Former Super Eagles midfielder Prince Ikpe Ekong has taken to the social media to announce the death of his father even as he penned an emotional tribute on the demise of ‘the best dad’.
Capped nine times for the Super Eagles between 2001 and 2004,Ekong said his father was like the proverbial ‘Iroko tree’ having stood with him and his siblings through thick and thin, adding he was so many things to him as circumstances demanded during his eventful life.
The former Reggiana, Shenyang Ginde, Xiamen Lanshi, GAIS, and Djurgårdens IF player waxed philosophically on his social media post.
He stated: “My mentor, my all, my father, and my mother at the same time, after the death of our mom as little children. My hero, you saw a future football(soccer)star in me when other parents couldn’t see it because it wasn’t trending and football wasn’t seen as a career then.
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“Nick name Johnny “Mbakara”The one who was a football star in Etinan, Akwa-Ibom State, right from his school days, had a free scholarship because of your football talent. The man who ignited a career that went through me and now my lineage.
“The success many people benefit today, so many that I have lost count, some appreciate you and me and some do not care but rather are wrapped up in foolish pride.
“ You taught me many good values, that no one is perfect but that no matter what I do, good intentions should be my goal end.
“ The “Iroko” tree has fallen, the mighty have fallen, but, the mightier God is taking care of you 100%. I will always miss you, remember you, love you, THE BEST DAD.
“Pa. Udoh Johnny Ekong. RIP.”