The Cross River State Government has announced its intention to immortalize HRM Uti Agba, the longest-serving monarch in Africa, in recognition of his significant contributions to the state and the nation. The monarch, who recently passed away and was laid to rest in his hometown of Obudu, Cross River, received praise during his funeral Mass at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church.
Governor Bassey Otu, represented by his deputy, Peter Odey, expressed the difficulty of the loss and highlighted the monarch’s life as a model of selfless service to the community. The governor acknowledged the deep respect accorded to HRM Uti Agba during his 64-year reign, noting that the late monarch had left an indelible mark.
The late monarch, who served as the Chancellor of Cross River University of Technology (CRUTECH), passed away at the age of 91 years and 4 months in April 2023. The funeral proceedings were attended by dignitaries, including former Governor of Benue State, Sen. Gabriel Suswam; Minister of Sports Development, Sen. John Owan-Enoh; former Minister of Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen; Vice Chancellor of University of Calabar, Prof. Florence Obi; and Cross River State Commissioner for Finance, Mike Odere.
Paramount ruler and Muri Muneneof Efut, Maurice Okon Eyo 1, also extolled the virtues of the late monarch, describing him as one of the most respected traditional rulers for his principled stand. The ceremony served as a gathering of eminent personalities from Cross River and well-meaning Nigerians, paying tribute to the enduring legacy of HRM Uti Agba.
IMAGE: The Beagle Online
