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Governor Alex Otti has declared that his administration will erect monuments to honour the brave women who led the historic 1929 Aba Women’s Riot, describing the move as long-overdue recognition of their sacrifice and impact on Nigeria’s history. The governor made the announcement on Wednesday during the burial ceremony of Chiamaka Joyce Ibekwe, wife of Honourable Nnamdi Ibekwe, the lawmaker representing Bende North State Constituency. The ceremony took place in Igbere, Bende Local Government Area. Speaking at the event, Governor Otti said the monuments would stand as permanent symbols of gratitude to the heroines of the 1929 uprising, whose courageous protest against colonial oppression helped shape the nation’s political consciousness. He stressed that the gesture was not just about remembering the past but also about inspiring present and future generations of women who continue to contribute immensely to societal development. “Thank you to the honourable member for the request he made here today,” the governor said. “It was not about him, and it was not even about Chiamaka. It was about Abia women from inception. “Our women have always been great women. If you do not know, then you do not know history. We have come to the level where somehow, either knowingly or unknowingly, we have refused to give women their due recognition.” Governor Otti’s comments were met with applause from the gathering, many of whom described the pledge as a bold step towards correcting historical oversight and celebrating the pivotal role of women in Abia’s rich heritage. The 1929 Aba Women’s Riot remains one of the most significant anti-colonial movements in Nigeria’s history, led by market women who rose against unfair taxation and colonial policies. Governor Otti’s promise signals a renewed commitment by the Abia State Government to preserve and celebrate such landmark contributions. *ReportNaija will bring you further updates as plans for the monuments are finalised.*