A mysterious fire has killed the wife of the late Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chairman in Akwa-Ibom State, Mrs. Elizabeth Udo Ekpenyong and the sister, Ms Ofonime Frank.
This was disclosed in a statement issued to journalists by the Secretary, Transition Committee of the local government, Hon. Udeme Idiong, on Tuesday.
The tragic fire incident, which occurred on Christmas eve, razed down the house of the late PDP chairman, Obong Udo Ekpenyong, in Ukanafun Local Government Area of Akwa-Ibom State.
The Transition Community chairman of the council Hon. Godwin Ekpe (JP) has declared seven days mourning for all indigenes of the local government.
It also stated that council chairman has sought the approval of the state government to withdraw all Ukanafun contingent in the ongoing Christmas Carol activity scheduled to hold on 28th December, 2023.
The statement reads: “Sequel to the tragic fire incident that occurred at the residence of our Late State Party Chairman, Obong Udo Ekpenyong on 24th December 2023 which claimed the lives of his wife, Mrs Elizabeth Udo Ekpenyong and her sister, Ms Ofonime Frank, the Chairman, Transition Committee, Ukanafun Local Government Area, Hon. (Elder) Godwin Ekpe JP has declared a 7 days mourning period for all indigenes of Ukanafun Local Government from Tuesday 26th of December, 2023 to Monday 1st January, 2024.
“He has also in collaboration with the Stakeholders of the Local Government and approval of the State Government approved a withdrawal of Ukanafun’s contingent and performance in the ongoing Christmas unplugged activity earlier scheduled to hold on the 28th of December, 2023.
“While sympathizing with the family of the deceased, we pray for the repose of the departed souls”.
The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained.