The immediate past Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the Chairman of ONNA Local Government Area, Hon. Kufre Umoren, and his family over the passing of their mother, Late Matron Sabbath Okon Umoren.
The condolence message was delivered through a delegation led by the member representing ONNA State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Sunday Johnny.
Speaking during the visit, Hon. Johnny conveyed the former governor’s sympathies to the bereaved family, noting that the delegation was sent to express solidarity with them in their moment of grief.
He described the late Matron Sabbath Okon Umoren as a virtuous woman whose values and discipline are clearly reflected in the lives and character of her children.
According to him, the former governor holds the family in high esteem and recognizes the profound loss occasioned by the passing of a mother who played such a significant role in shaping the lives of those around her.
Responding on behalf of the family, the Village Head of Ikot Ese Ishiet, Eteidung (Arch) Otu Umoren, expressed deep appreciation to the former governor for the gesture. He described Mr. Emmanuel as an upright leader who has maintained a strong and cordial relationship with the family over the years.
The village head noted that the decision of the former governor to send emissaries to the family in their time of mourning speaks volume about the depth of his affection and respect for them.
Also speaking, the Chief Mourner, Elder Udeme Umoren, thanked the former governor for remembering the family during such a difficult period. He said the visit had brought comfort to the bereaved family and demonstrated genuine concern and solidarity.
In his remarks, the Chairman of ONNA Local Government Area, Hon. Kufre Umoren, expressed gratitude to the former governor for the thoughtful gesture.
He said he was deeply touched to receive a delegation of such calibre sent personally by his former boss to condole with him and his family.
Reflecting on the life of his late mother, the council chairman described life as a relay race in which every individual runs their course before passing the baton. He said his mother had completed her race honourably and would be remembered for the many lives she touched.
He recalled that the late Matron Sabbath Okon Umoren was widely known in the community as a counselor whose wisdom and guidance were sought by many people in the village. According to him, the strong upbringing she gave her children helped shape them into responsible and productive members of society.
Hon. Umoren further used the occasion to appreciate the former governor for the role he has played in his life, recalling that he once served as a domestic staff in the household of Mr. Emmanuel. He said the opportunities and mentorship he received from the former governor remain unforgettable, adding that he would forever remain grateful and loyal to him.
Other members of the delegation who accompanied Hon. Johnny on the visit included Mr. Edmond Uffang, Hon. Uduak Ekpo Ufot, Barr. Igwat Umoren, Mr. Harrison Ekpo, Black, Mr. Udo Ekwere, Aniekeme Finbarr and Elder Kingsley Johnny, among others.
