A devastating fire engulfed the opulent residence of the former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chairman, Obong Udo Ekpenyong, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Christmas Eve, resulting in the heartbreaking loss of Ekpenyong’s wife, Elizabeth Udo Ekpenyong, and her sister, Ms. Ofonime Frank.
The distressing incident, reported by Leadership, follows the passing of Obong Ekpenyong in February 2021 due to complications related to Covid-19, deepening the grief within the family and the local community.
Expressing condolences and extending support, the Akwa Ibom State government, under Governor Umo Eno, has reached out to the bereaved family. Additionally, Elder Godwin Ekpe, the Transition Chairman of Ukanafun Local Government, the late Ekpenyong’s hometown, has declared a seven-day period of mourning for all Ukanafun natives. This solemn reflection will commence on December 26th and conclude on January 1st, 2024.
In a gesture of respect, Ukanafun’s scheduled participation in the ongoing “Christmas Unplugged” event at the Akwa Ibom Christmas Village has been canceled.
Hon. Udeme Idiong, the Transition Committee Secretary, elucidated the decision, stating: “Following the tragic fire incident at the residence of our Late State Party Chairman, Obong Udo Ekpenyong on December 24th, 2023, claiming the lives of his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Udo Ekpenyong, and her sister, Ms. Ofonime Frank, the Chairman, Transition Committee, Ukanafun Local Government Area, Elder Godwin Ekpe, has declared a seven-day mourning period for all Ukanafun indigenes from December 26th, 2023, to January 1st, 2024.
“He has also in collaboration with the stakeholders of the Local Government and, with the approval of the state government, announced the withdrawal of Ukanafun contingents, and cultural performance in the ongoing ‘Christmas Unplugged’ activities earlier scheduled to hold on the 28th of December, 2023.”
