” FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS
I HAVE DONE MY BEST IN
THE RACE, I HAVE RUN THE
FULL DISTANCE, AND NOW,
THERE IS WAITING FOR ME
THE VICTORY PRIZE OF BEING
RIGHT WITH GOD, WHICH THE
LORD, RIGHTEOUS JUDGE, WILL
GIVE ME ON THAT DAY - AND
NOT ONLY TO ME, BUT TO
ALL THOSE WHO WAIT
WITH LOVE FOR HIM
TO APPEAR.
-2 TIM 4:7-8
”
UYO CATHOLIC PRINT MEDIA
0802 753 5894, 0806 520 6240
HeartsFOREVER IN OUR
Date: Saturday 10th December, 2022
Venue: St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Ikot Onono, Ika LGA
Time: 10:00am prompt
Chief Celebrant: His Lordship, Most Rev. Camillus R. Umoh
(Ikot Ekpene)
Concelebrating Bishops: His Lordship,Most Rev. John EbebeAyah
(Uyo)
His Lordship, Most Rev. Donatus Edet Akpan
(Ogoja)
Reception of the Body: Rev. Fr. Gabriel Umoh
Assistant Priests:- Very Rev. Fr. Francis Usoh
Very Rev. Fr. John Ebebe
Co-Celebrants:
All priests present
Gospel: Rev. Innocent Utin
Homily:- Very Rev. Fr. Canice Ekpo
Prayer of the Faithful: Rev. Fr. Primus Ndifreke Umoh
Final Commendation: His Lordship Most Rev. Donatus EAkpan
(Ogoja)
Interment: Rev. Fr. Gabriel Umoh
Choir: Ika Deanery Choir
Altar Servers: Nto Udo Enwan ParishAltar Servers
Masters of Ceremony: Rev. Fr. Anthony Mbat
Rev. Fr. Ekemini Etim
Seminarian Gregory Usoro
Commentator:
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 2
PRIEST: In the name of the Father,and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit
ALL: Amen
PRIEST: May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Love of God, and the communion of
the Holy Spirit be with you all!
ALL: And with your Spirit
The Priest sprinkles the coffin with the Holy water and says:
Priest:I bless the body of our brother,Brendan MatthewAkpan Usoro with the Holy water
that recalls his baptism of which St. Paul wrote;“All of us who were baptized into Christ
Jesus were baptized into His death”. By baptism into His death, we were buried together
with Him so that just as Christ was raised from the death by the glory of the Father, we
might live a new life.For we have been united with Him by likeness of His resurrection.
Placing of the Pall
On the day of his Baptism, Brendan Matthew Akpan Usoro put on Christ.When the Lord
Jesus Christ appears in His Glory,may our brother also be clothed in God's glory.
ALL: Amen
LET US PRAY
With faith in Jesus Christ,we bring the body of our brother,Brendan MatthewAkpan Usoro
into the Church.We confidently pray to God the Almighty, Creator and giver of life that He
will raise his mortal body into perfection in the company of the saints.
May God give him a merciful judgement and forgive all his sins. May Christ the good
shepherd lead him safely home to be at peace with God our Father. May you be happy
forever and ever.
All: Amen
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 3
Entrance Hymn -Stand up for Jesus Second entrance hymn
EHB 130: Se Obufa Jerusalem
1. Stand up, stand up for Jesus,
Ye soldiers of the cross; 1. Se obufa Jerusalem
Lift high his royal banner, Iduñ ndisana owo
It must not suffer loss. Mme mmọ emi esañade
From victory unto victory Ye Ọbọñ eyesim do
His army shall he lead,
Till every foe is vanquished, Chorus:
And Christ is Lord indeed. Yak ukpong mme Ndisana owo
emi ekpade k'Obong
2. Stand up! Stand up for Jesus! Ke mfon obong yak Ukpong
The trumpet call obey; mmo
Forth to the mighty conflict eduok odudu k'emem
For in this his glorious day,
Ye that are men, now serve him 2. Mmọ ikwe ukut ye ubiak
Against unnumbered foes, Nte ikutde ke isọñ
Let courage rise with danger, Do ke obufa Jerusalem
And strength to strength oppose. Edu ke inemesit
3. Stand up, stand up for Jesus, 3. Se ediye Jerusalem
Stand in his strength alone; ọdọñ mi ndisim do
The arm of flesh will fail you, O Christ Ọbọñ da nnyin usuñ
Ye dare not trust your own. Man nnyin idisim do
Put on the gospel armor,
Each piece put on with prayer; 4. Jesus emi akakpade
Where duty calls or danger, Ke ima fo ye nnyin
Be never wanting there. O nam nnyin ima Fi
Man nnyin ikpa ñko ke Afo
4. Stand up, stand up for Jesus,
The strife will not be long;
This day the noise of battle,
The next the victor's song.
To those who vanquish evil
A crown of life shall be;
They with the King of Glory
Shall reign eternally.
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 4
LATE OBONG BRENDAN AKPAN USORO 93 YEARS
FUNERAL MASS
First Incensation
Opening Prayer
Priest: God of Mercy, you are the hope of sinners and the joy of Saints.We pray for
our brother, Brendan Matthew Akpan Usoro whose body we honour with Christian
burial.Give him happiness with your Saints,and receive up his body in glory at the last
day to be in your presence forever through Christ our Lord.
All:Amen
LITURGY OF THE WORD By Mrs. Gracie
First Reading:Wisdom 3:1-9 Imaobong Augustine
Usoro
Theme:He accepted them as a Holocaust
The souls of the virtuous are in the hand of God, no torment shall ever touch
them.In the eyes of the unwise,they did appear to die,their going looked like a
disaster, their leaving us, like annihilation; but they are in peace. If they
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 5
experience punishment as men see it,their hope was rich with immortality;slight was
their affliction, great will their blessings be. God has put them to the test and prove
them worthy to be with him; he has tested them like Gold in a furnace and accepted
them as a holocaust.
When the time comes for His visitation,they will shine out;as sparks run through the
stubble, so will they.They shall judge nations, rule over peoples, and the Lord will be
their king forever.They who trust in Him will understand the truth; those who are
faithful will live with Him in love;for grace and mercy await those He has chosen.
The word of the Lord
All: Thanks be to God
Responsorial Psalm By the Choir
Ps.22:6-7,17 – 18,20 – 21
Response:To you,O Lord I lift up my soul
Remember your mercy, Lord
and the love you have shown from of old.
In your hope remember me,
because of your goodness,O Lord.
Relieve the anguish of my heart
and set me free from my distress.
See my affliction and my toil
and take all my sins away.
Preserve my life and rescue me.
Do not disappoint me,you are my refuge.
May innocence and uprightness protect me:
for my hope is in you,O Lord.
Second Reading: Thessalonians 4:13 – 18 By Dr. Agnes Innocent Usoro
Theme:We shall stay with the Lord forever
We want you to be quite certain, brothers, about those who have died, to
make sure that you do not grieve about them, like the other people who
have no hope.We believe that Jesus died and rose again,and that it will be
the same for those who have died in Jesus: God will bring them with him.We can tell
you this from the Lord's own teaching;that any of us who are left alive until the Lord's
coming will not have any advantage over those who have died.At the trumpet of God,
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 6
the voice of the Archangel will call out the command and the Lord himself will come
down from heaven; those who have died in Christ will be the first to rise, and then
those of us who are still alive will be taken up in clouds, together with them, to meet
the Lord in the air.So,we shall stay with the Lord forever.With such thoughts as these
you shall comfort one another.
The word of the Lord
All:Thanks be to God
GospelAcclamation:Matthew 25:34
CHOIR: Alleluia for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth, alleluia, alleluia praise the
Lord (2X)
READER: Come, you whom my father has blessed says the Lord; take for your
heritage the kingdom prepared for you since the foundation of the world.
All: Alleluia for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth, alleluia, alleluia praise the Lord
(2X)
Gospel:Matthew 5:1- 12 Rev. Innocent Utin
Theme:Rejoice and be glad,for your reward will be great in heaven
DEACON: The Lord be with you
ALL: And with your spirit
DEACON: A reading from the Holy Gospel according to Matthew
ALL: Glory be to you O Lord
“Seeing the crowds,Jesus went up the mountain.There he sat down
and was joined by his disciples.Then he began to speak.This is what he taught them:
How happy are the poor in spirit;theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Happy the gentle:they shall have the earth for their heritage.
Happy those who mourn:they shall be comforted.
Happy those who hunger and thirst for what is right:they shall be satisfied.
Happy the merciful:they shall have mercy shown them.
Happy the pure in heart:they shall see God.
Happy the peacemakers:they shall be called sons of God.
Happy those who are persecuted in the cause of right: theirs is the kingdom of
heaven.
Happy are you when people abuse you and persecute you and speak all kinds of
calumny against you on my account.Rejoice and be glad,for your reward will be great
in heaven.”
DEACON: The Gospel of the Lord.
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 7
All: Praise be to you,Lord Jesus Christ
Homily: Very Rev. Fr.Canice Ekpo
Prayer of the Faithful: Rev. Fr. Primus Ndifreke Umoh
For the Church and her Leaders
For the Deceased
For the Bereaved family
For Journey Mercies
Hymn: “It is well with my Soul”
When peace like a river attendeth my way
When sorrows like sea billows roll
Whatever my lot,Thou hast taught me to say
It is well, it is well with my soul
It is well (it is well)
With my soul (with my soul)
It is well, it is well with my soul
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come
Let this blest assurance control
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate
And has shed His own blood for my soul
Offertory (CHOIR)
Oh,Ufan mmi – CHB 161
Oh,Ufan mmi,edieke okutde ete
k'inyene isong emi odoro fi tim kere
Amadi ami,ndikponke Obong
Jesus,Andinyanga
Mbok Obong - CHB 169
Mbok Obong,mmenyeneke senode fi Obong,
Mmonofi idem mmi
yak ami ndot ndinam utom nno fi
Da mmi nte okwuo
WHAT CAN WE BRING TO OFFER
IN THANKSGIVING & LOVE
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 8
Offertory Procession:Family members,one CMO,one CWO,2 nuns
Hymn
TAKE MY LIFE AND LET IT BE
1.Take my life and let it be
consecrated, Lord, to thee.
Take my moments and my days;
let them flow in endless praise,
let them flow in endless praise.
2.Take my hands and let them move
at the impulse of thy love.
Take my feet and let them be
swift and beautiful for thee,
swift and beautiful for thee.
3.Take my voice and let me sing
always, only, for my King.
Take my lips and let them be
filled with messages from thee,
filled with messages from thee.
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 9
Prayer Over the Gifts
Lord, accept this sacrifice we offer for our brother, Brendan Matthew Akpan Usoro,
may your love cleanse him from his human weakness and forgive any sins he may have
committed.We make our prayer through Christ our Lord.
All:Amen
Sanctus Sanctus,Sanctus,Sanctus
CHOIR: Dominus Deus Sabaoth
Plenisunt Caeli et terra,Gloria tua
Hosanna in Excelsis
Benedictus qui venit in nomine Domine
Hosanna in Excelsis
The Mystery of Faith
ALL: We proclaim your Death O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you
come again
Priest: Through Him,and with Him,and in Him,O God,Almighty Father,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,all glory and honor is yours forever and ever.
THE GREATAMEN
ALL: Amen,Amen,Amen,Amen
Praises and glory,with some thanksgiving and honor
Power and Might belong to the Lord
Forever and ever,Amen
Pater Noster- OUR FATHER by CHOIR
Agnus Dei - Eyen ErongAbasi emi emende,
m'idiokmkpo ererimbot efep
Tua nnyin mbom
Eyen ErongAbasi emi emende,
m'idiokmkpo ererimbot efep
Tua nnyin mbom
Eyen ErongAbasi emi emende,
m'idiokmkpo ererimbot efep
No nnyin emem
The Sign of Peace
PRIEST: Lord Jesus Christ who said to your Apostles: Peace, I leave you, my peace I
give you; look not on our sins, but on the Faith of your Church, and graciously grant
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 10
her peace and unity in accordance with your will,who live and reign forever and ever.
ALL: Amen
Priest: The Peace of the Lord be with you always
ALL: And with your Spirit
Deacon: Let us offer each other the sign of Peace.
PRIEST: Behold the Lamb of God…
ALL: Lord,I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof,
But only say the word,and my soul shall be healed.
COMMUNION HYMNS
1. I AM THE BREAD OF LIFE.
I am the bread of life.
He who comes to me shall not hunger;
he who believes in me shall not thirst.
No one can come to me
unless the Father draws him.
And I will raise him up,
and I will raise him up,
and I will raise him up on the last day.
The bread that I will give
is my flesh for the life of the world,
and he who eats of this bread,
he shall live forever,
he shall live forever.
I am the Resurrection
I am the Life
He who believes in me,
Even if he dies
He shall live forever
2. JESUS DUK K'ESID AJID
i Ikpok idem Abong
ano agwo'uwem,
dio, di dibo Abong Jesus
bot-idem nde'Anye,
Jesus ade ujo'uwem
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 11
Chorus
Jesus mbok duk di k'esid ajid
Duk di k'ukpon ajid nun chon agwo'idem .
Afo ade usung, afo ade uwem
Afo ade akpaniko, O Jesus diduok emem k'esid ajid
Afo ade ima, afo ade uwem ukpong ajid.
Jesus Abong di, no agwo idem afo
ii Dinwon ijip Jesus
Eno agwo k'ima
dijed idem k'ijip amo
bo nchon-idem, Jesus ade ata ufak
iii Jesus aneke ukod
Awo dita nwon
Adi k'idem ke Eukarist
Kam sana kpere ke'Ade Ete ima
3. Amazing Grace
Amazing grace how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I'm found
Was blind but now I see
'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed
Through many dangers, toils, and snares
I have already come
This grace that brought me safe thus far
And grace will lead me home
POST COMMUNION PRAYER
Priest: Father, all powerful and merciful God, we pray for the soul of our brother,
Brendan Matthew Akpan Usoro, whom you have called from this life to yourself. May
the power of the Holy Eucharist cleanse him from all his sins and bring him to your
presence in the resurrection of the just.We ask this through Christ our Lord.
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 12
All:Amen
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Acknowledgement of Condolence Messages
StAnthonyAnthem,Ikot Onono
Appreciation by the Bereaved Family
Final commendation and Farewell
Bishop Akpan Leads: Our brother, Brendan Matthew Akpan Usoro has gone to
his rest in Christ.With faith and hope in eternal life;let us commend him to the loving
mercy of God Our Father and assist him with our prayers. He became God's child
through baptism and was always fed from the table of the Lord. May the Lord now
welcome him to the table of God's children in heaven and with the saints may he
inherit the promise of eternal life. Let us also pray for ourselves; may we who mourn
his death be reunited one day with our brother; together, may we meet Christ Jesus
when he who is our Lord shall appear.
(The body is sprinkled with Holy water and incensed)
FINAL COMMENDATION HYMN
EHB 61: Uwem Nsi-nsi
1. Uwem nsi-nsi uwem nsi-nsi
Kpukpru nnyin iyom Fi
Anie ikpiyomke ndiduk
K'idara Abasi?
Chorus
K'obio Abasi Ibom
Kpukpru nditọ Esie
Edu k'idaresit
K'idara Abasi
2. Uwem nsi-nsi
Uwem nsi-nsi
Ererimbot ọdiọk
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 13
Iduñ nnyin iduhe k'isọñ
Ukpọñ oyom enyọñ
3. Uwem nsi-nsi
Uwem nsi-nsi
K'usen Baptism mi
Abasi esin k'esit mi
Akwa itọñ enyọñ
BishopAkpan: Saints of God,come to his aid
Come to meet him angels of God
All:Receive his soul and present him to God the Most High
Bishop Akpan: May Christ, who called you, take you to himself, may angels lead you
toAbraham's side.
All:Receive his soul and present him to God the Most High
Bishop Akpan: Give him eternal rest, O Lord, and may your light shine on him
forever.
All:Receive his soul and present him to God the Most High
BishopAkpan: By your coming Response: Lord,save your people
By your baptism and fasting Lord,save your people
By your suffering and cross Lord,save your people
By your death and burial
By your return in glory to the father Lord,save your people
By your gift of the Holy Spirit Lord,save your people
By your coming again in glory Lord,save your people
Lord,save your people
BishopAkpan:Let us Pray:
Father into your hands we commend our brother, Brendan Matthew Akpan Usoro,
we are confident that with all who have died in Christ, he will be raised to life on the
last day and live with Christ forever.We thank you for the blessings you gave him in
this life to show your fatherly care for all of us and the fellowship which is ours in
union with the saints in Christ Jesus.
In your mercy Lord, listen to our prayer, that the gates of paradise may be opened to
welcome your servant, Brendan Akpan Usoro. Help us who are left to console each
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 14
other until we meet again in eternal life.We ask this through Christ our Lord.
All:Amen.
Bishop Akpan: Brendan Matthew Akpan Usoro, may the angels lead you into
paradise, may the martyrs come to welcome you and take you to the Holy City, the
new and eternal Jerusalem.May you have eternal rest,Amen.
RECESSIONAL HYMN
1).Akwa Abasi Ibom d: - d: d t d r: m r d: -
2). Saña suñ sim Obio Abasi EHB: 36
1. Saña suñ sim Obio Abasi
Ukpọñ Owo Christian;
Madiañade ọkpọñ ererimbot
Ukpọñ Owo Christian.
Kpukpru ikọt fo etua eyet
Edi afo odu k'idaresit,
Ukpọñ owo Christain
2. Esit nnyin etie nte unana
Ukpọñ owo Christian.
Ke afo ọnyọñde ọkpọñ nnyin
Ukpọñ owo Christian
Ima nnyin etiene fi k'udi
O, kuyak mkpa adiañade nnyin
Ukpọñ owo Christian.
3. Se nnyin ibọñ akam inọ fi
Ukpọñ owo Christian
Yak afo ada nduọk-odudu
Ukpọñ owo Christian
K'idaresit Obio Abasi
Kufre ndibọñ akam nọ nnyin ñko
Ukpọñ owo Christian
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 15
16
BIRTH AND PARENTAGE AND powder and ferns around their
SIGNIFICANT ENTRY temples and symbolic palm fronds in
INTO THIS WORLD their other hands, and in their
wrappers without blouses or shirts,
The union between Akpan these warrior women surged with
Usoro and Elizabeth, our chants and ululates towards the
grandmother produced colonial lines! At this time the
Brendan Akpan Usoro, who years colonial staff had already ordered
later, became our “Great Baba, our troops to come. And they opened
one in a million father.” Elizabeth who fire with the Lewis machine gun on
became our grandmother, was the unarmed women! Our
pregnant with his son during the 1929 grandmother Elizabeth Akpan Usoro
Aba Women's War that demanded was pregnant with her baby boy in
women to pay Poll Tax -per individual 1929.Papa was born that same year in
heads and on their livestock, with or 1929 from the union between a
without income- to her Majesty the warrior mother Elizabeth and her
Queen in faraway Britain! This was in supportive husband, Akpan Usoro.
addition to the taxes paid by their Our grandmother fought in that war!
husbands! There at Utu Etim Ekpo, 18 women
From Utu Etim Ekpo, Abak, Ukam, were killed and 19 severely wounded
Opobo, Aba and parts of Igbo land, (Margery Pelham Records 1929).
the women rose up en mass, against Our grandmother fought and
the inconsiderable stance of the survived in that war with her
colonial administration! Armed with pregnancy! She must have been a very
sticks, but decked as traditional tough cookie!
warriors with painted faces using
white chalk, charcoal and blue
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 17
HIS PHILOSOPHY OF LIFE, unlettered but skillful man that succeeds in
THE DRIVE BEHIND HIS life far better than an academician without
SUCCESSES skills!!!This philosophical maxim charted
the course of his vision and successes in life.
Deducing from the foregone summation, These are reflected in Baba's Business
the entry of our Baba into life in this world vision, love and care for his family,
was signaled by that unique epoch in the community and those in need as well as his
history of our area which witnessed the political life, his social life, his faith and how
movement of the marginalized of our to correct his experience of an abusive and
society into the very center of discourse traumatic treatments he received as a child
signaled by the Ekongokpoiwa (war with on his first day at school transitioned into
cassava sticks!) led by the undeterred his determination for investment in a true
women of our society. The ver y and proper education of his children and
circumstances of his birth signaled Baba to those in need whom he helped.
be a very unique man of an uncommon
destiny. These have been reflected in his BUSINESS ACUMEN & VISION
contributions and life Philosophy, and have
been translated into his transformational In business, people were very surprised to
drive.These too,enabled him to channel his see our father, Chief Brendan Usoro, in his
life experiences, his family and hey days, or days of maximum period of
environmental gleanings, as well as his achievement in his life, (1969-2014) invest
natural wisdom and intelligence, into in very diversified areas of trade. Indeed, by
indelible prints and clear vision in areas of today's standards, he was a miniature
his Business investments, Good Political American Home Depot, and Kroeger
leadership, Educational Vision for his fleet of popular shopping malls rolled into
children, and his empathic outreach to the one for Baba in the diversified items he
needy and the marginalized of our local traded upon rather that in physical space.
communities.
In his custody for sales at Mkpohoeto
He used his life principles to teach his market were such allied products found at
children and family members by words and Home Depot, such as: Roofing sheets,
examples. He was a strong advocate for Cement, Iron-rods, nails, paints, and
peace! He only spent half a day in school in other building materials. And the rest
his entire life and never went back. He kept of the items akin to what could be
the reason to himself, but carved a niche obtainable at American Kroeger, or in
that transformed the half day experiences some of our Nigerian Supermarkets as well
in school into a guiding principle that
informed his life philosophical maxim,
“Nnan awung eto nwed.” That is, “the
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 18
as those of the Open and Flea Markets, He was a great real estate investor as well.
included these brands of drinks and edibles; He headed lots of Osusu club & folks never
Guinness Stout; Champion Beer, Star Beer; failed to elect him their leader. He was
Gulder; 33; Schnapp; Local Gin or Kai-kai accomplished and accounted for whatever
especially traditionally brewed from was entrusted to him. He was a great
fermented palm wine seasoned with edad/ stockist.
mkpa-eto. Other products that he sold
include, stockfish/dried cod; smoked fish of Restaurant- Some of us the children,
various species too. There were the Soda loved his cooking when he would go in with
brands of drinks popularly known as “Soft- his dear wife to whoop up the soup in his
drinks” such as Fanta; Coca Cola, Sprite; 7- restaurant business. In the restaurant Baba
Up. had stock of assorted drinks for sale and a
variety of healthy African foods with tasty
He sold Yam Tubers of all types; He soups. He processed and sold garri after
produced and sold palm-oil in bulk at the the war. He was very health conscious.
warehouse. He sold Sugar, Beverages were
on wholesale. The ingenuity of this great Transportation Business
man to decide when to mix a product as He was also in transportation business. He
wholesale/retail or strictly wholesale was was the first in our area to acquire the first
admirable. His quality assurance system indigenous bus to ply Ika-Lagos in those
was superb. days. He owned pickup trucks to transport
goods for customers from Aba to
In all these, he made Urua Mkpohoeto, an anywhere in the then Cross River State.
open market her Baba defined his product
line and territory when Urua Inyang market POLITICS AND POLITICAL
opened post-civil war. He chose to APPOINTMENTS
concentrate his main trade activities on
Mkpohoeto market only; here in Ika as his Baba was a Youth Leader under the
Business Headquarters.Traders from, Urua National Congress of Nigeria and
Inyang (in Ika), Urua Akpan-Essiet (in Cameroun - NCNC
Ukanafun), Urua Ajion (in IkotErong), (1) Chairman: Chief Brendan made a
UruaEkpo (by Ikot Imo and Abak-itenge), Urua great impact in the political arena.
Abak (in Abak town),Abo Annang (bounded by He was first appointed the Chairman of
Ibogho, Ikot Esidomo and Ukana) and Urua Ikot Onono Village Council
Atoh (in Abiakpo/Ikot Ekpene)& all around, (2) Councilor: Next, he was elected Local
would come to him to procure lots of trade Government Councilor for Abak Local
items on credit. Government Council in 1976 -“The Great
Abak 5”comprising, Abak,Etim Ekpo,Oruk
Anam,Ukanafun and Ika,his home.
(3) Member: Ministry of Agriculture
Commodities Board, Cross River State
Appointed by Governor Clement Isong
(Late) 1979-1983.
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 19
The Political Life of Chief Brendan Matthew (12) Dr. Mathias Offoboche, OON,
Akpan Usoro was impactful on the creation Obstetrician & Gynaecologist,
of new local government areas. Chief Deputy Governor to Dr. Clement Isong -
Brendan Akpan Usoro was one of those Ika (Late).
Leaders that got His Royal Majesty (HRM) (13) Chief Matthew Udoekpo - (Late)
Ekpenyong Okonko Udo-Utun to Projects and Philanthropic Excellence
participate in the Abak Local Government Pivotal projects for Baba embraced
election under the Social Democratic Party reaching out to the destitute; the sick;
era. He played an active role in that election university graduates and sowing the seeds
that would eventually bring about the for their educational endeavours! On every
creation of Etim Ekpo Local Government Mkpohoeto market day, he extended his
Area that was carved out of Abak Local largesse to Queen of Apostles Seminary
GovernmentArea. for the upkeep of students, teachers and
the clergy. He truly received and freely
Political Contemporaries- Governors shared God's blessings with others.
and Senators His other projects for our local
communities include:
He was well known by his political 1. Water projects in Abak, Etim Ekpo,
associates and contemporaries, and was in Ukanafun.
good company with each of them 2. Agriculture project in Ikot Onono
individually. Baba now joins his political through then Cross River State
contemporaries as almost the last of the Government.
Titans. May they too, Rest in Peace. Some 3. Electricity projects in various
of these include: communities of Abak.
(1) Governor Donald Etiebet 4. Recommendations for Educational
(2) BarristerAkaninyene Ukpana - (Late) Admissions, State Scholarship Board. He
(3) Dr. Ime Umana-(Late) was a man of the people.
(4) Dr. Edidiong EkpoUdom - (Late)
(5) Chief UdoIdiong (UtuAbak) - (Late) ADVOCATE OF PEACE WITH THE
(6) JosephWayas,Senate President - (Late) NEIGHBOR / ADVERSARY
(7) Governor Clement Isong (Late) Between 1964-1968, we sought refuge all
(8) MP/Paramount Ruler Raymond Orok over his in-laws and in the homes of friends
(Late) in Edem Inyang Area, now Etim Ekpo Local
(9) Hon. Christopher Udom Eshiet (CRS Government.Our village was a target of the
Speaker)-(Late) irrational behaviour of the NgwaAxis of the
(10) Hon. Asana, Ika State Constituency- Biafran Republic.Once the Biafran declared
(Late) independence, the irate vigilante group
(11) Hon. Michael Ukpong,Admiral, House (Civil Defence Team) started raiding and
of Rep - (Late) burning down our village.
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 20
Baba was instrumental to the mutual peace Abak in about 1978, a young growing
accord to the age-old boundary conflict, politician from had the effrontery
between these three villages, Azumini (audacity?) to confront Baba in English that
autonomous Community, Ikot Onono and he was uneducated. Baba retorted: Ami-
Iwukem. We have since lived in peace for Nde Nnan Awung Eto-Nwed.Vintage Uyo-
over thirty years. Baba a colossus exaction Ika. He was lifted by the elders' present
was instrumental to this safe-made peace shoulder high.The young man was made to
settlement. withdraw his statement before he was
Baba was such a peace lover that he made allowed to attend subsequent meetings.
us his teenage children to sign what we He apologized.
later dubbed “The 1974 injunction”
wherein we signed in front of Baba to live in CHURCH AND FAMILY
peace with one another as long as we lived
in this world! We signed, this uneducated Baba was the Chairman of St. Anthony
man signed and sealed this covenant with Catholic Church from the pre-civil war era
and egg yolk! Powerful!!!Vintage Baba!!! to the late 80s. He did well in the
management of the Church and was always
EDUCATIONANDTHE ORIGIN OF leading his family to the Church and on
“NNAN AWUNG ETO-NWED” time. His faith and trust in God were
obvious to us his children and to the
Education and the origin of “Nnan awung people at the Station.
eto-nwed”
History has it and, it has never been Family
disputed, that Baba attempt on education Baba needed a large family. God graciously
ended in ½ of a day of school attendance. gave him one.Baba cherished his family and
He suffered a child accidental discharge would never dream of anything trying to
and was greatly traumatized with jungle tear it apart.To each of us his children he
justice handed over to him. He was sent issued injunctions on our united and good
back home and never made it back to any relationship with each other and with the
school in the universe. He still was able to larger world. He lived our popular
speak pidgin English, sign his name in later traditional maxim of “Unity is Strength'
years. The educated sought council and “Mboho ade Urud.” And the reason he
political endorsements from this man that seemed to care for numbers in his family
did not go through the four-walls of a was born of his exposure to so many public
classroom setting. Who he endorses in figures and the experiences derived
Nigeria pre-war Politics and modern day therefrom. One would say that his reasons
2nd, 3rd, 4th Republic hardly failed election for large family and togetherness in his
(there is no record to the contrary. Utu household and community seem to rhyme
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 21
succinctly with these immortal words of He will bone knowing we come bi-weekly
the great Nigerian writer, Chinua Achebe, from wherever to seek this moment. He
“Alone I can smile but together we can loved his machete, dane gun and flash light.
laugh; Alone I can enjoy, but together we This man would not sleep until he was sure
can celebrate. his family members were okay. He has his
Alone I can talk but together we can speak. numerous hideout spots till 2:00am to
Let's promote things that unite us than protect us from any intruder. None dared.
things that cause disunity; Unity is Great We, however, ran a-foul of his precepts. A
Strength. Everyone is important according few times, we would get his CD-175
to their own unique purpose. Never look motorbike or his vehicles and pushed them
down on anybody unless you are admiring to what we thought were safe grounds and
their shoes” Chinua Achebe. cranked them to start! For some years, he
pretended he didn't know about our
His faith was very pivotal in the formation truancies. He never brought it up until one
of his children. He prayed 60% of the times night we stayed out till 4:30am. Baba pulled
that he spent with us,his children,and in the up on his other vehicle to proceed to his
tradition of the Biblical Patriarchs imparted trade. He hovered around the disco place-
fatherly blessings on us as he touched our all of us were just in the vehicle about to
foreheads. pull out.There he was with this driver. We
panicked as we saw this strict disciplinarian.
He had fun times with his children and
family. He did not entertain curse words He asked with gathering love, “Are you
except when dogs were mentioned in naughty boys and girls, okay?” We were
conversation. This was a way that we his cold, numbed the more, shaken and
children, grandchildren, acquaintances speechless as if we had lumps in our
played the pranks of getting on his nerves.It throats!Then he added,“Go home, eat well
was therapeutic, though, nothing serious. before you sleep,to help with any drink you
There was this caveat in our compound, to might have consumed.” We all looked very
stop talking about eating of dog meat! But scared and a little bemused and thought,
that was where we decided to pitch our “What? Was he for real?” that was truly,
tents! We would laugh till our lungs began vintage Nnan Awung Eto-Nwed. We were
to hurt.We would get naughtier after about protected species, allowed to enjoy our
three conversations on the tabooed topic youth,in a manner we truly owe him a great
watching out for Baba's reaction! If he did deal on that for his fatherly care, wisdom
not react, we would continue to push! and understanding!!!
Eventually he would oblige that laughter
was a good therapy. We suspected he knew Foremost on his mind was the education of
we were setting trap for him to be angry his children to become successful either
with us. He avoided and taught us the great through formal or skillful education like
lesson without words, “Always, never to learning through his entrepreneurial
react at angry moments!” investments as he lived out in his business
ventures.
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 22
FINAL WORD 6. Mrs. Ekaette Uwem Matthew
7. Mrs. Justina Michael Edet
Baba, now that you are at a better place, 8. Ms. Ifiok Brendan Usoro
continue to impart your blessings on us and
be that avenue of light and a channel of a GRAND CHILDREN
grace from God our father to all of us your 1. Mr. Mathew Augustine Usoro
children as we journey on our pilgrimage of 2. Mrs. Grace Edet Afangide
life, so that where you and your loved ones 3. Mr. Michael Augustine Usoro
have been, we too will hope to join when 4. Mr. Udeme Augustine Usoro
our own time are ripe too. May God who 5. Dr.Agnes Innocent Usoro
blessed you with a long life, to enjoy the 6. Ms Precious Innocent Usoro
fruits of your labours from the family and 7. Mrs.Vivian Robinson
children you loved and cherished reward 8. Mrs. Crystal Arinze
you with a crown of glory promised to his 9. Mr. Kennedy Innocent Usoro
faithful sons and daughters as we knew you 10. Ms Anabel Innocent Usoro
to be one of them. Baba, may you rest in 11. Victory Imo Usoro
perfect peace. Amen! 12. Esther Imo Usoro
13. Master Daniel Imo Usoro
He is survived by a wife: 14. Happiness Ime Usoro
Mma Comfort Brendan Akpan Usoro
15. Prince Iniobong Usoro
SONS
1. Dr.Augustine Brendan Usoro 16. Donald Iniobong Usoro
2. Chief (Dr.) Innocent Brendan
17. Rowland Iniobong Usoro
Usoro
3. Prince Imo Brendan Usoro 18. Esther Iniobong Usoro
4. Engr. Ime Brendan Usoro 19. Dorothy Iyaknse Usoro
5. Mr. Nsikan Brendan Usoro 20. Samuel Iyaknse Usoro
6. Hon. Iniobong Brendan Usoro 21. Happiness Michael Edet
7. Mr. Emmanuel Brendan Usoro 22. Deborah Iyaknse Usoro
8. Mr. Etieno Brendan Usoro 23. Goodness Etieno Usoro
9. Mr. Unyime Brendan Usoro 24. Etinyene Unyime Usoro
25. God'swisdom Unyime Usoro
DAUGHTERS 26. God'spromise Unyime Usoro
1. Obonganwan Magdalene Friday 27. Mrs. Francisca Christian Essien
28. Enwongo Friday Udom
Udom 29. Captain Ekpedeme Friday Udom
2. Ms.Aniebiet Brendan Usoro 30. Mrs. Akamobong Nkaroijo
3. Mrs. Seno Utip David
4. Mrs. Patience Emmanuel Udo Ikpaikor
5. Mrs. Esitmbom Unyime Efik
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 23
31. Precious Utip David 4. Prince Christian Essien
32. Miracle Utip David 5. Henry Christian Essien
33. Kimberly Unyime Efik 6. Ediomo Enwongo Udom
34. Edidiong Michael Edet 7. Divine Ekpedeme Udom
35. Talent Michael Edet 8. Innocent Ekpedeme Udom
36. Mary Michael Edet 9. Kelvin Ekpedeme Udom
37. Unwana Michael Edet 10. Adoration Nkaroijo Ikpaikor
38. Miracle Michael Edet 11. Mike Nkaroijo Ikpaikor
39. Genesis Uwem Matthew 12. Astro Mike N. Usoro
40. Kemfon Uwem Matthew 13. Ihuma-Chuku Carrisa Arinze
41. Happiness Emmanuel Udo
42. Goodnews Emmanuel Udo GRAND DAUGHTER SONS
43. Victor Emmanuel Udo INLAW
44. Emmanuel Emmanuel Udo 1. Mr. Christian Sunday Essien
2. Hon. Nkaroijo Zephaniah Ikpaikor
SONS INLAW 3. Dr. Edet Afangide
1. Chief Friday Frank Udom 4. Mr. Ifeanyi Arinze
2. Mr. Utip David 5. Mr. Dianabasi Robinson
3. Mr. Unyime Efik
4. Mr. Michael Edet Effiong GRANDSON DAUGHTERS INLAW
1. Hon. Patience Enwongo Udom
5. Mr. Uwem Matthew 2. Mrs. Imaobong Ekpedeme Udom
3. Mrs. Zainob Mathew Usoro
6. Mr. Emmanuel Ezekiel Udo
DAUGHTERS INLAW NEPHEWS
1. Princes Rita Augustine Usoro 1. Mr. Ofonime Anthony Usoro
2. Dr. (Mrs.) Anie Innocent Usoro 2. Mr. Nsibiet Anthony Usoro
3. Mrs. Nancy Imo Usoro 3. Mr. Iyakeno Anthony Usoro
4. Mrs.Agnes Ime Usoro 4. Mr. Clifford Ibanga
5. Mrs. Itoro Iniobong Usoro 5. Mr. Aniefiok Ibanga
6. Mrs. Mfoniso Etieno Usoro 6. Mr. Joshua Nicholas Usoro
7. Mrs. Idara Iyaknse Usoro 7. Mr. Owoidihe Nicholas Usoro
8. Mrs. Faith Unyime Usoro 8. Mr. Kingsley A. Usoro
9. Mr. Oto-obong A. Usoro
GREATGRAND CHILDREN NIECES
1. Iyana King 1. Mrs. Idara Emmanuel
2. Testimony Christian Essien 2. Mrs. Ofonmbuk
3. Mary Christian Essien 3. Ekaette Nicholas Usoro
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 24
4. Christiana A. Usoro 32. Mr. Samuel Gregory Usoro
5. Rosemary A. Usoro 33. Mr.Victor Gregory Usoro
6. Edidiong A. Usoro 34. Mrs. Joy Adela Oono
35. Gregory Akpan Usoro (Jnr)
RELATIVES 36. Uduak Friday Usoro
1. Mr. Dominic Akpan Udoma 37. Nsikak Friday Usoro
2. Mrs. Monica Dominic 38. Happiness Oliver Etotuk
3. Itoro Dominic 39. Edidiong Friday Usoro
4. Akaninyene Dominic 40. Mfon Usoro Umoh
5. Nsikak Dominic 41. Juliet Uduak Usoro
6. Edidiong Dominic 42. Kiniabasi Jeffery Uduak Usoro
7. Ofonbuk Dominic 43. Enobong Ignatius Usoro
8. Anthony Dominic 44. Edidiong Ignatius Usoro
9. Mr. Regis Sampson Usoro 45. Idorenyin Ignatius Usoro
10. Mr. Michael Sampson Usoro 46. Ekemini Ignatius Usoro
11. Mr. Inemesit M. Usoro 47. Emediong Ignatius Usoro
12. Mr. Udeme E. Usoro
13. Hon. Innocent J. Usoro Those we love never
14. Hon. Mrs. Augusta A. Usoro truly leave us.
15. Mr. Henry Amos Usoro There are things that
16. Mr. George John Usoro death cannot touch.
17. Mr. Nsidibe Etukudo
18. Mr. Idong T.Aniekop
19. Mr. Henry Akpan Usoro
20. Mr. Wilfred Gregory Usoro
21. Sir Patrick E. Usoro
22. Chief Saviour Usoro
23. Mr. Aniekan Thomas Usoro
24. Mr. Nsibiet Michael Usoro
25. Mr. John Michael Usoro
26. Mrs. Cicilia E. Mendie
27. Mrs. Christiana Eventus
28. Miss Eme Gregory Usoro
29. Mrs. Ekaette Godwin Udoikpong
30. Mrs. Edidiong Paul Bassey
31. Mrs. Etido Nnameti Sam
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 25
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 26
TRIBUTES LATE OBONG BRENDAN AKPAN USORO 93 YEARS
A HUMBLE TRIBUTE On one of your hospital trips in Lagos – Eye
surgery in the Eye clinic in Ikeja while you
TO MY FATHER being wheeled for a procedure you cried
and yelled so profusely the Doctors
Dear Father, I thank you for considered aborting the procedure. I laid
everything. I thank you for my life my right on your forehead and prayed for
which God gave me through you. I you and blessed you and I told you that due
thank you foreducating me well about life to hospital rules and procedures I could not
and the formal education you gave me. go with you beyond the point but that God,
the Angels and my spirit as your Father at
I thank you for keeping your promises to me that time would go with you and protect
especially the promise to educate me in the you throughout the procedure. This is what
white man's land at age 9. It turned out to be you used to do for me as a child in St.
the United States of America and the best Mary's hospital Urua Akpan before they
gift a father can give to his ward.You did took me away for medical procedures. You
well. People call their father all sort of became very calm to the shock and surprise
names to describe who their father was to of the medical personnel at hand. They
them. To me I don't need fancy names to reported back asking what sort of a human
describe you. You were already described being am I to be so obeyed by His 91 years
by God Almighty- “A Father” but Oga sir old Father.
permit me to call you an extra ordinary and
I thank you. Every child should grow up to
mysterious man. become a caring parent of his/her aged
parents. You have left your entire
You had not much but you gave me all household to me to nurture and care for. I
that I, my siblings and others needed. have no doubt that with your watch over me
and that of God that Job is already done.
Fathers bless their children but
you asked me in your final days Baba be rest assured that the work you
started in me caring for your family will be
to my greatest surprise and completed with your watch over me. There
amazement to bless you is no shaking. You guided me well in life
which I did and you and I believe you will be there for me in
were very happy spirit.
and appreciated
it. Goodbye Etubom
May God take you safely to your home and
heaven, where we will meet to part no
more.
Dr. Augustine B. Usoro
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 27
TRIBUTES LATE OBONG BRENDAN AKPAN USORO 93 YEARS
A TRIBUTE TO OUR GRANDPA A TRIBUTE TO MY FATHER
Grandpa – Baba, today I join the entire world to
celebrate you and the fulfill life you lived.
We are saddened that we never I am honored to call you my father
had the chance to formally say because you took me into your family and
goodbye. But we are delighted treated me as your biological daughter.
that we had the opportunity to spend
precious moments with you during our You were an epitome of goodness and a great
last visit to Nigeria in November 2018. We man of integrity, you were a father to all and
appreciate the little time we were blessed exemplified what community is all about, a
to spend with you and reminisce on your mouth piece for the disadvantaged and less
journey. We only wish that we had the privileged. Though you had no education you
opportunity to spend more time with you, believed in education, and committed your
gain wisdom and advice, and learn more time and resources to advocate for education
about your most cherished memories. making sure all your children and those you
come in contact with get good education.You
We appreciate the sacrifices you have provided opportunity for lives to be
made to support your family both locally transformed.
and abroad. And recognize that it is
because of you that we are thriving and You were a community builder,an advocate for
able to support and grow our own peace and unity, and always leaving a place
individual families. It gives us comfort to better than you found it.You were selfless in
know that you are in a better place with loving, giving, and caring for your family. You
God, watching over us. Continue to bless neglected not your duties in the Church, and
us and guide us from your heightened were not lacking either in the political field.
position with God as we navigate the With all this, you stayed humble. May we who
obstacles set forth in our lives. Your celebrate you today honor your legacy by living
memory will forever be with us. Rest in out your instructions and emulating your
peace Grandpa,Chief Brendan Usoro. characters,Amen.Rest in Peace,Baba.
Your daughter
Attorney (Mrs) Anie Usoro, RN
Agnes Usoro, Idara Usoro, Vivian
Robinson, Crystal Arinze,
Grandchildren and Great-
Grandchild, Family of I. B. Usoro
Kennedy Usoro Annabelle Usoro
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 28
Baba, it is still like a dream to me “Baba Ida'” as I fondly call you. Your love
that you have gone forever.Death stands as out as the source of strength,
has finally snatched you away guide and courage even though you're
from me, I can't question God. Baba, I gone forever.You will forever remain in my
am missing you so much already. If only heart chief USORO.
you can see the tears in the world you
left behind. Even when I close my eyes, I You were not just my father but a father to
still see a vivid image of your face. Baba, the entire Ikot Onono village, this they can
you are a loss that nothing can replace. testify to.You were strong, stubborn always
Oh death, why are you so merciless and standing by the truth and a true child of
without pity on me? No consideration, God. You worked hard to see your family
you took away from me now that I succeed and unite, you loved life and you
needed him most.I missed you,Dad,but I were a jolly good fellow.You will be greatly
take comfort in the knowledge that you missed .
are resting in the bossom of our Lord
Jesus Christ. Rest in perfect peace, My husband, Genesis, Kemfonabasi, and
Amen! myself wish you the safest journey to the
great beyond till we meet again in the
resurrection morning. Adieu Baba, sanga
sung!
Engr. Ime Usoro (son) Your daughter,
EKA BABA
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 29
TRIBUTES LATE OBONG BRENDAN AKPAN USORO 93 YEARS
MY BELOVED FATHER: TRIBUTE
ETI-YEN UNYIME USORO Baba was a very kind hearted and
loving person who served both
Death is an inevitable end of all insiders and outsiders! Although,
mortals.Without it,one cannot we didn't spend much time together,yet,I
be transformed into eternity. can say with utmost conviction that this
Father you were very good to us. You was a man with love flowing from his
always wanted the best for your heart toward those around him at any
children, relatives and even all those particular time.
who came in contact with you. But now
that you are no more, we will all miss I can tell you, the first day I met him, I
you, Chief Brendan Akpan Usoro, my didn't want to go close. I was so scared
father. I pray: May your gentle soul rest that he would ask me plenty of questions
in perfect peace, Amen! that I was not ready for immediate
answers! Rather, he invited me to come
Unyime Brendan usoro (Son) closer to him and give him a warm hug, a
sign of a real father with heart of love!
TRIBUTE TO A This reassuring gesture melted away my
LOVING GRANDPA fears and rather faded me in with the
disposition of smiles and feelings of
I miss you grandpa! We will never acceptance.
forget you grandpa! Even though we
didn't get to know you for a longer Baba was a cheerful and playful person
time before leaving us, yet, the little time that was sweet to be with. From this little
we spent with you was fun. I was also knowledge about my father-in-law,I knew
told many stories by my daddy on how as a very good and friendly father. He did
you were a good and loving father. I not like noisy places.I can remember that
know I didn't spend much time with you day we visited him in the village, we were
but I have these feelings that you were a just talking and laughing, then he said,
good and loving Grandpa. We will “Uyime, Nkum ikang ke ikpan-echid!” And
continue to love you Grandpa,and I pray, we got him a bottle of small stout. He
may your gentle soul rest in peace, loved drinking small stout.This is the little
Amen! I can tell about my father-in-law.We will
always miss you chief Brendan Akpan
Godswisdom Unyime Usoro Usoro.Rest on our loving Father!
(Grand son)
Faith Uyime Usoro
Your Daughter-in-law
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 30
TRIBUTES LATE OBONG BRENDAN AKPAN USORO 93 YEARS
TO MY BELOVED love was an indication and part of my
GRANDPA marital happiness. Thanks for the
quality of love and life you gave to my
Dearest Grandpa, I miss the way wife it feels like we're together but
we always come and visit you.I apart.Rest in perfect peace my Chief .
think it was because of you that
my daddy always brought us to the Dr. Unyime Efik
village anytime he came back from work. Your son in-law
You were a very good Grandpa that
always make your grandchildren to be TRIBUTE TO AN HONORABLE
happy.Thank you for waiting for me to COUNCILLOR (MY FATHER)
be born and know you before leaving.
We will miss you Grandpa. May your I am saddened on your departure, my
gentle soul rest in perfect peace, great advocate of peace. You have
beloved Grandpa, Amen! shown us what discipline is all about
especially; in Church, Farm work, and in
Etinyene Unyime Usoro the society that we have found
(Grand daughter) ourselves.
A TRIBUTE TO MY FATHER IN-LAW You also motivated us in aspiring for any
elected offices even in village settings,
From the day I came to ask you for Church and politics without fear of
your daughter's hand in marriage,I money and level of academic from our
began to enjoy your love and care opponent.
as a son In-law. The fact that you have
departed to join the saints has left me You named me Nsikan with pride and
with an unheal memory. I visited your I’m proud being one. Nnan agwung eto
house few days ago and l noticed an nwed, you fought a good fight for your
empty sit in your palor that reminds me children and see them becoming useful
that you're gone to be with the creator. to you,the family and society.
My wife who is your daughter, our I pray God grant you eternal rest in His
daughter Kimberly and l will Miss the bosom. Amen.
care because you won't be there again. I
enjoyed the little moment we spent Nsikan Brendan Usoro
together. You gave me the inspiration (Last Born)
and courage to achieve my goals. Your
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 31
TRIBUTES LATE OBONG BRENDAN AKPAN USORO 93 YEARS
AN ATTRIBUTE TO A LEGEND A responsibility that makes it different
from other notes on the keyboard.
Late chief Brendan Akpan Usoro
was a famous man among his peers, Death is a responsibility that nobody
he was a kind of man that touched takes away from us or takes permission
lives during his life time, he loved to do for us,and then goes back later to
decency all the time. He had kindness to die for himself or herself.The death of
the needy, Baba, Ujo Alia-Nwa, as he was anybody defines the person's
fondly called,was a disciplinarian. uniqueness, the person's "persona" in a
crowded humanity. This consoles me
He hated violence. He reached out to each time l flashback into memories,
the oppressed. He was a one time knowing fully well it is a price we shall
Councilor during former Abak five. He all pay sometime,someday.
acted in so many roles. Baba was a
philanthropist. During his life time, he Chief Brendan was a gentle, loving, and
donated free lands to widows for caring father to his family and those
cultivation. He contributed immensely that came across him. He was a good
to the development of Churches, infact, listener; our guide in times of trouble
a man of the character and quality. Chief and challenges. He was a source of
Brendan is no more in the village of Ikot inspiration and courage. It's so sad you
Onono village and among the diaspora. had to leave us now, but God knows
best. He is the giver and deserves the
Ette Mathew played very important right to allocate our existence.Your life
roles during the days of boundary issues was well spent in goodness and love,
between us and our neighboring States. and this calls for the celebration of life.
Baba we will forever miss you but your If it is not GOD'S will to call you from
good legacies will remain evergreen in this painful world into his glory, all the
our memories.Sanga sung-sung chief. efforts made by your children would
have stopped you from dying.
Mr.Utibe S. Ibanga
Our prayer is that the great rewarder
A TRIBUTE TO CHIEF BRENDAN USORO gives you your place by his side.Amen!
When my friend told me about ADIEU Chief Brendan.
your passage, l tried very
hard to console him with Sir Napoleon Isighe (KSJI)
the words of Martin Heidegger, who
considers death as a personal and family.
responsibility. As in a case of a musical
note on a keyboard, which has an
exclusive and unique sound, whose
sound no other note on the keyboard
(within a particular key) can produce.
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 32
TRIBUTES LATE OBONG BRENDAN AKPAN USORO 93 YEARS
TRIBUTE TO MY BELOVED FATHER We used to admire you during our holidays,
to watch you drink your HennessyVsop as
My Dad was my hero. He was the an elder, with ease and some glitter of
most courageous and respectful happiness on your face as you cracked
man. I never questioned if he jokes with us. It was fun time. But I can
loved or cared for me because he made it never forget the day we all went to pick
so obvious by naming me “IMO" and spells some palm kernels to snack on, just for fun,
it as i-me-oh in English language. You may after we all returned from Sunday service,
have departed from this earth, but you still you cautioned,“Itum isanga,mbak nkum idi-
live in my heart. Baba, it pains me realizing uduk ukot” It sounded Greek to us until
that I will no longer behold that your some of us were pricked by the nkum (nails
fearless face with big eyeballs again!You are from the fallen palm branches).
man of truth who respects all but fears
none. Everyone around you can testify that You demonstrated the energy in you to us,
you can go extra miles to rescue the your grand children, and some of your
oppressed.The only people that dislike you children who happened to be our age
are those that are afraid of hearing the group at the time. This entire compound
truth. I'm proud to call you my father was filled with the awe of your strict
because you directed us in the right path. discipline. Our only source of comfort was
You made us to know that,“there is time for our dear late Grandma, Grace, who always
everything on earth.” May your soul came for my rescue. Since then, I acquired
continue to rest in peace. Gone, but still from you some strict and tough self
lives in my heart forever. disciplinary measures that have merited me
a post as a Captain in the Nigerian Army.
Prince Imo Usoro (I-me-o) Thank to you grandpa, for that solid
Your third son, foundation.
TRIBUTE TO MY Those memories still live with me till this
LATE GRAND FATHER day. You were a great man. You wanted all
of us to be able to stand on our feet as
Baba, it came to my notification as a respectable men.Thank you dear grandpa,
crippling shock the day you passed dear Baba! As you have gone to be with
on. We dropped all what we were God, Baba, continue to be our guide, our
doing to put on masks and mourn the day channel of protection and grace in all that
of your transition to the great beyond after we do. We'll continue from where you
the huge history and legacy you left behind. stopped.
I'll never erase you from my mind, things
you have taught us and the ones we have Adieu Baba,Sanga Sung!
learned from you. Capt.Ekpedeme Udom
(UdoAyenyen /Aben IwoAben Eku,(Grand Son).
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 33
TRIBUTES LATE OBONG BRENDAN AKPAN USORO 93 YEARS
TO MY HERO TRIBUTES
Nnan awung eto ngwed, ekpe iden, Our father was loved so dearly and
okposong 1, atang anam iden, ujai brought so much happiness to the
Ikot Onono, abok ekondo, many hearts he touched. He was
agwoden Uko, anyanga nto akpa, ebe always kind and caring, and had great
Mm'ebe kpa,inwuek mbon unana,jak ntang understanding towards people. If help was
nturede. In you, one of the world greatest ever needed, then it came so freely from
men is gone, a man of wisdom like him. He was a blessing and God's gift to
Solomon. everyone he came across. He brought so
much joy to us.He was a man of honour and
BABA, indeed! It is quite difficult to come self discipline.
to reason with reality about your
transition to the great beyond! I am indeed Chief, I am still thinking of how you left
saddened with the reality of your physical without telling us. The combinations of
absence in my life. I feel a vacuum.You truly those herbs in a very large bottle that no
were an essential figure in my life. In tick one has ever tested still remains untouched,
and thin you were always there for me and Ekpono Idem.
for all your children. Your high discipline
and transparency, dignified professionally We will really missed you,
and distinguished leadership,were some of
the excellent values you bequeathed to us. Inemesit Usoro & family.
You taught me the value of greatness as TRIBUTE TO MY BELOVED FATHER
well.Your death hit me like a tsunami, tore
me in pieces, shattered, wounded and left When a mirror is broken, you no
me broken despite your blessed age of 90 longer see your image. Papa you
still in control of your senses because you departed the sinful world to join
were one in a million the way you related the saints, truly it has not been the same
with your family members and all those again for me.You were the mirror at which l
you came across. I am, however, consoled looked at myself and now that you are gone
that we will meet to part no more. my life is so empty, I feel it's my soul, but my
solace is the fact that you were a good father.
Adieu to you, “Your Excellency” and my You never made a fortune or boast in a
quintessential hero!!! Rest in Perfect society where men are seeking for fame,you
peace,servant of the Living God. got the fame that you never sought for
through your stands on truth and hard work.
Hon. Prince Iniobong Usoro and
family. You were kind, honest, voice of the people,
hardworking.You were born with a broken
wooden spoon but you gave me silver and
gold on earth through tugged, blood
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 34
TRIBUTES LATE OBONG BRENDAN AKPAN USORO 93 YEARS
unstained with a vice and education. I will I also remember when you returned from
always remember “my no-nonsense father,” Council meeting with tons of documents.
your warm embrace, the special name
Eeeesit you called me, and the delicious Unfortunately, I was the first person you saw.
meals u always made for us after schools. I was preparing for my first year of secondary
school, knowledge of English quite limited,
Oh! Death has left a memory no one can only dictionary at hand was Michael West,
heal. It is a loving memory for me, when I hence I couldn't understand most of the big
think about the life and all you did for me at words as I tried to explain the content of the
my tender age and the time we spent files you brought home.I'm not gonna tell the
together. Thanks for introducing me to public how I was scolded. Remember when
JESUS. I won't forget the joy and love you you returned from Lagos with your
displayed on that faithful day that my pal,“UbomIka?”
daughter Kimberly was born and how you
carry her and hold her very close to heart We were inundated with fanciful stories of
and declare blessings upon her. She'll sure spinning buildings, EkoBridge, height of
miss you papa. l am the woman that I am Independence Building etc.We were awed as
today through your discipline, coaching and kids and went on to disseminate the story as
advice. ours. Chief Brendan was a cultural icon,
selfless father with great business acumen,
The summary of your love from cradle to self-made business mogul, a positive
your exit linger on. It's a memory that even influence, a great lover of education. Ocho
death can not erase. they will never be original. He was the most progressive among
another you in my heart.Papa you departure his brethren.
has indeed reminded me of the word of
God that, death is the end of every mortal, I still remember when he bought his first
the reality that life is vain and everything in Peugeot pickup in the mid-70s. The
the world is vanity.Rest on my father. celebration shook the foundation of the
earth, earth temporarily lost its orbital axis
Your daughter, Eeeeeesit. because of the noise. The second Peugeot
pickup was bought within months. Your
FUN MEMORIES OF A TITAN departure,though of great age came to me as
a shock.I wish we had more time to continue
It's with a heavy burden heart filled with appreciating you but God knows the best.
deepest sorrow that I’m writing this
enduring tribute to you. I still remember May God comfort and sustain those you left
with nostalgia some of the happenings when behind now and always. May God almighty
you were alive,strong and healthy. keep you safe resting in perfect peace till
resurrection day.Rest on.
Remember your popular dane gun that can't
fire any bullet since the firing mechanism was Regis Usoro
dysfunctional but you used it to frighten us
whenever your children sneaked out to
attend disco,popular with youths at the time.
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 35
TRIBUTES LATE OBONG BRENDAN AKPAN USORO 93 YEARS
Tribute to my It was one early morning as early as about 5:30, Six
Beloved Grandfather men knocked on the gate. They just arrived in Lagos
from the village, and this was about three years after
As it is said, death is a necessary end that the civil war in Nigeria. The men were Ubom Udo Akpan,
comes, when it will come. You were a man Friday Ukeh, Pa Ebewo, John Udonnah, Bello Udo-Akpan
of valour, intelligence, reliable and was and the funniest of them all that I found out was named
known for your commitment towards the Uyo Ikot Onono.
achievement of goals and legendary.
Indeed, a Mighty Iroko tree has fallen, a precious These men came to Lagos to buy a van that would be
glass is broken, a bright light has been put off. driven by Bello back to Ika and this was about a week to
Your life was a source of pride, joy and the Independence celebration in Lagos. Their host, my
happiness. You were a perfect gentle and jovial dad (HRM. Ekpenyong Okonko Udo-Utun) took them
man to everyone that came to your way. You gave during the week to buy the van.
yourself yo serve others and after them
positively. You passed through the ups and downs After purchasing the van and the celebration that
of life and still came out a champion. followed as was the tradition, the van was launched.
Truly, you were; A man of Wisdom; A great leader That year was 1973 and there was this parade by the
and a disciplinarian, A man of Authority and Brigade of Guards that was headed by one Major David
Power. Your death is only transition to eternal Ejoor who would become the governor of the Mid-
glory. “Chief, Chief”, as we usually called you, Western State that has been split into part of Oshun, Edo
your life here on earth has been concluded and Delta States today. These men were on horses, and it
gloriously and you have now begun an was very fascinating to Chief Brendan Akpan Usoro. All
everlasting Peaceful Rest. we heard was “kamcheayanyan, KamCheAyanyan” and
Adieu Chief, Chief! Adieu, A Great Hero! off he went along with those horsemen as far as to the
May your Gentle Soul Rest in Peace. Amen. Racecourse where the parade ended. Everyone was
worried that he would be lost in the crowd, but he soon
Enwongo F. Udom and Family found his way back to the Cabinet office that was located
Your Grand-Son in the 25-story building in Lagos. This was the beginning
of a lifelong friendship for me who would be interested in
attending my secondary education in the newly created
Cross River State where we were transformed from
Southeastern State.
I came to the village from Lagos to begin my secondary
school and met the man who was fascinated about horses
and saw that he was an accomplished businessman with a
storefront in Mkpohoeto market. I subsequently met his
three children at that time and we became friends. It
was a good friendship as my aunt was married in Ikot
Onono and I was always in the village.
Chief Brendan would be missed by me as you would
wonder why such an accomplished man would be friendly
with a kid who is younger than his children at that time.
He thus became one of those that gave me education
beyond school education as a child who was very eager to
know his people and their way of life.
Thank you, my friend, Uncle, and in-law, for all the
teachings that I learned from you. I will never forget the
Honda motorcycle and the Peugeot 404 pick-up truck
that your son and I fondly called 533.
In conclusion, I hope that your children that grew beyond
the first three, will have the fortitude to bear this
colossal loss and continue the well-placed life-path you
created. Say hello to your wife who left before you and
tell her we miss her too.
Prince Fidelis ImowoUdo-Utun
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 36
TRIBUTES LATE OBONG BRENDAN AKPAN USORO 93 YEARS
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 37
TRIBUTES LATE OBONG BRENDAN AKPAN USORO 93 YEARS
Dear Grand Daddy, Dear Grandpa,
I'm honestly at a loss of words that you When I was a child, I was told stories
are no longer here with us. Although it is about my Grandfather in faraway
to be expected, because this life is not Nigeria. I would see your photos in
our own, the world shifted from its normal albums and wonder about you. Even though we
course. We were not fortunate enough, like were thousands of miles apart, your presence
those back home, to be able to get the time was felt.
people should cherish and spend time with
you. I really do wish that I had more time to I was so excited to finally meet you on my first
spend with you, because visiting and Face trip home. At that age, it felt like a voyage to get
Time calls was never enough. You are Akpan from Houston to Ikot Onono. When we finally
Uyo (Ujo) Ikot Onono, Chief-chief, Mathew made it, you welcomed my siblings and I with
Brendan, and you let us know. outstretched arms. We were overwhelmed with
so much love! Yet, you were a titan and you made
I wish that I could hear your prayers for my us feel so protected. It gave us all strength in a
protection and for my success again. You place so foreign to us at that time. What should
would always tell me that you were so have been a culture shock for us was instead a
proud of me and that's something I will culture embrace. We carried this strength with
always cherish. You told me I had eyes like us as we grew up.
your mom (my great grandmother). You
protected my brothers and I, from when we During that trip, I witnessed your care and
first came in 95 to my last time getting to leadership for the entire family. You were the
spend time with you in 2016. You were my epitome of a leader and I could tell that your
last remaining grandparent. priority was making sure that there was love in
the family and togetherness. When I would see
I know how much you loved every member my cousins in the US or in Nigeria, we all knew
of our family and I'm grateful for your life. where we came from. It has been our common
You lived long and I'm grateful you lived to bond! Your love and leadership has always made
see your children's children. Even your us proud. Your presence has always been felt.
children's children's children, what a
blessing? Later on, I would see you time and time again
and you would always pray for me and thank God
Thank you again for your prayers, for your for my life! You would pray for my protection and
strength, and for being an incredible father ask God to make everything I did a worthy
to us all! You will be missed! Let your life of endeavor! The last time I saw you, you prayed for
preaching togetherness be a wakeup call to blessings upon my wife and I. We will carry on
everyone. You will forever live in all of us, your love and legacy!
and there are a lot of us. May you be
granted eternal peace and May the Lord Grandpa, I was jolted by your loss but you were a
forgive you of all your trespasses. Amen. giant and your presence then always gave me
strength. It continues to give me courage and
guidance. You will always be missed and you will
never be forgotten. Your presence and your
legacy will live in us all.
Your granddaughter, Love eternally from your grandson,
Gracie Imaobong Augustine Usoro Mathew Uyobong Usoro Jr.
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 38
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 39
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Photo Cutlines
1. Chief Brendan Ma hew Akpan Usoro and 1st Son, praying
with His Eminence Prelate Sunday Mbang in his private.
2. Chief Brendan; Dr. Anie and Sir I. B. Usoro
3. Sir IB and Baba, Chief Brendan Usoro
4. Papa with his daughter in-law, Mrs. Unyime Usoro and Grand Children.
5. Chief Brendan Ma hew A. Usoro with Granddaughters
Prince Grace and Cousin Erica Udoutun
6. Chief Usoro with daughters' in-law, Princess Rita and Mrs. Amos Usoro.
7. Chief M. B. A. Usoro with Mrs. Agnes B. Usoro at seeing off 1st son in lags in 1980 to USA.
8. Chief A. M.A Usoro with Princess Rita Usoro- wife of 1st son in that fashion day.
9. Chief B. M. A. Usoro and Mrs. Agnes Usoro – In Lagos at seeing off 1st son to USA.
10. Chief BMA Usoro; Mama and 1st going to ask hand in marriage of
Princess Rita Usoso and Rela ves for his son.
11. Chief BMA Usoro with Mama and 1st daughter at his mother's burial.
12. The Chief himself. May God bless you.
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 43
CONDOLENCE LATE OBONG BRENDAN AKPAN USORO 93 YEARS
Area.
Be
Through
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 44
CONDOLENCE LATE OBONG BRENDAN AKPAN USORO 93 YEARS
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 45
CONDOLENCE LATE OBONG BRENDAN AKPAN USORO 93YEARS
ETIM EKPO PROGRESSIVE WOMEN ASSOCIATION
Motto: Unity and Progress Etim Ekpo L.G.A
Secretariat,
Utu Etim Ekpo
Date:....3..r..d...N...o...v..e..m....b..e..r.,...2..0...2..2.
OBONANWAN MAGDALENE UDOM
FOUNDER, ETIM EKPO PROGRESSIVE
WOMEN ASSOCIATION
MESSAGE OF CONDOLENCE
On behalf of the E m Ekpo Progressive Women Associa on, we write to
commiserate with you and your family over the demise of your father Late Chief
Brendan Akpan Usoro. Your father, Obong Brendan Usoro lived a life of great impact
and significance.
We remember your Dad as a councilor with an excellent record in administra on,
dedicated community leader and a philanthropist. He gave succor and hope to
many. The records show that he u lized his influence to provide opportuni es for
many youths around him while s ll sharing his resources with others.
No doubt your father was an impac ul man who has le us at a me his wise
counsel was s ll an invaluable resource. However, you must remember the shakes
appearance admoni on that death as a necessary and inevitable end.
We therefore urge you to be comforted by the memories of his
Impact while alive.
Please kindly accept our condolence.
Mrs. Choice Sunday Lazarus - President Mrs. Imaobong F. Jimmy - Secretary
Founder-08028256506 President-08133976662
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 46
CONDOLENCE LATE OBONG BRENDAN AKPAN USORO 93YEARS
PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY
ETIM EKPO WARD 2
ETIM EKPO L.G.A, AKWA IBOM STATE
A MESSAGE OF CONDOLENCE
OBONG ANWAN MAGDALENE UDOM,
SA TO GOVERNOR UDOM EMMANUEL.
OBONG IKOT AKPAN, ETIM EKPO L.G.A.
AKWA IBOM STATE.
The death of a righteous one is a golden move and a tes mony to the
humanity. Op mis cally, Chief Brendan Usoro has accomplished the
biblical responsibili es and the earthly roles which for fies and offers you
and the en re family unquan fied Legacies that you, your family, even
genera on to come have every reason to be proud of his life style as long
as you live. Obong Anwan, although it is suddenly and sad, please accept
our hear elt condolences.
God knows it be er and he is the giver and the taker of lives. May God
almighty give him eternal rest and grant the family the for tude to bear
the irreparable loss in Jesus name - Amen.
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 47
CONDOLENCE LATE OBONG BRENDAN AKPAN USORO 93 YEARS
FOR EVER IN OUR HEARTS 48