Fire Razes Late A’Ibom PDP Chairman’s House, Kills Wife, Sister 

Okon Bassey in Uyo

It was a Christmas eve tragedy in Akwa Ibom State as fire burnt down the house of late state Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Obong Udo Ekpenyong, in Ukanafun Local Government Area of the state.

The inferno, which reportedly occurred on the eve of Christmas celebration, claimed the life of the late PDP chairman’s wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Udo Ekpenyong, and a sister to his wife,  Miss Ofonime Frank.

This was contained in a statement issued yesterday by the Secretary, Transition Committee of the Local Government Area, Mr. Udeme Idiòng

However, the cause of the inferno was not stated, the statement added that the Transition Community Chairman of the council, Hon. Godwin Ekpe, has declared seven days mourning for all indigenes of the local government area.

The council chairman also sought the approval of the state government to withdraw all Ukanafun contingent in the ongoing Christmas Carol activity scheduled to hold on December 28 in the state.

 The statement added: “Sequel to the tragic fire incident that occurred at the residence of our late state party Chairman, Obong Udo Ekpenyong, on December 24, which claimed the lives of his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Udo Ekpenyong, and her sister, Ms Ofonime Frank, the Chairman, Transition Committee, Ukanafun Local Government Area, Hon. Godwin Ekpe, has declared a seven-day mourning period for all indigenes of Ukanafun LGA from December 26 to January 1, 2024.

“He has also in collaboration with the stakeholders of the local government area and approval of the state government approved the withdrawal of Ukanafun’s contingent and performance in the ongoing Christmas unplugged activity earlier scheduled to hold on December 28.

“While sympathising with the family of the deceased, we pray for the repose of the departed souls.”