…..holds commendation session in his honour
In a total show of respect and celebration of the life and times of the first elected Chairman of Ini Local Government Area and former member representing Ini State Constituency at the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Late Rt. Hon. Chief Elder Ukata Sam Akpan JP, Ini Local Government Council, today, April 25, at the Council Hall, Odoro Ikpe, gathered in a solemn commendation session to honour the revered patriarch and distinguished leader.
The event which was attended by prominent sons and daughters of Ini witnessed heartfelt tributes and reminiscences of Chief Ukata’s impactful legacy.
In his tribute, the Chairman of Ini Transition Committee, Hon. Inibehe Umah, described the late Chief Ukata as a great leader who was bold and courageous during his political days.
Hon. Umah extolled Chief Ukata’s unwavering commitment to community development and his exemplary leadership during his tenure as Chairman of Council. He said the late Chief Ukata has left an indelible mark on the political landscape of Ini and the hearts of the people he served.
The Council Boss admonished Polical leaders to always do what is good to all manner of persons because none of the things struggled for on this earth will taken along whenever death visits, drawing from the comment of the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby during the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, who before the body of the Queen was taken to the grave for interment, he said;
“Now let us remove all symbols of power from the coffin so that our sister, Elizabeth, can be committed to the grave as a simple Christian.”
On his part, the member representing Ini State Constituency, Hon. Lawrence Udoide, eulogised the late Chief Ukata, describing him as a vocal and vibrant leader who meant well for Ini Local Government Area. The Lawmaker also acknowledged the role of the late Icon in the creation of Ini Local Government Area.
Also speaking, former Chairman of Ini Local Government Area, Rt. Hon. Otuekong Emmanuel Ebe who referred to late Chief Ukata as Obong Nsibidi, narrated how bold and courageous he was, and how he would stand his ground to fight for the cause of Ini LGA.
Others including the former Commissioner for Agriculture and Dean, College of Commissioners and Special Adviser, Dr. Glory Edet, former member representing Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency, Prof. Ini Udoka, former Chairman of Ini, Hon. Etetim Anwatim, Chapter Chairman of PDP, Mr. Emmanuel Uma, amongst others, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting Chief Ukata’s integrity, compassion, and dedication to public service.
The commendation session served as a poignant moment for the people of Ini to reflect on Chief Ukata’s profound contributions and to celebrate his life of service and sacrifice.
Earlier in the day, a Valedictory Session was held at the Chambers of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Uyo, in honour of the departed legislator.
Rt. Hon. Chief Elder Ukata Sam Akpan was aged 74. His body will be interred on Saturday, April 27, 2024 at Nchana Ebua, Itu Mbonuso, Ini LGA.