Farewell to a Matriarch: Essien Ndueso Essien Vows to Uphold Late Mother’s Legacies.

Eyo -Akaiso Akaiso, Uyo

As the remains of Deaconess Ekaette Ndueso Essien were laid to rest in her husband’s compound in Ntasip, Ikot Ibiok, Eket local government area, her son, Essien Ndueso Essien, made a heartfelt promise to keep her memory alive by emulating her remarkable virtues.

Essien remembered his mother as a devout Christian, a pillar of family values, a stickler for good character, a disciplinarian, and an accommodating person who always sought to provide for her loved ones. He vowed to uphold these legacies, acknowledging the daunting task of caring for his siblings in her absence but expressing confidence in the discipline and values their parents had instilled in them.
“As a good christian my mother taught me how to believe in God by taking my worries to Him. She was a very honest person in her dealings with everybody and a stickler to character, and that I must imbibe, and I know even though she is no more here with us physically, her spirit has not left us,” he emphasized.

Speaking further he said, “I believe character is the most important thing in life of every man or woman. The character you keep can take you places or open doors for you. She trusted and imbibed good character and lastly she taught us to be good christians.”

Governor Umo Eno’s presence at the funeral service of Deaconess Ekaette Ndueso Essien was a testament to his commitment to honoring the state’s matriarchs. As he took his seat alongside other dignitaries, he reflected on the impact Deaconess Essien had on her community.

“Deaconess Essien was a shining example of the values we hold dear in Akwa Ibom State,” Governor Eno said in his condolence message. “Her dedication to family, community, and faith is an inspiration to us all. We will miss her dearly, but her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched.”

The presence of socio-cultural groups such as Afigh Iwat Ekid, Ekid Peoples Union, and Arewa community added a rich cultural flavor to the funeral service. Their representatives paid glowing tributes to Deaconess Essien, celebrating her contributions to the community’s social and cultural fabric.

“Auntie Ekaette was more than just a family member; she was a custodian of our cultural heritage,” said Chief Iniobong Ekong, President of Afigh Iwat Ekid. “Her passing leaves a void that can never be filled, but we take comfort in the memories we shared with her.”

As the service progressed, it became clear that Deaconess Essien’s impact extended far beyond her immediate family. She was a mother figure to many, a mentor, and a friend. Her legacy would continue to inspire generations to come.

Revd Dr. Iniobong Udoh’s homily emphasized the importance of living a life of service and character, values that Deaconess Essien embodied throughout her life. “We can all learn from her example,” he said. “Let us strive to make a positive impact on our communities, just as she did.”

As the funeral service came to a close, Governor Eno and the other dignitaries filed past the casket to pay their final respects. It was a moment of somber reflection, a reminder of the impact one person can have on the world. Deaconess Ekaette Ndueso Essien may be gone, but her legacy would live on forever.