The Head of Service of Cross River State, Mr. Orok Bassey Okon, has commiserated with the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Head of Service, Dr. Mrs. Mary-Theresa Agede Ebe, as she laid her late father, Mr. Ukandi Ogar Placidus Ugah, to rest in Obudu Local Government Area of the state.
The burial ceremony, weekend, attracted prominent personalities from Cross River State and beyond, who gathered to sympathise with the family and honour the memory of the deceased.
Among the dignitaries at the ceremony was the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, who joined other eminent Nigerians and Cross Riverians in paying his last respects to the late Ugah.
Also in attendance was the deceased’s brother, former Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prof.) Ben Ayade, who joined members of the family and other dignitaries in honouring the memory of his late brother.
Governor Bassey Edet Otu was represented at the ceremony by Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, while other notable personalities included former Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Prof. Ivara Esu, Dr. Francis Ayade, senior government officials, political leaders, professionals, traditional leaders, friends and associates of the family.
Permanent Secretaries and other senior public servants also attended the ceremony to stand in solidarity with Dr. Mrs. Ebe and her family during the period of mourning.
In his tribute, the Head of Service, Mr. Orok Bassey Okon, expressed deep sympathy to Dr. Mrs. Ebe and her family, describing the loss of a parent as a deeply painful experience.
Okon acknowledged the life, legacy and cherished memories of the deceased, noting that his values and impact would continue to live on through his family and those who knew him.
He prayed that God Almighty would grant Dr. Mrs. Ebe and the entire family the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss, while granting the deceased eternal rest.
The ceremony featured tributes and prayers in honour of Late Mr. Ukandi Ogar Placidus Ugah, as family members, colleagues, friends and dignitaries paid their final respects to the deceased.
The burial concluded with prayers for the repose of the deceased’s soul and comfort for the bereaved family.
By Kera Okem
