The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, on Saturday, led a solemn tribute at the Requiem Mass held in honour of the late Chief Francis Akpo, father-in-law to former Governor Ben Ayade. The service, held at St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Obudu, drew a host of dignitaries including State Governor, Sen Prince Bassey Edet, his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, and former Deputy Governor, Prof Ivara Esu. The gathering also included Senator Rt. Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams and other top government officials.
Ayambem offered heartfelt condolences to the grieving Ayade and Akpo families, recognizing Chief Francis as a disciplined educationist and mentor whose impact extended far beyond his immediate circle. Chief Francis’s profound influence on those who had the privilege of being mentored by him underscored the void left by his passing.
Chief Francis, who passed away on March 29, 2024, after a brief illness, was laid to rest following the Requiem Mass. He was 83 years old.
