Ayade, Lawan, others bid Senator Okoh farewell


Amid tributes and emotions, the Senator Representing Northern Cross River Senatorial district in the Senate, Rose Oko, was at the weekend laid to rest in her home town in Yala local government area of the state.

The state governor Professor Ben Ayade who was the chief mourner, led prominent Nigerians, including the Senate President, Dr Ahmed Lawan, past governors, federal and state lawmakers among others to bid the late Senator farewell.

Okoh, a two time Senator and former Commissioner in Cross River state died in March.

Speaking at the funeral mass which held at Christ the King Catholic Church, Okuku, Governor Ayade described the deceased as "our beloved sister, a great compatriot, a distinguished senator, a faithful wife, a fantastic mother, kind in consideration, good at heart, beautiful in looks, carriage, conduct and attitude.”

The governor condemned high wire politicking that often characterizes preparations for bye elections to replace a deceased elected office holder even when the person was yet to be interred.

He urged INEC to push for a legislation that makes it compulsory for a dead elected office holder to be buried first before an election is held to replace such person.

Ayade said the late Senator Okoh gave her constituents quality representation in the Senate, adding that the entire state, particularly Northern Cross River will miss her brilliance, intelligence and elegant poise.

He extended his condolence to her immediate family and people of Northern Cross River.

On his part, the Senate President represented by the Senate Minority Leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe rued the passage of Senator Okoh who he described as "the rose of the Senate", saying the late Senator will be remembered for her quality legislation in the Senate

The Senator Lawan further stated that she would be dearly missed by her colleagues in the upper federal legislative chamber.

Earlier in his homily, the con- celebrant, Rev.Fr. Mathew Otuji described the deceased lawmaker as a silent achiever who believed in the principle of silent action, alleviating the plight of the suffering.

He urged people to reflect on the kind of life they lead while still alive.