IKONO, Akwa Ibom – It was a solemn gathering of tears and reflection as the family of Sir Dr John Uko bid farewell to their son, Iniobong ‘Theophilus’ John Uko.
The departed, a Lagos-based businessman, author, and preacher, Iniobong Uko, passed away at 54 after a brief illness and was buried in his hometown, Etip Ediene, Ikono Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, after a funeral mass at St Joseph’s Catholic Church.
The funeral and thanksgiving mass was officiated by Rev Fr Sylvanus Akpan Ebong, who was assisted by Rev. Fr. Justus Nse Archibong Effiong, Rev Fr Samuel Pascal Aloysius Okon, and Rev Fr Solomon Christopher Inwang (the Parish Priest).
Valentine Ozigbo, a prominent Nigerian business leader and a 2021 Anambra Governorship Candidate, was among the dignitaries who attended the funeral and offered condolences to Dr John Uko and his wife, Lady Joan-Mercy Uko and their children who include Aziza Uko, who served as Director of Communications and Media for the VCO Governorship Campaign Organisation.
Ozigbo, offering comfort to the family, extolled Iniobong, the firstborn child and son of the family, and encouraged the grieving family to sustain his legacy.
“The loss of a child, regardless of age, is a profound sorrow that challenges the deepest parts of our hearts and souls,” Ozigbo said. “Iniobong’s departure has undoubtedly left a void that words cannot fill, and my heart aches for you and your family during this harrowing time.
“Having had the privilege to work with three of your daughters, I have witnessed firsthand the remarkable character and values you have instilled in your children.
“Their integrity, dedication, and warmth are a true reflection of the upbringing and love they received, which speaks volumes about the exceptional person Iniobong must have been.
“Your family’s strength and unity during this difficult period are a testament to the solid foundation you have built.
“In these moments of grief, I hope you find solace in the knowledge that Iniobong’s legacy is not just in his achievements and the lives he touched but also in the enduring strength and character of your entire family,” Ozigbo added.
He also prayed for the family for comfort and strength and for the soul of the bereaved to find eternal peace.
Other dignitaries who attended the funeral ceremony are Capt. Augustine Okon, an aviation industry guru and the Director-General Obi/Datti Presidential Campaign Council, Akwa Ibom State Chapter; Pastor Bright Benson, State Secretary and State Youth Pastor, Akwa Ibom State Christian Youth Leaders Forum; Deacon Iniubong Jackson, Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM) Akwa Ibom Co-ordinator; and Akan Umo-Otong, The Big Tent Coordinator Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District.
Prominent Catholic faithful in attendance were Brigadier-General Samuel Umohañdikan, Grand President, Knights of St. John International, Uyo Grand Commandery; Noble Lady Grace Michael Ikon, Grand Respected President, Uyo Grand Ladies’ Auxiliary, Knights of St. John International; Colonel Alphonsus A. Lawrence, Grand Inspector, Knights of St. john International, Uyo Grand Commandery; Major Uduakobong Akpan, District Commander, District 44, Knights of St. John International, Uyo.
Several members of the Commandery 699 and Laux 620 (Ikono) of the Knights of St. John International (KSJI); some members of the Executives of the Catholic Laity Councils of Nigeria (CLCN) at both Uyo Diocesan and Use Abat Deanery levels, and members of the Executives of the Catholic Women Organization of Nigeria (CWON) at both Diocesan and Deanery levels, were also in attendance.
