The Ugosimba Women Association, a women-led socio-cultural organisation based in Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State, has immortalised a distinguished First Republic politician, late Chief O. C. Ememe, with the moulding of a commemorative statue in his honour.
The statue, which will be mounted at a strategic and prominent location in Ukwa, was unveiled during the official launch ceremony of the Ugosimba Women Association. The event took place at Obehie Central School, Ukwa West, and the unveiling was performed by the Member representing Ukwa West State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Godwin Anyamigiobi Adiele.
The erudite and sagacious politician, Chief O. C. Ememe was born on November 10, 1914, in Ogwe, Asa, Ukwa Division, in present-day Abia State, to Chief Chigbu Ememe and Mrs. Mgboro Ememe. He began his education at Central School, Ogwe, attended Qua Iboe Mission School, Ogbor Hill, Aba, and later studied at Etinam Institute in what is now Akwa Ibom State.
He furthered his education abroad, earning a degree in Political Science from the University of Michigan, USA, and later obtained a Master’s degree in Business Economics from Columbia University. After working with several companies in Nigeria, Chief Ememe ventured into partisan politics and was elected twice into the Federal House of Representatives during Nigeria’s First Republic.
He was widely admired for his unwavering advocacy for the development, welfare, and political inclusion of the Ukwa people. Fondly referred to as “Radio Moscow”, Chief Ememe was known for his bold political voice, intellectual depth, and commitment to social justice and community advancement.
According to the association, the statue project was undertaken to replace an existing broken statue of the late politician and to beautify and rehabilitate the surrounding environment to be designated by the authorities for its installation. The gesture was made in recognition of Chief Ememe’s enduring contributions as a political leader, nationalist, and humanitarian.
The Ugosimba Women Association of Asa was established as the women’s wing of the Asa Elites Forum, an organisation originally formed by Asa sons. Notably, the association intentionally includes women married into Asa from outside the community.
The Ugosimba Women Association is currently led by Engr. Ezi-ada Florence Adinigwe Nwoke (President), with the following executive members: Mrs. Perpetual Emeka-Elechi, Vice President, Mrs. Edith Chijioke, Secretary, Mrs. Benice Kingsley-Enyite, Financial Secretary,
Mrs. Jacinta Uche Okezie-Ogbonna, Treasurer, Mrs. Chidiebere Uche-Nwosu, Public Relations Officer. Other prominent members include; the wife of the Executive Chairman, Ukwa West LGA, Deaconess Mrs Didi Dike Nwankwo, Dr. Mrs. Nancy Nwosu, Engr. Mrs. Joy Chike Eugene Okpokiri, Mrs. Roseline ThankGod Ntaku and Mrs Blessing Okezie Uleh.
