Coffie pays tribute to Francis Duru, Uduaghan, urges politicians to leave good legacies

Tony Okon, Uyo

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Akwa Ibom State for the 2027 election, Engr. Emem Coffie has expressed condolences to the families of veteran Nollywood actor, Francis Duru, and former Delta State Governor, Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, following their reported deaths.

Coffie, in a condolence message released to journalists on Tuesday, described Duru as a close friend, a kind-hearted individual and an exceptional actor who contributed significantly to the development of Nigeria’s film industry.

Recalling their days at the University of Port Harcourt, Coffie said he shared memorable experiences with the late actor and his close friend, Ejike Asiegbu, several decades ago.

He described Duru as a family man, a committed Christian and a role model whose life and career endeared him to many young Nigerians.

According to him, the late actor lived a life that earned him admiration and respect, urging his family to look to God for the strength and comfort needed to cope with the loss.

“As Christians and believers, we can question God, but we must give thanks to Him in every situation, as our Creator and the author of our lives,” Coffie said.

The PDP chieftain also commiserated with the family of Uduaghan, describing the former Delta governor as a non-controversial politician whose administration recorded notable achievements in the state.

He said Uduaghan’s tenure was relatively peaceful, adding that his political career and contributions to governance offered lessons for other public office holders.

“Late Uduaghan was a good politician and governor whose tenure was very peaceful and less controversial. He also led a good life worthy of emulation by others,” he said.

Coffie urged politicians, particularly those holding executive positions, to serve the people selflessly, govern with empathy and recognise that political power is temporary.

He stressed that public office holders should prioritise the welfare of citizens and work towards leaving enduring legacies that would be remembered long after their time in office.

“Politicians must lead with a good heart and strive to leave a worthy legacy. They should understand that we are all mortals and will one day return to our Creator to give an account of our stewardship on earth,” he said.

The governorship hopeful noted that the legacies people leave behind often speak long after their earthly journey, urging the families of Duru and Uduaghan to draw comfort from the positive impact their loved ones made during their lifetimes.

He prayed that God would grant the deceased eternal rest and give their families the strength and fortitude to bear their losses.