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How I escaped death during A’Ibom church collapse – Deputy gov

Narrow Escape from Death: Akwa Ibom Deputy Governor’s Harrowing Experience During Church Collapse

Deputy Governor
Deputy Governor

Akwa Ibom State’s Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, recently shared a chilling account of her narrow escape from death during the catastrophic collapse of the Reigners Bible Church in Uyo. The incident occurred on December 10, 2016, during the ordination ceremony of the senior pastor, Akan Weeks. The collapse tragically claimed numerous lives and left many others injured, including former Governor Udom Emmanuel, who narrowly escaped with his life.

Speaking at her daughter’s wedding in Uyo this past Saturday, Eyakenyi recounted the terrifying experience, emphasizing how mere seconds had spared her from becoming one of the casualties. She revealed that she had left her seat in the church moments before the collapse, a decision that ultimately saved her life. The spot where she had been seated was heavily impacted by the collapse, resulting in severe injuries to many of those nearby.

Eyakenyi expressed profound gratitude towards former Governor Udom Emmanuel and his wife, Martha Udom Emmanuel, for their significant role in her family’s life. She attributed her survival to their intervention and support, particularly during her daughter’s educational journey in the United States. The former governor and his wife had taken a keen interest in her daughter Blessing’s education, providing financial support and guidance throughout her Master’s program.

“Blessing had another father and mother when she was growing up; and that is the immediate-past Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel, and his wife, Martha Udom Emmanuel,” Eyakenyi stated. She recounted how the former governor’s assistance had inadvertently played a part in her narrow escape from the tragic event. “It was one of the school fees he paid that took me out of that church, just a second and the church collapsed,” she added, underscoring the fortuitous timing that saved her life.

The Deputy Governor’s story is a testament to the unpredictable nature of life and the profound impact that acts of kindness and support can have. She highlighted the importance of gratitude and acknowledgment, expressing deep appreciation for those who have stood by her and her family through challenging times. Eyakenyi also extended her thanks to the current Governor, Umo Eno, for his unwavering support and for including her as a vital part of his team.

“God has used the governor to be a great blessing to our family and to the children seated here today. I lack words to appreciate him. He knows that truly, truly I appreciate my governor for everything,” she said, recognizing Governor Eno’s role in her family’s ongoing stability and success.

The 2016 church collapse remains a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the strength found in community and leadership. Eyakenyi’s recounting of the event serves as both a personal reflection on survival and a broader commentary on the importance of leadership, compassion, and resilience in the face of adversity.

Her survival story is not just a recounting of a near-death experience but also a powerful narrative about the unseen threads that connect lives and the ripple effects of generosity and leadership. The incident and its aftermath continue to shape Eyakenyi’s perspective and reinforce her commitment to public service and community support.

As Eyakenyi navigates her role as Deputy Governor, her experiences underscore the importance of leadership that prioritizes the welfare of its people, the value of supportive communities, and the need for resilience in the face of unexpected challenges. Her story is a poignant reminder of the impact that individuals and their actions can have on the lives of others, often in ways that are not immediately visible but are profoundly significant.

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