The patriarch of Afe Annang in Akwa Ibom State, His Royal Majesty Pius Eside 111, is dead.
Afe Annang a frontline cultural organization in Akwa Ibom was formed at the end of the Nigerian civil war with the goal of fighting the marginalization of the Annang by the Nigerian government.
In a Facebook post on Friday, October 29, Prince John Pius wrote ”This is to officially notify you of the death of our father, grandfather, community leader and the Itai Afe Annnag, HRM Okuku Dr Pius Effiong Eside III, the Clan Head of Ikpe Annang and the Itai Afe Annang IV.’’
John who is the chief mourner said ”Burial details shall be announced later.’’
In a brief chat with Straightnews, Dr. Nestor Udoh confirmed the death of the Annang patriarch.
”I met him three weeks before his death. He looked frail. I did not know that was the last of meeting him. He was a very smart person. He taught me in Primary 1V,’’ he said.
Udoh, a retired Permanent Secretary further narrated ”He was a good Christian. He had served as Laity in Catholic Church, Ikpe Ikot Eside. In a a particular fund launch, he served as a Chairman.’’
Dr. Eside 111 died after a brief sickness in his hometown, Ikpe Ikot Eside in Essien Udim Local Government Area of the state.
Before his retirement from public service, he had worked as electoral officer, defunct National Electoral Commission and as a lecturer, University of Uyo in Akwa Ibom State.
