed to spreading the message of Christ among her peers.
Delivering a sermon, Pastor Mrs. Oyiks Alfred of Word Based Assembly urged mourners to reflect on their lives and maintain faith, encouraging them not to grieve without hope.
Earlier, the second son of the deceased, Master Chimezirim Ibekwe, described his mother as a devoted wife, loving mother, and quiet philanthropist whose legacy lives on through the many lives she impacted.
The proposed monuments are expected to serve as enduring symbols of recognition for the bravery and historical significance of women, particularly those who played pivotal roles in the , widely regarded as a defining moment in Nigeria’s resistance against colonial rule.
