Anambra, A’Ibom To Immortalise Christy Essien-Igbokwe

Governor Peter Obi of Anambra and Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom have promised to immortalise the late Christy Essien-Igbokwe with the construction of a resource centre for her contributions to the music industry.

The governors made the pledge on Saturday in Awka during the interment of the remains of  Essien-Igbokwe, also referred to as “the Lady of Songs”.

In his remarks, Akpabio described Essien-Igbokwe as an idol, a great wife and loving mother and a great gift to Akwa Ibom.

He said: “Essien-Igbokwe added value to anyone who came close to her. We have lost an icon, the first musician who never saw herself more than the little Akwa Ibom woman.

“We see her death as sunset in the land of promise. I want people to continue in the legacies of Essien-Igbokwe.”

Akapbio, who made a cash donation of N10 million toward the completion of the resource centre, also extolled the virtues of the late musician, adding that it was not limited to her, but women from the state.

In his contributions, Obi said; “Anambra is proud of Essien-Igbokwe’s contributions to Nigeria and will immortalise her with a multi-million-Naira resource centre, which will commence immediately.”

Earlier, the Most Rev. Maxwell Anikwenwa, the immediate past Anglican Archbishop of Awka Diocese, described the deceased as a charitable woman who provided succour to people around her.

He said:“It is not the number of years one lives that matters but what one achieved within the period.

“Essien-Igbokwe was not a religious bigot, but a talented woman who touched the lives of people, especially children all over the world.”

For Dame Virgy Etiaba, a former Governor of Anambra, Essien-Igbokwe’s life portrayed what was expected of every woman.

She said: “If we are able to get 20 per cent of her type, Nigeria will be a great place, especially now that we are praying for peace and love in the country.”

The occasion also witnessed the presence of eminent Nigerians including Senators Ndi Obi, Chris Ngige and Andy Uba, Mrs Uche Ekwunife, and Anambra Deputy Governor, Mr Emeka Sibeudu.

Others were the wife of Governor Obi, Mrs Margret Obi, and the National Chairman of APGA, Chief Victor Umeh, among others.