Deputy Speaker Offers Condolences to Grieving Family
The Deputy Speaker of Nigeria's House of Representatives, Ben Kalu, made a solemn visit to Mayor Lucky Igbokwe, popularly known as Don Lulu, on Sunday, November 9. The visit came as comfort to the bereaved family following the passing of Mayor Igbokwe's mother, Dame Peace Onyekwulechi Igbokwe, who died at the age of 60 after a prolonged illness.
Solidarity Visit to Umuahia Residence
Leading a distinguished delegation to the Igbokwe family residence in Umuawa Alaocha, Umuahia, Deputy Speaker Kalu expressed profound sympathy for the loss. He offered words of comfort to Mayor Igbokwe and his family, reminding them that "God is the owner of life" and encouraging them to find solace in this truth during their difficult time.
Kalu described the death of Dame Peace Igbokwe as both painful and fulfilling. He emphasized that the deceased lived long enough to witness her son's remarkable achievements as a successful businessman, dedicated philanthropist, and respected community leader. "It would have been painful if she didn't witness a bit of who you have become," Kalu told the grieving son.
Legacy of a Mother and Community Response
The Deputy Speaker commended Don Lulu for the love, honor, and care he demonstrated toward his mother throughout her lifetime. He described his visit as a demonstration of solidarity, friendship, and respect, noting that the people of Abia hold Mayor Igbokwe in high esteem for his significant contributions to the state and society.
In response, Mayor Lucky Igbokwe expressed heartfelt gratitude to Hon. Kalu and his entourage for their visit and encouraging words during this challenging period. He revealed that his late mother had bravely battled illness for over 24 years, showing remarkable resilience throughout her life. The philanthropist and former Abia governorship aspirant vowed to uphold his mother's values and continue her legacy of love, faith, and service to others.
The delegation accompanying Deputy Speaker Kalu included several prominent figures: Stanley Ohajuruka, Executive Director of Finance and Administration at the South East Development Commission; Martins Azubuike, Commissioner Representing South East at the FCT Civil Service Commission; Chijioke Chukwu, Commissioner Representing South East at the North West Development Commission; Mike Ukoha, Commissioner Representing South East at the South West Development Commission; Rev. Emmanuel Trumps Eke, Commissioner Representing Abia State at the National Population Commission; and Dame Blessing Nwagba, Former Member of the Abia State House of Assembly, among others.
This condolence visit follows an earlier meeting between both leaders in Abuja, where Mayor Igbokwe had commended Deputy Speaker Kalu's leadership, particularly his role in establishing the South East Development Commission, which he described as transformative for regional development. Both leaders had emphasized the importance of collaboration to promote peace, unity, and sustainable progress in Abia and the broader southeast region.
