The emotion laden event attracted dignitaries across the state and beyond, including Directors of various departments from the headquarters, state coordinators and staff of the NYSC scheme.
The Director General of the scheme, Brig. Gen. Sule Kazaure, in a condolence message, described late Ekpunobi as a loyal and dedicated officer whose enormous contributions to the growth of the scheme in his over three decades of meritorious service made him a shinning star.
He said his passion for hardwork, honesty, innovativeness and invaluable contribution to decision making process, stood him out as a rare gem especially during his tenure as the Director, Department of General Services.
The NYSC boss said late Ekpunobi would be greatly missed not only by his immediate family, but also to the NYSC and the nation at large.
A retired Director of the scheme, Mr. Anthony Ani, who said Ekpunobi’s death remains a shock to him, said the deceased was more of a friend than a colleague, adding that his kindness, humility and unassuming disposition was unprecedented.
He urged members of his family and friends to take solace on the glaring testimonies of his selfless and exemplary life he lived.
Also speaking, his first son, Victor Ekpunobi, described his late father as a mentor, wise and peace loving, saying the vacuum created by his death could only be filled by God.
Late Frank Ekpunobi who died on November 3, 2017 in his Abuja residence, at the age of 58, is survived by his wife and three children.
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