Jnr Pope: Akwa Ibom Governor Orders Exhumation Of Makeup Artist’s Body For Proper Burial

Akwa Ibom Governor, Umo Bassey Eno is calling for the repatriation of the remains of a make-up Abigail Fredrick, for a dignified burial.

Abigail, a talented makeup artist, tragically lost her life in a boat accident that also claimed the life of Nollywood actor, Junior Pope Odonwodo.

Abigail’s body was discovered on Thursday, April 11, and hastily buried along the riverbank without the consent or knowledge of her grieving family.

It is alleged that the villagers, acting on superstition, insisted on her burial by the river as punishment for her family’s failure to appease the river deity with a sacrificial offering before relocating her remains.

The Akwa Ibom state government vehemently opposed this disrespectful act and demanded justice for Abigail, insisting on her body’s return to her family for a proper burial.

Inn official statement, Governor Umo Eno expressed deep sorrow over Abigail’s passing and assured her family, the Nollywood community, and friends of the state’s solidarity during this difficult time.

He emphasized that the government was not informed of the circumstances leading to her burial and has directed that her body be returned to her family for a respectful farewell.

The Statement reads; “REMAINS OF LATE AKWA IBOM BORN NOLLYWOOD ARTISTE TO BE BROUGHT HOME

“His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, Governor, Akwa Ibom State, is aware of the tragic boat mishap, which occurred a few days ago, on River Nigeria, involving some Nollywood actors and other supporting crew members while on a trip to a movie location.

One of the victims of that accident, Ms. Abigael Edith Frederick, was a quintessential example of our young people who have harkened to our clarion call for them to Arise and shine.

She was a 24 years old graduate of Theatre Arts, who had found her passion as a make- up artiste.

We are deeply saddened by her painful passing and on behalf of the Government and people of AKwa Ibom State, we sympathize with her family, the Nollywood community and her friends and colleagues over this sad loss.

We have also followed and read the reportage, especially on the social media platforms surrounding her burial and wish to state categorically that, government was not informed of the circumstances that led to her burial.

His Excellency, Governor Umo Eno, has consequently directed that her body be brought back to her family for a proper and decent burial.

As the famous theme song of the Liverpool Football Club goes, the bereaved family will not “walk alone”. May her soul rest in peace.

KanyiDaily recalls that Junior Pope, 39, died in a boat accident on Wednesday, April 10, after attempts to resuscitate him proved unsuccessful.