In a heartwarming event at his country home in Oloko, Senator Austin Akobundu, representing the Abia Central Senatorial District, and his wife, Mrs. Adeola Akobundu, hosted widows from the community to celebrate their resilience and unveil new initiatives designed to support them.
Mrs. Adeola Akobundu, renowned for her dedication to community service, spoke passionately about her commitment to the welfare of widows.
“My focus is always on the wellbeing of widows and I will not cease my efforts,” she stated. “The prayers of widows hold great power, and I believe in their strength.” She continued, “Whenever I return home, my concern for the widows is paramount. My husband understands my heart, and together we strive to make a difference. We truly need your prayers.”
The event also featured a moving testimony from Mrs. Gift Chinenyenwa Isiguzo Uzoanya (née Ochiuwa), a widow who shared her journey of overcoming adversity.
“I lost my husband seven years ago, and it was an incredibly painful time,” she reflected. “However, I found comfort in God’s presence and was inspired to write my book, ‘Trials and Truths of Widowhood’.”
She expressed deep gratitude to the Senator’s family for their impactful initiatives. “I sincerely thank the convener and her husband for their exemplary support. They are undeniably making a difference. To all the widows present, I urge you to hold on to hope. Your situation is not your final destination.”
In his address, Senator Akobundu expressed heartfelt appreciation to the widows for their unwavering support and prayers, recognising their crucial role in his life and political career.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank each of you for standing by me through thick and thin,” he began. “Your prayers, encouragement, and resilience have been a source of strength for me, and I do not take them for granted. Your steadfastness in the face of adversity inspires me to work even harder.”
The Senator announced the establishment of a dedicated Fund aimed at providing financial assistance to widows, highlighting the need to address their unique challenges.
“In recognition of your resilience and the hardships you endure, I am committing to creating a Fund specifically for widows. This Fund will meet immediate needs, empower you economically, and ensure that you do not feel left behind in our shared progress. It is time we transform our gratitude into concrete action,” he declared.
He also provided updates on significant development projects in the region, particularly the much-anticipated Ahia Eke hospital.
“My commitment to enhancing healthcare remains unwavering. The hospital at Ahia Eke is nearly ready to begin operations. The equipment has been delivered, and doctors and nurses are on their way. This facility will not only serve you and your families but will also create job opportunities for many in our community. Quality healthcare ought to be a right, not a privilege, and we are making that a reality for you,” he assured.
Senator Akobundu further encouraged the widows to remain united and supportive of one another, underlining the strength that comes from community solidarity.
“Let us not underestimate the power of unity,” he urged. “I encourage you all to continue supporting one another, praying for one another, and leaning on each other. Together, we can surmount any challenge and build a brighter future for our children and grandchildren.”
“Your prayers have brought us this far, and I ask that you continue to pray for us. Together, we will persist in building a community where everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to thrive. Thank you for your love, support, and unyielding faith,” he concluded, prompting resounding applause from the women.
The event concluded with the distribution of bags of rice, cash gifts, and other essential items to the widows.
