An octogenarian cultural music maestro in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria has passed into eternity, a family source has stated.
Uko Akpan Ekpo Umana, the founder of the famous Uko Akpan Cultural Group, died at 88.
Among his popular songs are Se Ukpono Se’jen Akpono Ette, Nse Agwo Ananam Adi Duko afon, Anyie Agwo Eku Abogho, Mkpa Asong anjen Abogho, Naira Udoji, and Edemne Ema Agwo Inogho Uko Akpan.
Born in 1932 into Nto Ekpo Umana family of Ikot Obong in Afaha Obong, Abak local government area of Akwa Ibom State, Uko Akpan was a holder of a Doctor of Music Honoris Causa degree from the University of Uyo, Uyo four years ago.
A subsistence farmer, Uko Akpan was also a holder of traditional chieftaincy and other excellent awards for his virtuoso in musical renditions.
His talent in composing songs, singing and dancing with great ease adequately compensated for his inability to access formal education at the formative age.
Though he ventured into the musical career at 15, he actively participated in the ‘77 FESTAC expo and had been involved in the music career that spanned more than 60 years.
Not being adept in the English Language, Chief Uko Akpan composed and rendered great songs in Annang dialect of the Lower Cross sub-group of the Benue-Congo family of African Languages.
