Emeruwa Leads Abia Lawmakers to Bende Burial, Assures Support for Bereaved Colleague

The Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Ihuoma Emeruwa, has reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to standing by its members in times of personal loss, declaring that the 8th Assembly will continue to provide “critical emotional and institutional support” to Hon. Nnamdi Ibekwe following the death of his wife.

Emeruwa made the remarks while addressing journalists on Wednesday at Onu-Igbere, Bende Local Government Area, during the burial of Mrs. Chiamaka Joyce Ibekwe, wife of the lawmaker representing Bende North State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly.

Leading members of the 8th Assembly to the solemn event, the Speaker said the delegation’s presence underscored the unity and solidarity within the legislative arm.

“We are here not just as colleagues, but as a family,” Emeruwa told reporters. “Hon. Ibekwe is our brother and friend, and in moments like this, the Assembly must rally around him. We will continue to support him as he navigates this painful period.”

He urged the bereaved lawmaker and his family to find strength in faith, noting that death should be viewed through the lens of eternal hope.

“As Christians, we believe that those who die in the Lord are at rest. This is a moment of grief, but also of reflection on the transient nature of life,” the Speaker added.

The burial ceremony drew a high-profile attendance, including Governor Alex Otti, who used the occasion to highlight the contributions of women in the state’s history and development.

In his remarks, Hon. Ibekwe paid glowing tribute to his late wife, describing her as “a remarkable and selfless woman, deeply devoted to her family and faith.”

He called on the state government to immortalise outstanding Abia women who have made significant contributions to society.

Responding, Governor Otti announced plans to erect monuments in honour of notable Abia women, citing the historic Aba Women’s Riot of 1929 as a symbol of courage and impact. He also advocated for increased female representation in the state legislature.

Mrs. Chiamaka Joyce Ibekwe, who died at the age of 46, is survived by her husband, four children, and other family members.