The Director-General of Voice of Nigeria, Mr. Osita Okechukwu sees life as a metaphor that yesterday is history, tomorrow is mystery and today is a gift.
Okechukwu stated this a condolence letter sent to the family of Elder Udo Umoren Akpan over the demise of their patriarch.
“The sage re-echoes the old folk tale that why they call today the present, one can quip that to whom we have appreciated, we can never lose. Elder Udo left behind indelible marks that can never be forgotten,” he declared.
Okechukwu wrote “Elder Udo, you were not only a faithful and dedicated father. Elder Udo was a teacher’s teacher, steward in the local church, a circuit officer, a confidant of hundreds, a friend and mentor to many, his bond was very strong and many learnt a lot from the life you lived.
The Director-General admonished the family, “Elder Udo reminds us that when you are sorrowful, look again and again in your inner heart, you will see that in reality you are weeping for that which has been you delight. The song has ended, whilst the melody lingers.”
Also, Dr. Etim Amba, a retired Federal Permanent Secretary, has joined in commiserating the family over the departure of the octogenarian.
He described the departed as a loving family man who brought up his children in strict Christian doctrine as evidenced in the character and status of the family members.
Amba, whose last port of call was Federal Ministry of Cooperation and Integration in Africa, Abuja, noted “His death has left a big vacuum and he will be missed by the family,” praying for the repose of the soul of the departed.
Elder Udo Umoren Akpan who hailed from Ukana Ikot Ide in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State would be buried in his country home after a funeral service by Methodist Church Nigeria on Friday, September 25.
