By Deputy Governor’s Press Unit, Calabar.
GLOWING TRIBUTES, EULOGIES AS CROSS RIVER DEPUTY GOVERNOR, PETER ODEY BIDS ELDER SISTER FAREWELL.
An emotional atmosphere, amidst glowing eulogies and tributes enveloped Idum-Mbube in Ogoja Local Government Area on Saturday, as the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, joined by family members, top government officials, friends, and sympathisers, bid a farewell to his elder sister, the late Mrs. Alice Ababa Agbe (née Odey).
Delivering Governor Bassey Otu’s condolence message, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, described the late Mrs. Agbe as a shining example of selflessness and devotion.
“Mrs. Agbe’s life was a luminous testament to service, sacrifice, and steadfast devotion to humanity. Through her quiet yet impactful contributions, she helped shape the fortunes of many, leaving indelible footprints not just in the Mbube community, but across Ogoja and indeed, Cross River State,” the governor stated.
He further highlighted her deep spiritual commitment as a Lady Knight of St. John International and an active member of the Catholic Women Organization (CWO), noting that her life embodied unwavering faith and enduring values.
Owan-Enoh urged the family to take comfort in the legacy she left behind, adding that the most fitting tribute would be prayers for her peaceful rest in the bosom of the Lord.
In the reading of her biography, Mr. Jimmy Agbe, son of the deceased, recounted that his mother was born on May 5, 1954, to the family of late Inspector Simon Agbe Odey and late Mrs. Priscilla Ega Odey. She was the second child of the family. Her marriage to Chief Edward Agbe, a respected statesman, was described as a partnership that exemplified grace, dignity, and shared service to humanity.
A moving tribute from her son, Mr. Douglas Agbe, described her as a beacon of strength, compassion, and warmth. “She was more than a mother, she was a nurturing force who shaped the lives of all who knew her, especially her children and siblings,” he said.
On behalf of the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Brian Odey, representating Yala 1, extolled the late Mrs. Agbe’s commitment to peace and community development, noting that her presence was a blessing to both her family and her wider community.
Also paying tribute, High Chief Peter Ojie described her as “a shining star and a virtuous mother” whose legacy of kindness, integrity, and generosity would endure in the hearts of many.
Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Council, Hon. Chris Agbeh recounted that during his childhood, he lived with Madam Alice, describing the period as one marked by her nurturing care and motherly affection. He further stated that Mrs Alice had a strong commitment to family and service to others, having touched many lives including his.
In his vote of thanks, Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Peter Odey expressed deep appreciation to Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu for his steadfast support during this period of grief. He also thanked all dignitaries, friends, and sympathizers who joined the family to honour the memory of their beloved matriarch.
“We are overwhelmed by the outpouring of love, prayers, gifts, and comforting words. On behalf of my family, I say thank you. Your support has strengthened us during this difficult time,” he said.
In attendance were Local Government Chairmen, House of Assembly members, members of the State Executive Council, top government officials in the state and federal, party leaders across party lines, traditional and religious leaders as well as women and youth.
The Deputy Governor was also joined by the Leader of NORTHCCO, High Chief Higgins Peters, Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Boniface Okache and Prince Akwase Offiono among others.
