Without Nkanga’s support I won’t be senator – Bassey

Ofonime Honesty, Uyo

Senator Obong Bassey Albert, who represents Akwa Ibom North East in the Upper Chamber, said he owes his election victories to late Military Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Otuekong Idongesit Nkanga.

Albert described Nkanga’s demise as a colossal loss to the senatorial district, Akwa Ibom State, and Nigeria at large.

Making the assertion on Friday during a condolence visit to the Ikot Nya, Nsit Ibom country home of the late politician, the senator said he has missed a pillar of support, who spared no effort in ensuring that he succeeds in assigned responsibilities.

“It is in this house that the entire Ibibio people gathered and endorsed me for a second term. I will miss his mentorship and support as a father and leader,” he said.

He decried that the Akwa Ibom North East Senatorial District has lost a hero and wayfarer to death.

Albert, who is the chairman, Senate Committee on Upstream Petroleum Resources (UPS) and leader, Akwa Ibom Caucus in the National Assembly, however, noted that there was no way the story of Uyo Senatorial District, Ibibio, Akwa Ibom State and Niger Delta would be written that Otuekong Idongesit Nkanga would not be mentioned.

He implored Nkanga’s widow, Deaconess Funmi Idongesit Nkanga, and all members of the deceased family to imbibe the values represented by their late husband and father while on earth.

The senator prayed for the repose of Nkanga’s soul and wished the family the strength to bear the loss.

In her response, Her Excellency Funmi Idongesit-Nkanga appreciated the senator for the visit.

“You were always here when he was alive, thank you for coming at this time. We are really encouraged by this gesture. He was very fond of you. We can only pray that the lord will continue to be with you in the discharge of your duties,” she stated.

Responding, a brother to the deceased, Mr Amanam Nkanga, who is the Special Adviser, Bureau of Political and Social Re-Orientation, thanked the senator for sustaining the relationship with the family.

He promised that the family would continue treating him as a member and ally.

Dignitaries in senator’s team included Arch Bishop Andrew Unwanta, Otuekong Anietie Ekong, and Nsikak Ikpe.

Other bigwigs, who graced the event were: Air Commodore Ekongubong Akpabio, Immediate past vice chairman of Nsit Ibom Local Government Area, Elder Samuel Nkanga, Mr Ekanikpong Nkanga, Councillor representing Mbiaso ward 4, Hon. Eyo Eyo and other members of Nkanga’s family.