Cross River Mourns as Late Commissioner Eka Williams’ Remains Return Home
By Ebi COLLINS
Cross River State on Friday received the remains of the late Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Prince Eka Williams, in a solemn ceremony at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, marking the return home of a public servant who died while on official assignment in Abuja.
The reception was led by the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, who represented Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, alongside the Secretary to the State Government, members of the Legislature, State Executive Council and other government officials.
Ayambem described Williams’ death as a painful blow to the State, noting that the Commissioner left for Abuja in the discharge of duties connected to the affairs of Cross River but never returned to continue the work to which he had devoted himself.
Speaking on behalf of the Governor, the Speaker said the circumstances surrounding the death were difficult to comprehend, urging the people of the State to accept the tragedy as a reminder of the uncertainty of life.
“This is a moment for sober reflection. It is a moment to look inwardly and think of the next person you are not in talking terms with, because nobody knows whom these cruel hands of death can be upon,” he said.
Ayambem called on Cross Riverians to let the tragedy inspire reconciliation, stressing the need for people to settle differences and extend forgiveness rather than postpone matters that may never have another opportunity for resolution.
He conveyed the State Government’s condolences to the family and assured them that the Otu administration would remain firmly by their side throughout the period of mourning and the burial arrangements.
According to him, the State Government would take responsibility for the burial process from its commencement until the final interment, in line with the family’s decisions and wishes.
“Cross River State, in totality, is in sync with whatever decision the family is taking. This administration will take care of whatever burial process it will require, from the beginning to the interment,” he said.
The Speaker prayed that God would grant the family the fortitude to withstand the loss and provide them comfort at a time when words and consolation may offer little relief.
“Welcome back home, our dear brother. Adieu, Prince Eka Williams, then Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy,” Ayambem said.
The solemn gathering brought together members of the State’s political and administrative leadership, turning the airport into a scene of mourning as the State received home one of its own.
Williams’ remains have been deposited at the Navy Reference Hospital morgue in Calabar, while the family is expected to announce details of the burial in due course.
