The Commissioner III at the Cross River State Planning Commission in charge of Projects, Elder Dr. (Mrs.) Mary Julius Egbai, paid heartfelt tribute to her late mother, Madam Akung Okon Azu, during a special memorial thanksgiving service held at the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Big Qua Town Parish, Calabar, on Sunday.
Born on March 16, 1942, Madam Akung Okon Azu hailed from the royal lineage of Ekong Ambang and Edim Itakpo, with ancestral roots in the Oyo, Okak, Odikom, Bande, and Ebed families of the Big Qua Clan. She was married to the late Major Okon Azu, an Onun (traditional ruler) from Ikot Abiom Village in the Umon Clan, Biase Local Government Area of Cross River State. She passed away on April 6, 2019, at the age of 77, following a brief illness.
In an emotional address, Dr. Egbai remembered her mother as a gentle, soft-spoken, and selfless woman who was a mother figure not only to her biological children but to all who knew her.
“If there is anyone who should miss Mama the most after six years of her passing, it should be me,” she said. “She was quiet, unassuming, and deeply caring, a true mother in every sense.”
The Most Reverend Daniel Etim, who delivered the homily, took his text from Hebrews 13:8, speaking on the theme “The Gospel According to Death.” He highlighted the Christian pillars of good news, victory, and hope, describing the late Madam Akung as a devout believer who served God faithfully.
“Mama was devoted to God’s work, and her legacy lives on through her children, including Elder Dr. Mary Julius Egbai, who embodies the virtues her mother instilled,” Rev. Etim remarked.
Guests, in their goodwill messages, emphasized the importance of thanksgiving in the life of a believer, noting that a grateful heart attracts divine blessings. They described Mama as a devoted lover of God, a respected community leader, and a woman who positively impacted everyone who knew her.
In his vote of thanks, Ntufam Inok Edim, a member of the family, described the memorial as both a moment of reflection and a celebration of a life well lived, one dedicated to God, family, and community.
The service featured prayers, and tributes, with dignitaries in attendance, including State Executive Council members, council chairmen, top government officials (past and present), traditional rulers, and women’s groups.
The event concluded with a well attended reception at Hogis Royale Banquet Hall, Calabar.
