Cross River State Governor, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, Saturday, attended the funeral mass in honour of the late Tanko Mathias Ashang, SAN, held at Mater Redemptoris Parish, Sankwalla, in Obanliku Local Government Area.
Ashang, aged 54, once served as Commissioner for Works and was the immediate past Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in the state.
In a tribute delivered to the Ashang family, Governor Otu, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, praised Ashang for his professional accomplishments, compassionate nature, and the lasting legacy he left.
Deputy Governor Odey described Ashang as a legal luminary, an astute administrator, and an exemplary ambassador who dedicated and committed himself tirelessly to the service of the state.
Odey highlighted Ashang’s impactful contributions during his tenure as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, including his leadership in the holistic review of outdated state laws. His efforts to realign the ministry of justice led to enhanced service conditions and overall improvements in service delivery.
Speaking further, Rt. Hon. Odey intimated that Ashang’s vision and commitment to progress have left a profound impact on the state that will resonate for generations to come.
Offering words of comfort to Ashang’s family, Odey encouraged them to find peace in the belief that Ashang is now at rest in the bosom of the Lord, having lived a life of compassion, dedication to God and humanity, and a relentless drive to make the world a better place.
Among other speakers at the well-attended funeral, Ntufam Fidelis Ugbo remembered Ashang’s support for Cross River North and assured the family of Northern Leaders’ steadfast support during this time of loss and beyond.
Senator Eteng Jones Williams, representing Cross River Central in the Nigerian Senate, State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alphonsus Eba, Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Sylvester Agabi, former Chief of Staff to the immediate past Governor of CRS, Hon. Martin Orim and the immediate past of Representatives member for Obanliku/Bekwarra/Obudu Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Legor Idagbo graced the well attended event.
Others were former and serving House of Assembly members, Commissioners, top state and federal government officials, party members across party lines, friends, family, and other well-wishers graced the occasion.
Fred Abua, Esq
Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Cross River State
26th October, 2024
