Family members and friends mourned on Monday as the remains of late Nollywood make-up artist Abigail Edith Frederick were laid to rest at her family home in Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
Frederick, 24, died alongside five other film practitioners, including Junior Pope, in a boat accident on the River Niger. The tragedy occurred last Wednesday.
At the request of Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, Frederick’s remains, initially buried by the banks of the River Niger, were exhumed and returned to her hometown for a proper burial.
A candlelight procession was held in Frederick’s honor, and the funeral service was conducted by the Church of Christ, Ikot Udoma. Several dignitaries attended the service, including Eket Transition Committee Chairman Akaniyene Tommey, Commissioner for Tourism Charles Udoh, and Nollywood actress Eve Esin.
Governor Eno had previously announced automatic employment for Frederick’s elder sister and directed the renovation of the family home. He expressed his condolences and commitment to supporting the family during this difficult time.
“This is deeply unfortunate. A young woman, just 24 years old, who completed her National Youth Service Programme last year and was pursuing her passion,” Eno said during his visit to the family. He pledged that the state government would continue to support the family, emphasizing the community’s responsibility to care for one another.
