Nigeria Mourns Distinguished Public Servant and Administrator
Nigeria has been thrown into mourning following the death of Mr. Ekpenyong Okon Edet, a distinguished public servant and Director of Management Services at the National Assembly, Abuja, who passed away on October 30, 2026, at the age of 58, after a prolonged period of health challenges.
Born on November 11, 1967, at the General Hospital, Maiduguri, to the late Mr. Okon Edet Asuquo and late Deaconess Ansa Edet Asuquo, both of Creek Town, Western Calabar, Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State, the late Ekpenyong hailed from respected family lineages in Mbarakom and Adakuko. Fondly called Pepsi by family members and associates, he was a man whose life was defined by humility, generosity, cheerfulness and an uncommon willingness to assist others.
His educational journey began at Apostolic Primary School, Idang Street, where he completed his primary education between 1973 and 1979. He subsequently attended the prestigious Hope Waddell Training Institution from 1981 to 1986 before gaining admission into the University of Calabar in September 1987. He graduated  with a first degree in economics ,from the university of Calabar in cross River State.  And after his Youth Service, he got a job with the National Assembly, Abuja, where he served and rose through hard work  to the position of a Director, Management Services, Federal House of Representative, National Assembly, Abuja.
A  devoted husband to Mrs. Doris Adaeze Ekpenyong, their union was blessed with four children.
He is also survived by three elder sisters, two younger brothers, nieces, nephews and other relatives. A committed Christian, he was born into the Apostolic tradition but later embraced the Catholic faith, where he served God with devotion. He particularly loved singing the hymn, “Courage, Brother, Do Not Stumble,” a song that reflected his positive disposition towards life .In recognition of his heritage and contributions, the Efut Council, Calabar South, posthumously conferred on him the distinguished traditional title of  Ndabo.
His  Christian wake-keep  will hold on Friday, November 20, 2027, at 3:00 p.m. at his residence in Calabar South. This will be followed by a Requiem Mass at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Egerton, Calabar, on Saturday, November 21, 2027, after which his remains will be laid to rest at his residence. As family members, friends, associates and colleagues reflect on his remarkable life, his legacy of service, kindness and dedication will remain indelible. Though his earthly journey has ended, his impact on the lives of those he encountered will continue to speak for generations.
May his gentle soul rest in the perfect peace of the Lord.
