Edet Ikotidem
The lack of official statements and information regarding the mysterious Fire incident involving the house of the late Obong Udo Ekpenyong and his family has raised concerns amongst the public.
Even four days after the mysterious fire that claimed the lives of Ekpenyong’s wife, Elizabeth, and her sister, Ms Ofonime Frank, the Akwa Ibom State government and the Akwa Ibom State Police command have remained silent on the matter.
It is worth noting that prominent figures, including the state governor and other government officials, were present at the scene when the fire occurred to show sympathy.
Given this, it is expected that the government and the police would have provided updates and statements by now.
Udo Ekpeyoung’s Mansion: Police, A’Ibom Govt Adamant
However, their silence has only deepened the mystery surrounding the incident. In an attempt to seek clarity, Starwitness News reached out to the state’s public relations officer, Mr. Mac Don, on Wednesday, December 27, 2023. Regrettably, the call went unanswered, leaving the public with no official information or updates on whether any arrests have been made thus far.
Furthermore, efforts to contact the commissioner for information, Comrade Ememobong Essien, also proved futile. This lack of communication from government officials has only added to the frustration and raised questions about the transparency of the investigation into this tragic event.
The public expects and deserves prompt and thorough communication from the government and law enforcement agencies in such significant matters.
It is hoped that the government and the police will step forward soon to address the concerns and provide clarity on the situation surrounding the fire incident involving the late Obong Udo Ekpenyong and his family.
The affected families and the public at large deserve answers and reassurance during this difficult time.
On Christmas Eve of 2023, a mysterious fire engulfed the mansion of the late Obong Udo Ekpenyong.
The incident occurred at the Shelter Afrique, a residential area, around 9pm.
The fire, which displayed inexplicable characteristics, resulted in the complete destruction of the mansion.
This unfortunate event has left many perplexed and curious about the cause of the fire.
Reports suggest that there were witnesses who heard what seemed like explosions near the mansion.
However, individuals living in the area were unable to confirm if these were actual explosions or caused by something like a firecracker.
The reports also indicate that the exact number of casualties remains uncertain, but it is believed that the wife of the late PDP chairman Elizabeth and her sister, Ms Ofonime Frank,may have been inside the mansion. It is said that a medical doctor went to the residence to attend to her, but there is no confirmation about the doctor’s whereabouts after entering the house.
The owner of the property, Obong Udo Ekpenyong, himself passed away under mysterious circumstances.
Speculations regarding the cause of his death have been varied, with some attributing it to COVID-19, others suggesting it was a result of political factors, and some considering it a natural occurrence.
Also read: Black Christmas Eve ‘’Mystery’’ Fire: Udo Ekpeyoung’s Mansion Razed, Occupants Burnt to Ashes in Uyo
In response to the tragic fire incident that claimed the lives of the late Obong Udo Ekpenyong, his wife, Elizabeth, and her sister, Ms Ofonime Frank, the Chairman of the Transition Committee in Ukanafun Local Government Area, Elder Godwin Ekpe, has declared a seven-day mourning period for all indigenes of Ukanafun Local Government.
This period of mourning is set to take place from Tuesday, December 26, 2023, to Monday, January 1, 2024. Furthermore, in collaboration with the stakeholders of the Local Government and with the approval of the State Government, Elder Godwin Ekpe has made the decision to withdraw Ukanafun’s contingent from participating in the ongoing Christmas unplugged activity.
The performance, which was initially scheduled to hold on the 28th of December, 2023, has been canceled in light of the tragic incident and as a mark of respect for the deceased and their grieving families.
These measures have been taken to honor the memory of the late Obong Udo Ekpenyong, his wife, and her sister, and to provide an appropriate period of mourning for the community.
It is a time when the people of Ukanafun Local Government can come together in solidarity and support for one another during this difficult time.
