An atmosphere of joy erupted yesterday morning in Sabongidda-Ora, the administrative headquarters of Owan West Local Government Council as the wife of Edo State Deputy Governor, Her Excellency, Mrs. Maryann Shaibu joined mammoth crowd of Owan West Women in celebration of Christmas.

Mrs Shaibu, wife of Edo State Deputy Governor who arrived the venue of the event at exactly 10:15 am was received by large number of women spread across the 11 wards of the LGA, People’s Democratic Party LGA and ward women leaders, newly appointed Senior Special Assistants, Special Assistants to Edo State Governor from Owan West and a host of other admirers of the number 2 woman in the State.

In her Excellency’s remarks, she poured encomiums on God for preservation of life and assured the women of a better 2022 ahead.

On her ward to ward Christmas tour of Edo North, she noted that before now, over eight thousand women usually visit her Jattu residence in celebration of Christmas and added that, due to the large crowd and the desire to save them the stress of coming to Jattu, “I decided that I will personally move round the respective LGAs in Edo North to celebrate, dine and wine with the women.

“Just as we are doing it here in Owan West, we are also going to be doing same in other LGAs in the Senatorial District.

“The good news in this year’s celebration is that women will go home happy as everyone will go home with Christmas package.”

Mrs. Shaibu commended Mrs Patience Azegbe Ilaboya, the wife of Hon. Frank Ilaboya, former Council Boss for her mobilization efforts which has contributed greatly to the success and unity of women in the LGA.

Parts of the side attractions that thrilled the women during the Christmas celebration were dancing competition amongst women from the 11 wards, entertainment by Jongae Dance Band from Avbiosi Ward 5, Comedy and celebration dance with the women led by the wife of the Deputy Governor.

Highpoints of the event were the presentation of Christmas gift items and cash prizes to various winners of the dancing competition.

Responding, Dame (Dr.) Patience Isokpehi, the PDP Senatorial Woman Leader expressed gratitude to the wife of the Deputy Governor for identifying with Owan West Women and the Senatorial District at large, assuring her of women’s continuous support.

Other dignitaries who graced the event were Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, Chief of Staff to EDHA Speaker; Barr. George Ohiomah, Board Member, Local Government Service Commission; Hon. Odion Daniel Iruobe (aka ODK), immediate past Secretary to Owan West LGA; Hon. (Dr.) Festus Owu, former Secretary to Owan East Local Government; Engr. Amune Sylvester, former SSA; Hon. Mustapha Omo Okpo Lawal, P.A to Edo Deputy Governor’s wife; Dame Vero Alufohai Iruobe, Vice President National Council of Women Society (NCWS), Edo State Chapter; Hon. Victoria Asije, SSA to Edo State Governor; Mrs. Joy Idogbo, Owan West Women Coordinator; Hon. Aminu Okodo-Kadiri, Personal Assistant to Her Excellency and Hon. Edionwemen Blessing, former Special Assistant to the Governor and a host of others.