Ugoezes Pay Yuletide Homage To Ex-Ondo First Lady

On Sunday, January 4, 2026, a delegation of Ugoezes (wives of traditional rulers) from Owerri North Local Government Area in Imo State paid homage to Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, the former First Lady of Ondo State.

The delegation visited the ancestral home of Dr. Anyanwu-Akeredolu in Emeabiam Community, Owerri West Local Government Area.

Led by Ugoeze Dr. Merrian Nwaogu wife of the traditional ruler of Egbelu Obube Community, the delegation explained that the visit was motivated by the affection the wives of traditional rulers within the council area hold for Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu.

“We decided to visit her to spend some time with her. We greet and commend her, and we pray for continued success for Ada Owere. God has elevated her, and no power can bring her down,” they prayed.

In response, Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu expressed her appreciation for the thoughtful visit, particularly noting the local foodstuffs brought by the Ugoezes, which she cherishes due to her fondness for indigenous cuisine.

She remarked that her relationship with Nde Ugoezes Owerri North dates back to their collaboration on widows’ care programmes in 2021.

She further acknowledged the significant role the Ugoezes played during her chieftaincy installation as Ada Owere I.

Dr. Anyanwu-Akeredolu conveyed her confidence that the Ugoezes, in collaboration with their husbands, could play a transformative role in advancing programmes that empower women and girls.

She stated, “Yesterday, December 4, 2025, representatives of Nde Ugoeze Owerri North, led by Ugoeze Dr. Merrian Nwaogu, paid me a courtesy visit in my hometown, Emeabiam, although I was unavoidably absent at the time.

“In a deeply thoughtful gesture, they arrived with local foodstuffs, fully aware of my fondness for indigenous cuisine.

“I share a special and enduring relationship with Nde Ugoeze Owerri North, stemming from our collaboration on widows’ care programmes in 2021 under the auspices of the Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu Foundation.

“They also played a prominent role in supporting my installation as Ada Owere I in 2021—the highest traditional title for daughters in modern Owerri.

“I firmly believe that this distinguished group of women (Ugoezes), working in synergy with the support of their husbands (Ezes), can play a transformative role in programmes that advance and empower women and girls.

“Such collective efforts are vital to fostering sustainable socio-economic development within their communities and across Imo State at large.

“I remain deeply grateful for their solidarity, thoughtfulness, and continued commitment to community advancement.”