Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has expressed deep sorrow over the sudden passing of two prominent members of the state’s council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrades Patience John and Esther Ukpe. Both journalists were also key figures in the state’s chapter of the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ).
Reports indicate that Ms. Patience John, an employee of the Akwa Ibom Broadcasting Corporation (AKBC), passed away while being transported to the hospital due to an undisclosed illness. Meanwhile, Esther Ukpe of the Federated Chapel collapsed and later died at the Police Hospital in Ikot Akpanabia, near Uyo, after suffering a cardiac arrest.
In a statement issued through his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Ekerete Udoh, Governor Eno described the deaths of the two journalists as a significant loss to the journalism community in Akwa Ibom State. He acknowledged their valuable contributions to promoting the ARISE Agenda blueprint of his administration and noted that their absence will be deeply felt.
Governor Eno extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, as well as to the leadership and members of the NUJ and NAWOJ in the state.
“The late Comrade Patience John of the Akwa Ibom Broadcasting Corporation, AKBC TV Service, was an integral part of the Press Corps in my office and was known for her diligence and professionalism,” the governor stated. “While we were still grappling with the sorrow of her passing, we received the devastating news of Comrade Esther Ukpe’s sudden death. This is deeply sad and unfortunate. May God console their families, the NUJ family, and grant their souls eternal rest.”
Governor Eno also reassured the media community of his administration’s continued support, emphasizing that media professionals are a crucial part of his plans and policies aimed at leaving a lasting legacy of development in the state.
