By Queen Kunde
The usually tranquil community of Ekpuk Nto Erin in Abak Local Government Area came alive with an emotional outpouring of love and testimonies as the remains of Deaconess Arit Ezekiel Udo, a revered 85-year-old community leader, was laid to rest.
Fondly called “Mama,” the late Deaconess was the mother of Tpl Akanimo Udoh, Acting Director of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA)’s Department of Outdoor Advertisement and Signage (DOAS).
Her burial witnessed a distinguished gathering of mourners, all eager to honor a woman whose life was defined by kindness, generosity, and a deep sense of faith.
Tears flowed freely as speaker after speaker paid glowing tributes, describing Mama as a pillar of strength in the community.
Among the dignitaries’ present were Mrs. Grace Adayilo, Head of Service (HoS), FCTA (represented by her Special Assistant, Mr. Albert A. Nnamani); the Village Head of Uruk Uso, Chief Edim Frank Udoh; and several notable figures from Nigeria’s outdoor advertising industry, including High Chief (Dr.) TOE Ekechi, MD of Alliance Marketing Media Ltd.; Omok Abuene, Vice President of the Out-of-Home Advertising Association of Nigeria; and other leading industry executives.
The final farewell began with a solemn funeral service at the deceased’s compound, officiated by Pastor Godfrey Lazarus, the Abak Area Supervisor of the Assemblies of God Church. The clergyman urged attendees to embrace a life of righteousness, emphasizing that one’s legacy is defined by the impact they leave behind. He lauded the late Deaconess for her unwavering faith, wisdom, and role as a counselor to many.
Family members reminisced about their beloved matriarch. Her eldest daughter, Mrs. Etoro Nkanta, described her mother as a woman of great wisdom and generosity, recalling how she always ensured those around her were happy. “I will miss her warm welcome whenever I visited and, of course, her delicious food,” she said tearfully.
Daughter-in-law Mrs. Eno A. Ezekiel, wife of the Acting Director, DOAS, praised Mama’s patience and prayerfulness, expressing gratitude for the love she showered on the family. She prayed for her soul to rest in peace.
Speaking on behalf of the FCTA, Mr. Nnamani expressed gratitude that the deceased lived a long, fulfilling life. “Death is inevitable, but we are grateful she left behind a strong legacy. May her soul rest in peace,” he stated.
A heartfelt tribute came from High Chief (Dr.) Ekechi, who lauded Tpl Udoh’s character and dedication, stating, “I have known Tpl Udoh for over 20 years, and our relationship has grown into a brotherhood. We are here to honor his late mother, a woman of substance.”
Ekechi also took a moment to commend Governor Umo Eno and the people of Akwa Ibom for the hospitality and serene environment he observed during his visit. “Akwa Ibom is clean, organized, and welcoming,” he noted.
Echoing similar sentiments, Chief Lawrence Monigs emphasized Tpl Udoh’s professionalism and integrity, attributing the massive turnout at the burial to his outstanding personality. “It is a testament to the kind of man he is. We stand with him in this time of loss.”
In an emotional tribute, the chief mourner, Tpl Akanimo Udoh, described his mother as a caring, prayerful, and disciplined woman who instilled strong moral values in her children. “Mama, you will be greatly missed, but we take solace in knowing that another angel now watches over us from heaven. Rest on, Mama.”
He expressed heartfelt appreciation to all who traveled from far and near to pay their final respects, praying for God’s blessings and safe travels for them.
Born on February 5, 1940, to the family of Hezekiah Akpan Nkanta, the late Deaconess Arit Ezekiel Udo was remembered as a hardworking woman, a business entrepreneur, and a community leader. She played an instrumental role in raising her children with a strong emphasis on education, ensuring they reached the highest levels of academic achievement.
Her marriage was blessed with seven children, two daughters-in-law, 27 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. As the burial rites concluded, community members reflected on her remarkable life and enduring legacy, praying for her soul’s eternal rest.
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