Speaking on Wednesday in Onu–Igbere, located in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, during the burial ceremony of Mrs. Chiamaka Joyce Ibekwe — wife of Bende North State Constituency lawmaker, Nnamdi Ibekwe — the governor approved a proposal to establish monuments in honour of notable Abia women.
Otti stressed that women from Abia have always played significant roles throughout history, noting that the appeal made by Ibekwe went beyond personal interests.
According to him, the moment has come for women to be given the recognition they deserve. He urged members of the Abia State House of Assembly to be more deliberate in creating opportunities for women, while also encouraging women to step up and seize those opportunities.
He commended Ibekwe for making a request that he described as selfless, saying it was not about him or even his late wife, but about celebrating the legacy of Abia women as a whole.
Otti assured that the proposal would not only be considered but approved, expressing optimism that such recognition would inspire more women who continue to contribute tirelessly to society.
The governor, who said he has long advocated for women’s inclusion, challenged the current composition of the State House of Assembly, pointing out the absence of female lawmakers.
He noted that all 24 members of the House are men, tasking the Speaker with addressing the imbalance ahead of the 2027 elections. He suggested either the creation of additional constituencies or for some male politicians to step aside to allow women to contest.
Even starting with four female representatives out of 24, he said, would be a significant improvement from having none at all. He also urged women to unite and support one another in the political space.
Otti also expressed condolences to Ibekwe over the loss of his wife, describing her as a divine gift whose life should be appreciated.
He said those who read tributes about her or knew her personally would understand that she lived a meaningful life. He added that since life and death are determined by God, her passing should be accepted with faith and gratitude.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Maureen Aghukwa, alongside Eucharia Okezie who spoke on behalf of friends, described the late Chiamaka as a virtuous, prayerful, and devoted Christian woman whose absence would be deeply felt.
Delivering the sermon, Rev. Mrs. Oyiks Alfred of Word Base Assembly encouraged Christians to grieve with hope, reminding them of the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
She stated that while death is inevitable, those who follow Christ have the assurance of eternity, adding that the deceased lives on in the Lord.
In his tribute, her husband, Ibekwe, described her as an exceptional and selfless woman whose life was defined by love, kindness, and deep faith. He highlighted her strong commitment to prayer and the positive impact she made within her family and community.
He also reiterated his appeal to the governor to immortalise the contributions of outstanding Abia women through monuments, noting that such recognition would preserve their legacy and motivate future generations. He referenced the historic Aba Women’s Riot as evidence of the long-standing impact of Abia women.
Mrs. Chiamaka Ibekwe, who passed away at the age of 46, is survived by her husband, four children, and other family members.
The funeral was attended by several dignitaries, including the governor’s wife, Priscilla Otti; Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu; Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Emmanuel Emeruwa; lawmakers, commissioners, the Mayor of Bende, Uwabunkeonye Bassey, traditional rulers, and other notable figures.
