RismadarVoice Reporters, April 9, 2026
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has called for increased inclusion of women in governance, particularly in the State House of Assembly, urging deliberate action to address their current absence in the legislature.
Otti made the call on Wednesday at Onu-Igbere in Bende Local Government Area during the burial of Mrs. Chiamaka Joyce Ibekwe, wife of Hon. Nnamdi Ibekwe, the member representing Bende North State Constituency.
The governor challenged lawmakers to create opportunities for women ahead of the 2027 elections, noting that the 24-member Assembly is currently made up entirely of men.
“Today, 24 of you are men. So, the Right Honourable Speaker, you have a challenge in your hands. You either create more constituencies or ask some men to step down for women as we approach 2027. We need to find some women in the House,” Otti said.
He added that even modest representation – such as four female lawmakers would mark meaningful progress, while also urging women to organize and position themselves for leadership roles.
Otti also approved a request by Hon. Ibekwe for the erection of monuments to honour notable Abia women, describing the initiative as a recognition of their enduring contributions to society.
“Our women have always been great from time immemorial. The request is not only going to be considered, it will be approved. It will serve as encouragement to women who toil day and night,” he stated.
The governor further condoled with the bereaved lawmaker, describing the late Mrs. Ibekwe as “a gift from God” whose life should be appreciated with gratitude.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Maureen Aghukwa, and a family representative, Eucharia Okezie, described the deceased as a virtuous, prayerful and devoted Christian woman whose passing has created a significant void.
Delivering a sermon, Rev. Mrs. Oyiks Alfred of the Word Base Assembly urged Christians to remain hopeful, emphasizing the promise of eternal life in Christ.
In his tribute, Hon. Ibekwe described his late wife as a selfless and compassionate woman who impacted many lives through her devotion to God and service to others. He reiterated his call for the immortalisation of great Abia women, citing their historic contributions dating back to the 1929 Aba Women’s Riot.
The late Mrs. Chiamaka Joyce Ibekwe, aged 46, is survived by her husband, four children, and other relatives.
