Gov Otu Mourns Veteran Journalist Anietie Akpan, Commends His Contributions to Journalism

Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has mourned veteran journalist Anietie Akpan, describing him as a respected media professional whose contributions to journalism and public discourse will remain significant.

The governor conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family through a delegation led by his Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Linus Obogo. The delegation also included the Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Affairs, Nsa Gill, and representatives of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council.

The delegation visited the family of the late journalist and was received by his widow, Imaobong Anietie Akpan, and daughter, Etinyene Anietie Akpan.

According to a statement published by the Cross River State Government on Thursday, 8 October 2026, Governor Otu had intended to visit the family personally but was unable to do so because of official engagements. He therefore sent the delegation to convey his sympathy and solidarity.

The governor also provided financial assistance to support the family in preparing for the journalist’s final rites.

Gov Otu Recognises Akpan’s Contributions to Journalism

Speaking during the condolence visit, Obogo said the governor recognised the late journalist’s contributions to the media profession and his role in public life.

He described Akpan’s death as a loss to the journalism community, noting that journalists play an important role in documenting events, informing the public and contributing to societal development.

Obogo said the governor’s support for the bereaved family reflected his appreciation of the responsibilities carried by media professionals and the value of their contributions to society.

He further assured the family that the Cross River State Government shared in their grief and prayed that God would grant them the strength to endure the loss.

The governor’s gesture provided practical assistance to the family at a difficult time, while also acknowledging the place of journalism in public service and democratic life.

NUJ Appreciates the Governor’s Support

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Cross River State Council, Comrade Archibong Bassey, also expressed appreciation to Governor Otu for identifying with the bereaved family.

Bassey commended the governor’s continued support for the journalism profession in the state, describing the assistance as meaningful to both the family and the wider media community.

She said the support would contribute towards giving the late journalist a befitting farewell.

The NUJ’s participation in the condolence visit underscored the professional relationship between the union, the state government and the family of a journalist whose career formed part of the state’s media history.

For journalists and their professional associations, the death of an experienced colleague represents not only a personal loss but also the departure of someone whose knowledge and experience may have influenced other practitioners.

Family Expresses Gratitude

Responding on behalf of the family, Etinyene Anietie Akpan thanked Governor Otu for remembering them during their period of grief.

She expressed appreciation for the financial assistance and the decision to send a delegation to convey the governor’s condolences.

The family described the gesture as a source of support at a time when they were preparing to bid farewell to their loved one.

The presence of government representatives and NUJ officials also demonstrated solidarity with the bereaved family as it navigates the difficult period following Akpan’s death.

The Importance of Recognising Journalists’ Contributions

The governor’s condolence message has brought renewed attention to the contributions of experienced journalists to public discourse and societal development.

Journalists document important events, investigate issues affecting communities, report government activities and provide information that helps citizens understand developments around them.

Their work can also preserve historical records, bring attention to neglected concerns and create opportunities for public accountability.

Veteran journalists, in particular, often accumulate years of professional experience and institutional knowledge that can benefit younger reporters and editors.

Recognising their contributions, supporting their families in times of bereavement and preserving their professional legacies are important aspects of sustaining a strong media community.

However, beyond tributes following the death of a journalist, the profession also faces broader questions about welfare, working conditions, professional safety and support for media workers and their families.

Condolence visits and financial assistance can provide immediate relief, while sustained cooperation between government, professional associations and media organisations can help address longer-term challenges facing journalists.

A Loss to the Cross River Media Community

The death of Anietie Akpan has drawn expressions of sympathy from the Cross River State Government and the state’s journalism community.

Governor Otu’s message, conveyed through his representatives, emphasised the late journalist’s contribution to the profession and the importance of standing with his family during their period of mourning.

The NUJ’s involvement further highlighted the bond between media practitioners and the responsibility of professional associations to support colleagues and their families.

As preparations for the journalist’s final rites continue, the support extended to his family represents a gesture of solidarity from public officials and fellow media professionals.

Cross River State Governor Bassey Edet Otu has mourned veteran journalist Anietie Akpan, praising his contributions to journalism and public life while providing financial assistance to support preparations for his final rites.

Through a delegation led by his Chief Press Secretary, Linus Obogo, the governor conveyed condolences to the deceased’s widow, Imaobong Anietie Akpan, and daughter, Etinyene Anietie Akpan.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, Cross River State Council, also commended the governor for identifying with the bereaved family.

The development highlights the importance of recognising the contributions of journalists and supporting their families during difficult times.

As the media community mourns Akpan, his passing serves as an opportunity to reflect on the role of journalism in informing the public, documenting events and contributing to the development of society.

Akahi News extends its condolences to the family, friends, colleagues and professional associates of the late Anietie Akpan. May God grant them comfort and strength during this period of mourning.

Source: Cross River State Government and Paradise News reports published on 8 October 2026.