Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, Friday, hailed President Bola Tinubu, for giving approval on a Bill establishing the Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Obio Akpa in Oruk Anam Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
Akpabio expressed thanks to Tinubu at the funeral service of the former Majority Leader of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly from 1999-2003, Hon.(Elder) Imo Akpan Ibokette.
Speaking at the service held at the Abak International Nursery/Primary School in Abak Local Government Area and conducted by The Apostolic Church Nigeria, he also lauded Governor Umo Eno, for promptly releasing Obio Akpa campus of the Akwa Ibom State University for the smooth take-off of the institution.
A statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom quoted Akpabio saying, “I look forward to the admission of the first batch of the students into the Federal University of Agriculture and Technology in this Senatorial District. Let me thank President Bola Tinubu for signing the bill which established the University.
‘‘Let me also thank our dear Governor, Pastor Umo Eno for also releasing a campus of the Akwa Ibom State University for the commencement of academic activities this year.
“The late Ibokette we are laying to rest today was the first to call and thanked me on hearing of the passage of the bill establishing the University. His death is a personal loss to me.
‘‘The Ibokette’s family and I share an intimate affinity that spans decades. Even the weight of political differences did not attenuate the relationship we shared. So, I personally mourn his demise,” he stated.
Akpabio described him as a patriot, selfless leader, loving father and hardworking personality, who braced the odds in life to achieve what he achieved in life before his demise.
“He did his best and witnessed the uncommon transformation which he fought and worked for before his departure,” he added.
The remains of Ibokette were laid at the House of Assembly, Udo Udoma Avenue, Uyo during a valedictory service on Thursday. August 20, 2026.
