Gov Eno extols virtues of Late Elder Statesman Etukafia

… commiserates with family, Ikot Abasi 

Akwa Ibom State governor Pastor Umo Eno, has extolled the exceptional and exemplary life of service lived by the patriarch and political leader, late Obong Obot Davies Etukafia.

Governor Eno made the remarks while commiserating with the Etukafia family of Ikpetim village and the entire Ikot Abasi Local Government Area over their loss and loss to the state.

In his message of condolence at the funeral service in honour of the deceased elder statesman, held at the Ikot Abasi Local Government Field, Governor Eno described the deceased as a phenomenal and consequential public servant whose services to the state and government will always be appreciated, as he expressed deep regrets over his loss.

Recollecting Obong Etukafia’s role in the birthing of his administration, Governor Umo said the late patriarch was an ardent supporter of the movement that led to his massive victory in the 2023 gubernatorial elections, adding that his team remains deeply grateful for the patriarch’s huge support as the political leader of Ikot Abasi and a renowned stakeholder in the Akwa Ibom polity.

“On behalf of the government and people of Akwa Ibom State, I express our deepest condolences on the passing of your dear father and patriarch, the late Sir (Obong) Obot Davies Etukafia at the age of 86.

“Our late elder statesman in retirement devoted his life to the advancement of the interest of Ikot Abasi, within the larger Akwa Ibom political space and until his passing, was the political leader of this Local Government Area,” the Governor stated.

Affirming the position that life does not consist in the number of years one lived, but in the quality of life within the years he lives, the Governor said the life in the years of Obong Etukafia will always count in the annals of Akwa Ibom State, charging his family to ensure to further his great legacies.

Most Revd Okoko-Bassey

In his homily drawn from Genesis 50:24-25, the Methodist Church of Nigerian Archbishop of Uyo, The Most Rev John Koko-Bassey admonished Christians on the importance of having a good name, stressing that a good name is better than sweet smelling perfume, and greater than sacrifice.

He noted with delight some prominent Akwa Ibom sons, dead and alive, who have made good names, stressing that in less than two years, Governor Umo Eno has made a good name as a peace maker, and a unifier.