By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
The death has been announced of Deaconess Elizabeth Nicholas Ekpo, the matriarch of the Ekpo family of Ayakuk Essene, Ikot Abasi LGA, Akwa Ibom State. She was aged 83.
Mama Elizabeth Ekpo was the mother of Sylvanus Ekpo, former Editor, Shipping World Magazine.
According to a release by Sylvanus Ekpo, Deaconess Ekpo was admitted into the Ikot Abasi General Hospital having been in coma for three days. She was thereafter treated and referred to the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital for expert management.
The family has expressed profound grief, highlighting the pain of losing such a matriarch and pillar of support.
Her family, the release says, specially remembers her as a source of joy and determination, always helping to bond different members of the polygamous home she was married into.
Born on August 1, 1939 in Essene in Ikot Abasi LGA, Akwa Ibom State, she was taken by her father to Lagos where she met her husband, Chief Nicholas Ekpo. She graduated from the Singer Sewing Machine Company after taking courses in Dressmaking and Embroidery. In January 1965, she set up her own business at No 10 Ojora Street, Ajegunle, Apapa Lagos where she undertook the training of many young school leavers in fashion designing and dressmaking.
Through her faith and commitment to the Apostolic Church, she was baptized in 1964 by J. I. Ntekop, the then Officiating Minister in the Ajegunle Apapa territory. She continued to serve there throughout her life. As a prophetess, God used her in many ways to bring deliverance and healing to many church faithfuls.
She was a financial member of Essene Community Development, Women’s Wing, Lagos, before returning to the village with her husband in 1981. She continued to serve God and her community till death.
Mama Ekpo was an inspiration to many. Her spirit of forgiveness, patience and love made a lasting impact on those who knew her.
Despite facing numerous health challenges, her unwavering determination in the battle for life was legendary, the family says. She was a warrior who tackled obstacles without complaint.
Deaconess Elizabeth Ekpo’s sudden demise has left a significant void in the hearts of members of her family who cherish her memory with affection and gratitude. Her journey as a mother, grandmother and great- grandmother inspired many. Her legacy of positivity and resilience will continue to live in the hearts of many, the Ekpo family says.
On November 10, 2023, Deaconess Elizabeth will be committed to mother at her residence in Ayakuk Essene, Ikot Abasi LGA, Akwa Ibom State by 10am, the statement says.
The Superintendent of Okon Area of the Apostolic Church, Nigeria, Essene District, will perform the interment ceremony.
Mama Ekpo is survived by her only son, Sylvanus Ekpo; daughter-inlaw, Ekaete Sylvanus Ekpo; her only brother, Sylvester G. Umosen who lives in Forth Worth, Texas, USA; great grandchildren- Queen Ikeoluwa & Olubukola Samuel; Rose Linus Itu, Anietie Akpan Isaiah, Akparawa Uwem Udeme, nieces and nephews, to mention but a few.