Cross River State Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has paid tribute to the late Mrs. Rose Obla Agbenem Orim, mother-in-law of the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Akomaye Parker Undiandeye.
The remains of the 87-year-old deceased were laid to rest on Saturday in Utugwang, Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The governor was represented at the funeral by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey, who led the state government delegation to the burial.
Odey described the deceased as a virtuous matriarch whose life was marked by faith, discipline, love and sound upbringing.
He said the positive impact of her life was reflected in the character and achievements of her children, urging the bereaved family to draw strength from the legacy she left behind.
The Deputy Governor prayed for the repose of her soul and that of some of her deceased children, whom he described as friends during their formative years.
In his tribute, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt. Gen. EAP Undiandeye, recalled the close relationship he shared with his late mother-in-law.
He remembered her for her regular prayer sessions, wise counsel and encouragement, saying she treated him as her own son and gave him unwavering support throughout their relationship.
According to him, her influence on his life and family would remain indelible.
Also speaking during the funeral Mass, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe described the deceased as a mother figure and mentor who made significant contributions to his life and the wider Ogoja community.
Mrs. Orim, a Lady of St. Mulumba, was born in 1939 in Gakem, Bekwarra. Although she had no formal education, she became a successful businesswoman and was also a pilgrim to Jerusalem.
She is survived by six children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including Mrs. Jane Ekor Undiandeye, wife of the Chief of Defence Intelligence.
Among dignitaries who attended the funeral were the Member representing Obanliku/Bekwarra/Obudu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Chief Hon. Peter Akpanke; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar; and the Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area, Hon. Dr. Peter Undaiandeye.
Senior military officers, government officials, religious leaders, traditional rulers and other distinguished guests also attended the ceremony.