By Gloria Ikibah
The Member of the House of Representatives for Andoni/Opobo-Nkoro Federal Constituency, Hon. Awaji-Inombek Dagomie Abiante, on Saturday laid his wife, Agnes Nwakaego Abiante, to rest at his family compound in Ukwa Community, Ngo Urban, Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The burial ceremony was marked by an outpouring of tributes that reflected the late Mrs Abiante’s humility, devotion to family, and quiet commitment to service. 
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, attended the funeral and took part fully in the service, joining a large gathering that included members of the National Assembly, community leaders, women’s groups, friends, and associates of the bereaved family.
In an emotional tribute, Hon. Abiante described his late wife as a source of strength whose influence shaped both his private life and public service.
“I was married to an angel in human form,” the lawmaker said.
He spoke of her humility, kindness, generosity, and entrepreneurial spirit, noting that she consistently pushed him to grow and improve as a person.
According to him, she built a strong support system around their family, standing by him as a dependable partner, companion, and friend.
The lawmaker said he believed their marriage was divinely ordained, adding that the memories they shared together would remain deeply etched in his heart.
Reflecting on his loss, Abiante said the death of his wife had forced him to confront the fragility of life, he described the loss as a painful reminder of life’s fleeting nature.
“Personal tragedy has a way of stripping away illusions about power, status and material achievement.
“For me, it has always been work and the fear of God, life is not embodied in possessions or titles but in memories, hope and the positive impact made on otherst,” he said.
Abiante cautioned people in positions of authority against the abuse of power, saying no amount of influence or wealth could ultimately prevent death.
“No matter the powers you have wielded, the day the Lord closes your chapter, everything becomes useless to you,” he said, urging leaders to exercise authority with humility and to the glory of God.
He said death was a common denominator for all, regardless of social status, wealth or position, noting that life’s defining moments came to everyone in equal measure.
Representing the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, the lawmaker for Southern Ijaw Federal Constituency, Rep. Rodney Ambaiowei, said the late Mrs Abiante was deeply cherished both within her community and beyond.
“If you mentioned her name anywhere in the community and beyond, she was appreciated,” he said, while encouraging women to continue to stand firmly by their husbands, noting that such support remains crucial to family stability and success.
The Minority Whip of the House of Representatives, Ali Isa JC, who attended the burial alongside other lawmakers, described the late Agnes Abiante as a strong support not only to her husband but also to the larger community.
“We are here to mourn with our colleague,” he said, offering prayers for the peaceful repose of her soul and reminding the living of the importance of leading meaningful lives in view of the brevity of human existence.
The Association of Wives of Lawmakers also honoured the deceased, remembering her as a devoted, active, and committed member of the association.
The burial ceremony concluded with prayers for the repose of the soul of the deceased and for strength for the bereaved family, as mourners filed past to pay their final respects.
