Otu Honours Anietie Akpan, Says Journalism Has Lost a Pillar

Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has paid tribute to veteran journalist, Mr. Anietie Akpan, describing his death as a significant loss to the journalism profession and public life in the state.

The Governor, through his Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Linus Obogo, joined family members, colleagues and friends in mourning the late journalist during a condolence visit to his family.

Obogo, who visited alongside the Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Affairs, Mr. Nsa Gill, and the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Cross River State Council, said Governor Otu had desired to personally identify with the family in their moment of grief but was represented by the delegation due to official engagements.

The delegation was received by the deceased’s widow, Mrs. Imaobong Anietie Akpan, and his daughter, Etinyene Anietie Akpan.

Obogo said the Governor recognised the late Akpan as a journalist whose professional career contributed significantly to the development of journalism and public discourse, stressing that his impact would remain part of the history of the profession in Cross River.

He added that Governor Otu had also provided financial assistance to the family to support preparations for the final burial rites of the veteran journalist.

According to him, the gesture was not only an expression of sympathy but also a demonstration of the Governor’s recognition of the role played by journalists in preserving history, holding conversations that shape society and keeping the public informed.

Obogo urged the bereaved family to take solace in the enduring legacy of the deceased, assuring them that the state government shared in their grief and remained supportive during the difficult period.

The NUJ Chairman, Cross River State Council, Comrade Archibong Bassey, commended Governor Otu for identifying with the family and supporting the journalism community at a time of loss.

Bassey said the Governor’s intervention would provide meaningful support to the family and contribute to efforts to give the late journalist a befitting farewell.

Responding on behalf of the family, Etinyene Anietie Akpan expressed appreciation to Governor Otu for remembering the family and standing with them during their period of mourning.

She said the gesture had provided the family with a sense of support and solidarity at a particularly difficult moment, expressing gratitude to the Governor for honouring the memory of her late father.