The Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, joined his Akwa Ibom counterpart, Pastor Umo Eno, his deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi and other dignitaries over the weekend at the burial ceremony of the late Mrs. Atim Okon Abang.
The event took place at the Methodist Primary School Field, Isuk-Oduo Ebughu, Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
Represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, Governor Otu described the deceased as a devout Christian who dedicated her life to serving humanity and instilled the same values in her children.
“As we celebrate her today, let us not forget her memories that she has shown as a community leader and a woman of God and one who has dedicated her lifetime in raising you and members of your family in who you are today,” Odey remarked.
Reflecting on the gift of longevity, he added, “For me, reaching 50 years is only by the grace of God. Those who receive His mercy live up to 60, and those whom He truly loves are blessed to see 70. That means God truly loves mama, keeping her till the ripe age of 89.”
He encouraged the family to find solace in the long and impactful life she lived, rather than mourn her passing, and prayed for the peaceful repose of her soul.
Delivering the homily, the Most Rev. Emmanuel Udofia, Archbishop of the Oron Archdiocese of the Methodist Church Nigeria, described the late Mrs. Atim Abang as a spiritually sensitive woman whose deep connection with God prepared her for eternity.
He urged family members and sympathizers to emulate her unwavering faith and exemplary life, acknowledging God as the ultimate source of all blessings.
The late Mrs. Atim Abang, who passed away at the age of 89, was the mother of Justice Okon Abang of the Court of Appeal and close friend of the Cross River State Governor.
Deputy Governor’s Press Unit, Government House, Calabar
