Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu has expressed deep grief following the sudden passing of the State Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Prince Eka Williams, describing his death as an “irreparable loss” to the government and the state.
Williams passed away on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at a hospital in Abuja. Prior to his appointment as commissioner, he served as the Deputy Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State and was also the leader of the Forum of Commissioners for Power and Energy in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Calabar through his Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Linus Obogo, Governor Otu described the commissioner’s death as casting “a dark shadow of grief” over the state.
“His passing, so sudden and poignant, is a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the solemnity of public service,” Governor Otu said. “The circumstances of his departure have made the loss particularly painful.”
The governor noted that the news was especially devastating given that Williams had hosted him at his country home in Ikom just a week prior to celebrate the Ikom New Yam Festival. Otu described that final public engagement as an atmosphere of warmth and cultural fellowship, making his sudden departure all the more heartbreaking.
Commending the late commissioner’s contributions, Otu highlighted Williams’ stewardship in driving energy initiatives both state-wide and nationally, noting that he brought “uncommon loyalty, courage, and fidelity” to public office.
“Prince Eka will be remembered for his dedication, forthrightness, and abiding commitment to Cross River State. As a valued member of my administration and a brother in service, his footprints in governance, politics, and public service will endure,” Otu stated.
Governor Otu extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, the Akparabong community, the people of Ikom Local Government Area, as well as his political associates and professional colleagues.
