...Upgrades Sexual and Gender Based Violence Response Unit to full department under Justice Ministry

...Orders recruitment of Agricultural science teachers for all public secondary, technical & primary schools in AKS

Akwa Ibom State Governor, His Excellency, Mr Udom Emmanuel, has condemned the attacks on security assets within the state, promising to ensure the state government deploys all available resources at its disposal towards ensuring that normalcy returns to the state as Nigeria's most peaceful state.

The Governor who stated this on Monday during the of the Executive Council of the Akwa Ibom State Government held at the Executive Council Chambers, Government House Uyo, also promised to ensure that the rise in sexual and gender based violence is tackled.

In his avowed determination to match words with action, the Governor ordered the upgrading of the Sexual and Gender Based Violence Response unit in the State Ministry of Justice to a full department. The department will among other things collaborate with the Ministries of Women Affairs & Social welfare and Health and other critical agencies towards ensuring an interministerial collaboration that will ensure that rape and other related crimes are tackled effectively in the State.

The Governor who also took a comprehensive mid term analysis and milestone assessment of all ministries, also directed that School farms should be established in all Public Secondary, Technical and Primary Schools in the state.

In addition, Governor Emmanuel directed the ministry of Education to make Agricultural Science a compulsory subject in all public secondary,technical and primary schools while Agricultural science teachers are to be recruited and posted to all schools.

A statement signed by the Commissioner for Information & Strategy, Comrade Ini Ememobong, states that Council also ordered that all youth corps members posted to the state are to be assigned to schools to teach while a media interaction between the Governor and the media will hold on Friday, May 14, 2021, where the Governor will field questions on different topics as it relates to the state of affairs in the state.

Monday's Exco meeting which was presided by the Governor, had in attendance the Deputy Governor, Secretary to the State Government, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Head of the Civil Service, Commissioners and Special Advisers in attendance.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

ALSCON to recommence operation soon, stimulate economy- Gov. Emmanuel

The Aluminium Smelter Company of Nigeria, ALSCON located in Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State, will stimulate the entire economy in the country and the Akwa Ibom State Government will partner with the federal government to ensure that the Aluminium factory comes back to live, Governor Udom Emmanuel has declared.

The Governor stated this when the Minister of State, Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uchechukwu Ogah, paid him a visit on Thursday, at Government House, Uyo, describing the steps taken by the Federal Government as positive steps in the interest of the country and the masses.

According to him, "As a state we are willing to give all the necessary support so that the project can actually come on stream. Trust that we will work together and we will make it work, it is in the interest of the country, it is in the interest of the masses, it will help our economy."

Governor Emmanuel maintained that the bringing back the project was beyond partisan politics and smacks development in governance. He thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for approving steps to revamping the Aluminium Smelter Company in the state, describing the move as efforts towards economic viability and the much needed diversification

Speaking earlier, the Minister assured that the Aluminium Smelter Company of Nigeria (ALSCON) will be reactivated before 2023. Dr. Uchechukwu Ogah,
who revealed that President Muhammadu Buhari has directed that the Aluminium Smelter Company of Nigeria (ALSCON) at Ikot Abasi be revamped, expressed optimism that at the end of the present administration, the company will commence operations.

He added that his two-day facility visit to ALSCON will ascertain the level of work at the company, and assured Akwa Ibom people that glorious days await the state soon.

In his words, “I am going to visit ALSCON to look at the activities there. The President has mandated that ALSCON should be reactivated as soon as possible, so we believe that before the end of this administration ALSCON will be running. A lot of approvals have been gotten from the Federal Executive Council, concession for the utilization of gas, so I believe with all the efforts put in place ALSCON will be a glorious outcome”.

The Minister further explained that with the intervention of the Federal Government in the moribund status of the company, other legal issues he noted, will be resolved.

“It’s a growing concern and we believe that they will be sorted out as we keep progressing we believe that based on the intervention from the Federal Government all the legal issues will be resolved soon”, he noted.

The Minister pointed out that the Federal Government seeks partnership with Akwa Ibom State Government to create ease and a hitch-free atmosphere for solid mineral exploration in the state, adding that the collaboration will create opportunities for employment and wealth creation.

“We believe that it’s time for Akwa Ibom State to develop the solid minerals in the state, we are looking at how to synergize, to collaborate with the state government so that we can have good relationship between the Ministry of Mines and Steel and the state so that exploration of minerals in the state will be with ease and hitch-free.

"One of the reasons I am here is that we are seeking synergy and collaboration between the state and the Federal Government on how we can work together to harness the potentials of solid minerals in the State.

"There are a lot of solid minerals abundant in Akwa Ibom State and we believe that the synergy we are creating will give rise to great opportunities that will lead to massive employment of the Nigerian youths and wealth creation for people", he assured.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Gov Emmanuel seeks synergy with US on project implementation

...earns commendation from US Ambassador on Health Care Delivery Services

Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State Governor, has asked for deeper synergy with the United States of America and the involvement of the state in the implementation of American Government Assisted programmes in the state for effective monitoring, transparency and benefits for the people.

This was the position of the Governor during a courtesy visit on him by the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Ambassador Mary Beth Leonard on Tuesday at, Government House, Uyo.



According to the Governor, “I want to suggest that we make few amendments so the USAID can come in. We can partner on this programme with the State Government, the Ministry of Health and the beneficiaries. You appoint the implementing partners who will interface between the State Government so we can monitor and as a second check of what we are doing and to be able to report back that money you are spending is actually getting to the people.

" If the projects must go to the implementing partners, let the State Government be the third party for proper monitoring and transparency in its financial reporting”.

He emphasized that the US partnership with the state government will ensure that the programmes executed by the American Government will be of immense benefit to the people as the funds allocated will trickle down to the appropriate locations without encumbrances.

The Governor asked for the non-inclusion of the State in the Travel Alerts the Embassy regularly put out, maintaining that the State has always been adjudged one of Nigeria's most peaceful and investor friendly states in the nation.




Speaking earlier, the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mary Beth Leonard, said she was pleased to have the opportunity to visit Akwa Ibom to ascertain the status of the US founded projects, after constraints posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The US Envoy who said the Akwa Ibom State government is a model in the pandemic management and fundamental support for the USAID projects in the state, expressed delight over the investments made by the Akwa Ibom State Government in the health sector. These, she said, were evident in the improved health infrastructure, trained health workers, the wellbeing of USAID projects in the state, reversal of hitherto held statistics in malaria, HIV/AIDS amid the COVID pandemic, amongst others.

“What a pleasure it is to make my first trip to Akwa Ibom! …the United States investments are doing so well in the health sector here in Akwa Ibom. No small measure of thanks to the Governor of the state. They have made incredible progress in putting more people on HIV treatment, even despite the pandemic. It’s really a model. It’s gained a lot of support from the state in terms of expanding existing infrastructure, so we really love this partnership” Ambassador Leonard declared.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

His Excellency, Gov. Abu Sani Bello was today represented by his Chief of Staff and Chairman, Niger State Infrastructure Committee, Alh. Ibrahim Balarabe Kagara at official closing of the four gates of Zungeru Hydro Electricity Dam.

The closing of the four gates of the dam is an indication that the project is almost ready to commence full operations.

The Chief of Staff who went round the facility expressed satisfaction on the quality of the work done. He also said that the project being situated in Niger state will create employment for both educated and non educated residents of the state.

He further explained that the ripple effect will add value and would generate more revenue and boost the economic activities in the state.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel has decried the high state of insecurity in the country, saying that the country's economy cannot achieve growth and development without a safe environment for businesses and investments to thrive.

The Governor who stated this on Monday when he presided over the State Executive Council meeting, bemoaned the current economic and security situation in the country. He sued for cooperation, support and prayers for the Federal Government and the country and charged the Commissioner for Health to ensure that the Primary Healthcare Centers were functioning optimally to help provide health care services to rural populace.

The meeting which had Exco members in attendance received reports on the leasing of the Dakkada tower, Eket Urbanization, Power for All, Dakkada Estate, Ibom Plaza Remodelling, state of reconstructed hospitals, especially Ikot Abasi and Ikot Ekpene and the coconut refinery.

The government directed that a strategic stakeholder meeting with all regulators and players critical to the execution of the Power for All initiative should be convened to assess the preparedness for the launch of the Power for All project.

The meeting also received the report from the citizens’ engagement forum on issues related to Ibom deep sea Port where it was reported that the twin issues of Name and Location change of the deep sea port were raised and discussed. The Governor directed that further consultations between government and Oro people on the matter be put in place.

The State Executive Council meeting also got progress report for Ibom Air Company Limited presented by the Chairman of the Board, Mr. Imo Jacob who was accompanied by the Chief Executive Officer, Captain Mfon Udom, Chief Operating Officer, George Oriese, Group Manager Communication, Aniekan Essienette and the Group Manager,Corporate Services, Imelda Aba. The Council expressed the appreciation of government to the company’s management over the professionalism deployed in the management of the airline even as the Governor charged the company to consider the training of citizens as pilots and airline professionals.

A statement by the Honourable Commissioner for Information & Strategy, Comrade Ini Ememobong, says additional works were approved for Abak Ifia-Ikpe Mbak Eyop-Ikot Abia Ossom-Nko Roads in Ikot Ekpene/Obot Akara Local Government Areas and the dualization of the Ring Road 2(Abak Road to Udoudoma which was reawarded to Hensek Integrated Services to be completed within a year.

The Governor also gave approval for the revised Bills of Engineering Measurement and Evaluation(BEME) for Etebe-Enwang Road while the draft bill for the inspection of Agricultural produce for the purpose of enforcement of grades and standards, be sent to the House of Assembly.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

2023: Adeboye Prays for A'Ibom: Says may Gov. Emmanuel's successor continue with peace, development of state

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye has prayed for Governor Udom Emmanuel's successor, asking God to give Akwa Ibom a Governor in 2023 that will continue with the prevailing peace and development of the state and take it to greater heights.

This came minutes after the General Overseer who arrived the State on Saturday, finished from a Sunday Service he held at the Discovery Park in Uyo which was attended by a mammoth crowd of believers as part of his weekend Pastoral activities in Uyo, the State capital.

Pastor Adeboye in his prayer asked God to continue to bless the State. "Let it be well with this State and all those who wish her well too. May God grant the Governor and the State a good successor who will continue with the good works the Governor has been doing; who will not disrupt those good works. I pray that God should show through Divine revelations to your son who the successor will be", he prayed.

The Service which had as guest minister, Pastor Agu Irukwu had as it's theme, "God is doing a new thing", taken from the Book of Isaiah Chapter 43, Verses 10-19, was attended by senior government officials.

The General Overseer who was in Uyo during the weekend on a Pastoral assignment was received on arrival on Saturday at the Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, by Governor Udom Emmanuel and senior cabinet members.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Media houses in Akwa Ibom state have been urged to serve as a vehicle for propagation of positive lifestyle in the state. Governor Emmanuel who stated this while performing the official opening of an Abak-based radio station, Redemption FM (101.5) at Oku Abak, on Friday, also directed that Oku Abak be included as one of the beneficiaries of the World Bank solar power programme for villages in the state.

The Governor also announced the readiness of his administration to unbundle Abak-Ika-Etim Ekpo electricity line to improve power supply for consumers in the Local Government Areas, while cautioning the people of the area to desist from vandalism on electricity installations.

While decrying the high rate of vandalism along the Abak-Ika-Etim Ekpo power line, the governor said monies invested into power in the area have not yielded desired results due to activities of vandals, adding that any act of vandalism on any high-tension line in along the line affects the three Local Government Areas, hence the need to separate the line.

Hear him, “Not that we don’t put money in this line but when we put money in this line, the rate of vandalism in this area is one of the highest in the state and unfortunately Abak line takes straight from Abak to Ika and Etim Ekpo, so if people in Ika or Etim Ekpo vandalize their high tension, it will affect Abak immediately. …Before we live office, we should build a step down substation in Etim Ekpo so that we can separate these lines so as to provide better power supply to consumers”, he assured.

The Governor congratulated the Chairman and Chief Executive of Redemption FM, Professor Ahaziah Umanah, and his Management team for nurturing the vision of the radio station to actuality and promised government support for the station and assured the Management of new media outfit of access road to the facility, as he directed that Redemption FM be included among radio stations on state government retainership.

“I really want to congratulate you and your entire management team and the Christian body for coming up with this. I want to say here that the government will support you to a great extent. …I’m sure the virtues and traits that will be propagated through this radio station will help the state a whole lot and also help to redeem the state of the moral decadence experienced across the globe”, he declared.


Continuing, he said On road, “what I can promise is that I will do my best and trust me, my best will be good enough. Even if I don’t do to your standard, I’ll make sure that people can drive in, while we tackle the power issue, because power is what you need most at the moment” the governor said.

Delivering a Key note Address at the Event, the State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Comrade Ini Ememobong, expressed optimism that the Redemption FM, will stand up to the meaning of its name to redeem and promote the deteriorating media culture and social values, educate the public on standard usage of the English language and save the Akwa Ibom local languages from extinction.

Comrade Ememobong said the Lunching marked the end of the process of beginning the station and pledged the optimum support of his Ministry to the success of the station.

Speaking earlier,Professor Ahaziah Umanah in his welcome address, thanked the state governor for honouring the invitation to perform the official opening of the broadcast station. This, he said, will remain evergreen in the heart of the members of the media organisation and the entire Abak people.

The Organisation’s Chairman and CEO said the vision of the radio station was conceived in 1995, National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) approval secured in July 2015, but due to some constraints, test broadcast could not begin until November 2020. He expressed gratitude that the vision could be actualized in the era of Governor Emmanuel’s Godly administration.

The Managing Director of Redemption FM, Comfort Umanah, in her vote of thanks, said she felt fulfilled that after being given the opportunity to serve as Director of Information in the State, the Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, still honoured the invitation to lunch the radio station.

Highpoint of the event was the official opening of the media station and live featuring of the governor, during which he commended the station and took time out to elaborate on his administration’s completion agenda.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Wema Bank Set To Reward Customers With 945’ promo

One of Nigeria’s most innovative and digitally led financial institutions, Wema Bank, has set out to make this season of love as eventful as possible for customers with its ‘14 Days of Love with 945’ promo.

The two-week-long promo will see the bank giveaway goody bags, airtime and even data bonuses to bring the spirit of love, good cheer and fun to all this season.

The social media campaign (hyperlink: http:///WemaALATsocial), slated for February 5 – 18, 2021, aims to encourage new and existing customers to transact and pay bills with the *945# codes for a chance to win prizes.





The promo will test customers’ knowledge of the different *945# USSD codes, wit and creativity in developing loved-themed messages and videos around the codes, among other activities.

Speaking on the campaign, Head, Brand and Marketing Communications, Wema Bank, Funmilayo Falola, said: “The *945# string codes represent the ease and simplicity of banking that we offer our customers. Plugging into this festivity of love, we intend to remind our Wema Bank family that not only do we care for their ease of banking, but their general welfare and happiness is a concern of ours, hence the gift and goodies attached to this campaign.”

Even as customers go about transacting with the *945# codes this season, hoping to claim one prize or the other, the Bank encourages them to maintain COVID-19 safety guidelines and show love, not just to family and friends but to themselves as well.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Gov Emmanuel commended for developmental strides

...As Bauchi Gov, PDP National Chair pays condolence visit to Hilltop mansion

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel has been commended for his developmental strides in the state. The Governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Mohammed made the commendation when he visited the Governor in Uyo on Wednesday to commiserate with him on the demise of state PDP Chairman, Obong Udo Ekpenyong, and other senior citizens of the state.

According to Governor Mohammed, Governor Emmanuel's developmental strides in the state and the unflinching support he has given to PDP, has not only endeared him to the party but has made him an inspiration in the party.

Hear him, "You can see what Governor Udom Emmanuel has done in Akwa Ibom State in terms of bringing infrastructural development and services and being able to manage the scarce resources of the state. The way he is doing it, without any rancour, without any division and he is doing it in such a manner that shows good leadership".

"Governor Udom Emmanuel is someone that is reliable. Anytime PDP needs the services of a man that knows finance and has the finesse to do it, we always have him around to do it for us, and he does it with humility. He is a friend that I like so much, a young man that has the energy, penetration, acumen, intellect and all that it takes for someone to dispense services to the people", he stated.

He described the passage of the illustrious sons of the state as a trying moment for Governor Emmanuel, the families of the deceased and the entire state, praying God to console the governor, strengthen the state and the party, pledging the solidarity of the government and people of Bauchi state with Akwa Ibom people.

"Please accept the condolences and commiseration from the government and people of Bauchi State, we are with you in this moment of grief and sadness and as a leader we know you will overcome it because we know it is heavy burden to bear but with your capacity and pedigree we know you will overcome it”, he said.

Also speaking, the National Chairman of the People's Democratic Party, PDP, Prince Uche Secondus, who led a delegation of PDP National Working Committee on a condolence visit to the Governor, expressed grief over the demise of eminent sons of Akwa Ibom State.

Secondus described late Udo Ekpenyong as a strong pillar of the party, state and the country, praying God to heal every grieving heart in the state during this moment of sadness, grief and despair. He urged governor Emmanuel and the families of the deceased to be consoled with the word of God, adding that God will grant the governor and the deceased families, the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss and Governor Emmanuel the grace to finish strong.

Responding, Governor Udom Emmanuel thanked the sympathisers for defying all odds to travel down to commiserate with the state, noting that the passage of Nkanga, Udo Ekpenyong and others has thrown the state into sadness.

In his words, "We don’t take this for granted, how I wish you can see our heart we don’t take this for granted at all, you even came in with respected senators the entire National Committee of the Party to commiserate with us, it’s so painful and terrible because from Christmas eve we’ve not had that ease of the flare of the merriment of the season, well no matter what happens you can’t question God”, he stated.

The Governor who acknowledged the tremendous support from the sympathisers, particularly appreciated the PDP stalwarts and the people of Bauchi state for commiserating with the state and the families of the deceased, and sued for the unity of the party, maintaining that the supremacy and corperate existence of the party should be paramount against all odds.

"This is also a wake up call that the party must remain united from the unit level up to the state and national level, the whole nation is watching how we are going to steer leadership of this party”, he declared.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Opinion: When THEY choose to raise false Alarm for selfish Gains
By Tosin Faleye

We would all agree that the media space is never lacking stories of personal and public interest jostling for audience attention. However, one that caught the attention of this writer is a brewing fiasco in the Federal Character Commission FCC, as an agency meant to foster equity and togetherness, faces accusations and counter accusations of corrupt practices, abuse of office. More interesting is the fact that the fight is from within, from some commissioners against the Chairman of the commission, Dr Muheeba Farida Dankaka.

The so called aggrieved commissioners, who identified themselves as ‘Concerned Commissioners fighting for public good”, forwarded a petition, signed by Mr Augustine Wokocha and AbdulWasiu Bawa-Allah, to the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), accusing the Commission Chairman, of list of offenses that appeared tainted and covered in malice and bitterness.

Credit to Dankaka, as she was swift and precise in her response to the allegations she referred to falsehood and “mere fabrication”. Her response brought to the fore one of the many and vicious challenges of the Nigerian state. It has become a common theme that those benefiting from twisted systems would fight tooth and nail to keep the mechanism of such systems rolling. A statement by the Commission’s Director of Public Affairs & Communication, Dipo Akinsola, counter accused the five commissioners of fighting a positive change by peddling lies in order to keep the status quo for their selfish interests. Dankaka wasn’t mincing words in her response, “Five of the Commissioners are fighting for their personal and selfish interests; they want business as usual in the Commission which is not possible under my watch. The contents of the publication are false and mere fabricated stories to dent my image and that of the commission through social media.”

From finding in the appropriate quarters shows the said petition was all a hoax and a tactic to stage a media war of calumny against the Chairman. According to reliable sources, the ICPC is yet to receive any petition as at the time of this publication. Therefore there is no way Dr. Muheeba would have been invited.

Secondly, the aggrieved commissioners, according to reliable sources in the commission, appear to be doing the bidding of Muhammed Tukur Bello, who has not been at ease with the commission’s activities since Dankaka was announced as Chairman by the President. Discerning minds will remember how a heavy media campaign was immediately launched against the appointment of Dr. Muheeba as the Chair of the commission simply because Tukur Bello, who was the Secretary of the last FCC dispensation, and immediate acting Chairman of the commission felt some sense of resentment after he was overlooked by the President.

In their desperation to achieve their selfish objective, another petition was claimed to have been sent to President Buhari with signatures of 28 members of the Commission. It has however been discovered that the petitioners maliciously used the attendance register of commissioners at Plenary session as signature for their petition.

It is on record that since assuming office, Dr. Muheeba has not approved any contract whatsoever as contained in the so called petition. Investigation shows that the contract stated in the so called petition are items approved long before she assumed the office. The good news is that should a petition be finally submitted to the ICPC, Dankaka will be vindicated in the end.

Also, contrary to claims that the Chairman has been known to act without recourse to the commissioners, Dankaka said over thirty commissioners are currently working together in harmony to bring positive changes. “Some commissioners accused me of holding them to ransom by taking over their jobs and giving it to Directors with impunity. Over 30 Honorable Commissioners are currently working in harmony with me in bringing positive changes.”

From grapevine, the plan to discredit the Chairman is not just about her carrying Directors along in the affairs of the commission. She is perceived to be blocking some juicy fleecing channels and about to execute some activities that are against certain selfish interests.

Ideally, the Federal Character Commission will not deliver on its objectives if it chooses to work in isolation. During a courtesy visit after her appointment in 2020, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila advised the Dankaka to nurture a symbiotic relationship, that it is only when she’s able to establish such a relationship that her ‘work can be made easie’.

Also out of the ordinary is the accusation that Dankaka is a good lobbyist with the ability “of influencing and luring anyone or bodies of authorities that receive complaints against her.” If the authorities see a leap in the right direction under her leadership, they reserve the right to support her. Afterall, under her watch, the Commission has recorded successes in areas such as centralized the administrative structure of the monitoring and enforcement department.

This however, is not a call for the Chairman to be shielded from investigation into activities of the commission if the need arises, but innovative moves should be encouraged in sensitive agencies such as the FCC at a time where the country is in dire need of inventiveness that ensures every region is treated and reflected fairly in the scheme of things. And it is perceived that the chairman is not afraid of investigation as she has proven beyond doubts that the majority of the commissioners are supportive of her initiatives as lead of the commission. As such over 28 members are said to be signing a vote of confidence as a rejoinder to the issues the aggrieved commissioner have raised.

It is therefore not expected that a commission put in place to entrench a shade of unity in our extreme diversity is fraught with infighting for selfish purposes. Instead of dissipating energy on divisive struggles that are clearly in sharp contrast to the mandate of the commission, the commissioners should embrace result-driven initiatives and sheathe the sword of personal gains and vendetta. Staging a selfish war in the name of public good is a propaganda that no longer appeals to the majority of Nigerians.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

A former governor of Osun State, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola has called on the Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola not to trouble Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, since he never troubled him as governor. 


He spoke against the background  of the tension generated by reports that ex-Governor  Aregbesola plans to hold a political programme parallel to the incumbent Governor Gboyega Oyetola's second anniversary celebrations on Friday, 27 November, 2020.


Prince Oyinlola, in a statement on Wednesday said he noted Aregbesola's explanation that he was coming to the state to engage with the people on the EndSARS crisis as directed by President Muhammadu Buhari but advised that the Interior Minister could do that on another day.



"It is necessary that I put my own experience on record.  I took over from Chief Bisi Akande in May 2003 and, I can say that throughout my almost eight years in government, and despite our political differences, Akande never gave me any problem. It is common knowledge that Mr Aregbesola took over from me, and, despite the circumstances of his coming to that office, I did not do anything to undermine his authority throughout his eight years in government. That is the spirit with which I appeal that the Interior Minister (Aregbesola) avoid doing anything that will suggest a plan to make the state ungovernable for Mr Oyetola.



"As a former governor of that state, I plead that we give peace a chance. The state has witnessed enough unnecessary crises in recent weeks coupled with the Coronavirus pandemic which has upended people's economy and general wellbeing. Our people are suffering; they deserve a respite from all forms of crises as they struggle to make ends meet.



"All of us former governors, as leaders of our people, we all have a stake in making Osun State to work for the good of our people who have had to deal with one hardship or the other. We will be seen as doing that when we avoid making the job of the incumbent governor difficult for him. May God help our state and its people in this difficult time," Prince Oyinlola said.



He also counseled Governor Oyetola to, at all times, let the welfare and wellbeing of the people remain his priority as he crosses over to the second half of his term.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

SPECIAL REPORT

A'IBOM 2019 AUDIT REPORT: ALLEGATION OF MULTI-BILLION NAIRA SCANDAL FAULTY - AKSG
... BLAMES CODING ERROR FOR DISCREPANCIES

The Akwa Ibom State Government has stated that a recent investigative report alleging multi-billion naira fraud against the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel, the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Engr Emmanuel Ekuwem and other officials based on a 2019 Annual General Report and Audited Financial Statement for the 2019 financial year released earlier in the year is false and faulty.

The State Commissioner for Economic Development & Ibom Deep Sea Port, Mr Akan Okon, who stated this during an interactive session with journalists in Uyo on Wednesday, explained that an earlier audit report from the Auditor's General's office, was found to have contained erroneous data inputs which was officially withdrawn via a circular dated September 2, 2020 to all Ministries, Agencies and Departments, MDA's.

According to Mr. Okon, the Akwa Ibom public accounting format adopts IPSAS protocol which entails the usage of a thorough coding method which must be accurate and cannot be falsified, insisting that it was impossible for government to spend any money outside the approved sum the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly approved as was assented to by the state Governor.

Hear him, "Every money that was spent in that financial year was in line with the provisions of the budget. There was no extra budgetary expenditure outside what was originally approved by the House of Assembly".


It's could be recalled that the earlier withdrawn 2019 audited financial report was the basis upon which two Uyo based journalists used as official document to run a budget analysis of the 2019 financial year which gave the erroneous impression that the offices of the Akwa Ibom State Governor and the Secretary to the State Government made several questionable and extra budgetary expenses in 2019, prompting the government to stating the facts to clarify the misinformation.

The corrected version of the Annual Report of the Accountant General with audited financial statements for the year ended 31st December, 2019, copies of which were distributed to journalists at the briefing shows contrary to claims by a section of the media that the government, through the office of the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, spent a whooping #4.864 billion on the purchase of 15 cars, the corrected version of the state's 2019 audited financial report puts the actual cost of the 15 cars at a total cost of #738, 000,000.00, as was approved by the State House of Assembly and assented to by the Governor in the state's 2019 budget.

In a related development, the new document reveals that the allegation that a whopping #5.04 billion was spent on the maintenance of the state aircraft, a Bombardier Global 5000, based on the faulty 2019 financial report earlier withdrawn is also false as the corrected version of the state's financial statement shows only #2.5 billion was budgeted and spent for the same purpose for the financial year that ended December 31, 2019.

Similarly, contrary to insinuations that the Government House spent #2.7 billion on fuel and lubricants, the corrected version of the audited financial report also reveals that only #1.3 billion was budgeted and approved for the purpose. The original 2019 Annual Report of the State Accountant General also shows that only #800 million was spent on governor’s hospitality and traditional gifts, contrary that the #1.18 billion claim by a section of the media while Security Services gulped #12 billion and not #13.28 even as only #75million was spent in 2019 on Medical/Clinic equipment for the Government House Clinic and not #153 million the report erroneously claimed. The corrected version of the financial report also shows that tours and visits gulped only #20million and not #46.95 million that was reported.

Speaking to our reporters at the interactive session, the state Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Nsikan Linus Nkan, restated the government's commitment to ensure transparency in governance. He said that Gov. Udom Emmanuel has done a good job in managing state resources, adding that there will always be transparency on issues of budget and expenditure.

The move by the state government to clarify the issue by stating the true position of things as contained in the corrected version of the report is seen by many as a testimony of the Governor's commitment to transparency and accountability. Akwa Ibom State it could be recalled is one of the few states in the country who's annual audited financial report is always ready and presented to the public on time in keeping to the Governor's policy of transparency and adoption of International best practices in governance. As a further proof of the Governor's commitment to transparency in the collection and utilisation of public funds, Akwa Ibom is one of the few state whose budget is always posted on the state's official website so as to ensure transparency, accessibility, and citizens participation in the budgeting process from the point of conceptualization, presentation, defence and assent with approaprate oversight to ensure it is implemented in line with the Fiscal Responsibility Act for the benefit of the people.

On his part, the State Commissioner for Information & Strategy, Comrade Ini Ememobong, noted that it was not out of place for a media investigation about the budget to be conducted, but hinted that an investigation based on a wrong report was bound to mislead the public and create confusion. He said that it was necessary for the issue to be addressed, adding that such is a criminal allegation and should not be taken lightly. He advised journalists to always clarify facts from his ministry so as to have the authentic and up-to-date information they need in order to carry out their constitutional duty professionally and efficiently.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

#EndSARS: Sanow-Olu Didn't Order Deployment of Soldiers to Lagos, Panel Told

The Justice Doris Okuwobi Judicial Panel of Enquiry and Restitution on the alleged atrocities of the now disbanded Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) was on Saturday informed that President Muhammadu Buhari in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief actually authorised the deployment of soldiers to maintain law and order in Lagos following escalation of violence during the End SARS protests in the month of October.

The revelation was made during the cross-examination of the representative of the Nigerian, Brigadier General Ahmed Ibrahim Taiwo of the 81 Division, Intelligence Brigade by Counsel to the Lagos State Government, Abiodun Owonikoko (SAN).

Asked about the chain of command in the military and if Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has the recoginsable authority to deploy troops to help maintain law and order, Brigadier Taiwo said, the Governor could only have made a request but only the President and Commander-in-Chief can authorize the deployment of soldiers.

The disclosure brings to rest weeks of accusations by the End SARS protesters that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu it was who ordered soldiers to disperse protesters from the Lekki Toll Plaza.

Cc : Lalasticlala, mynd44

... orders for mass production of staples

Governor Udom Emmanuel is leading a charge to reverse the hike in price of staple food which has plagued Akwa Ibom State for weeks now.

This comes on heels of skyrocketing price of food stuffs such as rice, garri, beans, onion, tomato and others in local markets especially those ones produced within the State.

The governor who is particularly concerned about consequences of a food crisis in the State during the forthcoming Christmas has directed the State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Glory Edet, and her team at the Agric ministry to initiated measures that will eventually crash price of food stuffs to a reasonable extent, ahead of the Yuletide.

Findings reveal that Governor Emmanuel has placed a premium on agriculture for the past five years, investing massively in the development of the sector to ensure that not less than 80% of what is consumed in the State is produced within and that raw materials are readily available for budding agro-allied industries across the State.

It was gathered that the plan to reverse hike in food prices formed part of deliberations at the State Executive Council meeting held on Wednesday, November 11, 2020 at the Government House, Uyo.

Briefing journalists after the SEC meeting, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Iniobong Ememobong, disclosed that “EXCO has directed the State Commissioner for Agriculture and the entire agriculture apparatus of government to ensure that the prices of garri and rice are crashed to a reasonable amount in preparation for the yuletide.

" Also, EXCO noted the hike in price of onions and has directed the Ministry to take practical steps to ensure large scale commercial production of onions.

“We do not want to be challenged by things we can surmount, hence the desire of Government to produce at least 80 percent of consumables here in the state is on course”, he added.

Although the hike in price of commodities is generally felt across the country, the mouthpiece of Akwa Ibom State government alleged involvement of market unions in the recent food price hike, maintaining that the problem of high price of commodities in the state was not just that of availability of the products but union practices to cause artificial scarcity.

Meanwhile, Governor Emmanuel is putting measures in place to ensure a crime free Yuletide across the State and has directed security agencies to handle all security infractions in the State with diligence in preparation for the season.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

...As Media Aide pledges to support Press Week


Governor Udom Emmanuel's Special Assistant on Local Media, Akparawa Emmanuel Sam has thrown his weight behind the success of the upcoming 2020 Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Week celebration scheduled to hold between the 6th and 11th of December 2020 in Uyo.

Speaking while receiving the State Chairman of NUJ and members of the 2020 Press Week Committee who were in his office, Friday, 6th November 2020 to officially invite him to the event, the Governor's aide assured that he would not only attend the weeklong event but would also do everything within his power to ensure the success of Week.

Akparawa Emmanuel Sam who commended the Union on the choice of the theme: “MEDIA, CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT AND NATION BUILDING IN A COVID-19 ERA”, which he described as timely, also seized the opportunity to thank journalists in the state for the crucial role they have been playing in the development of Akwa Ibom State over the years.

He also thanked the State Chairman of the Union for stabilizing the media sector in the state for development and peace to thrive even as he commended journalists for the support given to his boss, Governor Udom Emmanuel over the years. He however pleaded journalists to continue giving the Governor maximum support to help him deliver on his campaign promises which he said was geared towards engendering economic prosperity in the state.

Dwelling on the 2020 Press Week, Akparawa Sam said he had no doubt in the capacity of the Comrade Nsibiet John led-committee to deliver saying the historic success recorded last year by the committee that was still headed by him was a testimony of what he is capable of achieving.

Earlier in his speech, the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Amos Etuk was full of praises for redefining partnership between the Union and the Office of the SA to the Governor on Local Media.

Comrade Etuk who averred that Akparawa Emmanuel Sam has taken his partnership with the Union to a new level ever since he was appointed as SA, Local Media, commended him for the support he has rendered to both the Union and individual members, adding that the Union was proud of him.

Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the 2020 Press Week Committee had updated the SA to the Governor on the line up of activities for the Week as well as extending an official invite to him to attend the event.

Highpoint of the visit was the presentation of schedule of activities for the Week to Akparawa Emmanuel Sam.

The visit took place at the Government House Press Center and was attended by members of the 2020 Press Week Committee.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Gov Emmanuel reinstates 403 sacked workers
... announces various job opportunities for A'Ibom youths

Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State has reinstated 403 workers earlier sacked following government investigation into an illegal recruitment scandal which rocked the State Local Government Service Commission in 2019.

The reinstatement forms part of efforts by government to tackle unemployment among youths in the state.

This was made known by the Chairman, Akwa Ibom State Local Government Service Commission, Honourable Monday Eyo,in a media chat with our newsmen in Uyo, yesterday.

According to Eyo, the 403 workers who are mostly health workers have been reinstated to increase manpower in the State's health sector, fill vacancies left behind via retirements and to boost overall employment of Akwa Ibom youths.

"I wish to inform you that these category of workers have been reinstated. They are health workers reinstated to increase manpower in the health sector. Their appointment letters have been signed thus beginning from first week of November about 200 of them will be commence work. Then by January, 2021 another batch of 203 will start work. The third batch of remaining 320 workers will be subsequently reabsorbed afterwards and that will complete the total number of 723 that their appointments were suspended.”

In a recent state wide broadcast, Governor Emmanuel announced that his administration will continue to roll out job opportunities as well as training programmes for youths in the area of entrepreneurship in order to engage them productively.

He said that the state would create over 1, 000 jobs for the people in the recently approved oil and gas free zone.

“Government is committed to continually engaging our youths in our developmental plans through job creation and other employment opportunities. In the next few weeks, we will commence our bold high-level skilled training employment programme tagged “Ibom 3000 Project”

He said that the state government would train Akwa Ibom youths, 3000 per quarter, and 3000 per Senatorial Districts in the following sectors: Oil and Gas, ICT, Agriculture, and Small and Medium Scale Enterprises.

According to him, the training will prepare our youths for over 1,000 jobs that will be created in the Oil and Gas Free Zone and other job opportunities in the ICT and e-commerce sector.

“My Entrepreneurship Goals Programme will start next week, which is another bold and decisive step taken by the government to provide needed education and skills in entrepreneurship so our youths may use the skills acquired to create jobs for themselves,” he said.

Already, various youth groups in the state have applauded Governor Emmanuel over his hope -inspiring announcements, pledging to support government in actualizing these lofty ideals.

Speaking with our reporter, Mr. Darlington Udobong, the Secretary General of Akwa Ibom Liberation Movement, AILM, a foremost sociopolitical group in the state thanked the governor for rolling out several job opportunities for youths in addition to those already provided via key industrial concerns thriving in the state.

"We commend Governor Emmanuel for his focused and result oriented leadership of the state. We are particularly encouraged by his recent announcement of creating more job opportunities aimed at giving youths where to eke out a living. These are very commendable efforts despite the current difficult global economic climate.
"At AILM, we pledge to support these laudable initiatives and contribute our quota through advocacy to ensure they all succeed."

...says AKISIEC has set standard in orderly conduct of elections



Governor Udom Emmanuel has commended the orderly , peaceful and transparent manner in which Local Government elections have been conducted across Akwa Ibom State.


He said the success of this exercise would strengthen the people's confidence in the Local Government administration.


Governor Emmanuel stated this Saturday, October 31, 2020, shortly after casting his vote at Awa Iman ward 1, Unit 2 at Onna Local Government Area during the ongoing Local government elections in the state .


The Governor who spoke of the local government election as significant, pointed out that it marks the first elective to elective transition in the third tier of government since the country embraced democracy in1999.


"...if I didn't have confidence in the Local Government elections why would I come here, yes I have confidence in the Local Government system much more than before, you see this is the most peaceful elected to elected transition in the local government system", he stated.


He commended the election umpire , Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission, AKISIEC, for their preparedness and high standards maintained in the conduct of the exercise, urging  them to sustain the tempo .


"I think this is one of the most peaceful Local Government elections we've ever had. I drove all the way from Uyo down here and tried to monitor situations on my way. Its been quite peaceful. I like the orderliness, the peaceful conduct of the elections. I'm also impressed with the preparedness of AKISIEC, the quality of materials, the conduct, the trainings are of very high standard, even the transparency of the process, I think it's commendable", Emmanuel remarked.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Lekki Shootings:.Olowu of Kuta calls for probe of Amnesty International's claim

The Olowu of Kuta in Ayedire Local Government area of Osun state, Oba
Oba Adekunle Oyelude Makama has called for a probe of the Amnesty International for announcing that it tracked troops of the Nigerian Army from Bonny Camp to the Lekki Toll Gate on October 20.

The Oba who made the call in a statement on Thursday also appealed to the Federal and state governments to intensify implementation of programmes and policies designed to empower millions of struggling youths across the country.

Amnesty International was in the news on Wednesday when it released what it called the timeline of troop movements to the Lekki Toll Gate during the EndSARS protests.

The Oba, who said Amnesty International had the right to operate legally anywhere, however contended that as an international NGO, the association claiming to have tracked troops of a sovereign nation and announcing same amounted to attacks on national security.

He added that as a Nigerian, he was worried that a foreign NGO could admit carrying out espionage activities against the Nigeria Army with an air of impunity. He therefore asked the relevant authorities to probe the claim, and possibly Extradict them from Nigeria, because I can't imagine a foreign NGO operating in America to be so bold and claimed he tracked troops movement from pentagon to a particular location and still remains in American soil.

The Oba also appealed for calm across the country while urging Nigerian youths to make their legitimate claims and ventilate whatever grievances they may have in future peacefully, stressing that it was in an atmosphere of harmony that progress could be achieved.

Oba Oyelude commiserated with all Nigerians who lost loved ones and properties in the crises praying that God would wipe off their tears. He also mourned security officers who fell in line of duty urging their services not to abandon the families left behind by the gallant officers.

He called on all Nigerians to intensify prayers for peace to return fully to the country and appealed to the Federal and State Governments to keep the various promises they made to the protesting youths while the crises lasted.
He further praised the Patriotism of the Nigerian Army and the military leadership and other security agencies for quickly identifying subversive foreign Elements like Amnesty international and thwarting thier mischief.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

...As Fmr Lawmaker Mobilizes Uyo Youths to Secure Investments in the City

Youth leaders across Akwa Ibom State have risen to reciprocate efforts of government in preventing further looting in Uyo, the state capital after the violent #Endsars protest there and in surrounding cities.

This follows appeals to youths for calm by the state governor, Mr. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel, in his statewide broadcast after widespread looting and burning of public and private property in Uyo and other parts of the state by criminals within the ranks of protesters.

Convener of the Uyo Youth meeting, Hon. Monday Eyoh, who is the Chairman of Local Government Service Commission in Akwa Ibom State, said it is crucial to call all youth representatives from the 14 wards making up Uyo Local Government Area, to analyse the situation and brainstorm on ways to protect property and investments in the state capital against hoodlums.

The meeting which held on Sunday, had in attendance Dr. Uwemedimo Udo, the Peoples Democratic Party flagbearer for the coming Uyo Local Government chairmanship race; Akparawa Prince Emmanuel Sam, Special Assistant to the Governor on Local Media, political stalwarts including Hon. Tony Asikpo, Hon. Kufre Mendie, Hon. Idongesit Okponsak, Hon. Nsikak Udoekong, Hon. Ifiok Akpan, Hon. Stella Okpon, all Councillors in the LGA, all supervisors in the LGA, and youth leaders from the 14 wards in the LGA and others.

In his remarks, Eyoh, who served as the Member Representing Uyo State Constituency in the sixth Assembly, thanked youth for responding despite such a short notice.

He said the violence that erupted following the #Endsars protest and subsequent destruction of private and public property were unfortunate and condemnable.

The former lawmaker, while commending the Nigeria Police Force for quickly swinging into action to recovery of stolen property, noted that from information available to him there is no single indigene of Uyo among those so far arrested.

He thanked the youths of Uyo for exercising restriant during the violence and for assisting the Police recover items looted from business concerns in the state capital. He however noted that youths won't close their eyes while investments in the metropolis get plundered.

"We can't close our eyes as aliens put knives to our necks. We are here to discuss how to prevent a recurrence of such violent and barbaric acts of arson and looting of businesses because if violence continues and we are pushed out of our homes where will we go?

"I'm urging perpetrators of these widespread acts of violence to put an end to this hooliganism. We will not allow people come to raze down private and public property in Uyo". He warned.

In addition, Hon. Eyoh informed youths that Governor Emmanuel has announced various job opportunities through interministerial direct labour projects and commended the state chief executive for reconsidering the case of stopping salaries of those whose appointments were deemed illegal.

"I wish to inform you that these category of workers have been reinstated therefore starting from November 1, about 200 of them will be recalled and then by January 1, 2023 another 200 will start work".

Also speaking, Dr. Uwemedimo Udo, the Peoples Democratic Party flagbearer for the coming Uyo Local Government chairmanship race, recalled that what happened in Uyo that fateful Thursday was very unfortunate and a serious dent on the image of Uyo as a peaceful city.

He stressed that indigenes of Uyo were the ones who would bear most of the brunt of any form of violence in the state capital since they are the landlords as such it was needful to protect Uyo from criminals masquerading as protesters.

He further pointed out that choatic and violent environment is toxic to investment and investors will avoid them.

"If you check the Akwa Ibom Broadcasting Corporation AKBC administrative office and other buildings razed down or destroyed that fateful Thursday, it may belong to Uyo indigenes. We are encouraging investors to Uyo but they won't come in an atmosphere of chaos and violence", he cautioned.

He commended Monday Eyoh for the idea of the meeting and thanked Governor Udom Emmanuel for announcing several jobs for youths in the state while pledging that when he assumes office, his adminstration will be youth friendly, one and will put in effort to provide needed skills for youths of Uyo in preparation for countless employment opportunities that government investments in oil and gas free trade zone and Ibom Deep seaport will bring.

In his vote of thanks, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Local Media, Akparawa (Prince) Emmanuel Sam, commended the youths for such a massive turnout despite the short notice of the meeting.

He thanked his boss, Governor Udom Emmanuel, for setting a template to keep the state on a peaceful and progressive path, noting that his timely response to the crisis by imposing a curfew and addressing the state helped a great deal in quelling the carnage and giving hope to a state that was so traumatized by the violent attacks.

Sam, commended Hon. Monday Eyoh for his spontaneity in initiating a process to sustain the peace that Uyo is known for and for always putting the interest of the people first.

He used the opportunity to thank the youths for rising up to defend investments in the city, saying these investments have provided jobs to indigenes and that inorder to encourage more investors to invest in the city, there must be concerted efforts to ensure the safety of their investments.

...TASKS YOUTHS TO GIVE PEACE A CHANCE

The governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, has addressed citizens of the state following widespread violence, looting and arson that were perpetuated in the state capital after a peaceful #endsars protest was allegedly hijacked by criminals and hoodlums.

In his statewide broadcast titled "Let there be peace", Governor Emmanuel expressed sympathy with victms of the carnage that was metted on them by rogue elements who infiltrates the rank of protesters to cause mayhem.

" Let me therefore on behalf of the Government and people of Akwa Ibom State express my deepest sympathies to all the victims of the #EndSARS protests all over the country, especially our citizens in Akwa Ibom State who yesterday were brutalized by hoodlums pretending to be protesters.


He stated that Akwa Ibom State, which has been an ally in every developmental effort in the country, the cradle of peace and stability, and the nest of hope for a better Nigeria, became a victim of a coordinated and premeditated attack by hoodlums and criminals, adding that these vandals came in the guise of #EndSARS protesters and exploited same to put a stain on our State and commit atrocious crimes.

He drew comparison between the peaceful #EndSARS protests and violence caused by hoodlums, saying while "#EndSARS is an attempt to stop terror. These vandals came to spread terror. EndSARS wants to stop the brutalization of citizens. These vandals brutalized the good, working people of Akwa Ibom State. EndSARS is about stopping extortion and stealing. These vandals stole and looted. #EndSARS is about peace and constitutionality. These vandals committed arson and horrendous crimes'.

According to him, the State government had responded swiftly by convening an Emergency State Executive Council Meeting (EXCO) where, among other resolutions, a Judicial Panel of Investigation headed by the retired Justice Ifiok Ukana was set up long before unlawful elements masquerading as protesters took the laws into their hands and attacked citizens and destroyed some private and public property.

As a result, government immediately imposed a State-wide curfew on Thursday from 9pm to 12noon Friday which was further extended to 7am Saturday.

The governor said this was necessitated by the desire of government to exercise its primary responsibility of protecting the citizens and their property.

"Let me commend our youths for the patriotism and resilience they displayed in the protection and defence of our private and Government assets. You all deserve our eternal gratitude and appreciation. You have by such display of fidelity to your State, proved that you are partners in the collective growth and development of our dear State.

"Our youths are peaceful, they love their State, the progress we have made so far with the resources available to us, and I know I can count on you to continue to defend our State and all that we stand for".

He therefore tasked youths to give peace a chance while promising to continue engaging the youth productively, through job creation and other employment opportunities.

" In the next few weeks, we will commence our bold high level skilled training employment programme tagged “Ibom 3000 Project” which will train Akwa Ibom youths, 3000 per quarter and 3000 per Senatorial Districts in the following sectors: Oil and Gas, ICT, Agriculture and Small and Medium Scale Enterprises. The trainings will prepare our youths for over 1,000 jobs that will be created in the Oil and Gas Free Zone and other job opportunities in the ICT and e-commerce sector.

"Also, My Entrepreneurship Goals Programme (MEGP-Batch 111) will start next week, which is another bold and decisive step taken by Government to provide needed education and skills in entrepreneurship so our youths may use the skills acquired to create job for themselves. We hope our youths will avail themselves of these great opportunities."

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

We are in receipt of information that the Warehouse in Ede, where we kept the relief materials donated to the Osun Food and Relief Committee by the Private Sector Coalition Against Covid-19 (CACOVID), has been attacked and food items carted away.

It has therefore become imperative to put the records straight in view of the falsehood and the  misinformation making the rounds about the donated relief items.

One, it is not true that the food items were hoarded.

Two, the food items have no direct bearing with the State Government, as they are within the purview of the Food and Relief Committee.

Three, the items can only be distributed after a formal flag-off by the CACOVID Office, Abuja. 

Four, we do not have the authority to distribute the food items without approval from Abuja.  


Besides, the Committee is still expecting the rice component of the donated items, which is 40, 230 bags of 5kg. 


All these are part of the reasons the items were still in the warehouse up till the time of the invasion.


The following items were donated: Pasta FMN - 29, 992; Pasta OLAM -10, 282; Noodles- 80, 644; Garri -40, 322; Salt- 40, 320; and Sugar - 40, 227. 


However, the rice components of the donated items are yet to be delivered up until now.


The Committee wrote to CACOVID as recently as September 28, 2020, reminding it of the rice component, which is yet to be delivered.


Part of the letter reads: “I wish to refer to our letter on the above subject and wish to request for the recent update on the rice component expected to have been delivered to the State, and also to seek your advice on the exact time the State should expect delivery, considering the fact that items already received into the Warehouse are food materials and are perishable with limited shelve lives.



“May I recall in our previous discussions that the delay experienced is due to increase in cost of rice and delivery, that the amount paid to suppliers could no longer cover cost of purchase and delivery to Osun. “



However, up until this moment, we are yet to receive response from CACOVID. 


This is the truth about the status of the donated relief items until their unfortunate looting.

Signed:


Alh. Bayo Jimoh


Secretary, Osun Food and Relief Committee

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

...As Gov Emmanuel harps on transparency, unity of purpose 


Akwa Ibom state government has inaugurated an 8-man Judicial Panel of Inquiry to receive and investigate complaints of alleged police brutality, human rights violations and extrajudicial killings in the state.


The Panel is also mandated to evaluate and  present evidence surrounding the circumstances and draw conclusions as to the validity of the complaints raised.


Inaugurating the Panel on Tuesday, 20th October 2020, at the Executive Council Chamber, Government House, Uyo, Governor Emmanuel tasked the panelists to live above board by being transparent and execute the task ahead by coming up with recommendations that will address the issues when implemented.


Governor Emmanuel said that the decision of the Executive Council to inaugurate the panel is premised on his determination to address the demands of the protesting youths during the recent  #EndSARS protest in the state.


He  commended the protesting youths for not taking laws into their hands while pressing home their demand for a reformed society and warned them against infiltration by hoodlumps who may hijack the peaceful protest and wreck havoc on innocent citizens and public infrastructure.


“I advise the people to remain law abiding and peaceful, you should not allow hoodlums to hijack the process because that common man selling akara that hoodlums are going to attack is not the cause of the problem you know how he manage to get capital to start the business, the more peaceful we conduct ourselves to get our demands the better for everybody”, he advised. 


He spoke on his resolve to respond to every demand of the protesting youths, explaining that having a few policemen who exhibit bad tendencies does not mean that all of them are bad.


“let me also say here that in every organization including the church, the bad eggs you notice are not more than 0.04%, you know bad apples they say  spoil the good ones even with that let us look at it in that direction that there are a few percentage of policemen in this country who are doing the rightful thing. Let us not throw the baby with the bath water because at the end of the day we still need the police to protect lives and property in the state”, he appealed.    


Chairman of the Panel , Rtd. Justice Ifiok Ukana, thanked Governor Udom Emmanuel for the confidence reposed on them and pledged their unalloyed commitment to study documents and make necessary recommendations to  the state government.


Members of the panel are; Chairman, Rtd. Justice Ifiok Ukana, Secretary/Representative of State Attorney General, Mfon Edemekong Esq, Representative of Civil Society Organisations and Protesters is Manti Umoh.


Others are Representative of Civil Society Organisations, Harris Udoh, Representative of the Police, Barr. Bassey Essien while  the Youths Representative is Barr. Omen Bassey.


High point of the event was the signing of an Order backing the setting up of the Judicial Panel of Investigation by Governor Udom Emmanuel.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

GOV EMMANUEL RECONSTRUCTS 168 HOUSING UNITS FOR NIGERIA ARMY

Governor Udom Emmanuel has commissioned 168 reconstructed houses and a water project at the Wellington Bassey Army Barracks 6 battalion, Ibagwa, Abak, Akwa Ibom State.

The commissioning, which took place on Wednesday August 30, is part of activities to celebrate Nigeria’s 60th independence anniversary.

According to Governor Emmanuel, as a responsible federating unit, Akwa Ibom state Government will continue to support federal institutions to function properly.

"The pitiable situation of the barracks caught my attention when I came on inspection with the then Commander of 2 Brigade. What I saw was very disturbing and I decided that I will change the story of this barracks for good.

"Today we are witnesses to the new aura of this barracks as we commission the Phase 2 of my interventions here in this barracks.

"I decided to add the water scheme to help the residents with their water needs and improve their living conditions.

"I have been told of the issues relating to power unavailability in the barracks and I’m determined to do something about it, by next year this time, we will be here again to commission the power infrastructure .”

Earlier, the Commander 2Brigade Nigerian Army, Brig. Gen. FU Mijinyawa expressed the appreciation of the Chief of Army Staff and gratitude of the leadership and men of the brigade, on the qualitative and prompt delivery of the projects.

He thanked the Governor for his consistent care and concern for army personnel and other security agencies in the state.

The Commissioner for Housing, Otuekong Raphael Bassey, whose ministry supervised the reconstruction of the barracks, assured that standards were strictly observed in the execution of the entire reconstruction.

The second phase of the reconstruction comprised of 84 houses for soldiers of the rank of Corporal and below, in addition to the houses earlier commissioned, bringing the total number to 168.

The wife of one of the beneficiaries, Mrs Isah appreciated the Governor for giving them a comfortable accommodation and good source of drinking water.

She said before the Governor’s intervention, their houses were leaking and life was very difficult.

Cc: Lalasticlala

FG Prioritises Security in Railway Transport Sector, Introduces Scanners
 
With the inauguration of the Warri Itakpe rail station in Agbor, Delta State, due in a few days, President Muhammadu Buhari and the Minister of Transport, Honorable Rotimi Chibuke Amaechi have prioritised the security of passengers and others with the introduction of top notch security baggage scanners in railway transportation across the country. 
 
The Warri Itakpe station, connecting Kogi, Edo and Delta States, has been slated for inauguration on Tuesday, September 29, in fulfillment of the promises of the administration to deliver on some of its big projects in infrastructure before the end of the year.
 
To complement the initiative, the Nigerian Railway has successfully installed world class security baggage scanners with super high speed electronic digital passenger screening point and notification sign across the railway station IDU terminal and more. 
 
Identified as the first of its kind with a unique design technology worldwide, the ASNL TB 100/100 has the capacity to scan through baggage and luggage at same speed, processing and breaking down all contents packed at the fastest advanced inbuilt technology.
 
These scanners also have inbuilt display detection system for safety and suspected dangerous substance. 
 
Also, its high-speed detection system is at five seconds per luggage with video image CT of detecting objects for analysing and tracing, assisted by an easy wheel for movement with programmed lock for and against vandals.
 
With this development, it is safe to say the authorities in the transportation ministry have made the safety of Nigerians in the railway system as important to the government. 
 
Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Eng. Fidet Ohikira, while praising President Buhari and Amaechi for making the initiative come through, has encouraged Nigerians to be patient so they could see more of the transformation already taking place in the railway sector of the economy. 
 
According to him, “We will not stop until all the railway stations are fully equipped with security gadgets. Our passengers are of great value. We want to ensure lives and properties are safe, while not forgetting the great boost this brings to our economy through interstate transport logistics.” 

On his part, the CEO of Advonics Group Ltd, the company overseeing the project, Mr. Emmanuel Egboh, said, “It's my desire and joy to see this project come to life, while ensuring that the safety needs of the people are inline with the requisite security measures that are fully in place.”

Cc: Lalasticlala

More photos

A’IBOM AT 33: GOV EMMANUEL MARKS STATE ANNIVERSARY WITH LANDMARK PROJECTS

The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel, has unveiled several landmark projects to commemorate the 33rd anniversary of the state creation.

Emmanuel, flagged off a long list of activities to mark the special event with a Thanksgiving Service at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Uyo on Sunday, September 20.

On Wednesday, September 23, he presented a Statewide broadcast, reflecting on the progress made in 33 years, urging citizens to sustain the peace and unity to foster unceasing growth in the State and launched the State's official symbols comprising a Flag, Coat of Arms, Anthem and a Creed.

Speaking during the launching, Governor Emmanuel expressed appreciation to God for his benevolence to the state from inception, describing the 33rd anniversary as symbolic given the achievements recorded in the state within the past years.


He charged the people to exhibit virtues of unity and love to one another, saying that the bond has been the unique identity of Akwa Ibom people from time immemorial.


“I want to thank God for bringing us this far as a state . I spoke extensively on the significance of 33 and as a state named after God. It holds a whole lot of significance here in our state, the dakkada creed reflects the distillation of our unique identity and a call to take ownership of our destiny and for us to live the true essence of God’s plan for us.


"The launching of the state symbols and creed therefore is the crystallization of all that we as a people represent and shape ourselves forward; this is the land of great and God-fearing people, we are industrious, hospitable creative innovative, peaceful and blessed with good faith.


"Therefore as we launch this state symbols and creed it is my hope that a new Akwa Ibom identity will be unfold ; an identity of love and unity without the bed-ridden impulse to pull down ourselves or leaders”, he stated.


The Governor commended Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Bassey and the House members for backing the usage of the state symbols with a legislation and acknowledged the contributions of designers of the symbols and the panelists for coordinating the project.


Other notable projects comissioned so far by the governor include the palatial Secretariat of the Akwa Ibom State Council of Chiefs in Uyo, the remodelled Immanuel General Hospital - Eket, Psychiatric Hospital - Eket, the 9.5 km Ebe Ekpe-Osiok road project linking Eket with Esit Eket Local Government Area as well as other internals roads in the Eket metropolis.

In addition, he commissioned a fully digitized General Hospital and a landing Jetty in Onna Local Government Area.


At Onna, while commissioning the 9.5km Ikot Ebekpo-Ikot Ebidang road, constructed with a landing Jetty and a spur linking the East-west road, Governor Emmanuel stated that the project has opened an important gateway for trade with other states in Nigeria and neighbouring countries along the Gulf of Guinea.

"This is just the beginning. We will keep improving upon what we have done in this project. We foresee that there may be need to expand the Jetty area depending on the buildup of economic activities, as it will serve as a trade line between Akwa Ibom, Ibom, other states in Nigeria and even other countries along the Gulf of Guinea". He said.

Governor Emmanuel commended the indigenous contractor, Benest Technical Services (BTS), for beating the difficult terrain to deliver the job with impressive quality and promised to complete the ongoing road linking Ndon Eyo junction to the water front at Odio.

He urged youths of the area to allow the contractor handling the job to execute the project at a safe pace to ensure quality delivery and durability, adding that, construction of the Ikot Ebekpo-Ikot Ebidang road in ONNA and the Osiok-Ebiekpe road commissioned at Esit Eket, will make a testament on the accomplishment of his rural development pillar of his administrations completion agenda.

"I am happy that as one of our pillars, rural development is a part of my administration's completion agenda, to commission this road today, for the economic use and wellbeing of not only this neighbourhood, but the entire Akwa Ibom State".

While commissioning the digitized General Hospital in Awa, the governor noted that an healthy society makes wealthy citizens which is why his administrative stewardship has redefined healthcare services in Akwa Ibom State.

"We have completely redefined healthcare services in this state, we have made a commitment that health is wealth, a commitment to provide digitized health equipment to at least one hospital in each of the ten federal constituencies in this state such that any of these hospitals will have your full bio and treatment data after the first visit in irrespective of the location".

The general hospital, he said has the best and state-of-the-art facilities and equipment assuring people in the State of steadfastness to replicate similar healthcare facilities in Ikot Ekpene and Ikot Abasi Local Government Areas by December as he is targeting eleven digitized hospitals across the ten federal constituencies in the state.

The new digitized general hospital housed an Out Patients Department (OPD), Ambulance, Male and Female Ward, Water Treatment Plant (WTP), Mortuary, Accident and Emergency Unit, (AEU), and others.

Cc : Lalasticlala, mynd44

Raid on AKS Market: PDP Knocks APC Over Comments on Governor Emmanuel

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom state, has lambasted the All Progressive Congress (APC) over what it described as the opposition party's comment on Governor Udom Emmanuel on the issue of the raid on a market in the state by men alleged to be security operatives attached to the "Operation Swift Response"

Speaking through its Publicity Secretary, Borono Bassey, the Akwa Ibom state chapter of PDP, lashed out on the APC, pointing that an earlier release signed by the APC spokesperson, rather than indict Governor Emmanuel, amounted to an effort to by the APC to spit on the federal government, having referred to a night raid in an Akwa Ibom popular market by federal government security agents, as an armed robbery attack.

The release by the Akwa Ibom State PDP Spokesman read "Patriotic Akwa Ibom people, on Wednesday, September 23, 2020 – while in the euphoria of the 33rd Anniversary of State creation, witnessed a reprehensible attempt by the All Progressives Congress, APC, Akwa Ibom State, to exhibit a behaviour that is common to cavemen.

The APC, in an inexcusable display of gratuitous ignorance through a bland release, made strenuous but failed efforts to accuse the Governor Udom Emmanuel-led administration of not reacting to the supposed “raid” on the popular Itam Market by persons the stopgap Publicity Secretary of the APC, referred to as armed bandits.

The APC Publicity Secretary, through that release, effortlessly earned for himself and the remaining few members of his party, a shining badge in the courageous display of unbridled ignorance. Through a little effort of research and facts-checking, the APC spokesman would have realized that he only succeeded in spitting on the APC-led Federal Government by authoring the said release.

Credible intelligence and news reports have shown that the said raid on Itam Market which the APC spokesman claimed was an armed robbery attack, was actually one in the series of the raids carried out by men of the "Operation Swift Response"( Coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser)
in a border drill exercise commissioned by the President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government. (Find the report of the raid as published by Nation Newspaper here:
https://thenationonlineng.net/traders-decry-raid-of-itam-market-by-customs-officials/)

These border drill exercises have "curiously" flowed into major markets around the country like Lagos, Adamawa among others, with many traders having their goods confiscated. (Find more information on the seizures of goods here:https://guardian.ng/news/fg-makes-n11b-seizures-from-border-closure-in-one-year/).

Our painstaking checks have also shown that it has become the tradition of the men of the Operation Swift Response as Coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser, to sometimes carry out raids like the one at Itam market at night.

We understand that for the handful of members of the APC in Akwa Ibom State currently dwelling in a political cave on account of the banishment Akwa Ibom electorate had sent them, access to credible information on the goings-on in the real world is a luxury they are unable to afford. Therefore, we will not fail to advise them to always send a member out to confirm the real truth about the present state of things in our state, Nigeria and the world before proceeding to compete in the "one-party Olympics of Ignorance" they constantly organise.

We must remind the Akwa Ibom APC that Governor Udom Emmanuel, who is the leader of the Peoples Democratic Party in Akwa Ibom State is indeed too busy with the actualization of the Completion Agenda for our people and so cannot be distracted by the perennial hisses of a banished party.

We are confident that soon enough, the remaining handful of APC members in Akwa Ibom State will regain freedom from the chains in the cave of darkness which they currently exist and step into the light. When this happens, everything that represents the metaphors in Plato's Allegory of the Cave will manifest in their lives."

Cc: Lalasticlala

...advocates strengthening of regional corporation .


The  re-elected Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has solicited collaboration with governors and leaders  of the south -south region to strengthen the economic fortunes of the area.


Governor Obaseki made the request while exchanging views with Akwa Ibom State Governor , Mr Udom Emmanuel during a "thank you" visit on the Governor at the Hilltop Mansion , Governor's Lodge , Uyo,  following his reelection at the just concluded Edo State gubernatorial poll.


He said that the victory would not have been achieved without the corporation and support  of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, family, their leaders and the people of Edo state.


Governor Obaseki advocated for such corporation to be deployed to reinvent the economy of the south south region for sustainable development.


"This region has  re-written the history of democracy in Nigeria. Now we have a platform to negotiate, I therefore appeal to all leaders to collaborate and make PDP much stronger. Nobody should claim monopoly of the party. I thank the PDP structure in Nigeria and in Edo State for the job well done. 


"I love this brotherhood and cooperation and I crave for such support for Governor Emmanuel just as my people are giving me. The governor needs the support of the party as a pillar of his government”, he appealed.


Obaseki, accompanied by his Wife, Batsy, his Deputy, Comrade Philip Shaibu, national and state Legislators of Edo extraction and some appointees of his administration, specifically expressed appreciation to Governor Emmanuel and other PDP governors for their role during the campaign that saw to his election that brought him back to office.


Describing his victory as a basis for unity in the sub-region as well as a step to rebuild the country, Governor  Obaseki emphasized the need to foster continuous cooperation among the Niger Delta region.


"...because of what God has done for us in the region, we owe a responsibility to our people in the region to continue to foster this cooperation. My victory has shown unity, it has united us the Edo people and  for the first time in a long while, we are all speaking as one. God has helped us use this election and the incidents of the past few months to unite Edo people.


"It has also united us in the sub-region and that is why we decided to take a road tour across the six states comprising Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River and Edo state so that the thread that links the sub region would be made stronger" he explained.


Obaseki solicited the collective support of all governors in the  South-South region of Nigeria to resuscitate the economy of the region, assuring that his state will provide the needed support as they will no longer accept a situation where the commission and the Niger Delta Development Commision , NDDC, is under-performing in its responsibilities.


“I plead that in a post COVID-19 economy, a world that is going to be determined by the fourth industrial revolution, you have a great role to play. We will be relying on you and our chairman in the resuscitation of  our "BRACED" Commission.


"Be rest-assured that we will provide all the support from Edo State. We can no longer accept a situation where our own commission, the NDDC is ascetic as it has become and is not playing the role that it was supposed to play. It has been so because we have not come together as a sub-region to take our fate in our hands”, he stated.


On his part , Governor Emmanuel  thanked Godwin Obaseki on the visit and attributed his victory to the all round support garned from Edo people and the PDP  family especially in the south south region .


He thanked God for proving himself strong during the election and in the affairs of the region and sued for more corporation from the people of Edo to support the administration of Governor Obaseki to succeed.


Recalling the experience during his reelection, Governor Emmanuel said that Obaseki's victory is not different from his as it was made possible through a joint effort , stressing that no body can really beat his chest and lay claim to his reelection for a second term.


" Edo State has emulated what we did in Akwa Ibom, nobody could really beat his chest to say he gave us victory in the election because everybody was made to concentrate in his unit. You know that you couldn’t have done it alone; we needed everybody and that has united us seriously as a party, everybody is important” he emphasized.

Cc: Lalasticlala

Gov Emmanuel is Determined to Develop A'Ibom Communities, says Akan Okon

Speedy development of Akwa Ibom communities is a key developmental goal of Governor Udom Emmanuel's Completion Agenda which he is determined to achieve.

This was made known by the Commissioner for Economic Development Ibom Deep Seaport, Mr Akan Okon, while welcoming the Minister of Finance, Budget and Financial Planning, Mrs Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed, during the opening ceremony of the Federal Project Support Unit's "Stakeholders On Community Driven Development" workshop hosted by the Akwa Ibom State Agency for Community and Social Development, at Watbridge Hotel, Uyo, recently.


The minister as well as community development and finance experts from across Nigeria met in Uyo to brainstorm and produce guidelines for sustainable community developmental practices.

Okon pointed out that apart from providing basic infrastructure to improve the living standard of community dwellers, Governor Emmanuel has consistently and promptly paid counterpart funds and given a hundred percent attention to donor agency activities and shown remarkable commitment to resolving challenges facing communities.

"These are evidents of Governor Udom Emmanuel's determination to develop Akwa Ibom Communities". He said.

The commissioner therefore reassured the minister and her team of continuous co-operation of the Akwa Ibom state government to community development projects.

In her remarks, the Minister of Finance, Budget and Financial Planning, who was represented by her Special Adviser, Mrs Elizabeth Ebosele, commended the governor on his laudable achievements in Akwa Ibom state and for supporting the federal government in its efforts to develop communities.
She charged South-south and South-east stakeholders of community Driven Development (CDD) to bring their vast knowledge in community development to bear while designing policies that will be in the best interest of future generations, their immediate communities, the region and Nigeria as a whole.

Ebosele informed participants that both the Presidency and Federal Executive Council await the outcome of their deliberations to be used as a template to execute developmental projects for Nigerian communities.

Also speaking, the General Manager, Akwa Ibom State Agency for Community and Social Development (CSDP), Mr. Ishmeal Akpan, welcomed the minister and all coordinators of the project to the state.

He thanked them for choosing his state to host such a prestigious workshop and for trusting the grassroots dwellers' capability to select projects tailored to their specific needs and self executing with funds made available by the project.

Akpan assured participants of a blissful stay in the peaceful city Uyo while inviting them to consider more business and leisure visits as well as invest in the state.

The National Coordinator, FPSU, Mr Abubakar Yusuf, in his remarks, commended the Akwa Ibom State government for practicing the best Covid-19 safety protocol in the country, citing the de-contamination chambers at the Victor Attah International Airport and other safety protocol on-board Ibom Air - the state owned airline, saying this has evidently resulted in the state's victory over the deadly virus.

He adviced participants of the two-day workshop to suggest universal policies that would alliviate socio-economic developmental deficiencies in every part of Nigeria and not ones peculiar to their state or Geo-political zone.


Other dignitaries at the workshop included the National Co-ordinator, Federal Project Support Unit (FPSU) Mr Abdulkarim Obaje and his team, Board Members and General Managers of Community Development Agencies, ace community development experts, finance experts from the federal ministry of finance and other financial institutions and others.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44