The serene community of Ikot Ndot Afaha Obo in Ukanafun LGA of Akwa Ibom State came alive over the weekend of 5th December 2025, as the remains of Late Bishop Ime Udombang of South Central Area of Nigeria was interred in his family compound. 

Late Bishop Udombang, aged 64, had served as a minister for thirty-five years, 23 of it as a Bishop. 

The obsequies commenced with Services of Songs /tributes on Tuesday 2nd and Wednesday, 3rd respectively at New Apostolic Church auditorium in Ikot Akpa and   the deceased compound in Ikot Ndot. 

Eminent personalities from all walks of life were on hand to bid him a befitting farewell and condoles with the bereaved family in their trying moments. 

Lead Apostle Oscar Nwanza, commissioned by our District Apostle, led all active and retired Apostles/ Bishops in Nigeria and their spouses to the solemn event.

The well attended service held at the community primary school brought to bear the transient nature of life.

In his homily, Lead Apostle Nwanza drew a text from Genesis 24: 56” And he said to them, “Do not hinder me, since the Lord has prospered my way: send me away so that I may go to my master"

Addressing the sympathizers, the officiant extolled the sterling qualities of the deceased, having lived a life of service, love, commitment, and contentment. 

While expressing deepest condolences to the wife, children, family, and sympathizers, he reminded all that the deceased having completed his God's given assignment of preparing the bride of Christ has to return back to His maker for his crown. 

He likened it to the desire of Eliezer, Abraham's servant having found a wife for his master's son, Isaac insisted that the family should not hinder him let him take Rebecca to her bridegroom. 

Christ is our bridegroom and he is waiting to receive His bride who had been prepared, he posited. 

Concluding, he urged all Christians to always:

• Always look to God for signs and guidance. 
• Work hard to accomplished our mission. 
• Prepare to return on the completion of our mission on earth. 

Lead Apostle Nwanza insisted that though the pains of losing a dear one is real, but joy in eternity for those who died in the Lord outshines earthly travails, urging all to live a life worthy of emulation.

Apostles Enobong Udoh and Armstrong Inyang also served along. 

Late Bishop Ime Udombang   was survived by his dear wife, Imaobong, five children and other relations.