Lady Victoria Aguiyi Ironsi, widow of Nigeria’s first military head of state, Gen. Johnson Thomas Umunnakwe Aguiyi Ironsi and Lady Adanma Okpara, the widow of the late premier of the defunct Eastern Region, Dr. Michael Iheonukara Okpara, have passed on at the age of 97 respectively.
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The two women, however, died barely 24 hours after apart.
The transition of Lady Ironsi was confirmed by her son, Ambassador Johnson Aguiyi Ironsi, who said the family would give full details of her death in due course.
Lady Ironsi had been a widow since July 29,1966, when her husband Gen. Johnson Thomas Aguiyi Ironsi, was assassinated in a counter-coup during an official visit to Ibadan.
But reactions have since trailed the passing of both women from leaders of the country in different walks of life.
President Muhammadu Buhari, in his message, extended deepest condolences to the Aguiyi-Ironsi family, and government and people of Abia State on the passing of Victoria Aguiyi-Ironsi and Lady Adanma Okpara.
President Buhari in two press releases issued on Monday by his Media Adviser, Femi Adesina, affirmed that Lady Victoria’s incredible strength and exceptional courage during one of the darkest moments in the nation’s history portrayed her as a mother of the nation, God-fearing and a foremost woman of valour.
He noted that the former First Lady would be remembered for laying a solid foundation for women’s leadership role in the seat of power and as a founding member of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association; she passionately championed the welfare and wellbeing of families of military officers.
The President recognised that 55 years after the death of General Aguiyi-Ironsi, Lady Victoria never stopped working for the greater good of Nigeria, and for peace, stability, healing and reconciliation in the land.
Buhari sincerely hoped that Lady Victoria’s labours for the country would not be in vain, and joined all Nigerians in praying for the repose of the soul of the departed and comfort for those who mourn.
While commiserating with family of the late Dr. Michael Okpara, over the demise of Lady Adanma Okpara, the president also joined the government and people of Abia State and all Nigerians in mourning the passing of an enterprising and disciplined mother, who was a worthy example of humility and hardwork to her children and the many women she mentored in her community.
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