By Patrick Idowu
Robert Ewa, Cross River State’s Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, has passed away, just hours after attending the state’s executive council meeting.
Nsa Gill, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Bassey Otu, confirmed the tragic news on Thursday, revealing that Ewa died at a medical facility in Calabar.
According to Gill, the commissioner was actively engaged in Wednesday’s executive council meeting, contributing to discussions before excusing himself.
Unknown to his colleagues, he had left for medical attention.
“A few minutes after making his contributions, he stepped out, and his driver took him to a clinic,” Gill stated, adding that “It was only later that we received the shocking news of his passing.”
Governor Otu was reportedly devastated by the sudden loss, with an official statement expected to follow.
Before his death, Ewa held key positions in the state, including Secretary and later Chairman of Boki LGA, Special Adviser on Community Relations, and Secretary of the Anti-Deforestation Task Force.
His passing leaves a void in Cross River’s leadership, marking a solemn moment for the state.