Cross River lawmakers mourn passing of power commissioner

The Cross River State House of Assembly has expressed deep sadness over the death of the state’s Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Prince Eka Williams. The Speaker of the House, Elvert Ayambem, described the death of the commissioner as a painful loss to Cross River State, noting his contributions to public service and the administration of the state. PUNCH Online reports that Williams died on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at a hospital in Abuja. In a statement issued by the Speaker’s Chief Press Secretary, Matthew Okache, and made available to journalists in Calabar on Monday, Ayambem said the deceased was a committed politician and dedicated public servant who contributed meaningfully to the political development of the state. The statement was issued on behalf of the 10th Cross River State House of Assembly as lawmakers mourned the passing of the commissioner. Ayambem said Williams demonstrated dedication in carrying out his responsibilities as a member of the State Executive Council. Beyond his role in the state government, the late commissioner also participated in national discussions concerning Nigeria’s power sector. According to the Speaker, Williams provided leadership to the Forum of Commissioners for Power and Energy in Nigeria, a role through which he contributed to conversations surrounding the country’s power and energy sector. Ayambem commiserated with Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, members of the State Executive Council and the All Progressives Congress family over the loss. He also extended his condolences to the people of Ikom and Akparabong communities, as well as the deceased’s family, friends and associates. The Speaker said Williams had devoted himself to the advancement of Cross River State and left behind contributions that would be remembered. “Prince Eka Williams believed in service and gave himself to the advancement of Cross River. His death is a painful loss to the state, and his contributions to public service will not be forgotten,” Ayambem said. The lawmakers also prayed for strength and comfort for the family as they come to terms with the loss. Ayambem prayed that God would grant the deceased’s family the strength to bear the tragedy and grant Williams eternal rest. Williams’ death comes as a loss to the Cross River State Government, where he served as Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy and was involved in efforts and discussions surrounding the state’s power sector. The House of Assembly’s condolence message reflects the significance attached to his public service and political contributions, with the Speaker describing his death as a painful loss not only to his family and associates but also to the state he served. As Cross River mourns the commissioner, tributes are expected to continue from political associates, government officials, friends and members of the communities connected to him.