The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio has described the death of an illustrious daughter of the state, Lady of Songs, Chief Christy Essien-Igbokwe as a big loss to the state and the nation and say her place would be difficult, if not impossible to fill.

Describing her as an iconic musician and a spectacular actress, Chief Akpabio said the late songstress was a distinguished daughter of Akwa Ibom who manifested the work ethic typical of Akwa Ibom people in whatever she did and wherever she went.

In a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Umana Okon Umana, Governor Akpabio said late Christy Essien-Igbokwe's greatest legacy remained the fact that her successes in the entertainment industry spurred many youths of Akwa Ibom extraction to toe her path and many of such have risen to glory.

"The litany of awards she gathered in the course of her illustrious career- Nigerian Lady of Songs Award, African Music Mother Award 1984; International Special Achievement Award; Mexico 1983 World Song Festival Award and Los Angeles Queen of Music Award - testify to her greatness and global appeal," Chief Akpabio said, adding that her place in history as an outstanding musician and performer is assured.

According to Governor Akpabio, “We acknowledge that to live in the hearts of those who love you is not to die. And so she will live on in our hearts and her songs will continue to affect lives even though she now belongs to the ages. We extend our deepest condolences to her family and pray God to give them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” Governor Akpabio said.