The father of Etimbuk Daniel, former Students’ Union Government (SUG) President of Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU), has called for a thorough investigation into his son’s death at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Enugu State, as Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, sent a delegation to console the bereaved family.
Daniel Sunday made the call on Tuesday when the governor’s delegation visited the family at Ikot Etim, Ukanafun Local Government Area, to express the state government’s condolences over the death of the young graduate.
Describing the loss as devastating, the father said his son had been a source of immense pride to the family and urged the relevant authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding his death.
“The death of my son is a painful loss, as he was one of the greatest blessings in my life,” he said.
Governor Eno, represented by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Dr Ekerete Ekanem, said the government shared in the family’s grief over the death of a young man who had distinguished himself in student leadership.
Ekanem said the delegation was at the family’s residence to demonstrate the government’s solidarity and convey its sympathy to the bereaved relatives and the people of Ukanafun.
“On behalf of His Excellency, Governor Umo Eno, and members of the State Executive Council, we are here to stand with you in this moment of grief. We pray that God will grant the soul of the departed eternal rest and give the family the fortitude to bear the loss,” he said.
The governor described the death as heartbreaking, considering the deceased’s potential and his record of service within the university community, while assuring the family of the state government’s support.
The delegation included the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ubong Umoh; Senior Assistant to the Governor on Students’ Affairs, Dr Wisdom Emmanuel; Senior Assistant on Humanitarian Affairs, Prince Umo Ekpo; representatives of Ukanafun Local Government Area and student groups.
Umoh described the deceased as a team player who was actively involved in student leadership, expressing sympathy with the family and praying for strength and comfort for the bereaved relatives.
The member representing Ukanafun State Constituency, Hon. Emem Udom, commended the governor for identifying with the family, describing the visit as a source of comfort during the period of mourning.
Etimbuk’s death at the NYSC orientation camp in Enugu has plunged his family and associates into mourning, following his earlier involvement in student leadership as AKSU SUG president.
However, the circumstances surrounding his death were not established during the visit, leaving the family’s demand for a thorough investigation as a central concern.
Prayers were offered for the repose of the deceased’s soul and for strength for the bereaved family.
