Tears, Tributes As Cross River Lays Late Commissioner Abubakar Ewa to Rest

By Ebi COLLINS 

The town of Wula in Boki Local Government Area was steeped in sorrow on Saturday as family, friends, and dignitaries gathered to pay their final respects to the late Abubakar Robert Ewa, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture in Cross River State.

The funeral, marked by an overwhelming display of grief, drew a large crowd, reflecting the deep impact Ewa had on his community and the state at large.

Leading the state delegation, Governor Bassey Edet Otu, represented by his Deputy, Peter Odey, described Ewa’s passing as a tremendous loss, not just to Cross River but beyond. He praised the late commissioner’s dedication to public service and his significant contributions to the growth of tourism, arts, and culture in the state.

“Abubakar was more than a politician; he was the heart of Boki politics, a leader whose life was dedicated to serving the people. His contributions will never be forgotten,” Governor Otu remarked.

Deputy Governor Peter Odey echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that Ewa’s influence extended well beyond his immediate constituency.

“The entire Cross River State mourns his passing. As a former Chairman of Boki Local Government Area, he worked relentlessly to uplift his people, earning admiration and respect. We stand in solidarity with his family during this difficult time,” Odey stated.

Senator Eteng Williams (Cross River Central) described Ewa’s death as a profound loss, recalling his remarkable political journey from a councilor representing Buentsebe Ward to a distinguished leader known for his patriotism and commitment to service.

Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, highlighted Ewa’s dedication to governance, stating that his demise while still in active service was a testament to his devotion to the state.

“Though we mourn his departure, we also celebrate a life well-lived. His legacy will continue to inspire generations,” Ayambem said.

Other dignitaries, including Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, Chief of Staff to the Governor, and Alphonsus Eba, Esq, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State, lauded Ewa’s selfless service, describing him as a committed party man who played a key role in the success of the Otu-led administration.

“The void he leaves in the political landscape of Boki and Cross River State is immeasurable. We pray for the peaceful repose of his gentle soul,” Eba said.

Chairman of the College of Commissioners, Chief Victor Felix Idem, also mourned Ewa’s passing, acknowledging the significant gap his absence leaves in the State Executive Council.

“We have lost not just a colleague but a mentor and a man of integrity. His absence will be deeply felt,” he noted.

In an emotional tribute, Mrs. Ijeoma Ewa, widow of the late commissioner, expressed the family’s heartbreak over his untimely departure. She thanked the state government for ensuring her husband received a befitting farewell but also made an appeal for continued support, especially for their eight-month-old baby.

“My husband’s death has left a vacuum in our lives that can never be filled. I plead with the government, his friends, and associates not to forget the family he left behind,” she said.

Gabriel Ewa, the deceased’s younger brother, described Abubakar as the pillar of their family, revealing that he had shouldered the responsibility of caring for everyone after they lost their parents years ago.

“His death is too bitter a pill to swallow. The void he left is too deep, and I don’t know if anyone can fill it,” Gabriel lamented.

The outpouring of tributes from dignitaries—including Hon. Justice Akon Ikpeme, Chief Judge of Cross River State; Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, Chairman of the Senate Committee on NDDC; Hon. Victor Abang, Member representing Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency; and Prof. Owan Enoh, Secretary to the State Government—further underscored the profound impact Ewa had on the state.

As his remains were laid to rest, it was evident that Abubakar Robert Ewa’s legacy of service, leadership, and dedication would live on in the hearts of those he touched.