The series of final rites for Deaconess Edoabasi Ekong, mother of Captain Iniobong Ekong, the Honourable Commissioner for Lands and Town Planning in Akwa Ibom State, commenced with the solemn Opening of Mourning House held at Ndiya Ikot Akpafuk in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area.
The ceremony, conducted by the Lutheran Church of Nigeria, drew a significant gathering of family, friends, and sympathizers who came to honor the legacy of the late Deaconess. Presiding over the event was Reverend Itoro Ukpong of the Lutheran Church of Nigeria, Ndiya District. He delivered an impactful sermon drawn from Ezekiel 33:11, where he reminded the congregation of the inevitability of death, regardless of social or economic status.
In his sermon, Reverend Ukpong called on attendees to reflect on their lives and adopt a godly lifestyle, emphasizing that all individuals have an inescapable appointment with mortality. He urged everyone to prepare for this ultimate event by engaging in acts of goodness and virtue. He extolled the late Deaconess Edoabasi Ekong for her life of discipline, care, and exemplary virtues, describing her as a beacon of inspiration to all who knew her.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Captain Iniobong Ekong expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all who attended the ceremony, showing their support and standing with his family during this time of mourning. He acknowledged the outpouring of love and condolences as a testament to the profound impact his mother had on those who encountered her.
The event was graced by notable personalities, including Apostle Dr. Ezekiel Inyang, Assistant Comptroller of Corrections, Uyo Correctional Centre, as well as Mrs. Imaobong Alfred Charles, wife of the Executive Chairman of Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, who led a delegation of female stakeholders to the ceremony.
The mourning rites for Deaconess Edoabasi Ekong will continue with the Night of Songs scheduled for Thursday, April 10, 2025, while Friends Night will hold on Friday 11th April
and the rites will conclude with the Funeral Service and Interment on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Ikot Akpafuk Ndiya, Nsit Ubium LGA.
The late Deaconess Edoabasi Ekong, who passed away at the age of 85, is survived by her husband, Elder Edward Moses Ekong, five children including the Honourable Commissioner for Lands and Town Planning, Akwa Ibom State, Captain Iniobong Ekong, 20 grandchildren, and numerous extended family and friends. Her enduring legacy of faith, compassion, and service continues to inspire those she left behind.
