By Ekanem Iniko
UYO — The family of Hon. (Dr.) Emmanuel Akpanobong has announced the burial arrangements for the late elder statesman, community leader and devout Christian, who passed on at the age of 67.
In a released burial announcement, the family said the late Akpanobong will be laid to rest on Friday, 4th December, 2026, after a series of events lined up in his honour in Uyo and Ikono Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom State.
According to the announcement, the burial activities will begin with condolence visitations by groups, individuals, institutions and organisations.
The visitations will hold from Wednesday, 25th November to Sunday, 29th November, 2026, at his residence, No. 1 Ufeh Street, Federal Housing Estate, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The period, the family explained, will provide an opportunity for friends, associates, political allies, community members and well-wishers to commiserate with the family, sign the condolence register and share memories of the life and times of the late Hon. (Dr.) Emmanuel Akpanobong.
As part of the activities to celebrate his life, a friendly football match has been scheduled for Saturday, 28th November, 2026, between SAHOL FC and UYO ALL-STARS.
The match, which will take place at the Uyo Township Stadium by 7:00am, is expected to bring together sports lovers, youths and friends of the deceased, in what the family described as a fitting tribute to a man who loved unity, youth development and community bonding.
The spiritual activities will commence on Thursday, 3rd December, 2026, with a Vigil Mass at St. Patrick’s Parish, Afaha Inang, Abak Road, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, by 6:00pm.
The Vigil Mass will be an evening of prayers, hymns, tributes and reflections on the life of the late Akpanobong, who was known for his faith and commitment to the church and to humanity.
The grand finale will be on Friday, 4th December, 2026, with the Funeral Mass and interment at St. Mary’s Secondary School, Ikot Nseyen, Ikono LGA, Akwa Ibom State, by 10:00am.
Family members, friends, traditional rulers, political leaders, church leaders and members of the public from across Akwa Ibom State and beyond are expected to gather at Ikot Nseyen to pay their last respects and bid him farewell.
The family has therefore invited condolences from friends, relatives, associates and well-wishers.
Indeed, for his family, friends and community, the king lives on, not in death, but in the legacy, love and memories he left behind.