The Publisher of WatchmanPost Newspaper, Engr. Asuquo Inuikim, on Saturday bid a final farewell to his uncle, His Highness Asuquo Eyo Etifit, the Village Head of Iyoku Ebughu in Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
The burial ceremony, held at Abiakowo Group of Villages in Ebughu, drew family members, community leaders, and well-wishers who gathered to pay their last respects to the late octogenarian.
The service was conducted by the Great Divine Glory of God Evangelical Ministry, led by its General Overseer, Rev. Elisha Offiong, alongside Rev. Joshua Ntese, Pastor Emmanuel Bassey, and other ministers.
Speaking during the event, Engr. Inuikim described his late uncle as a father figure who had played a pivotal role in his life for over two decades.
He noted that the deceased was a man of wisdom, known for his commitment to truth, forthrightness, and accountability.
“He was courageous, bold, and positively minded. His impact and unwavering service to humanity, especially within his community, will remain indelible,” Inuikim said.
Also speaking, the Paramount Ruler of Mbo Local Government Area, HRM Ogwong Okon Asukwo Abang (V), lamented the passing of the late village head, noting that his demise came at a time his leadership was still greatly needed in the Ebughu Clan Council.
He recalled the deceased’s remarkable contributions to the development of his family, Iyoku Ebughu, Abiakowo Group of Villages, and the wider Ebughu community.
While describing the loss as painful, the monarch urged the bereaved family to find solace in the enduring legacies of the deceased, expressing hope that they would be reunited with him on the resurrection morning.
According to the funeral programme, Chief Asuquo Eyo Etifit was born in 1943 into the royal family of Eyo Etifit Uwe Edubio Essang Adipekung.
He began his early education at Ebughu Central School before proceeding to Methodist Boys’ High School, Oron.
He later attended the Institute of Technology, Asaba, in the then South Eastern State, where he studied Civil Engineering. Upon graduation, he secured employment with the Nigerian Ports Authority in Port Harcourt, rising through the ranks before retiring as a Senior Quay Staff.
A devoted Christian, the late Etifit was married to former Miss Felicia Ekpe Edeke, and their union was blessed with children.
He was also a respected community leader and was officially installed as the Village Head of Iyoku Ebughu in 2013.
The late chief, who died at the age of 80, is remembered for his dedication to service, leadership, and his enduring contributions to community development.
Other dignitaries at the event included Chief Ita Ntekim, Chief Philip Obon, members of the Ebughu Clan Council, traditional rulers from and beyond Mbo LGA, among many others.
