Esther Uzoma, a leading voice in Nigeria Civil Society movement was lost to the cold hands of death on Wednesday night, January 6 at a hospital in Abuja. Until her death, Esther was the Convener of the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room and the National Co-ordinator of the Proactive Gender Initiative (PGI). She had also been Alternate Chair of the Situation Room and led several of the Situation Room Election Observation delegations across the country in the off-cycle elections.
Esther was a strong voice for gender equality and used her law practice and non-governmental organsiation, PGI to fight for justice for victims of gender inequality, violence, rape and other forms of abuses. She also had a pleasant personality, humorous and always wanting to help. She took over as Convener of Situation Room at the election held in November 2020 and seemed set to lead Situation Room to stronger leadership of the Civil Society space ahead of the 2023 general elections.
In a statement, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) described Esther as a renowned gender advocate, Civil Society activist and a tireless campaigner for credible elections in Nigeria. Going further, the Commission said that Esther championed good causes and spent a considerable portion of her life fighting for a better society, adding that the country has lost a courageous and vibrant Civil Society leader.
Following her death, tributes have poured in from the various groups to which she belonged and worked with, attesting to the passion and vigour with which she advocated for societal reforms. From Civil Society organisations and professional bodies to the media, Esther’s impact was felt by these groups, as she participated actively and made meaningful contributions.
Her death is a huge and irreparable loss to Civil Society and the nation at large. She was a leader, a nation builder, a jovial fellow and a friend, who exuded kindness, humility, tenacity and strength. She will be greatly missed but always fondly remembered.