Otu mourns as Cross River commissioner dies in Abuja

By Ehigimetor Igbaugba

Gov. Bassey Otu said the death of the Cross River Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Mr Eka Williams has cast “a dark shadow of grief” over the state.

Williams reportedly died on Saturday, Sept. 12, at a hospital in Abuja, throwing the state’s political and administrative circles into mourning.

In reaction, Otu ‌‌‌‍⁠⁠‌‍⁠‌⁠⁠⁠‍⁠‌​ in a condolence message issued by his Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Linus Obogo, on Sunday in Calabar described his passing as an “irreparable loss” to the government and people of the state.

The governor said the suddenness of his death made the loss particularly painful.

“His passing, so sudden and poignant, is a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the solemnity of public service,” Otu said.

He noted that William’s death was particularly devastating because he had participated in the Ikom New Yam Festival barely a week earlier, when he (governor) visited his country home in Ikom to celebrate the cultural festival.

Otu said Williams’ final public engagement in an atmosphere of cultural fellowship made his sudden departure “particularly depressing and heartbreaking.”

He said he brought “uncommon loyalty, courage and fidelity” to every assignment entrusted to him.

He described Williams as a patriot whose memory would remain indelibly etched in the history of Cross River’s public service.

“Williams demonstrated dedication and forthrightness both as a political leader and as a member of the State Executive Council,” he said.

He recalled his leadership role in the Forum of Commissioners for Power and Energy in Nigeria, saying his contributions to the power sector extended beyond Cross River.

“Williams is a purposeful public servant whose stewardship of the power and renewable energy portfolio reflected his determination to contribute to the development of the state and the country.

“He will be remembered for his dedication, forthrightness, and abiding commitment to Cross River.

“As a valued member of my administration and a brother in service, his footprints in governance, politics, and public service will endure,” he said.

Otu extended his condolences to Williams’ family, the Akparabong community, the people of Ikom, his political associates, and professional colleagues.

He prayed that God would grant the family and all those mourning the fortitude to bear the loss and receive the soul of the deceased in eternal peace.

“May Almighty God grant us fortitude, receive his soul in eternal peace, and comfort all who mourn this irreparable loss,” Otu said.

Until his appointment as commissioner, Williams served as Deputy Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River and was regarded as a committed political associate and public servant.

(NAN)