Nigeria’s Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has described the late Obong Emmanuel Eno Peter Umanah, a former Commissioner for Trade and Commerce in the old Cross River State, as a man of peace who played a key role in uniting Annang land.
During a condolence visit to the family on Saturday, Senator Akpabio, flanked by some members of the National Assembly praised the elder statesman as a transformational leader.
According to him, Umanah helped attract major industries, such as a biscuit factory, the Sunshine Battery and other Industries to the area.
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Recall that Umanah who passed away at 80 superintended over the establishment of many industries during the administration of the late Dr. Clement Isong, former Governor of old Cross River State and former Governor of Central Bank, Nigeria.
The industries were Sunshine Battery, Essien Udim, Champion Breweries, Uyo, Quality Ceramics, Itu, Peacock Paints, Etinan, Qua Steel Industry, Eket, Plastic Crown, Uyo, Biscuit Factory, Oron and Abestonic Industry, Oron.
Akpabio saw Umanah as a trusted ally who stood by him during turbulent political times, noting that the late commissioner left behind worthy successors to carry on his legacy.
Also speaking, former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Atuekong Don Etiebet, expressed sadness over the loss, and described the late Umanah as a straightforward and courteous individual, adding that he was comforted by the fact that he lived a fulfilled and impactful life.
In an emotional response, Chief Mourner and son of the deceased, Professor Uduak Umanah, said the family was still in shock, recalling recent conversations with his late father.
He thanked the Senate President for the condolence visit and for the continued support to the Umanah family.
The Senate President and his entourage also offered prayers led by Rt. Hon. Unyime Idem, member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency for the bereaved family.
Obong Umanah will be remembered for his service, leadership, and legacy of peace in Annang land.
Apart, he was a patriarch in Afe Annang, a socio-cultural organisation in Akwa Ibom State.
