Why I Built a House for Three Childless Widows in my Constituency

Earlier this year, I was told the heart-melting story of three (3) childless ageing widows who were living in terrible conditions in a dilapidated mud house in Okpuno, Nnewichi, Nnewi. These women who are married to the same husband who is now late, had no children.

Each time it rains, they suffer severe cold as major parts of the zinc covering the thatched house were leaking, coupled with the fact that some parts of the mud house were already falling, posing a death trap to them as it could collapse at anytime.

Disturbed by their plight, I visited these women, I was moved to pity when I noticed that the oldest who was in her seventies or eighties was blind and sick. Their dilapidated mud house is not so different from living outside as it was riddled with gaping holes which cannot prevent cold, mosquitoes, or worst-case scenario snake attacks.

It was heartbreaking that these women in their age who deserve to be tended like babies live in penury in a house that cannot guarantee good sleep.

In furtherance to my vow to better the welfare of my constituents, I decided to build a modern house for the three (3) widows, a house that will not only give them basic shelter but also a sense of belonging.

Women of their age live in houses built by their children but since they were unfortunate to have any, I decided to be a son to them. And what sons do for their mother I promised to do for them.

By the grace of God, I started the building project in the month of March and today being 22nd May, 2020, to the glory of God, the house is commissioned and handed over for use of these widows.

The house is a 3-bedroom bungalow. It has a sitting room with a set cushion chairs, side stools and centre table. It also has a flat-screen LED TV and GOtv with one-year full subscription and also a well-decorated curtain. Each of the three rooms is furnished with a wardrobe, bed, mattress, beddings and curtains. Both the kitchen which is also furnished, the toilet and bath are all inline with every sense of modernity. This is to ensure that these women have the needed relaxation they require.

This house may not be all these women require in their life, but I believe this house will not only put smiles on their faces but will also strengthen their life and increase their life span.

I want to appreciate the presence of Speaker of Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Uche Okafor, who made out time to commission the project alongside Igwe Nnewi. I also appreciate my colleagues, Hon. Barr. Uzoma Eli (Onitsha South 1) and Hon. Akaegbobi Johnbosco (Nnewi South 2) for their presence.

I am also grateful to our Royal Fathers led by Igwe Nnewi, His Royal Highness, Igwe Dr. K. O. N. Orizu (III), Obi Uruagu Nnewi, Obi Afam Charles Obi (Ogidi IV) and Obi Nnewichi, Obi George A. Onyekaba (Obidiugwu) who was represented.

I also appreciate Rt. Hon. Chukwudi Orizu, Hon. Amala Anazodo, Ogbuefi Melie Onyejepu, Sir. Ugochukwu Udemezue, Arc. Paul Ileka, Hon. Chike Agwuncha, Ven. Ekene Iroanusi among other dignitaries whose presence joined to put smiles on the faces of these widows.

To the good people of Nnewi North Constituency, thank you so much for your continued support and prayers.

Hon. Nonso Smart Okafor,
Member Representing,
Nnewi North Constituency,
Anambra State House of Assembly.