The State Government has announced the death of the first Civilian Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Obong Akpan Isemin.

Disclosing this at a Press Briefing in Uyo over the weekend, the Commissioner for Information & Social Re-orientation and Chairman, Publicity Sub Committee for the burial, Mr. Aniekan Umanah said Obong Isemin died at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital on 19th July, 2009.

The Commissioner who described the late Obong Isemin as a “pillar of democracy” and “an apostle of structural mental adjustment” noted his remarkable contributions to the socio-economic and political development of Akwa Ibom State and the country.

He said that “the State Government is working closely with the family of the deceased to accord this great son of ours a befitting State burial”

According to him, the obsequies would commence on Wednesday, August 12 with the opening of Mourning House at Isemin’s country home, Mbioto II with visitations of sympathizers from various groups, while service of songs and lying-in-state will take place between August 20 – 21, at Uyo Township Stadium and the State Executive Council Chambers respectively.

The Information Boss further announced that the funeral service will hold on Saturday, August 22, 2009 at Community Secondary School, Mbioto II which will be followed on Sunday, August 23, 2009 with a thanksgiving service at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, along Edet Akpan Avenue, Uyo.

Mr. Umanah therefore called on citizens of the State, political associates and friends of the deceased to participate fully in the funeral events lined up to give the Elder Statesman a befitting burial.