Widowhood, not a curse –Ugoeze Nwamara … As Foundation celebrates Intl Widows’ Day, empowers widows in Mbaise … Group honours founder as Ambassador of Integrity

By Eze Adiuku

Ugoeze Chigbo Nwamara speaking while handing over a Sewing machine to one of the widows, Mrs Ugwujo

It was all fun and joy at Central School, Chokoneze Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area  Imo State on 23^rd June, 2017 during the celebration of 2017  International Widows’ Day, organized by a nongovernmental organization –Off The Hook Foundation for rural Dwellers, for widows in the state.

Speaking at the event, founder of the NGO, Ugoeze (Lady) Chigbo Nwamara advised widows that widowhood is not a curse. “Widowhood is not a the reason to become nonchalant, indolent and give up on life. I inspire you today to Arise and Shine for your light is come”, she charged them.

According to the wife of HRH Eze Mike Nwamara of Umueze Chokoneze, “widows are the most vulnerable of all women”. She however called for opportunities for the widows, describing them as vibrant and valued members of the society who are making full contributions to families and society at large.

While bemoaning the numerous challenges and hardships widows go through, the founder of Off The Hook Foundation for Rural Dwellers made case for the promotion, protection and respect for the rights of widows. “No widow should lose her status, livelihood or property after the loss of her lovely husband”, she advised.

In his words of exhortation to the widows, Vulnerable Stephen Nwaogazi of the Mbaise Anglican Communion charged widows to remain steadfast and upright, adding that though there are challenges but that help can only come from God.

Taking his text from the of Psalm 121:2 with the theme: ‘Our help cometh from the Lord’, the Anglican cleric tasked widows to always look up to God, charging them from causing strife and disharmony in other homes.

Ven Nwaogazi cautioned men, especially titled and influential people not to put the widows under pressure because of their conditions. He commended women for being steadfast in their care for their homes after the death of their husbands, stressing that they are better than the men who would always immediately look for another spouse once their wife dies.

The cleric lauded the founder of the NGO, Ugoeze Nwamara for deeming it fit to celebrate widows and for her efforts in empowering them.

At the event, women on the platform of Nigeria Women of Integrity bestowed an award of honour on Ugoeze Nwamara as Ambassador of Integrity. The women while presenting the award plaque, described the founder of Off The Hook foundation for Rural Dwellers as a woman of integrity whom they have come to encourage her efforts.

According to the women, the organization was foundered by late Chief (Mrs) Chinyere Asike, wife of a former Administrator of Eastern region, Ukpabi Asika, and the group has its headquarters in Abuja.

Highlights of the event include the presentation of sewing machines to two widows through lucky dip, sharing of cloths and other gift items to the widows as well as motivational talk by Mr Chimankpam Anyankpa, medical tips and dance display by Off The Hook Cultural Troupe.

Dignitaries that graced the event include HRH Eze Aguwamba, HRH Eze Nnanna Nwosu and wives of some traditional rulers.