The remains of the Wife of the former Senate Deputy Chief Whip, Dr Mrs Grace Emmanuel Essien, arrived at the Victor Attah International Airport, VAIA, Uyo, on Monday, March 30, 2026.
She was aged 68.
The body which was accompanied back to the state by the deceased husband, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, FNSE, was received by family members and members of the Burial Central Planning Committee, CPC, led by the Chairman, Abom Tony Esuh.
At a brief ceremony at the airport, Senator Ibok Essien thanked God for the life of his late wife whom he described as his pillar of support and strength, and praised God for the life she lived while on earth.
He noted that his late wife lived a fulfilled and dignified life, submitting that her departure is the will of God of which he is grateful to God for his mercy, grace, and benevolence his wife had while on earth.
Funeral rites for the departed Matriarch who until her demise was a renowned business woman, educationist and Proprietress of Ritman Nursery and Primary School, Ritman College, Ritman University, and Managing Director, Gracib Investments Limited, among others, kicks off on Sunday 5th April, 2026, with the opening of Mourning House.
Condolence visits will begin from Monday, April 6th-Thursday April 9, 2026, while a Valedictory Service at Ritman University, Ikot Ekpene will be held on Thursday 9th April, 2026, at 10am.
Thursday 9th April, 2026 will feature a Service of Tributes/Songs at New Apostolic Church, Ikot Abia Idem by 4pm while Funeral Service will hold on Friday 10th April, 2026, at the New Apostolic Church, Ikot Abia Idem, Ikot Ekpene by 10am
The weeklong funeral activities will come to an end on Sunday 12th April, 2026, with a Thanksgiving Service at New Apostolic Church, Ikot Abia Idem, Ikot Ekpene by 10am.
