JUST IN: SENATOR AKPABIO SURVIVES SUSPENSION ATTEMPT BY HIS WARD EXCOS AMIDST ALLEGATIONS OF ANTI-PARTY ACTIVITIES

Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio(CON), the Senate President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, has survived an attempt to suspend him from the All Progressives Party (APC) for alleged anti-party activities.

According to sources, the plot was orchestrated by His predecessor in office Gov Udom Emmanuel, the former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umana Okon Umana, Obong Nsima Ekere, Senator James Udoedehe and few other APC members who are not in support of the Senate President and has accused him of killing the All Progressives Congress APC in the state thereby enhancing the fortunes of the People’s Democratic Party PDP in the coming elections, whereas the PDP is consolidating towards the next elections, the APC is in tatters, our source reported.

The suspension was reportedly planned to be carried out by the Senate President's factional ward executives, but the plot was foiled when one of the executives leaked the information and refused to be part of the suspension committee.

Sources also revealed that the recent outburst by Bar. Emmanuel Enoidem, SAN, in a recent interview against the Senate President accusing him of not believing in the Arise Agenda of Gov Umo Eno was part of the plot, which actually marks the beginning of the long orchestrated plan to stop the Senate President and his over zealousness. Barr Enoidem while challenging the Senate President in a recent interview, stated in clear terms that he does not believe in Umo Eno's bipartisanship and his Arise Agenda.

According to sources, the plotters of the suspension, who have the support of Governor Umo Eno claimed that Senator Akpabio, coming from a minority tribe in the state should not be allowed to lord over the matters of Akwa Ibom State. They also vowed to do everything possible to twart his return to the chambers as a senator in 2027.

Furthermore, the plotters, according to our source, alleged that the Senate President, Senator Akpabio does not allow the governor to concentrate on his responsibilities, claiming that he extorts N1billion from Governor Umo Eno monthly working in concert with his wife Unoma .

Gov Udom Emmanuel, the former Governor was quoted by our source saying "We will make sure Akpabio is not returned as a Senator come 2027, as directed by my principal Alhaji Atiku Abubarkar, GCON, the former vice President. He does not allow the governor to fully function and discharge his responsibilities just because he is the Senate President and getting a whooping 1billion naira monthly from the State government is at the disadvantage of the State and so we will do everything to put an end to this before 2027"

Our source also quoted one of the plotters asking during a meeting "Why can’t the Senate President concentrate in building his fragmented party, the APC instead of frolicking with Gov Umo Eno and extorting and filtering away the state resources that could have been used to develop the State and in addition to trying to instigate a quarrel between Gov Umo Eno and his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel"?

As of the time of this report, the suspension plot has been foiled, and it remains to be seen what the next line of action will be.

Stay tuned for more updates.

©️Independent Reporters, Abuja.

Umo Eno’s poverty ploy, a Testament laid straight by Victor Antai

Few weeks ago, Akwa Ibom was greeted in the morning of Easter by a video of Hon. Victor Antai, condemning the inept attitude of Governor Umo Eno and accusing him of using poverty to weaponise people of the State.

His comment obviously angered the Governor whose boys did a rebuttal, countering the motion of the Executive Director Projects, at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

But weeks after, the State Governor’s body language towards the issue raised by Antai cannot be said to be different. The food he promised to make available to the vulnerable hasn’t arrived, neither have modalities been put in place to help Akwa Ibomites out of the biting dearth of food.

There have been no remarkable efforts to tackle unemployment and nothing substantial has been done to engage our teaming youths resourcefully. The other day, a paltry 400 entrepreneurs were empowered financially, from a whopping population of over 8million thus, representing less than 2% of the entire State population. Isn’t that laughable?

While the State Governor was applauded on the idea of the Ibom Community Watch, it is on record that those recruited into that Vanguard are of Uyo alone. Are there no agile and formidable youths in Ikot Ekpene and Eket Senatorial Districts to join the Community Watch? Yet, employment has not been declared in the State civil service, one year into his administration. How then does he intend to actualize his aim of gainful employment for the youth?

His selfish self was again brought to the fore when he refused to have his recent birthday celebrated in the media. This was clearly an attempt to cripple the activities of newspaper publishers whom he knows make money from such advertorials.

The reports about Governor Eno by insiders isn’t clean either. It would be recalled that Governor Umo Eno was earlier accused of crippling the survival of his supporters. His aides were said to be neglected, uncatered for and forgotten while those who supported his emergence as Governor are said to have been thrown out of the vehicle. This has not changed as many of his aides trek to events and are already looking like a shadow of themselves; no thanks to the Governor’s nonchalance about them. They have become a piece of rag to be used only when needed for rebuttals and thrown out after use. Reports has it that his Chief Press Secretary works with only 5 persons from of the more than 50 aides appointed, while others have become ‘robots’.

“He has become very unapproachable, money-stingy and all-knowing; not wanting anyone’s opinion or idea. He runs the State as one-man business”, one inside source disclosed.

He however would not refuse any opportunity at philandering with the Senate President on expensive receptions staged with the State funds just to go hear him spill cheap talks and unfruitful gossips.

Whoever knows Umo Eno should tell him to stop playing pietism and be a conscientious leader. He should jettison the use and dump mentality approach he’s playing on his aides and pay them their imprests. He should not use them to service his image and abandon them when they have delivered. They deserve to be well-treated and catered for. The amount of money Governor Umo Eno has collected from sources under one year is more than enough to support House of Assembly members, Commissioners and his personal aides with cars, wardrobe allowance and monthly imprests, to say the least.

He should put his house in order before looking outside. Charity they say, begins at home!

Governor Umo Bassey Eno of Akwa Ibom State is beginning to receive some jabs for his acclaimed acts of piety, perceived as intentional attempts to deprive members of the State from basic privileges and benefits.

The Governor’s recent criticism stems from his request that no one should celebrate his upcoming birthday on Newspaper or television/radio advertorials but rather celebrate him by donating to charity.

According to a Release signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ekerette Udoh, the Governor desires that all those who wish to celebrate his birthday should avoid doing so on newspapers, television scrolls and gifts, but convert such to food items and medical supplies to the vulnerable

“The best birthday gift you may give me would be a visit to orphanages, and homes of the vulnerable with food items or any other items that may make their lives more meaningful. You should take pictures with them and give them good cheers, then forward the pictures to me. These pictures would be made into a Birthday Album and would be better appreciated by me, than newspaper advertorials”, the Governor had stated."

Concerned stakeholders have however condemned the Governor for such selfish and ill-conceived idea targeted at hampering the patronage of Newspaper publishers in the State and thus, impoverishing them.

One of the stakeholders, Imo Udoima who openly kicked against the Governor’s stance argued that the intention is a deliberate act to impoverish the teaming Newspaper Publishers in the State while the Governor travels to Lagos to celebrate.

“Why put that caveat when it comes to celebration that would have assisted Publishing houses with advertorials? Don't they pay staff salaries? Don't they employ Orphans as Staff?”, he questioned.

“This use and dump attitude of Akwa Ibom State Government to Newspaper Publishers should STOP. Allow whoever wants to celebrate the Governor with adverts to do same….”, he wrote.

Another concerned stakeholder described the Governor’s action as hypocritical on grounds that the same Governor will fly a jet to attend a Pastor's birthday or send his deputy to attend such occasion in different locations across Nigeria country which is costlier than newspaper birthday publication.

It would be recalled that Governor Umo Eno was some weeks ago accused of crippling the survival of his supporters. His aides were said to be neglected, uncatered for and forgotten while those who supported his emergence as Governor are said to have been thrown out of the vehicle.

“Those fanciful campaign promises have turned into sour ‘stories for the gods’, with them as the first litmus paper. Evidences are glaring that structures built for the Governor on hard-earned trust, profuse sweat and painful toil have all been abandoned without compensation or any hope of revisitation in mind. Political groups and enthusiasts who suffocated the media space with promotional contents (albeit jargons, most times) have been carefully removed from the stage of play like they never existed”, the story read.

Information has it that they are no longer of relevance to the Governor who doesn’t fancy the idea of funding them and they do not have an access direct enough to move the State’s Chief Executive.

On this, would not agree less; the current administration of Governor Umo Eno is run as a sole proprietorship where the Governor is the only cock crowing. Nothing flies if it doesn’t pass through his painstaking assessment and authorization, and especially if it isn’t worth his definition of something worthwhile. On his instruction, the Chief Press Secretary works with only 5 persons out of the more than 50 aides appointed, putting him at variance with the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity and Senior Special Assistant on Research and Documentation to be at the mercy of the CPS.

Despite the pressure placed on him for a relax of these stringencies by persons who know at least, a little; nothing seems to change Pst. Eno’s mind when he’s made up. This unarguably, was the reason he lost his cool at a public function, warning politicians who do not have an appointment with him, to allow him focus and work on why he was elected. Suggestions and opinions therefore do not count to the Governor. Even within his cabinet, he frowns as those who offer him some sort of guide on how to go about certain tasks. He is said to have warned his internals from making phrases like “this is how it is being done”. Our number 1 man seems to know how to do his thing, just like every sole proprietor does.
One would therefore not be surprised if the Secretary to the State Government who would have been his liason but doesn't take calls or messages nor returns them, is acting on his instructions. Till now, appointment into key positions like entertainment and protocol have not been made, not because there are no capable hands to man them, but because the Governor does not want to spend money.
It’s even worse that Umo Eno has no mumu button, an indirect button (person) one can press to access him. For all he cares, he calls the shots without anyone’s permission.

A mumu button in this case, is a liaison or intermediary between the governor and the people. For sure, no single individual would be able to attend daily to the unique demands of everyone hence, the imperatives of a go-to person. This person would therefore be that emergency button one can easily reach the Governor with. Obong Victor Attah had, Prof Akpan Ekpo, his siblings and others as 'mumu buttons' when he was Governor.

The Senate President in his time as Governor had Etekamba Umoren; his wife, Unoma Akpabio, his siblings and Umana Umana differently as his ‘mumu’ buttons. His successor, Udom Emmanuel had the then Ephraim Inyangeyen, Emmanuel Ekuwem, Nathaniel Adiakpan, Ekerete Udoh, few Commissioners and Special Advisers as well as some members of his immediate family differently as his ‘mumu’ buttons. And these were persons you could beat your chest to say that you would have seen the Governor if you saw them. Differently, they accommodated complaints and suggestions from various angles of the society, while providing positive feedback to those concerned when such was needed. By so doing, they watered down several pressures on the Governor thus, making the job of the number one citizen less cumbersome.

No one can say that Governor Umo Eno's siblings have blessed them with N50,000 as they often complain of "No money".

But the ’golden boy’ who knows better is not towing that route. His sole proprietorship approach at governance which to him is frugality will only become a bane and drown him in the war field of politics. Truth is, no one who fights alone wins, and no king can be wiser than the king makers. It is obvious and true that his ‘makers’ have shrinked into their shells after being reported to each other for ‘disturbing’ him, and are seriously threatening to ensure that he doesn’t go any close to clinching a second-term ticket hence, his play to Akpabio's gallery. But that won't save him. Fate won't be on his side if he rides on the goodwill, trust and political contacts of those who hedged him to the seat of governance and removes them as one takes off a coat or jacket.

The worst type of governance is one administered by a person who is unapproachable and all-knowing yet, vulnerable and unskillful in the play of politics; their mighty fall never takes anyone unaware.

Umo Eno has all the time to redeem his debts and retie the relationship chords he has loosened. He'll do more and be the best Governor Akwa Ibom State would have ever had if he listens to, and collaborates with the experienced voices within his cabinet. Their ideas, juxtaposed with his, would make the big difference in his story as Governor of the State.

©️ Independent Reports

Why Akpabio Should Not be a Scapegoat

By Ezinne Chinda


In the last couple of weeks, the unfortunate allegations of budget padding has raised a lot of dust in the National Assembly as well as the public domain. However, it is intriguing that what was initially perceived as a straight united fight between the National Assembly, as an institution, and one of its rebels, Senator Abdul Ningi, has gradually been narrowed down to an ambush against the President of the Senate, Godswill Obot Akpabio

This followed the insinuations in some circles that an estimated N18 billion worth of projects was allocated to the North East Senatorial District of Akwa Ibom State in the 2024 budget. Incidentally, that is Akpabio’s constituency which he shares with four other members of the House of Representatives.

The Special Adviser to the President of the Senate, Hon Eseme Eyiboh, was in his elements, has taken the media space by storm in a bid to set the records straight and lay the controversy to rest.

Given his political pedigree, especially his past role as former spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Eyiboh offered to speak from the podium of the defender of justice and fairness.

He started by offering a schematic erudition of the budget process that starts with the president laying his proposals before the National Assembly.
“By the effect of Section 4(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended, the legislative powers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria shall rest on the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Appropriation Act is one of those laws.

“A National budget defines the objectives of financial planning through the mechanism of Estimate, Projection and Forecasts for future applications and it is a product of the Senate and the House of Representatives. Now you hear people say Akpabio did this and did that," he said.

Temporarily putting aside his current official garb as Akpabio’s spokesperson, Eyiboh said:
“I am talking not as his spokesperson, but as a former member of the House of Representatives and the position of knowledge. I understand the gamut of appropriation.
“When the House of Representatives will pass its version and the Senate its version, they come for harmonization, so it is the input of 360 members and 109 senators and once it is harmonized, in the full glare of the public, nobody can foist his will on another person in any guise.”

Expressing the fact that Akpabio is first of all a senator and has a senatorial district that he should also cater for, Eyiboh said:

“In that his senatorial district there are four federal constituencies and those four honourable members are entitled to input constituency projects on the basis of their representations."

Citing Section 4(1) of the Constitution, he affirmed that the National Assembly performs its role by scrutinizing the proposals, removing and adding as the institution deems fit.

As with a former legislator, Eyiboh was quick to reiterate the National Assembly’s powers. However, he was also firm to assert that his principal could not have singly determined the projects in the senatorial constituency without the involvement of the House of Representatives members of the constituency.

Speaking as an apostle of justice, he further queried: “What is justice? Justice is to every man his own due. Does Akpabio deserve the due of being tagged along with a national budget that the presidency and even the man who raised this issue even mentioned that he has N2b for federal interventions?”

Eyiboh appeared pained by the attempt to single out Akpabio as the maker of the budget. He was, however, circumspect in not abusing privilege or alluding to what other presiding and principal officials of the National Assembly got in the budget for their constituencies.

A member of the Senate, Senator Ali Ndume, the Chief Whip of the Senate had in a famous interview had said that “all fingers are not equal” implying that some of the ranking legislators in the Senate and the House of Representatives could have gotten more than ordinary members.

Eyiboh, however, wondered why the focus has been on Akwa Ibom North-East Constitutency.

“We should not take this thing and begin to attach to an individual,” he said against perceptions of a campaign of calumny directed at Akpabio.

The outings on TVC, AIT and ARISE Tv were also revealing as they provided opportunities to remove the negative adornments on the Senate President and the National Assembly.

Hear Eyiboh:
“If the National Assembly has the appropriation powers to add or to subtract, whatever they added can it be said to be padded? It cannot be said to be padded. The only person who can pad is that person who has no powers over that budget.”

When asked about the justice of suspending Ningi, Eyiboh put it down to the abuse of the privilege of his fellow lawmakers which led to a cross party unanimity for his sanction.

Eyiboh even highlighted the kind and soft heart of his principal, who used the power of the gravel to mitigate the harsher sentence that many of the lawmakers wanted passed on Ningi.

“The suspension of Senator Ningi is an institutional enforcement of its rule. It was a clear breach of privilege and deserving of the punishment as prescribed. Senator Ningi led NSF members to see the President of the Senate on what he claimed to be a consultant's revelations, the President of the Senate told him that if he had gotten a consultant who gave him the revelation, he should bring the said document to the floor so that everybody would engage on it.

“But instead of bringing it to the floor of the Senate or bringing it at all, he went to BBC Hausa Service. That was a breach of privilege of other senators and an institutional anarchy”

He observed that the majority of the senators wanted Ningi suspended for up to one year or six months but the humane side of Akpabio, which the public may not know, through the power of the gavel, pushed it to a three-month suspension.

AKWA IBOM AND THE ANTIDOTE TO POOR GOVERNANCE.

By lmaobong Benjamin, Jr

Akwa Ibom needs a promising future. Akwa Ibom desires a better future. Akwa Ibom deserves to be great again!

Once upon a time,Akwa Ibom was on almost every lip in Nigeria, for good. From across the nation, people flew into Uyo to witness an unprecedented scale of transformation. It was so grand they named it “uncommon”. Then, Senator Godswill Akpabio, CON was on the saddle as governor. But the story changed downwards, soon after his tenure.

It was as if Akpabio took his magic wand with him when he left PDP to APC. Today, Akwa Ibom people are beginning to realise that with PDP in the state, things can never be the same because the more they hope for the best, the more things go down in the state.

The fact on ground is that in terms of security and social welfare, PDP has failed the people. The little life-touching effects witnessed so far in some parts of the state are APC-induced. So, why would anyone stick with a party that can’t guarantee his safety and comfort?

Already, the APC in Akwa Ibom State is repositioning to team up with the party at national to renew hopes of citizens that there are better days ahead. As the ruling party in the state has failed in the critical responsibility of taking care of the citizen's wellbeing, the only hope lies in APC, where Senator Akpabio’s leadership is expected to bring back the lost glory.

So far, while the citizens die in droves in cult-wars, kidnapping, robbery, poverty, etc, the leadership of PDP rather roam aimlessly searching for where to attend pastors’ thanksgiving, birthday ceremonies of political aides and vigil masses. Fanfare has become prioritised above execution of life transforming projects, as was done in the era of Sen.Godswill Akpabio as the State Governor.

It is sad that instead of expending on profitable ventures to benefit the masses, the PDP government in the state has reportedly allocated billions of naira for another needless thanksgiving to mark the Supreme Court soft landing. The money, we learnt, is deducted from accounts of local government councils, which ought to be used primarily to cater for the wellbeing of the masses at the grassroots. Already, an alledged misappropriation of funds is why the State House of Assembly is questioning the disbursement of 50,000 naira economic relief package, meant for poorest of the poor because facts indicate that the money never got down to the targeted population. Instead, families of some privileged politicians in the PDP reportedly cornered the “palliatives”. We heard some commissioners are or have been interrogated by legislators.

It is sad that with so much resources flowing into the coffers of the state government, projects seen on ground, so far, are ridiculously below expectation, within the period in office. It is annoying that a repeat of failed leadership is evident in the manner the present administration is going about padding budgets to fund projects that had been celebrated by the immediate regime as completed and commissioned; whereas they were left not fully done as evident in the continuing construction of Airport road, Ikot Oku-Ikono, Worship Centre etc. What is the rational for spending huge billions again on these projects, especially on the Worship Centre which had already gulped over 30 billion naira when some low cost estates need such money for completion?

To budget so much billions to renovate the residences of the State Governor and his deputy when hunger is written all over the faces of the citizens is not in anyway justified. This subhead shouldn't swallow billions of naira when many primary schools that the immediate past government left in terribly dilapidated condition throughout its 8 years need urgent renovation.

People had expected that as an “anointed successor”, this administration is here to aggressively attend to the poor, at least clean up the mess left by the last regime. Instead, we are rather seeing window dressings.

The present leadership has shown signs of failure in tackling poverty, which is another legacy the former governor leftover. Poverty is now a serious social challenge that is swelling the ranks of street kids who scavenge dumpsites. It is now a common sight in Uyo, the State capital, to witness the Almajiri-begging syndrome, which was never here before. The pathetic sight of vulnerable kids is not supposed to be here in the nation's highest oil revenue collector. It was never so during Sen. Akpabio’s era as governor.

Desperate moves to survive starvation in the State have pushed young ladies, even teenagers into unwanted pregnancies, giving birth to babies and afterwards sell them for survival. This inhuman act is sadly growing in our midst because the hungry citizens are increasingly being enticed with some money to trade their babies and start roadside trading. Our sisters are no more ashamed to parade as harlots, as a way to survival. Crimes have risen astronomically, recently.This is how bad our the State is now.

These narratives are unlike the times of Senator Akpabio's regime when he empowered boys generously to become men; and young ladies were offered opportunities through state funded programmes to become creatively engaged in several decent life sustaining vocations. Businesses and trades rose sharply. People built house, bought new cars and got married as standard of living improved. Almost all those in the corridors of power today in the state were honed in the era of Akpabio as governor.

Then, money flowed from top to bottom to reach the downtrodden because benevolence and brotherly love characterized the leadership philosophy of Sen. Akpabio's regime. Today the ruling party PDP is known for stinginess and pampering of elites only. Children now drop out of schools to hawk sachets of water in traffics. It was a crime in Sen Akpabio’s time as governor for kids of school- age to be on the streets during school hours!

The impact of Interministerial Direct Labour jobs is no more felt. While it was used to massively transform schools, primary healthcare facilities, rural electrification and boost water supply to villages for citizens to experience better life, it was also for financial empowerment of the citizens. The current style of media hype over renovation of a few schools and healthcare centres amongst the hundreds is therefore unjustified. It is still the deceptive leadership lifestyle inherited from the immediate past administration.

Just the former administration was notorious for lies about the three hundred undelivered Mexican cows and uninstalled CCTVs, motor manufacturing company, 23 industries and others that ended as scam, the present leadership is relying on propaganda when it has no tangible positive impact on the common people. When lies form the foundation of any leadership it cannot be popular, this is why PDP in Akwa Ibom is losing its mass appeal to APC.

With symptoms of failure so visible in the manner of leadership of PDP in Akwa Ibom, the people have given up hope and are persuading APC to take over the State and return it to productivity, especially because Sen. Godswill Akpabio is involved as the leading symbol of the party. The senator is a tested and trusted political leader who will surely guide APC to bring in another era of transformational leadership.

*Mr Bejamin, Jr is a political scientist and public affairs commentator.

The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio has mourned the sudden demise of the Chief Executive Officer of Access Holding, Mr Herbert Wigwe, his wife and son in a helicopter crash in California, USA.

Akpabio in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh described the death of Mr Wigwe as a big loss not only to the Nigerian banking and finance industry where he held sway, but also to the country as a whole.

According to Senator Akpabio "I received with shock the news of the passing of Mr Wigwe and some of his family members in a helicopter crash in the USA. Mr Wigwe’s contribution to the growth of Nigerian banking industry and indeed the economy of the country were exemplary and commendable.

"In his chosen career he exhibited a high level of professionalism and unmatched leadership which marked him out as a true patriot. He was a man of integrity who never believed in cutting corners to achieve success in business.

"His vision in establishing a world class university, Wigwe University, to cater for the educational development of the country will be cherished as a memento for his love for Nigeria.

"On behalf of the the 10th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I offer our condolences to the Wigwe family, the Board and Management of Access Bank, the Governor of Rivers State, the President and Commander-.in-chief of the Armed Forces of Federal Republic of Nigeria for losing such a great son, iconic entrepreneur a serial investor at such a time that our country needs his services the most.

"We pray for the repose of the souls of the deceased while we urge Nigerians to uphold the values of integrity, commitment, and professionalism that he embodied throughout his remarkable career," the statement said.


Hon Eseme Eyiboh
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President of the Senate

By Godwin Japhet

Governor Umo Eno has assured Akwa Ibom people that the security situation will soon improve. But what next, after that? Will action follow words or will it just be mere assurances?

The recent murder of a policeman, by an unknown gang of hoodlums, has increased the tension that has been enveloping the State, lately. In other places, the killing of a law enforcer draws out the entire security structure on a revenge mission against the criminals.

Reports say the policeman was killed outside his wife’s shop, near Enen Ekpene axis of Uyo, the state capital. Sadly, this happened just as the state governor, Umo Eno, warned criminals to move out or get caught.

Some analysts say for the dare-devils to kill a law enforcement officer, severing his head from the body, it means they were battle-ready and didn’t take the governor’s threat seriously.

Akwa Ibom State, in the past few years, has witnessed a relatively peaceful atmosphere which created a workable, friendly, environment for prospective investors. But with the recent deluge of criminal offensives, the investors may have a rethink.

The spat of kidnapping, increased armed robbery, suspected ritual killings, etc, have indeed given the citizenry a cause for concern. But if the police fail us, why should the recently launched Community Watch outfit, said to have gulped over N1bn so far?

Since operatives of that body was supposed to have been picked from the communities for the relevant trainings in intelligence gathering and surveillance, one is therefore at a loss as to why the state is still under seige by hoodlums.

In some parts of the state, both at night and in broad daylight, there are increased reports of burglary, theft, robbery, etc. Analysts have however advanced some reasons why the Akwa Ibom security outfit is not working.

While some argue that the recruitment processes were faulty, others blame the hierarchy of the body for instigating the crimes, so as to present the governor with the frightening reports and end up benefiting from the expected loot meant to quell the crisis. On the faulty recruitment process, it is argued that rather than pick the personnel across the various communities of the state, the leaders of the local security group draw up a list of their core loyalists from a few localities and submitted to the governor.

The result is what we have now, as there has not and cannot be proper intelligence gathering across the state, since the personnel were recruited from a limited section of the state.

Hence, in most parts of the state, especially in semi-urban enclosures, people no longer sleep with their eyes closed as the fear of the unknown pervades the nooks and corners of communities,homes,schools,churches, and even corporate institutions.

A PDP chairman,an ex-banker and another private citizen were kidnapped a few days back in public glare at a popular sitout at Osong Ama Estate in Uyo. Two persons were reportedly kidnapped in Eket the next day. At Ekom Iman area of Uyo, another person was also reportedly kidnapped last month.

As if those were not scary enough, the recent introduction of suspected ritual killings have increased the jitters. So far, three girls were reportedly found dead, with their body parts removed in the past few days in Uyo.

The dire situation paints a near collapse of all security apparati and strategic malfunctioning of those agencies charged with the utmost responsibility of overseeing the welfare/safety of the people. In the face of poor intelligence, limited personal, dilapidated resources and inadequate knowledge of the local environment, the police appear helpless.

With the huge security votes set aside in the state monthly, any people-oriented government should do it's best to use the common patrimony to secure the people’s lives and properties, which is the primary function of government.

While the governor should be commended for trying to bolster the confidence of the masses, the actual sustenance of peace and security go beyond mere threats to the criminals. They require, among other things, strategic planning, commitment, focus and political will.

Hence, the state government should sit up in tackling this emerging menace but should avoid playing politics with the lives of the people. Time to act is now!

* Japhet is a Public Affairs commentator

“POOR MANAGEMENT OF SECURITY KILLING PEOPLE IN AKWA IBOM’’, SAYS GROUP

By Eduok Benson

An alleged gross incompetence and poor management of public funds, has resulted in the dire failure to address the security challenges currently plaguing Akwa Ibom State, according to a civil society group, The Akwa Ibom Watchdogs.

In a statement, at weekend, the group berated the ruling PDP in the state, while pleading with the opposition APC to come to the rescue of the masses.

“As the main opposition party, APC should help to make sure that there is end to lamentations and negative impact of purposelessness of the present ruling leadership on citizens”, it said in a statement signed by Comrade Effiong David and Hon Etimbuk Akpan.

While noting that the commendable resolve of the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio CON, to rescue the citizens of the State from the PDP- induced hardship recently made him a target for media assaults, the body urged the former governor not to relent for the benefit of the people.

“But his readiness to lead the battle beyond Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District (North West) to mobilize statewide to rescue the masses is troubling to the ruling PDP, so much that the party is unsettled. Media hirelings of the present state leadership recently insulted the people-focused leader, perhaps trying to divert attention from the deplorable security situation in the state”, it said.

The group wondered why the recent heightened insecurity shortly after the inauguration of Ibom Community Watch, asking if the body is fanning more criminal activities rather than suppressing robberies, murders, kidnappings, cult clashes, etc.

Since the community watch appears to bring negative outcomes instead of positive ones, The Akwa Ibom Watchdogs then called for its immediate disbandment, instead of keeping it for political intimidation, as was allegedly witnessed in the just concluded Ini/Ikono rerun elections.

“The call for the disbandment of the outfit is more jusified because of public suspicion that it is used to channel funds to grease members of the different cult associations”, it said, adding that the official recognition given to them seems to be causing supremacy war to control the funds.

“Of course, the citizens are not blinded to the fact that a few people in the system are known instigators of violence, aimed at cajoling government to part with billions to swell their pockets, not minding if lives are lost. The leadership of ruling system cannot deny not knowing the notorious background of some engaged to navigate the body. For a leadership which emerged through the sermon of peace sustenance, this act proves hypocrisy”, the group said.

It however charged Akwa Ibom people not to panic or be disillusioned because help was on the way as God will soon surely repositioned the state for the good of the people.

“The incompetence displayed in the management of security and welfare of citizens is very embarrassing. It is made worse because the present leadership still takes orders from a former governor, who deceived Akwa Ibom people that CCTVs worth billions would be installed to check insecurity and crimes, but nothing was seen throughout the eight years he held sway, whereas the billions of naira meant for the gadgets vanished. Ibom Community Watch is driven by the same deceptive principle, so nothing good should be expected”.

“The citizens are disappointed that even with the establishment of the Ministry of Internal Security, with a retired military general to supervise the neighborhood watch, crimes have taken over the state. The public is dissatisfied with the management of security because killings, robberies, kidnappings, rapes and beheading of several people, including a policeman, have created wanton fear in the society”.

It decried a situation where the political office holders in the state are guarded by hundreds of security details, yet the Community Watch expected to fill the gap for the masses “is grossly inefficient, ineffective and misapplied”.

Besides asking the government to address the security lapses, “Akwa Ibom people demand to be liberated from poverty, hunger, starvation and underdevelopment which is associated with the present leadership. It is only when mismanagement and insecurity are tackled as priority that the citizens will experience real peace, not the one preached by political pastors who romance with merchants of violence and pretend not to know their notoriety”, it added.

2027: AKWA IBOM APC, YPP YOUTHS CONSOLIDATE FOR TOTAL VICTORY

Following the recent collapse of the entire structure of the Young Progressives Party, YPP, into the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Akwa Ibom State, the youths of the party, have resolved to consolidate for the party's total victory in 2027.

The decision was reached during a meeting of the party's youths on Saturday, February 3, at the Shelter Afrique residence of the Executive Director of Project, EDP, of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Sir Victor Antai KJW

Speaking at the event, leaders of the party, including Hon. Victor Antai, Sir Emem Akpabio . Sen Bassey Albert Akpan and the state party chairman, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo lauded the youths for their support for the Bola Ahmed Tinibu's administration.

In his address, Sir Victor Antai said the idea of the gathering was to solidify the party's merger within the state, to pave the way for stronger bond that would build on the existing support base to produce results.

He encouraged the party's youth structure to work hard in unity and progress, while keeping their eyes on the ball, which he said, was the main target of the party's existence in the state.

Sir Emem Akpabio, in his speech, who paid tribute to President Bola Tinubu for supporting the emergence of Dr Godswill Akpanio as president of the Senate, conveyed a message of hope, proclaiming a destined greatness for Akwa Ibom youths and a transformative future for the state.

Also speaking, Sen Obong Bassey Albert extended gratitude to Sen Godswill Obot Akpabio, and Sir Victor Antai KJW, and others, for being instrumental for the unity and trust within the APC family.

The event ended with the pledge by APC youths to emulate the reconciliation template of their leaders, as they promised to expand their strength by bringing their friends from other parties to work for the victor of the party in the next general elections.

Media Unit
Office of the Executive Director of Projects

Eye Witness Report from Unit 003, Village Hall, Mbiabong Ikot Udo, Ikono North 1 Ward, Ini LGA. The voters are ready, but materials are yet to arrive at the venue as of 10.20am. The materials have been alleged to have been diverted by thugs working for the PDP to Ibam Ukot.

At about 7.20 am, after the materials for the 2 units of ward 6 and ward 5 had beeb loaded, in their various vehicles, Rt Hon Emmanuel Ekpenyong, former House of Assembly member came into INEC office in Ini with over 200 thugs. INEC office was flooded with these thugs but surprisingly, no security official nor INEC staff the queried the influx of persons who were not supposed to be there. Few minutes after the materials left with 30 policemen for each unit, a message came that both materials for both units were diverted with all 60 policemen. Information that I have is that the materials were diverted to Ibam Ukot. As we speak , thumprinting by the thugs are going on in Ibam Ukot. Solders should be contacted to confront them at Ibam Ukot.

Urgent Need to Curb the Escalating Insecurity in Akwa Ibom State

By Anietie Amos

In recent weeks, Akwa Ibom State has witnessed a disturbing surge of insecurity, marked by a string of violent incidents that have left residents gripped by fear and uncertainty.

From the emergence of cars without plate numbers to increased armed robbery to the discovery of mutilated bodies and rampant abductions, the state's once serene atmosphere has been shattered, laying bare the failure of governance and the dire consequences for its people.

The introduction of the Ibom Community Watch security outfit, ostensibly aimed at bolstering safety, has proven to be little more than a hollow exercise. Despite its grand inauguration, it has faltered in its primary mandate, leaving the citizens vulnerable to the predations of criminals who operate with brazen impunity. What was promised as a shield against threats has, in reality, become a mere ornament of political expediency, failing to stem the tide of violence sweeping across the state.

In an interaction with some AkwaIbomies, this writer discovered that the people have been living in constant fear for their lives as the surge of insecurity persists, since the inauguration of the Governor Umo Eno's administration.

"We thought that the Ibom Community Watch will help us in terms of security but we didn't know it was just a political avenue to divert money. So far, the initiative has not helped in any way," observed one activist, who gave his name as Mike Mkpandiok.

"Since Umo Eno was sworn into office, the peace that was once recorded in the State has become a mirage. We no longer close our eyes while sleeping because of fear" Ekerette Okon, a civil servant, lamented to news men on the insecurity in the State.

"The worst thing is that the governor seems not to be bothered about our fate. Every night, gunshots are heard everywhere in the environment, people are being killed and abducted on a daily basis now in our State " he added.

However, the governor recently assured the citizens of safety. “We will stop at nothing to ensure the safety of our people. We are drawing up a new security architecture for the state and in the next few months, you will see the results and how serious we are.
“ So if criminals believe that Akwa Ibom State is a place for them to hibernate, I am warning them now that they will find this state too hot for them to stay. We have credible intelligence that some in our society, those living among us, are giving support, aid and comfort to these criminal elements just to upturn the peace in our state and use it as a narrative”, he said.

But, his words are yet to translate to any impact, as two persons were reportedly kidnapped in Eket on Wednesday (Jan 31, 2024) night, while someone was reportedly killed at Afaha Ube/Enen Afaha axis of Uyo.

One of the most chilling manifestations of this insecurity is the spate of abductions that have plagued Akwa Ibom. The recent kidnapping at Me Lounge stands as a stark reminder of the perils faced by ordinary citizens going about their daily lives. Yet, despite the glaring urgency of the situation, the government's response has been marked by a deafening silence, leaving victims and their families in anguish and despair.

"Three people kidnapped from M’E lounge, Osongama estate.
Again, God gave me another opportunity to live" a popular OAP, Edwin Ebiese popularly called “MC Governor” posted on Facebook following the incident.

So far, according to reports, about five girls have been murdered and their body parts removed in the capital city of the state, Uyo. One was discovered at the Baning Layout; another one on Nwaniba Road. Two were said to have been found at Ekamba Nsukara, just after the University of Uyo permanent site main gate, while the other was at the outskirts of the capital city, at Ekom iman junction.

The tragic fate of those young girls, whose lives were brutally cut short and bodies desecrated, serves as a harrowing testament to the depths of depravity to which lawlessness has plunged the state. Such heinous acts not only claim lives but also tear at the fabric of society, instilling a climate of fear and mistrust that corrodes the bonds of community.

"Our girls are now being butchered like goats in the state and the government seems not to be bothered, total disregard for humanity" says Iniobong Udo, a student, who lamented about the incident.

In the absence of decisive action from the government, the people of Akwa Ibom are left to fend for themselves, grappling with the specter of violence that looms large over their daily existence. The failure to address the root causes of insecurity, coupled with a lack of accountability, has eroded faith in the ability of the state to protect its citizens.

As the shadows of uncertainty lengthen, it becomes increasingly clear that the escalating insecurity in Akwa Ibom is not merely a symptom of societal decay but a damning indictment of governmental incompetence. Unless urgent steps are taken to address this crisis, the toll of human suffering will only continue to mount, casting a long shadow over the future of the state.

"If our Governor fails to address this ongoing calamity in our State, there would be no difference between us and those in some states, who are constantly abducted and killed by unknown gunmen, bandits and terrorists.

Clearly, in the words of Joseph Obot, a public affairs analyst, Akwa Ibom people expect their governor “to intensify efforts to make sure the peace that was recorded in our dear State is restored!"

* Amos is a public affairs commentator based on Etinan, Akwa Ibom State.

By Abimbola Sylvester

For a while, Akwa Ibom prided itself as one of the most peaceful states in the country. That even became a campaign point for the ruling PDP in the state. Sadly, that suddenly changed as insecurity now pervades the land.

The high rate of insecurity now in Akwa Ibom State is worrisome. According to reports, the citizens are now living in deep fear and shops close hurriedly once the sun sets. Tension and uncertainty have become the daily lots of the people.

It behoves one to ask, what is really going on in Akwa Ibom State? What is wrong with the security architecture? What is the PDP-led government doing with the humongous figures voted monthly as security votes? One may also ask: What was the essence of the state security outfit code-named “Community Watch”, which was set up by Governor Umo Eno, recently?

The wide spread of kidnapping and killing witnessed so far in the state suggests a weak and incompetent leadership in the state. For, how else can one describe a government that cannot discharge its basic function of protecting lives and property?

It is worth recalling that early this year, a judge in Akwa Ibom State was kidnapped and a huge sum of money paid for her to regain freedom. Again, a few days ago two ladies were brutally murdered at Nwaniba Road and Edet Akpan Avenue (Four Lane) in the heart of Uyo, the state capital. Similarly, another was reportedly killed on IBB Lane, still in Uyo, on Wednesday, January 30, 2024. In a bizarre manner, the body parts of the women were taken away by the killers, suggesting ritual murders. Recently, a young man in Ukanafun was murdered in cold blood. Yet, the PDP-led government in the state has not made any effort to assure the people of their safety.

It is somewhat very sad a governor, who is supposed to be the Chief Security of the state, going to sleep while his house is on fire. Government, the world over, is saddled with the responsibility of protecting the lives and properties of its citizens. The insensitivity of Governor Eno to the plight of the people is, indeed, annoying. It smacks of incompetence, insincerity and unpreparedness for the huge task of governing the state .

Governance is a serious business that needs capacity. It is high time the governor braced up for the task of leadership. Now that the legal battles are over, Eno should wake up to the challenges and should lead from the front. Akwa Ibom people need peace and security!

Akpabio Believes In Essence Of Time And Value Of His Colleagues...

For sometime, a false narrative has been woven round the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, CON, all in an attempt to give it a semblance of truth.

Although, we had ignored the misinformation, it has become necessary to enlighten and educate the reading public so that these stories do not gain traction.

First, as opposed to what has been bandied in the media that Akpabio is known for lateness to Plenary, being an intellectual politician and leader, he believes in Benjamin Franklin's philosophy of "Time is money". To him, "Time is of the essence". And this is exemplified in his sterling achievements in private and public life. Without good time management skills, he could not have attained these feats.

Secondly, Senator Akpabio as Senate President has absolute respect and regard for his distinguished colleagues and indeed all Nigerians. As the Senate President, he is not oblivious of the fact that he is just one among equals and has no cause whatsoever to undermine the elevated status of Distiguished Senators by always keeping them waiting in Plenary.

However, we want the public to know that as Chairman of the National Assembly, Senator Akpabio and the his colleagues are very experienced and conversant with the legislative dynamics and are aware of the enormous legislative and administrative responsibilities of the office of the President of the Senate.

Disruptions or lateness to any schedule of the heads of arms of government, particularly the National Assembly are usually priotised not compromised.

As the Presiding Officer, Akpabio meets with the Principal Officers before every Plenary and emergency issues do spring up, which deserve urgent attention. Again, at every other plenary, there are always motions of urgent public/national importance from distinguished senators.

By the provisions of the Standing Orders and Rules of the Senate, Senators with such motions are required to meet with the Presiding Officer before Plenary. Some of these issues are so urgent and cannot be kept in view and the President of the Senate is expected to attend to them expeditiously before commencement of Plenary. These circumstances most times creep into the commencement time

The lateness of the President of the Senate to the plenary at any insignificant number of times has never affected the industry of the Senate or deliberately intended to deconstruct the core mandate of the Senate President's parliamentary core mandate.

Any insinuation suggesting that Senator Akpabio is "habitually late" and it dates back to when he was Akwa Ibom State governor is but selling a rotten apple, which no discerning mind will buy.

We can say without equivocation that Senator Godswill Akpabio's penchant for beating the clock is never in doubt both in appointed and elected positions he has held.

We, therefore, advise those spreading the gospel of Akpabio's purported lateness to Plenary to apply brakes and allow the Uncommon Senate President concentrate on doing what he knows best- giving his all to the service of the nation and humanity.

_Hon Eseme Eyiboh
Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to the President of the Senate_

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has cautioned the PDP in Akwa Ibom State to channel its energy “towards the eradication of the prevailing hunger, poverty and suffering in the State as witnessed in the last nine years”, instead of insulting Senate President Godswill Akpabio, CON.

In a reaction to PDP’s recent diatribe against the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, CON, the Akwa Ibom State Chairman of APC, Chief Steven Ntukekpo, also challenged the PDP to explain to Akwaibomites what happened to the hundreds of billions of Naira earned by the state in the last nine years. “Where are the tooth pick, flour mill, syringe, automobile and several other ground breaking industries? We should not be reminded of the ownership of Globus Bank, VKS, Hensek, the true ownership of Ibom Air”, he said in a press statement dated January 28, 2024.

The statement read in part:
“We have come across a disjointed press statement by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), a monumental  national disgrace, lamenting its perennial failures and simultaneously attempting to tarnish the reputation of the President of the Nigerian Senate, His Excellency, Senator Godswill Akpabio CON. Regrettably, this abandoned party with fragile foundations, possibly haunted by profound anxiety and the spectre of its tainted conscience, choose to chase after illusions instead of addressing substantive issues”.
 
Chief Ntukekpo recalled that: “As a distinguished politician, national asset and a source of pride for the Niger Delta, Senator Akpabio had seized  the moment following the recent decampment of Senator Albert Bassey Akpan to All Progressives Congress (APC), to highlight the strong prospect of his party in 2027 elections”, adding that the inexplicable reaction of the PDP to this simple show of pride and confidence in the strength and growth of APC is perplexing.
 
“However, it should not come as a surprise, given the PDP’S history of repeated failures, including  nearly nine years of immeasurable economic exploitation and plundering, social degradation and policy inconsistencies, rendering the party devoid of any semblance of logic”.
 
“It is worth noting that, buoyed by the accomplishments of our great party, the APC, particularly under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu  GCFR, Senator Akpabio, as a devoted and committed party man, is politically, constitutionally and morally justified in steering his people towards a more promising future heralded by the Renewed Hope Agenda. Senator Akpabio as a dedicated APC stalwart is pointing his people towards the emerging future, which is the APC in Akwa Ibom State and the Niger Delta”.
 
“Isn’t it ironic that while the PDP delights in provoking our party and insulting one of the great leaders of our nation , a former Governor , a former Minority Leader of the senate , a former minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Senate President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, because of Akwa Ibom politics, the only feasible achievements that could be ascribed to the PDP were recorded during his tenure as the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State which led to Nigerians and indeed the world describing him as the Uncommon Transformer?”
 
He added that, “the Senate President does not need an ill-intended advice from PDP to engage the challenges of his office, which he is already discharging to national commendation and international applause. No wonder, the Inter Parliamentary Union (IPU) recently after 59 years elected him into their Executive Council”.
 
The APC Chairman said, “the lame allegations of  ‘process manipulation and sharp practices including alleged budget padding and diversion of public funds’, are not just laughable but products of demented minds, the sorry remnants of PDP”. He then challenged the PDP to approach the relevant agencies or the courts, instead of baseless insinuations, if it has any modicum of shame and iota of evidence to its warped claims.
 
“As for the oft-touted claim by the PDP of N108 billion investigation against Senator Akpabio by EFCC which is a figment of their imagination, we urge PDP to come to terms with the reality as spurious allegations  can never translate to indictments”, he said .  
 
“Recall that as governor of Akwa Ibom State, Akpabio left an indelible imprint unequalled, unparallel, and incontestable by any administration in Akwa Ibom State. As minister of Niger Delta, Senator Akpabio initiated unprecedented measures to check endless looting and plundering hitherto propagated by the PDP government. He set the pace for transparency, accountability and progress in the Niger Delta, when he insisted on the forensic audit of NDDC. Thus, rather than insult Senator Akpabio, the PDP owes him apology and utmost respect for setting the template for national probity and development”.
 
In conclusion, the APC assured all Akwa Ibomites and Nigerians that with the renewed hope agenda of HE President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, “the nation will soon witness an uncommon transformation, development, poverty alleviation and growth that they truly and rightly deserve”.

mikemiyaki:
What's all these? Akwa Ibom State governor, Pastor Umoh Bassey Eno is doing well. Let him be, please. It's still early in the day to start to remove him in office come 2027.

What are you saying?
Did you read at all?

RE: 'PERISH THE THOUGHT OF TAKING AKWA IBOM STATE IN 2027"

We have come across a disjointed press statement by the People's Democratic Party (PDP), a monumental national disgrace, lamenting its perennial failures and simultaneously attempting to tarnish the reputation of the President of the Nigerian Senate, His Excellency, Senator Godswill Akpabio CON. Regrettably, this abandoned party with fragile foundations, possibly haunted by profound anxiety and the spectre of its tainted conscience, chooses to chase after illusions instead of addressing substantive issues.

As a distinguished politician, national asset, and a source of pride for the Niger Delta, Senator Akpabio had seized the moment following the recent decampment of Senator Albert Bassey Akpan to All Progressives Congress (APC), to highlight the strong prospect of his party in 2027 elections. The inexplicable reaction of the PDP to this simple show of pride and confidence in the strength and growth of his great party, the APC, is perplexing.

However, it should not come as a surprise, given the PDP'S history of repeated failures, including nearly nine years of immeasurable economic exploitation and plundering, social degradation, and policy inconsistencies, rendering the party devoid of any semblance of logic.

It is worth noting that, buoyed by the accomplishments of our great party, the APC, particularly under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, Senator Akpabio, as a devoted and committed party man, is politically, constitutionally, and morally justified in steering his people towards a more promising future heralded by the Renewed Hope Agenda. Senator Akpabio, as a dedicated APC stalwart, is pointing his people towards the emerging future, which is the APC in Akwa Ibom State and the Niger Delta.

Isn't it ironic that while the PDP delights in provoking our party and insulting one of the great leaders of our nation, a former Governor, a former Minority Leader of the Senate, a former minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the Senate President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, because of Akwa Ibom politics, the only feasible achievements that could be ascribed to the PDP were recorded during his tenure as the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State which led to Nigerians and indeed the world describing him as the Uncommon Transformer.

Rather than insulting Senator Akpabio, we advise the PDP to channel its energy towards utilizing the billions of Naira accrued to Akwa Ibom State towards the eradication of the prevailing hunger, poverty, and suffering in the State as witnessed in the last nine years. It is important for the PDP to explain to Akwa Ibomites what happened to the hundreds of billions of Naira earned by the state in the last nine years. Where are the toothpick, flour mill, syringe, automobile, and several other groundbreaking industries? We should not be reminded of the ownership of Globus Bank, VKS, Hensek, and the true ownership of Ibom Air. Akwa Ibomites and indeed Nigerians are watching.

Indeed, the Senate President does not need an ill-intended advice from PDP to engage the challenges of his office, which he is already discharging to national commendation and international applause. No wonder, the Inter Parliamentary Union (1PU) recently after 59 years elected him into their Executive Council. Need we say more?

Hence, the lame allegations of "process manipulation and sharp practices including alleged budget padding and diversion of public funds," are not just laughable but products of demented minds, the sorry remnants of PDP. If the PDP, as an opposition party, has any modicum of shame and iota of evidence to its warped claims, it should approach the relevant agencies or the courts, instead of baseless insinuations.

As for the oft-touted claim by the PDP of A108 Billion investigation against Senator Akpabio by EFCC which is a figment of their imagination, we urge PDP to come to terms with the reality as spurious allegations can never translate to indictments.

Recall that as governor of Akwa Ibom State, Akpabio left an indelible imprint unequalled, unparalleled, and incontestable by any administration in Akwa Ibom State. As minister of Niger Delta, Senator Akpabio initiated unprecedented measures to check endless looting and plundering hitherto propagated by the PDP government. He set the pace for transparency, accountability, and progress in the Niger Delta when he insisted on the forensic audit of NDDC. Thus, rather than insult Senator Akpabio, the PDP owes him an apology and utmost respect for setting the template for national probity and development.

In conclusion, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akwa Ibom State and indeed Nigeria wish to assure all Akwa Ibomites and Nigerians that with the renewed hope agenda of HE President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Nation will soon witness an uncommon transformation, development, poverty alleviation and growth that they truly and rightly deserve.

Long live the All Progressives Congress (APC)
Long live Akwa Ibom State
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria

Obong, Stephen Ntukekpo
State Chairman

OBA's Scholarship Scheme Produces 47 More Graduates, as Payment of Fees for New Session Commences

Forty-Seven students who were beneficiaries of Senator Bassey Albert Akpan's Scholarship Scheme completed their respective programmes at the end of the 2022/2023 academic session, with nine graduating with first-class honours, while Thirty-Five bagged second-class upper division.

The scholars enrolled as beneficiaries during the second qualifying examination (2019) were majorly from Medicine and Surgery, Pharmacy, and Engineering disciplines.

According to a recent appraisal, Ediomo Okon, who graduated from the Department of Civil Engineering, Akwa Ibom State University, with a CGPA of 4.78 during the 2022/2023 academic session, and 51 others have so far bagged first-class honours since the inception of the scheme in 2016, while more than 300 others also graduated with second class upper honours.

Four Hundred and Eighty One (481) Akwa Ibomites have benefited from the scheme since its inception eight years ago. Some of the beneficiaries are currently on various post-graduate programmes, while a good percentage have advanced in their fields of speciality.

In a related development, payment of tuition fees for beneficiaries of the scheme for the 2023/2024 academic session has commenced.

Confirming the development, a management team member, Dr. Promise Etim, said the timely payment of the tuition fee was to allow the beneficiaries to focus on their studies while gearing towards achieving their goals for the academic session.

He expressed gratitude to Senator Bassey Albert for sustaining the sponsorship even after his tenure as Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Speaking to journalists in Uyo, Dr. Etim said the gesture is a unique demonstration of Senator Albert's love for his people, as many would have abandoned the students after their tenure without recourse to their well-being and the future.

According to him, the scheme is a social contract of the Distinguished Senator with Akwa Ibom Youths who desire academic inclination. He said the programme is structured to promote healthy competition and scholarship.

OBA's Scholarship Scheme Produces 47 More Graduates, as Payment of Fees for New Session Commences

Forty-Seven students who were beneficiaries of Senator Bassey Albert Akpan's Scholarship Scheme completed their respective programmes at the end of the 2022/2023 academic session, with nine graduating with first-class honours, while Thirty-Five bagged second-class upper division.

The scholars enrolled as beneficiaries during the second qualifying examination (2019) were majorly from Medicine and Surgery, Pharmacy, and Engineering disciplines.

According to a recent appraisal, Ediomo Okon, who graduated from the Department of Civil Engineering, Akwa Ibom State University, with a CGPA of 4.78 during the 2022/2023 academic session, and 51 others have so far bagged first-class honours since the inception of the scheme in 2016, while more than 300 others also graduated with second class upper honours.

Four Hundred and Eighty One (481) Akwa Ibomites have benefited from the scheme since its inception eight years ago. Some of the beneficiaries are currently on various post-graduate programmes, while a good percentage have advanced in their fields of speciality.

In a related development, payment of tuition fees for beneficiaries of the scheme for the 2023/2024 academic session has commenced.

Confirming the development, a management team member, Dr. Promise Etim, said the timely payment of the tuition fee was to allow the beneficiaries to focus on their studies while gearing towards achieving their goals for the academic session.

He expressed gratitude to Senator Bassey Albert for sustaining the sponsorship even after his tenure as Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Speaking to journalists in Uyo, Dr. Etim said the gesture is a unique demonstration of Senator Albert's love for his people, as many would have abandoned the students after their tenure without recourse to their well-being and the future.

According to him, the scheme is a social contract of the Distinguished Senator with Akwa Ibom Youths who desire academic inclination. He said the programme is structured to promote healthy competition and scholarship.

Breaking News 💥
Aftermath of YPP Collapsing Into APC In Akwa Ibom State

Fear Grips Akwa Ibom PDP as Governor Umo Eno Rushes To Abuja to Beg Senator Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President.

Will Senator Akpabio abandon his party (APC) to frolic with an enemy whose predecessor, Udom Emmanuel insulted the party's leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu?

Stay tuned for updates.

©️ Independent Reporters

Senator Bassey Albert Akpan, CON, the 2023 Governorship Candidate of the Young Progressives Party (YPP) in Akwa Ibom State has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The prominent politician brought along his entire campaign structure and all the members of the YPP, making a notable shift in the Akwa Ibom State political landscape.

The announcement was made during a ceremony where His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON, the Senate President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, alongside the APC State Chairman, Mr. Stephen Ntokekpo officially welcomed Senator Bassey Albert, CON, into the APC fold. The move adds a significant boost to the ruling party's influence in the State, as Senator Bassey Albert was not only the YPP's Governorship Candidate but also a prominent well-respected figure in Akwa Ibom politics, known by many as the Political Lionel Messi of Akwa Ibom Politics having served in the 8th & 9th Senate as a Senator representing Akwa Ibom North East (Uyo) Senatorial District, Commissioner for Finance as longest serving for almost 8 years and as Vice President (South South) First City Monument Bank among various rich experiences in the Banking Sector.

Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, known for his strategic political maneuvers, expressed optimism about the strengthened position of the APC in Akwa Ibom State. The Senate President highlighted the importance of unity and collaboration to address the developmental challenges facing the State and the nation at large. Senator Akpabio was accompanied by 10 serving Senators and other critical stakeholders of APC to receive Senator Albert and his massive followership.

The APC State Chairman, Mr Stephen Ntokekpo while receiving the Senator and his political structure noted that all YPP members would be given equal rights and privileges when it comes to the Party affairs both at the State and national levels.

This defection comes at a crucial time as political realignments continue to shape the Nigerian political landscape. The APC, known for its growing influence across the country, sees the inclusion of Senator Bassey Albert as a testament to its appeal and ability to attract key figures from other political parties into its fold . More than 500 core politicians in Akwa Ibom State not limited to Akparawa Ephraim Inyang-eyen, Rt Hon Usenobong Akpabio, Rt Hon Emmanuel Ekon defected with Senator Bassey Albert Akpan from YPP to APC at the event.

..

Group Blast ex Gov. Udom Emmanuel for seeking Tinubu's attention after pre-election insults

Akwa Ibom League of Professionals, ALP, has lambasted former Governor Udom Emmanuel for seeking President Bola Tinubu's attention despite all the unprintable names he (Udom) called the President during the 2023 Presidential election campaign.

In a statement issued yesterday in Lagos by its President, Ifiok Okon, the group noted that it is regrettable that Udom Emmanuel who once labelled President Tinubu with all manner of insults, is now trotting everywhere seeking to be in the good books of the President and spending millions of dollars to have access to the president today.

The group cautioned the President to be wary of the likes of Udom whom they described as opportunists and wants to reap from where they did not sow.

The statement reads in part: " We have watched keenly and observed how people like former Governor Udom Emmanuel are now seeking President Tinubu's attention after they took him to the cleaners with insults prior and during the 2023 presidential election.

"We remember vividly how Udom Emmanuel spent over five minutes talking down the President after the All Progressives Congress, APC, Presidential campaign in Akwa Ibom State saying Tinubu doesn't have anything to offer Nigerians just because he (Udom) was called "a boy" which he is.

"The 'Boy" locked the President and his entourage out of the VIP wing of the Victor Attah International Airport when the President landed for over 30 minutes, insisting that if the president's jet is allowed to be parked in the VIP wing that he will sack the MD of Ibom Airport .

"We recall that if not for Senator Godswill Akpabio, the "Boy" wouldn't have allowed President Tinubu to use the stadium for the campaign just because he (Udom) felt he is a demigod.

"That wasn't enough, Udom went ahead and claimed that the President isn't from Lagos but up till today, he is yet to tell us where President Tinubu is from".

"Again, Udom went on to deceive himself and his small minded impoverished followers that the first money President Tinubu ever received when he came back from NADECO exile to relaunch himself was from his desk but until now he has refused to tell the whole world the amount, and if at all, was the money his"? "What a shame", the statement continues.

"Udom boasted that Tinubu won't be the President of Nigeria, stating that there's nothing like "Emilokan" but what do we have today"?

"Emilokan has come to stay and the boy (Udom) has no option now than to be begging to see the President".

"This is a man who lives in the illusion of self-lust, believing in filtering away all the resources of the State on an endless voyage and bottomless pit of installing a puppet to cover his past deeds due to his belief that everyone has a price".

"This is a man who was caught boasting that he spent over $50m to purchase a judgement at the Supreme Court just like he has done at the two lower courts even to the extent of videoing Judges collecting bribes and sending them the video thereafter to compel them to do his biddings. What a desperate and shameful act of a drowning man". The group noted.

"Is this the reason Gov. Udom has been boasting that he has contracted the President Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Mensem to lobby the Justices of the Supreme Court to ensure the judgment is in his stooge's favor promising to give each justice in the panel $10m and the Chief Justice of Nigeria $15M as his retirement largesse since according to him is retiring soon?"

"The question we want to ask Gov. Udom and Pst. Umo Eno is what has been the impact of their administration in the last 8years and 7 months on the lives of the people they governed? Filtering away the entire resources of the State all in the name of installing a successor and institutionalizing occultism in Akwa ibom State"

"A man given to ingratitude and a betrayal of the highest order who can never keep his words. An issue at hand is his betrayal of Senator Akpabio who brought him to power as Governor of Akwa Ibom State but thereafter, he fought him out of the state but today he’s sending his stooge Pastor Umo Eno to befriend the same Senator Akpabio with all sort of mouth watering promises all to survive the immediate scare of the Supreme Court".

"The question is, if all is ok, why these frustrations and apprehension in a man who believes he has conquered Akwa Ibom State?" The group queried.

"Our sincere caution to President Tinubu is to be wary of people like Gov. Udom or his stooge because they are double-edged and speak from both sides of their mouth. They (Udom and Umo Eno) mean no good and should be avoided like a plague," the statement added.


©️
https://pmexpressng.com/group-blasts-former-governor-udom-for-seeking-tinubus-attention-after-pre-election-insults/

"I am Ready To Spend $50M To Buy Supreme Court Judgement for Umo Eno", Udom Brags

...As Umo Eno fails to meet President Tinubu at Dubai despite $1m Bribe

Former Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel, is reported to have boasted about his willingness to spend a staggering $50 million to secure a favorable Supreme Court judgment for his successor, Pastor Umo Eno, who is currently facing a WAEC forgery case.

Sources close to a meeting with Akwa Ibom State PDP stakeholders claim that Udom Emmanuel declared his commitment to employing any means necessary, including financial influence, luring of Senator Godswill Akpabio with with a mouth watering financial bargains, and the much anticipated defection and loyalty of Pastor Umo Eno to APC which of course can never happen but rather to ensure Umo Eno's success at the supreme Court. Our Source quoted Udom saying that ensuring Umo Eno's success at the Supreme Court is the fight of his life and he will employ every available means to achieve this.

"I have spent $10 million at the tribunal, $20 million at the Court of Appeal. I won't mind spending $50 million at the Supreme Court for this case to go in our favor, this is the fight of my life" former Governor Udom Emmanuel reportedly stated during the meeting, asserting that "every judge has a price."

The former Governor even claimed to possess video evidence of payments made to judges at lower levels of the judiciary and the same tactics will be employed at the Supreme Court, further emphasizing his determination to secure a favorable outcome for Umo Eno.

"I have video evidences of judges from Tribunal to Appeal Courts collecting money for cases like this, our case at the Supreme Court won't be a different one, I am ready to spend whatever amount that is required " he stated.

Pundits are however of the opinion that it's evident the case involving Umo Eno, his successor isn't going well, hence his desperation to spend all available resources of the State to win the case.

"Why is Udom Emmanuel desperate and ready to do anything for Umo Eno to win at the Supreme Court"? If Umo Eno truly had authentic certificate, why was he expelled from Uniuyo? They claimed Umo Eno already won the case against Akan Okon in the Supreme Court, so why is Udom keeping aside over $50m to pay judges in the supreme Court "?
"What I can say about this case is that it's not going to favour Umo Eno as the evidences presented shows clearly that he truly has no authentic certificate. His expulsion from Uniuyo and publication of his name as one of the expelled students by a popular national newspaper in 2005 are already enough evidences as well as the outcome of the investigation by the INTERPOL, so there's no magic that will save him from being sacked by the Supreme Court" Essien Essien, a political analyst from Akwa Ibom State stated while speaking with our Source.

Meanwhile, in an unexpected twist, it has been reported that Umo Eno made some attempts to seek intervention from President Bola Tinubu during the COP28 in Dubai, and a substantial $1 million bribe was offered for the President's attention. However, the effort proved futile, as Umo Eno only managed to meet with the President's son, Seyi Tinubu.

Expressing disappointment at the failed attempt to gain the president's favor, Umo Eno lamented the significant financial investments made in pursuit of support. "All I want is to see the President at all cost", He cried!

Despite the reported desperate efforts to influence the Supreme Court judgment and seek presidential intervention, the highest court remains resolute in upholding justice being the highest policy court of the land. The unfolding drama raises questions about the integrity of the legal system and the lengths some individuals are willing to go to secure favorable outcomes in legal battles. The Judiciary's commitment to justice, however, appears unwavering in the face of these manipulation attempts. We will keep updating the public with available information at our disposal concerning this case.

©️ Independent Reporters, Abuja.

UDOM EMMANUEL AND UMO ENO EXPOSED

~Ibibio Elders Mobilized To Beg President Tinubu to Save Umo Eno from Supreme Court's Judgement.

- Udom Emmanuel vows that Akwa Ibom will Remain a PDP state .

In the intricate landscape of political developments in Akwa Ibom State, attention is now firmly fixed on Governor Udom Emmanuel and his involvement in a series of maneuvers involving Ibibio Elders, President Tinubu, and the contentious WAEC certificate forgery case of Umo Eno.

It has been reported by our Source that Udom Emmanuel has mobilized all Ibibio Elders, counting prominent figures such as Obong Victor Attah and Oku Ibom Ibibio etc to appeal to President Tinubu for intervention in Gov Umo Eno's legal challenges. The narrative suggests that Umo Eno is portrayed as a key figure for peace in Akwa Ibom State, a claim met with skepticism and in their wildest imaginations.

The intrigue deepens as Udom Emmanuel taking the back seat weaves a narrative around Umo Eno's potential defection to the APC, presenting it as a strategic move to shield him (Umo Eno) from an impending Supreme Court decision on certificate forgery allegations. This prompts the question: What role does President Tinubu play in Election Petition, judicial matters and certificate forgery? Why the sudden pressure on the President , a man they never voted for but instead received so much insults and abuses from former Gov Udom Gabriel Emmanuel and Why the false narrative of defection to APC?

Allegations of financial inducements directed towards Ibibio Elders have surfaced, our source reported that Umo Eno has generously funded this uncertainty voyage by offering each member of the team the sum of N10m to cover their logistics and honorarium for the trip to the President, while Obong Victor Attah and the Oku Ibom Ibibio, the leaders have received huge sums of money for themselves in foreign exchange, our source said.

The conditional tie to APC raises concerns, prompting reflection on the ethics of leveraging political affiliation to evade legal consequences.

"Does it mean someone can easily escape judgement just by a mere defection to the ruling party"? If the supreme Court ruled that Umo Eno's certificate are forged, would defecting to APC change the judgement"? Prof. Joseph, a public affairs analyst inquired.

The narrative takes a curious turn to a past incident involving Udom Emmanuel and President Tinubu during a campaign visit. Reports suggest that Udom's recent overtures stem from an attempt to mend ties after an airport incident where he had locked the President out of the VIP wing of the Victor Attah International Airport, an incident which led Tinubu to refer to him as a 'boy", which he responded with further insults on the President

The political maneuvering now appears to be a complex strategy by Udom, aimed at seeking redemption from the president and also a way of saving his successor from impending unfavorable judgement.

it is imperative to scrutinize the broader implications of these strategies. Is this political theater a guise to secure Ibibio dominance in Akwa Ibom, potentially sidelining other ethnic groups through the controversial Traditional Rulers Law? Umo Eno in the first few months of assumption of office had signed a law which places the Ibibio Traditional Stool over other ethnic groups in the State, a law that has breed so much controversies and legal battles.

The strategy also involves diminishing Senator Akpabio's influence in the region.

In the midst of these intricate political maneuvers, a call emerges for Udom, Umo Eno, and the Ibibio Elders to shift their focus from presidential interventions and political brinksmanship. We plead that they should please allow President Tinubu please concentrate in addressing pressing national economic challenges that will positively affect our living standards and alleviate the suffering Nigerians.

Gov Umo Eno based on the advice of Udom Emmanuel is pursuing the President to every foreign trip destinations, the latest being Climate Change submit COP28 in Dubai.

These questions should be asked, is President Tinubu not a member of APC? is the APC candidate not in the Supreme Court ? How about the so-called pact with the Senate President Godswill Akpabio? Why is defection to APC now on the lips of Gov Umo Eno as advised by Udom Emmanuel just to deceived the gullible? is the Judiciary now an extension of politic? The answers remain NO. What can Gov Umo Eno do when Udom Emmanuel and Obong Victor Attah has vowed that they can never play politics or be in the same political party with Senator Godswill Akpabio?

"Gov Umo Eno and Udom Emmanuel should please be advised to face their issues, concentrate and continue in wasting and filtering away the resources of the State in the purchase of court judgment and leave President Tinubu alone" Prof. Joseph added.


©️ Independent Reporters

Unveiling the Political Turmoil in Akwa Ibom:
Mrs. Eno Mobilizes Women Leaders Against Senate President Akpabio


"We will soon fight our common Enemy"~ Mrs. Eno

In a charged atmosphere at Uyo's Banquet Hall on December 1, 2023, Mrs. Patience Umo Eno, the wife of Akwa Ibom's incumbent governor, orchestrated a meeting uniting the wives of local government chairmen and Women Leaders from across the state. Amidst palpable anticipation, Mrs. Eno declared an imminent battle against a common enemy, Senator Godswill Akpabio, Nigeria's Senate President.

Our insider conveyed Mrs. Eno's bold proclamation that Senator Akpabio stands as a common foe, and they are poised to confront him in the near future. "Senator Akpabio is among my husband's challenges, and we're closely monitoring him. Soon, we'll engage in a fight once the Supreme Court delivers its verdict," she asserted.

The gathering provided Mrs. Eno with a platform to express her confidence that her husband will triumph at the Supreme Court, dismissing any need for Senator Godswill Akpabio's interference.

Previously, we reported on a mysterious agreement reached between Governor Eno and Senate President Akpabio, sealed with millions of dollars before the Appeal Court judgment.

The current characterization of Senator Akpabio as a "Common Enemy" suggest there's a clash and breach of agreement between the Governor and The Senate.

During the meeting, it was subtly suggested that Governor Umo Eno's legal victory at the Supreme Court would pave the way for a direct confrontation with Senator Akpabio, hinting at a veiled political tension between the incumbent governor and the Senate President.

The specifics of the rift between Governor Umo Eno and Senator Akpabio remain veiled in confidential discussions, yet Mrs. Eno's public revelation implies an impending political storm awaiting eruption.


As whispers of this political revelation ripple through Akwa Ibom, it beckons contemplation on the intricate dynamics of power, relationships, and political maneuvers within the state.

The looming clash between Governor Umo Eno and Senator Akpabio is poised to captivate attention, potentially reshaping the political landscape of the state.

©️ Independent Reporters, Abuja.

...

Former Akwa Ibom Governor Udom Emmanuel Extends Support to Embattled Rivers State Governor Amidst Political Turmoil

Former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Udom Emmanuel, has reportedly held a secret meeting with Rivers State Governor, Fubara in his Private Residence, Port Harcourt, amidst the ongoing political turbulence in Rivers State. The state's incumbent governor, Fubara, has been facing challenges from his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who recently defected to the APC and assumed the position of Minister of FCT.

Speculations have been rife that Wike is orchestrating moves to impeach his successor, Fubara, using the state's House of Assembly as a means to achieve his political goals. In light of these developments, Udom Emmanuel, a former Akwa Ibom PDP Governor has extended his support to Fubara during a clandestine meeting.

The clandestine meeting between former Akwa Ibom Governor Udom Emmanuel and Rivers State Governor Fubara holds a deeper purpose — a strategic alliance forged to counter the political maneuvers of Nyesom Wike, FCT Minister and former Rivers State governor. Amidst the turmoil in Rivers State, where Wike's alleged attempts to manipulate the state's House of Assembly and impeach his successor have created a storm, Emmanuel and Fubara have united forces within the PDP ranks

The closed doors meeting also aimed at expressing solidarity and assuring Fubara of the unwavering support of the People's Democratic Party (PDP).

According to our Source, Udom Emmanuel while speaking at the meeting assured Fubara that he is going to win the fight against his predecessor, stating he faced similar issue with his former Boss, Godswill Akpabio.

"Fubara, I tell you in good faith that this will be over. I had similar issue with Godswill Akpabio who wanted to have control of the State resources while I was the governor and when I said no, he tried everything to remove me from office, you're not alone in this" he said.

As political tensions continue to escalate in Rivers State, the meeting between Udom Emmanuel and Fubara highlights the importance of strategic alliances and mutual support among party members. It remains to be seen how this development will impact the unfolding political landscape in the state.

Umo Eno, PDP Moves to Petition The Appointment Of Etekamba Umoren as Akwa Ibom INEC REC

The political landscape of Akwa Ibom State is ablaze with controversy following the recent appointment of Sir Etekamba Umoren as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Residential Electoral Commissioner for the state. The appointment which is believed to be facilitated by the former Governor, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has sparked outrage from the current Governor, Pst. Umo Eno, and the Akwa Ibom State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The leaked information from a source within the Government House has revealed the deep discontentment felt by Governor Umo Eno and the PDP regarding Umoren's appointment. The source, who opted to remain anonymous, disclosed the Governor's concerns over what he perceives as a biased selection process by the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio. Governor Umo Eno expressed his frustration, stating that Akpabio's actions are undermining the democratic principles of nonpartisanship, as key positions are allegedly being filled based on political affiliations rather than merit.

"Akpabio is becoming very biased every day. He is now appointing people from his tribe into positions that should be occupied by nonpartisan individuals, just to control Akwa Ibom State as he pleases. As the Governor of Akwa Ibom State and the PDP, we cannot stand idly by and allow this erosion of democracy," Governor Umo Eno passionately remarked.

Governor Umo Eno further emphasized their commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and ensuring a level playing field for all political parties in the state. In response to what he sees as a clear injustice, he announced their intention to file a petition seeking the dismissal of Sir Etekamba Umoren as the Akwa Ibom INEC Residential Electoral Commissioner.

The controversy has raised concerns among various political circles, with many questioning the transparency and fairness of the appointment process. The PDP, in particular, is steadfast in its resolve to challenge what it perceives as a violation of democratic norms. The party's leadership has vowed to take legal action to rectify the situation and restore confidence in the electoral process within the state.

©️ Independent Reporters

AS 10th SENATE FOCUSES ON NIGERIA’s FUTURE AND ROADMAP TO DEVELOPMENT

By Edward Usoro

“Every major national development was based on a roadmap designed by citizens of the respective countries” - Godswill Akpabio, President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

His words took the participants on a backward journey. The senators were in Ikot Ekpene, like the philosophers would say, in search of knowledge. It was a two-day retreat to chart “the way forward.” But, right then, they were told to go back (in memory), in order to find a direction and momentum for development!

Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, the Senate President, while welcoming his colleagues to the Retreat on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, on October 19, 2023, spoke with conviction. As usual, his speech, like a charming lady, was dressed brief but enticing. Yet, it was long enough to cover the relevant matters.

Among other things, Akpabio charged the legislators to put away party differences and give way to national interest. It was a clarion class to unity of purpose, to “ensure that the expectations and hopes of our people are not betrayed”. They were to focus on how to restructure the nation positively, such that those who fled like the proverbial Andrew and the biblical Naomi, will be attracted to return.

In essence, the Senate President reminded them that the journey to Ikot Ekpene was to locate a “roadmap” for the future of Nigeria. He recalled that: “Frenchmen, Montesquieu and Jean-Jacques Rosseau, were the brains behind the French revolution. Kim Dae-jung changed the fortunes of South Korea. Lenin transformed Tsarist Russia and turned it into a super power. These people and more succeeded because they had plans and their countrymen and women followed their plans”.

Apparently, Nigeria started well, with leaders who had visions and missions. They drew up roadmaps, which were unfortunately abandoned by subsequent sets of leaders. Specifically, Akpabio recalled that “the founding fathers of our nation (Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Sir Ahmadu Bello, etc.) had and followed a plan of development, and Nigeria, in their days, occupied a place of pride in the comity of nations.”

A cursory analysis will prove what those leaders stood for. Starting with Balewa, the first Prime Minister of Nigeria (1957- 1966), he outlined a roadmap that aimed to achieve independence, promote national unity, and develop the country's economy. Overall, his efforts laid the foundation for Nigeria's subsequent political and economic development.

Firstly, he emphasized the need for inclusivity and fair representation of all ethnic and regional groups in government. This ensured that all Nigerians felt involved and had a voice in the decision-making process.

Further, he implemented policies aimed at reducing ethnic and regional tensions. He encouraged dialogue and cooperation among different groups, fostering a sense of national identity and shared goals. His inclusive approach, emphasis on dialogue, and commitment to even development laid the foundation for a united and cohesive nation.

Awolowo’s roadmap for Nigeria was centered around his philosophy of "strategic human development" and his ideology of socialism. He also advocated for the establishment of regional governments with autonomous powers to promote effective governance and local development. Furthermore, Awo envisioned a Nigeria that was economically prosperous, socially just, and politically stable.

In terms of social justice, he proposed a welfare state approach, providing free education and healthcare for all Nigerians. He also emphasised on industrialisation, economic development, as well as the importance of equitable distribution of resources and opportunities to reduce inequality and promote social cohesion.

Overall, Awolowo's roadmap aimed to build a strong and united Nigeria by prioritising economic development, social justice, and political stability. His ideas continue to shape Nigerian politics and policy debates to this day.

Azikiwe had a roadmap for Nigeria that focused on the principles of nationalism, self-governance, and social justice. He believed in the importance of unity and sought to build a united Nigeria by promoting a sense of shared values among its diverse ethnic groups.

He advocated for the recognition and celebration of Nigeria's diversity as a source of strength and unity. He also encouraged dialogue among different ethnic groups to facilitate mutual understanding and respect.

Zik's roadmap emphasised the need for Nigeria to become a fully independent nation, free from colonial rule. Additionally, he advocated for equal opportunities for all Nigerians, regardless of their ethnicity or social background. Azikiwe believed that by addressing social injustices and promoting equity, Nigeria could achieve greater unity and stability.

In sum, Nnamdi Azikiwe's roadmap for Nigeria focused on nationalism, self-governance, and social justice. His vision for a united and independent Nigeria played a significant role in shaping the country's path towards independence and setting the foundation for its future development.

Thus, by making reference to the founding fathers of Nigeria, Akpabio was drawing attention to the need to revive the dying ethos of national unity, inclusivity, social justice, equity, dialogue, religious tolerance, people-interest, economic development, among others.

According to him, it has taken Nigeria years to witness “the kind of elaborate plan put forward by Mr President (Bola Tinubu) and which targets growth in critical sectors of our economy and seeks to remove wastages in our economic cycle.” The task before the legislators, as part of their contributions to nation-building, the Senate President pleaded, was to provide the launching pad for Tinubu’s “audacious plan,” as patriots and worthy representatives of the people.

He added: “Today, more than ever before, we must come together in optimism to toe the roadmap of Mr President and where we consider that changes may be appropriate, work with the executive to perfect the document. We must take our destiny in our own hands and make the legend of this country as the giant of Africa a reality”.

Nigerians who wait for foreign financial institutions like the International Monetary Fund(IMF) or World Bank to rescue the nation may be delusional. Those institutions and other foreign nationals may mean well, but like Akpabio said, “they have not worn our shoes and they do not know where it pinches. It is our walk not their own, so while they talk the talk, let us walk the walk. We wear the shoes and we know where it pinches”.

*Usoro, a public affairs analyst, writes from Lagos.

Senate Retreat: Confronting Nigeria's Setbacks for Comebacks

By Joseph Atainyang

The recent address of the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, during the retreat in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, resonates with a resolute call for optimism and belief in the greatness of the Nigerian nation. The uncommon transformer highlighted the need for a collective effort to address the setbacks that have hindered Nigeria's economic growth and stability. The harsh econimic realities faced by Nigeria have not been a sudden thing. The protracted issue has been based on a number of policies by leaders from time immemorial.

The removal of the oil subsidy by the President Bola Tinubu's administration, has been the boldest decision in recent times. This has been so adjudged because of the high level of fraud that a few privileged Nigerians had indulged in, to the detriment of the whole nation. This article delves into the importance of facing these challenges head-on and proposes strategies for instigating the much-needed comebacks that can bring lasting relief to the Nigerian people.

Of course, no one can think of a solution without first accepting a problem. From the beginning of time, solutions could only be thought of, when there were problems to solve. In this case, accepting that Nigeria has a huge challenge, hasn't attracted any pretence. Truth is, leadership at various stages in the country, were instituted to solve problems. No one could jump from their private homes to attain political relevance, if there were no issues to address. They first acknowledged peculiar challenges of the various sections of the country, and offered themselves as being competent to handle the situations.

Akpabio was guided by this knowledge when he pointedly announced that the nation's setbacks were setups for comebacks. His words, "Your Excellency, my distinguished colleagues, I believe that the doors of the Senate should be open to all Nigerians, except pessimists. The Senate Chambers is a place for optimists who believe that no matter the darkness of the clouds which hang over our nation, there are silver linings. The Senate has no place for people who whine or do not believe in the greatness of our country. The hallowed chambers of the Senate is for those who believe that every setback in our country is a setup for a comeback."

Whether it be economic hardships, security threats, or corrupt practices, it is essential to confront these issues with unwavering determination. Of course, Senator Akpabio could have been a secret reader of Thomas Sterns Eliot who went 'wild' against the proponents of spontaneity in the assemblage of poetic lines. Eliot held that writers of poetry were rather guided by intelligence, and not emotions, while crafting the powerful lines of poetry. Indeed, the President of the Senate was guided by intelligence and superior logic when shared his thoughts at the event. As Senator Akpabio rightly pointed out, "the Senate must be a haven for optimists. We must foster a positive mindset that believes in the potential for improvement, even in the face of adversity." In other words, each setback should be viewed as an opportunity to learn, adapt, and emerge stronger.

Also, Nigeria's diversity is a tremendous asset that, when harnessed effectively, can fuel her comebacks. The Senate must ensure that it represents the interests of all Nigerians, irrespective of background or political affiliation. By embracing diversity, inclusivity and a sense of unity among citizens can be engendered. The next critical area, where comebacks are necessary, is the Nigerian economy. Diversifying our revenue streams, promoting local industries, and investing in critical sectors such as agriculture and technology, will strengthen our economic resilience. From the body language of Mr Akpabio, it seems the Senate is ready to lead the charge by enacting legislation that fosters economic growth and attracts both local and foreign investment.

Meanwhile, tackling corruption and insecurity are very key to the mission of rescuing the nation. Corruption has been a significant setback for Nigeria's progress for almost a century. To achieve comebacks, the Senate must intensify efforts to fight corruption at all levels. Implementing stringent anti-corruption laws, holding public officials accountable, and promoting transparency within government institutions are crucial steps in combating this issue. Insecurity remains a significant setback for Nigeria's development. The Senate must prioritize efforts to enhance security across the nation. Collaborating with the executive arm of government, community leaders, and security agencies, the Senate can advocate for policies and enact laws that address the root causes of insecurity and ensure the safety and wellbeing of all Nigerians.

Again, investing in quality education and skills development is paramount for our comebacks. An annual budget for year 2024 is all ready announed in the range of N24 trillion. The Senate may have concluded decisions on working out very comfortable budget for the educational advancement of the country. The Senate should prioritize legislations that promote access to education for all, focus on vocational training and technical skills development, and ensure that the curriculum equips students with the knowledge and competencies needed for the modern workforce. Of course, the idea for the training of three million young persons on skills is very much underway. As announced by the federal ministry of Communication Innovation and Digital Economy, 30 thousand young persons are being registered for the first set of the training. The programme tagged, 3 Million Technical Talent Programme (3MTT), is a critical part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at building Nigeria's technical talent backbone to power our digital economy and position Nigeria as a net talent exporter.

Furthermore, to facilitate comebacks, investment in infrastructure is crucial. The Senate should work towards a robust infrastructure development plan, prioritizing the construction and maintenance of roads, railways, ports, and power generation projects. Improved infrastructure will attract investments, stimulate economic growth, and improve citizens' quality of life. This is part of their oversight function which would definitely be smooth because the federal ministry of Works is manned by Senator David Umahi, one of theirs who has a track record of performance and would be ready to walk the talk.

In addition, effective governance is central to achieving comebacks in Nigeria. The Senate must collaborate with the executive branch to enact laws that promote good governance, transparency, and accountability. Stringent oversight on government agencies and officials will help combat corruption, ensure efficient service delivery, and create an enabling environment for comebacks.

Ultimately, to realise comebacks in Nigeria necessitates collaboration and partnership between the Senate, the executive branch, civil society organizations, and the private sector. By forging alliances and fostering dialogue, we can tap into collective wisdom and resources to address the challenges that have impeded progress.

Apparently, the call by Senator Godswill Akpabio for comebacks in Nigeria, should serve as a clarion call for all Nigerians to rally together in confronting our setbacks. By cultivating optimism, embracing diversity, and focusing on critical aspects such as economic resilience, security, education, and infrastructure development, we can propel our nation towards sustained growth and stability. The Senate must lead the way by implementing robust legislative measures and ensuring accountability at all levels. Together, we can overcome our setbacks and pave the way for a brighter future for Nigeria.

Joseph Atainyang is a journalist and a public affairs commentator.

NIGERIA’s SENATE: BUILDING STRONGER INSTITUTIONS THROUGH INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION


By Edward Usoro

In a remote part of a tiny province in Canada, Herbert Marshall McLuhan saw the future. It was in 1964. Then, the world was still half-blind and too utopian. “I have a vision of the world as a global village, a world without boundaries”, he announced, casually.

The simplicity of the pronouncement made many dismiss him as a mere dreamer. Today, the concept of “global village” which was then about the potential influence of television, computers, and other electronic information sources in shaping societies and modern life, has metamorphosed in various spheres.

But, in essence, the term has succinctly proven one thing. That people, the world over, can and are interconnected - through politics, social relations, the use of new media technologies and other means of interconnectivity. These have materialised in areas like culture, trade, information, transportation, communication, job opportunities, improved standard of living, modernity, etc.

Today, like Li Keqiang, the former Premier of the People's Republic of China, once said: “We live in a global village. No country can live in isolation from others, like Robinson Crusoe.” Jackie Chan, the famous actor agreed, when he said: “We live now in a global village and we are in one single family. It's our responsibility to bring friendship and love from all different places around the world and to live together in peace”.

It’s based on the above summations that Nigeria’s Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has been seeking international cooperation with some advanced countries. Although he has received many foreign partners in audience since he assumed office, the latest meeting with the Charge D' Affairs for the US Embassy and his team, offered Nigeria a chance to push for building stronger institutions.

Akpabio had used the occasion to call for better collaboration between Nigeria and the United States, particularly in the area of capacity building for the legislators. Indeed, from the standpoint that Nigeria’s presidential system of government is evidently drawn after the American method, there’s need to learn from experience. Nigeria’s 25 years of civil rule stands to gain a lot from America’s uninterrupted 240 years of democracy.

Interestingly, the Senate President was neither asking for financial aid, nor debt rescheduling. His request was targeted at building a stronger institution for the country, an aspect which the United States is strongly known for. “Please link us properly with your Congress and the Democratic Institute in the US for us to have proper training and retraining in order for us to build capacity for our legislators in general... Not just in the Senate; not just in the House of Representatives but across the nation,” Akpabio said.

Through such solicited cooperation, hitherto stranger nations are already turning into “a global village.” To avoid becoming a dejected island onto itself, Nigeria must be part of that quest, which ultimately engenders peace and faster development.

Foreign relations, according to experts, encompass all acts that affect relationships between one country and another. While, in most countries, the leading role of the executive in the field of foreign policy is clearly constitutionally established, the legislature has a sizeable chunk of responsibility in bringing this to bear.

In Nigeria, the National Assembly wields a considerable constitutional power over the country’s foreign policy. To be clear, there are specific and general constitutional provisions that subject executive action to legislative approval or scrutiny. For instance, the president, experts argue, cannot without the endorsement of the National Assembly declare war against another country. Nor can he deploy the armed forces on combat duty outside Nigeria without the Senate’s express approval (Section 5(4), CFRN, 1999). A recent instance was when the 10th Senate voted against the option of mobilising military troops to intervene in Niger Republic’s coup crisis.

Indeed, many of the items over which the National Assembly exercises legislative competence are matters which have direct or indirect implications on the country’s foreign relations. Thus, according to J. O. Arowosegbe and R.O. Akomolafe, both of Osun State University, “whenever the National Assembly legislates on any of these items, it thereby makes its contribution to the nation’s foreign relations policy.”

Some of the items on the exclusive purview of the National Assembly are arms, ammunition and explosives; aviation; awards of national honors and decorations; borrowing of money within or outside Nigeria for the purpose of the federation or any state; citizenship, naturalization, and aliens; copyright; customs and excise duties; deportation of persons who are not citizens of Nigeria; diplomatic, consular, and trade representation.

Others include: exchange rate control; export duties; external affairs; extradition; immigration and emigration from Nigeria; maritime, shipping and navigation; nuclear energy; passports and visas; trade and commerce between Nigeria and other countries, etc. Expectedly, collaboration with a country like the USA is bound to expose our national lawmakers to proper handling of legislations concerning those issues.

As earlier stated, the envisaged cooperation is likely to strengthen Nigeria’s institutions, starting with the legislature. It is strongly argued that without effective, accountable and inclusive institutions in a country, there can be no progress in the delivery of even essential services such as health, education, clean water, sanitation and transportation, among others.

Nations with stronger institutions are more progressive than those with stronger individuals. Most advanced democracies are synonymous with strong political, social and economic institutions.
As noted by Monsur  Muritala in the Punch Newspaper of August 8, 2023, it was only under strong institutions that the United States could survive, recently, when the former President Donald Trump tried to manipulate them for his political gain.

In agreement, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, in Vanguard (online edition of Jan 14, 2021) said:
“Trump employed a multi-faceted d strategy to retain power, attempting to use the executive, the legislature and the judiciary, all to no avail. Under the Constitution of the United States, the Vice President is an officer of the legislative branch as the President of the Senate.
Trump had attempted to use Pence’s position in the Senate to discard the electoral votes required to make Biden the next President. However, Pence insisted that he did not have the powers to throw out the electoral votes as Trump had wanted”.

Drawing a parralel between Nigeria and the US, Babalola, SAN, added: “... it is clear that the United States has political institutions which are bigger than any of its elected representatives, one which cannot falter to threats, intimidation or coercion even from the sitting President. This, however, is not the case in Nigeria.” Through the cooperation envisaged by the 10th Senate, the eyes of many Nigerian politicians are likely to open against selfish antics that only compromise the sustenance of democratic values and cultures.

Moreover, such international relations could help the National Assembly to assist in shaping the nation’s foreign policy through legislation. Experience, it is often said, remains the best teacher. And, to know more, you must be humble, committed and dliligent enough to seek knowledge wherever it may be found.

According Ruth Brooks, a state’s foreign policy reflects its values and goals, and helps drive its political and economic aims in a global space. A nation’s foreign policy typically works in tandem with its domestic policy. Together, the two policies work to strengthen the country’s position both within and outside its borders.

Today, Nigeria’s National Assembly, under the watch of Senator Godswill Akpabio, stands at the threshold of history, as it paves the path towards building stronger institutions in the country, through international collaborations.

Usoro, a public affairs commentator, writes from Lagos.