It was a moment filled with emotion, gratitude and quiet reflection when Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, paid an unannounced visit to the family of the late former Governor of Old Imo State, Dr. Sam Mbakwe. For Lady Victoria Mbakwe, widow of the revered leader, the visit was more than a courtesy call—it was a reaffirmation of compassion, continuity and genuine leadership.
Speaking during the visit on Tuesday, December 23, Lady Victoria Mbakwe poured heartfelt praise on Governor Otti, commending him for what she described as his people-centred governance and unwavering concern for the welfare of families connected to Nigeria’s historic leadership.
“God sent you because of us,” she told the Governor, expressing profound gratitude for his consistent support to her family. She noted that Governor Otti’s kindness was not seasonal or symbolic, stressing that his visits and assistance were not limited to festive periods such as Christmas.
According to her, the Abia State Governor has remained steadfast in checking on the family over time, a gesture she said speaks volumes about his character and commitment to service beyond politics.
Lady Mbakwe also extended appreciation to the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, CON, whom she acknowledged for similarly showing sustained concern for the family of the late Dr. Sam Mbakwe without waiting for ceremonial occasions.
Governor Otti’s visit was further marked by a show of warmth from the Abia First Family. Although the First Lady, Her Excellency Lady Priscilla Chidimma Otti, was unable to attend in person due to urgent family matters, she sent gift items to the Mbakwe family through her husband, underscoring the family’s shared spirit of empathy and goodwill.
Visibly touched by the visit, Lady Victoria Mbakwe offered prayers for Governor Otti and his family, asking God to continually bless him for his service to the people and for his steadfast support to her household.
The visit attracted notable political figures and leaders, reflecting the significance of the moment. Governor Otti was accompanied by the National Secretary of the Labour Party, Senator Darlington Nwokocha; the Member representing Ikwuano, Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Obi Aguocha; the Member representing Isiala Ngwa South State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Roland Chinwendu; the Commissioner representing Abia State in the Federal Character Commission, High Chief Victor Ikeji, Ph.D, among others.
For observers, the visit highlighted a quieter side of leadership—one rooted in compassion, remembrance and continuity of values.
Beyond politics and protocol, it was a reminder that governance, at its best, touches lives in personal and lasting ways.
As the year draws to a close, the exchange between Governor Otti and the Mbakwe family stands as a testament to the enduring bonds between leaders and the legacies they honour—past and present.
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