Cross River State has lost its Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Eka William, who died on Saturday, September 12, 2026, while receiving treatment at a hospital in Abuja. The news was confirmed by his brother, Nkang William, in a statement released on Sunday, September 13, 2026, as reported by The Punch.
Family Confirms the Sudden Death
Nkang William described the death as a sudden blow that has left the family in deep grief. In his statement, he expressed disbelief over the loss, saying, "I am struggling to believe that I am writing these words about you, my beloved brother, Dr. Eka Williams Abang."
He went on to mourn the loss of his brother, adding, "How can someone who was here with us suddenly become a memory? How can a familiar voice, a loving presence, and a precious life suddenly be silenced? My heart is broken, and my mind keeps searching for an explanation that can make this painful reality disappear."
Nkang described his late brother as a companion and a central figure in the family, noting that the loss has left a gap that no words could fill. The family has indicated plans to honour and celebrate what William stood for during his lifetime, including the knowledge he passed on, the relationships he built, and the lives he touched.
Colleagues and Associates Express Shock
The shock of William's death extended beyond his family. Pius Kejuo Osang, a former councillor representing Abo Ward in Boki Local Government Area, said he could not make sense of the news given how recently he had seen the commissioner. "I don't understand. I was with him on Tuesday, I slept in his hotel," Osang said.
Michael Gabriel Jr., executive media assistant to Senator John Owan-Enoh, the Minister of State for Industry, paid tribute to William, saying Ikom Local Government Area had lost a man of integrity. "Ikom LGA has lost a dedicated public servant and a good man. Prince Eka William's life of service, humility and impact would remain in the hearts of those he touched," Gabriel said, adding a prayer for the family and colleagues to find the strength to bear the loss.
Legacy and Remembrance
Despite the grief, Nkang William said the family plans to honour and celebrate what William stood for during his lifetime, including the knowledge he passed on, the relationships he built, and the lives he touched. He added, "There are memories that death cannot erase, conversations that time cannot destroy, and moments together that will remain permanently engraved upon our hearts. Your departure has left a space that words cannot adequately describe."
The passing of Commissioner Eka William has left a significant void in the Cross River State government and the community. As the family and colleagues mourn, they are committed to remembering his service and the impact he made during his time in office.
