By By Micheal Chukwuebuka
AKWA Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, on Monday night cut short the State Executive Council meeting to personally lead members of the Council on a condolence visit to the family of the late Reverend Dr. Uma Ukpai, renowned evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association.
Speaking during the visit at the family residence in Uyo, Governor Eno described the late cleric as “an icon and a rare gem whose passing is a great loss not only to Akwa Ibom State but to Nigeria and the global Christian community.”
The Governor said the visit was to reassure the bereaved family that the government and people of Akwa Ibom State stand with them during this difficult period and will work with the family to ensure a befitting farewell for the revered man of God.
“We are all Daddy’s children,” the Governor said. “I recall that even before I ever contemplated becoming Governor, he once said to me, ‘You are the next Governor of Akwa Ibom State.’ His words were prophetic, and I remain grateful for the impact of his faith and ministry on my life.”
Addressing Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, the Governor prayed that God would comfort her, their children, and all the spiritual sons and daughters of the deceased.
“God will strengthen you to carry on his legacies. The race is now for us to continue, and you will be our team lead,” Governor Eno added.
Responding on behalf of the family, Mrs Uma Ukpai expressed deep gratitude to the Governor and members of the State Executive Council for the visit and their words of comfort.
“The passing of my husband and our father was the will of God. Only what He allows can happen. We were married for 48 years, and I knew him well — preaching was his life; if he wasn’t preaching, he wasn’t happy,” she said.
“When he took ill, great men of God such as Bishop David Oyedepo and Pastor E.A. Adeboye prayed for him. Your visit today is a great encouragement,” she added.
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