By Ini Billie in  Uyo.

Mrs Elizabeth Ekpenyong, wife of the late People Democratic Party chairman in Akwa Ibom State, Obong Udo Ekpenyong, and her sister, Ms Ofonime Frank, on Christmas Eve, died in the fire incident.

The house, which was located in Ukanafun Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, was said to have been destroyed in the inferno.

The incident was confirmed in a press statement issued by the Secretary, Transition Committee of the Ukan LGA, Mr Udeme Idiong, on Tuesday.

Though the statement was silent on the cause of the fire, it said the Transition Community Chairman of the council, Mr Godwin Ekpe (JP) has declared seven days of mourning for all indigenes of the local government.

It also mentioned that the council chairman has received approval from the state government to withdraw all Ukanafun contingent for their outing in the ongoing Christmas Carol activity scheduled to hold on December 28, 2023.

“Sequel to the tragic fire incident that occurred at the residence of our Late State Party Chairman, Obong Udo Ekpenyong on 24th December 2023 which claimed the lives of his wife, Mrs Elizabeth Udo Ekpenyong and her sister, Ms Ofonime Frank, the Chairman, Transition Committee, Ukanafun Local Government Area, Hon. (Elder) Godwin Ekpe JP has declared a 7 days mourning period for all indigenes of Ukanafun Local Government from Tuesday 26th of December, 2023 to Monday 1st January, 2024.

“He has also in collaboration with the Stakeholders of the Local Government and approval of the state government approved a withdrawal of Ukanafun’s contingent and performance in the ongoing Christmas unplugged activity earlier scheduled to be held on the 28th of December, 2023.

“While sympathising with the family of the deceased, we pray for the repose of the departed souls,” the release stated.

Citizendiary.com