Ayade Mourns Ukpo, Says His Death a Monumental Loss

The Cross River State Governor, Mr. Ben Ayade, has lamented the death of one – time Military Administrator of Rivers State, Brigadier-General Anthony Ukpo (rtd).

General Ukp,o who was also a former Minister of Information, died on Monday.

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Christian Ita, the governor described the general’s transition as a tragic and monumental loss to Cross River in particular and Nigeria in general.

Ayade commiserated with Ukpo’s family and the military, saying, “an illustrious son, a fine and gallant officer has left us.

“As a state, we are pained by the loss of this thorough bred officer, an illustrious son of Cross River.

“General Ukpo’s death has robbed our dear state of his wise counsel. He was forthright and a partner in building a Cross River of our dream.”

He recalled that the late Ukpo applied himself diligently and dutifully to all the national assignments that were entrusted to him to the applause of his superiors.

“As a military officer, General Ukpo had a distinguished career, as a Military Administrator he excelled beyond expectations and as a Minister he showed passion and professionalism. He left these offices without blemish. He was a rare gem.

“We are indeed hurt by his demise, we are pained that General Ukpo had to leave us at this time but as a people of faith, we cannot question God. We can only pray for the peaceful repose of his soul.

“On behalf of the people and government of Cross River State, I condole with General Ukpo’s family, his immediate community, Okpoma and the Nigerian Army,” the governor said.

He assured the Ukpo’s family that his prayer and thoughts were with them at this trying moment, and prayed God to “grant them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”