‘The notice is appealing to anyone who knows the Ukpong family of Ikpe Annang, or anyone with information that could lead to his relatives, to come forward immediately. Organizers say the aim is to reunite the family with their loved one so that funeral arrangements can begin’
By our correspondent
An urgent public appeal has been launched to trace the relatives of Late Boniface Udoh Ukpong, an indigene of Akwa Ibom State, whose remains are currently deposited in a mortuary in Makurdi, Benue State.
According to the notice made public on Monday, Ukpong was from the Ikpe Annang clan in Akwa Ibom. He belonged to the Akpan Ukpong Family, with Palinus Sampson listed as family head. His last known village address was Km 9, Ikot Ekpene–Uyo Road, Ikpe Annang Junction, Akwa Ibom State.
Family members and well-wishers say Ukpong left his village in 1990 in search of greener pastures. He spent about two years in Lagos before relocating to Makurdi. It was in Benue State that he finally settled, got married, and raised two children who are now aged 15 and 13.
During his years in Makurdi, the late Ukpong worked as an artisan and earned respect in his community. He also served as Commander of the Vigilante Group, Gaadi Unit, where he was known for helping to maintain peace and security in the area.
Those close to him say that after leaving home more than three decades ago, he never returned to Akwa Ibom and gradually lost contact with his relatives. The distance and years apart meant that even his children did not know the exact location of their father’s hometown.
It was while he was critically ill that Ukpong provided the details about his origin. Those details are now being used by concerned individuals to trace his people and ensure he receives a befitting burial in his ancestral land.
The notice is appealing to anyone who knows the Ukpong family of Ikpe Annang, or anyone with information that could lead to his relatives, to come forward immediately. Organizers say the aim is to reunite the family with their loved one so that funeral arrangements can begin.
“Your share may help reunite a family with their loved one,” the appeal stated.
Members of the public with useful information are urged to call 0703 619 0175.
Community leaders in Makurdi and Akwa Ibom have also been asked to help circulate the notice within town unions, vigilante associations, churches, and hometown groups to speed up the search.
As of press time, efforts to locate the family were still ongoing.
