Otu mourns as Power Commissioner Prince Eka Williams dies in Abuja

Cross River State was plunged into mourning on Sunday following the sudden death of the Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Prince Eka Williams (also referred to as Eka Williams Abang or Dr. Eka Williams Abang), who passed away on Saturday, September 12, 2026, while receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Abuja.

His brother, Nkang William, announced the news in an emotional statement, describing the loss as a devastating blow that left the family struggling to accept the reality. “I am struggling to believe that I am writing these words about you, my beloved brother, Dr. Eka Williams Abang. How can someone who was here with us suddenly become a memory? How can a familiar voice, a loving presence, and a precious life suddenly be silenced? My heart is broken,” Nkang wrote. He called his brother more than a sibling—a companion whose presence carried deep meaning—and said the void created by his departure could not be adequately described in words. The cause of death has not been officially disclosed, though family sources indicated he slumped.

Governor Bassey Otu described the passing as an “irreparable loss” to the government and people of Cross River State and a “dark shadow of grief” over the state. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Linus Obogo, the governor said the sudden and poignant nature of Williams’ death served as a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the solemnity of public service.

Otu noted that the loss felt especially heartbreaking because Williams had joined him just a week earlier at the Ikom New Yam Festival in the late commissioner’s country home, where they celebrated the cherished cultural event. That final public appearance in an atmosphere of fellowship made the sudden departure particularly depressing, the governor said.

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Williams, who previously served as Deputy Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State, brought uncommon loyalty, courage and fidelity to every role he held, first as a political leader and later as a member of the State Executive Council. Otu praised his tenure in the power portfolio for reflecting dedication, forthrightness and an abiding commitment to public service. The governor also highlighted Williams’ leadership of the Forum of Commissioners for Power and Energy in Nigeria, noting that his contributions to the sector extended well beyond the state. He described him as a purposeful public servant whose footprints in governance, politics and public service would endure.

Condolences were extended to the deceased’s family, the Akparabong community, the people of Ikom, his political associates and professional colleagues.

Tributes poured in from others who knew him. Former councillor Pius Kejuo Osang, who represents Abo Ward in Boki Local Government Area, expressed shock, saying he had been with Williams as recently as Tuesday and had even slept in his hotel. Michael Gabriel Jr., Executive Media Assistant to the Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan-Enoh, described Williams as a dedicated public servant and a good man, adding that Ikom Local Government Area had lost someone whose life of service, humility and impact would remain in the hearts of those he touched.

The death marks the third loss of a senior official in Governor Otu’s administration during his first term. Tourism Commissioner Abubakar Robert Ewa died in January 2025 after attending a State Executive Council meeting, while Prince Ojoi Ekpenyong Uguana, Managing Director of the Cross River State Tourism Bureau, passed away in June 2026.

Williams’ sudden departure has left the state’s political and administrative circles in deep mourning as tributes continue to highlight his commitment to service and community.