Nse Ekpenyong, the legislator representing Oron Constituency in the House of Representatives, Abuja, is dead.
Oron is a coastal city and Local Government Area (LGA) in Akwa Ibom State.
This newspaper learned that Ekpenyong, who showed no sign of illness, died on Sunday. He was 58.
The deceased is a former member of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and a former deputy chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa lbom State.
Before joining politics, he was the Managing Director of Based/Investment Trust Co Nigeria Limited and later the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Brule Integrated Nigeria Limited.
Messages of condolence have poured in.
Francis Otioro wrote on Facebook: “I’m just glad I was privileged enough to meet you. Deep inside my heart, my thoughts for you are stronger than death, Hon Nse Ekpenyong. May your reputation precedes you Oh Ofriyo!”
Mattello Felix wrote on Facebook: “Shocking! Rt Hon. Nse Ekpenyong?? Sad news for Oron Federal Constituency. One lost too many.”
DrDurable Osung wrote on social media: “This is a great loss to Oro Nation. But God understands! May God have His way and avenge the death of Nse Ekpenyong. Adieu my brother and friend!”