The Cross River State Governor Sen Bassey Edet Otu, was among the huge crowds of dignitaries who filled up the St. Mathew’s Catholic Church, Obudu, to pay their last respect to the departed paramount ruler, His Royal Majesty Uti (Dr) J.D. Agba OON, Uti Itedem III of Utugwang, Uti Ukani I of Obudu and the Paramount Ruler of Obudu.
The demise of Davies-Agba was announced in a statement by his Son, Kjay Jedy-Agba, in Calabar.
His accession to the traditional royal stool dated back 64 years ago, making him probably the longest-serving traditional ruler in Africa.
He was the Chancellor of the University of Cross River State, south south Nigeria.
Governor Otu who was represented by His Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey turned up to say goodbye to the man whom he said “he has indeed left a big vacuum.”
He said his life was worthy of emulation and the respect accorded him was borne out of his selfless service to his community and people while he lived.
“The state was indeed proud to be part of the history made flesh through the life of the late paramount ruler.”
“It is very difficult for us to bear this loss of a great son of the north, he has indeed left a big vacuum.”
“But we know that he is with God and we will continue to pray for him”, he continued.
The Governor promised that his government will immortalize the great king to serve as a mark of respect for his numerous contributions to the state and country at large.
The Governor, through his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey donated N10 million to support Church building in honour of the departed monarch.
He said the building will serve as a rally point for the spiritual and moral development of the people in that community.
Dignitaries present at the occasion were the former Governor of Benue State, Sen Gabriel Suswam, Secretary to the Federal Government, HE George Akuma (represented), Minister of Sport’s Development, Sen. John Owan Enoh, former Minister for Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen, Commissioner for Finance Cross River State, Mike Odere among others.