...prays for peaceful repose of the departed monarch

The immediate past Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Glory Edet has commiserated with the royal family of  Edidem Akpan, over the recent passing away of their father, HRM Edidem Etim Edward Akpan.

Dr. Edet who led a delegation of stakeholders cutting across the eleven wards of Ini LGA on a condolence visit, presented her commiserations at the palace of the late monarch of Ini, Monday, April 18, 2022.

In her remarks, Dr. Edet appreciated God for the life and times of Edidem Akpan while on earth and described the late monarch as a peace maker,  good father and a voice in Ini and the State at large.

"This is not my first time visiting this family because I believe in a good living before a befitting burial. Edidem Akpan was a peaceful man. He was someone I respected because of his huge pedigree. I am happy because the late monarch was alive to lead Ini Traditional Rulers Council as Paramount Ruler by God's grace. I am here to support the family  to give our father a befitting burial". She said.

Akparawa-anwan (Dr. ) Edet appreciated His Exellency the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel for always recognizing and caring for the Royal fathers and prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed soul in God's bosom, while urging the deceased family to build on the already established foundation of the late Edidem Akpan and continue to live in harmony.

Responding, the eldest son of the late Paramount Ruler, CSP Akaniyene Akpan lauded the immediate past Commissioner for her commitment and love to the royal family and urged her not to be distracted by naysayers, but continue in her good works while also praying for God to grant the desires of her heart.

A vote of thanks by the Ini Council Vice Chairman, Hon. Marcus Akpan brought the colourful event to a close.

Stakeholders of Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency at the early hours of Monday April 18, 2022 have unanimously resolved that Obot Akara local government area be allowed to take their rightful turn in 2023.


The decision was reached at a meeting on the way forward for the federal Constituency, held at the residence of Senator Chris Ekpenyong in Ikot Ekpene.

The Senator Representing Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District,Senator Chris Ekpenyong welcomed all Stakeholders of the Federal Constituency, thanking them for their cooperation and support towards the unity and progress of the constituency.

He further spoke at length on the essence of maintaining peace and political stability in the constituency.

On his part,Senator Emmanuel Ibokessien while setting the tone,stressed the importance of maintaining the existing zoning arrangements that has fostered peace since 1999 among the three Local Government Areas of the Constituency,namely Ikot Ekpene,Essien Udim and Obot Akara.


Reacting, the stakeholders in their separate messages, mulled and condemned in very strong terms the attempt to scuttle the existing zoning arrangements in the Federal Constituency.

They respectively reaffirmed their faith in the sanctity of zoning for the interest of peace and unity.

They Unanimously resolved that Obot Akara LGA be allowed to take their rightful turn in 2023.

The communique read by Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien warned aspirants from other Local Governments from attempting to circumvent the process.

Consequently,it was resolved that Obot Akara is due to take her turn to produce the next representative of the Federal Constituency.


Present at the meeting were
Sen.Chris Ekpenyong (Host),Sen.Emmanuel Ibokessien, Political leader of Ikot Ekpene. Rt
Hon Nsikak Ekong,Member Representing Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency. Rt Hon Idongesit Ntekpere,Member Representing Ikot Ekpene/Obot Akara State Constituency at AKHA. Obong Michael Afangide,Political Leader of Essien Udim LGA. Hon. Sir Monday Ebong Uko,Commissioner for Youth and Sports/Dean College of Commissioners Aks. Mr Aniefiok Nkom,Commissioner for Labour and Man Power Development. Mr Camillus Umoh,Commissioner for Trade and Investments.

Also in attendance were Hon. Unyime Etim,Executive Chairman,Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area . Hon. Efremfon Umoh,State PDP Youth Leader. Hon. Brendan Etokidem PDP Ex-officio. Chapter Chairmen of the three Local Government Areas. Rt.Hon. Simon Dominic. Chief Ekerette Andrew and Hon. Cyril Peter Udo.


Others include, Ntufam Elijah Udoiyak,SSA to the Governor. Otuekong Felix Emmanson,SA to theGovernor. Engr. Etido Inyang,Chairman Ibom Power Plant. Abom E.P Umanah, former State Commissioner. Hon Dr Etido Ibekwe,former Majority Leader at state House of Assembly.

The current member Rt. Hon Nsikak Ekong who hails from Ikot Ekpene local government area, took over from Hon Emmanuel Akpan, who hailed from Essien Udim local government area.

...HOW SENATE PRESIDENT FAILED TO SECURE OBA'S AUTOMATIC APC GUBER TICKET


The Senator representing Uyo Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Senator Bassey Albert may have concluded plans to defect to the Young Progressives Party (YPP), as frustrations and brick walls rock his Governorship bid in the Peoples Democratic Party.

According to sources, Bassey Albert who now looks certainly convinced that he can't get the ticket of the People's Democratic Party, does not want to miss out on the elections and will consider his options.

It was gathered that in order to secure his back up plan for defection, he had sponsored the emergence of Nyeneime Andy, the General Overseer of Holy Ghost Ambassadors Church as the State Chairman of YPP.

OBA we learnt, recently had been allegedly mounting pressure on the Senate President, Ahmed Lawan to secure the All Progressives Congress ticket for Akwa Ibom State, but has made little or no success.

The crisis in the APC with factions emerging under Senator Godswill Akpabio and Senator Udo Edehe, means that APC may be too busy in court in the coming days, to file candidate for the elections

Meanwhile, Nyeneime Andy, and others, are planning a defection ceremony for OBA after the PDP primaries, our source stated.

PRESS RELEASE

“Since I no longer expect anything from mankind except madness, meanness, and mendacity; egotism, cowardice, and self-delusion, I have stopped being a misanthrope.”

This thought by Irving Layton, which tells more about man’s inhumanity to man- which is worse than nature’s cruelty- best explains my disposition on the recent mendacity and series of physical attacks on my person by surrogates and appendages of Obong Bassey Albert Akpan, a gubernatorial aspirant in Akwa Ibom State, which operationalized in three dimension.

First, these political turncoats and belligerents have written a plethora of petitions to my Church, The African Church against me, to the effect that I should be sanctioned for holding a political views. They however, know little about the covering law of the Church, which allows service to humanity- which includes state building and community service that I’m saddled with, and committed to.

Secondly and more worrisome, is the threat to my life, which supporters of OBA have adopted as an instrumentality to nip my campaign of truth and peace in the bud. In this regard, having received several threat messages and experienced physical assaults from these agents of doom, I elected to file a petition to the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police, demanding that these men and their sponsors be brought to book, before our dear state is turned to another pool of blood and a den of insecurity.

It was in consideration of these that Dante Alighieri, an Italian Poet and Philosopher, noted that, “the hottest places in hell are reserved for those who in time of moral crisis preserve their neutrality.”I therefore, consider it apposite to let my family, friends, congregants and the general public be aware of the nefarious brigandage of these men and it’s impact on my fundamental right to life, as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution, Section 33 (1), which states inter alia: “every person has a right to life, and no one shall be deprived intentionally of his life, save in execution of the sentence of a court in respect of a criminal offence of which he has been found guilty in Nigeria”.

Thirdly, the last approach by these political renegades is cloning of my social media account with the aim of maligning my image and impugning my earned reputation. It won’t be surprising for members of the public to receive strange, threatening and malicious messages from a masqueraded account.

To this end, while I’m making concerted endeavors to secure my social media handles, the subterfuges of these obscurantists should be brought to light, in order to deter other innocent members of the public from falling prey.

Finally, Rev'd Richard Peters represents peace, in its entirety. My motivation emanates from the thought, insight and actions of the prophets of old in the Bible, such as Moses, Isaiah and Elijah, who stood against injustice and immorality in Isreal. Thus, I’m committed to upholding every tenet and attendant of truth, which Governor Udom Emmanuel represents- towards the enthronement of a just and egalitarian social order in Akwa Ibom State. This would curtail the mendacity of mean- spirited misanthropes in our dear state!

Rev. Richard Peters
Priest and Good Governance Advocate
14042022

[/b][b]
Presidential Hopeful and Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel , continued his consultation of strategic stakeholders, in furtherance of his Presidential bid, by visiting two former Heads of State, General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (Rtd.) and General Abdulsalam Abubakar(Rtd.) in Minna.

He intimated the Elder Statesmen of his vision for a better Nigeria defined by a revamped economy, security of lives and property and durable infrastructure.

Both former leaders congratulated him for his courage in stepping into the ring at the national stage and commended the excellent manner he has administered Akwa Ibom State. They assured him of their blessings, advice and prayers.

Governor Emmanuel was accompanied by HE Senator Gabriel Suswam- former Governor of Benue, Col. Habibu Shuaibu(Rtd)- former Military Governor of Niger and Plateau States and Comrade Ini Ememobong, Commissioner for Information & Strategy, Akwa Ibom State.

Traders and artisans in Akwa Ibom State have unanimously thrown their weight behind the presidential aspirations of Governor Udom Emmanuel and governorship bid of Pastor Umo Eno.


The traders also pledge to support their campaigns with publicity and awareness materials to the tune of N500 million.

Speaking on behalf of the traders on the occasion of the Nigerian Traders Summit and Trade Exposition Monday at Itam Market Uyo Akwa Ibom State, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Trade and Market Matters Akparawa Idoreyin Raphael said the traders will encourage the duo because of their outstanding performances in public service.

“We will support Udom Emmanuel’s presidential campaign with several printed souvenirs. We have declared Gov. Emmanuel very capable to govern Nigeria,” he said.

“We, traders with over 1.8 million votes are endorsing Pastor Umo Eno as the next governor. We have heard stories of governor’s battling to defend how many months’ salaries they owe workers, one actually said he was owing only 13 not 24 months as speculated. But in Akwa Ibom State, our governor pays as at when due and we are sending him to presidency to solve the problems of Nigeria and Umo Eno as governor to continue the good work in the state.”

Recounting the achievements of the governor, he posited: “The Ibom Air Emmanuel floated is the best Airline in the whole of Africa. He established international links to bring industries to Akwa Ibom State among many projects.”

The traders used the occasion to express gratitude to the governor for the N2 billion interest free loan, appointment of traders into his cabinet and the hopeful handing over government to a trader, Pastor Umo Eno in 2023.


Our 1.8 million votes belong to Emmanuel, Umo Eno – A’ibom traders https://alabingo.com/our-1-8-million-votes-belong-to-emmanuel-umo-eno-aibom-traders/

Saturday evening brought about an interplay of emotions and exhilarating feelings at the State Party Secretariat, as Governorship Top Contender, Pastor Umo Eno, in his usual display of humility and respect to critical stakeholders in the State, consulted all former officers of the Peoples Democratic Party.

The party officers who were pleasantly surprised at the gesture, said it was the first time an aspirant has showed them such recognition and regards since the inception of the party in 1998, and described Pastor Umo Eno as a God fearing team player, who has what it takes to sustain the peace in the state and also engender its entrepreneurial development.

Former State Deputy Chairman, Sir Michael Essang, former House of Assembly Member, Obong Aniedi Andem, and former State Legal Adviser, Barr Godwill Umoh, spoke for Eket, Uyo and Ikot Ekpene Senatorial Districts respectively, while former Ibeno PDP Chairman, Ekokwaha Etteh, spoke for former local government chapter chairmen.

"We know that one who with experience in a position, can best advise on who can also manage that position, and we believe that our leader Governor Udom Emmanuel,has taken a wise and informed decision in preferring Pastor Umo Eno, out of all who are aspiring", Sir Essang said.

"We former officers of the party in Eket Senatorial District have already made up our mind to support your aspiration," Essang said.

This was corroborated by Barr Godwill Umoh, as well as Obong Aniedi Andem and Mr Etteh.

The scenario was a replica of the famous moonlight gathering of a typical Akwa Ibom family members, as Pastor Eno took time to interact and exchange pleasantries with those, he admitted, sacrificed to build and nourish the Party to its excellent state.

Pastor Eno who harped on his ability to build and sustain job opportunities from his experiences, told the ex party officers that his focus is on the young people.

"Rather than throwing money on our young people, I will focus on enhancing their capacities and creating opportunities that they will be able to make a living from.

"Since 1999 money has been thrown at our youths, nothing meaningful has come out of it.

"I am told that there are several young people who used to go to night clubs to burn out over 10milion naira every other day but today they cannot afford two square meals."

Pastor Eno said he came to Akwa Ibom State on his own volition and from the scratch has a conglomerate of businesses that have employed several people, adding that with the formula of being able to grow businesses, he holds the ace to grow investments in the State.

"I am sitting with you and interacting with you freely, but I will never give you any oath to take to support me, because I want you to go with your conscience",he added.

Pastor Eno was accompanied by the members of the Maintain Peace Movement, led by the National Chairman, Barr Emmanuel Enoidem, Deputy Chairman of his Campaigns, Dr. Godwin Ntukude, and several members of support organisations.

The Maintenance Repair and Overhaul facility (MRO), Terminal Building and Taxi Way undergoing construction at Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo would all be inaugurated this year.

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel disclosed this Friday, while inspecting the projects at the Airport.

The governor who expressed satisfaction with the level of work executed by the contractors stated that the Maintenance Repair and Overhaul which is at 84% completion has the capacity of carrying two 747 aircraft series, eight A-220 300 series and all the CRJs, adding that the MRO when fully operational will facilitate the economic growth of the State.

“Honestly from what I have seen here the contractors have exceeded my expectation, they are quite ahead of schedule you can say it is at 84 percent completion and the materials on ground can guarantee the expected delivery date.

"A lot of people don’t understand what we have put in here, these are technical details that can facilitate certain aspect of economic growth in the state.

“The MRO can take two 747 aircraft series, eight of our A-220 300 series and all the CRJs for now, all installations are near completion and you can imagine we are the newest bride for all the aircraft maintenance companies across the globe and we have received offers from aircraft maintenance companies, you can imagine the foreign exchange this will bring to the state’’, he stated.

At the Terminal Building project, Governor Emmanuel said that the structural part of the project is near completion and the terminal will be the smartest in Africa, adding that Ibom Air will commence its regional flight at completion of the project.

He pointed out that the project which is a total approach to aviation development will attract other foreign airlines and assured that there will be ease of business transaction in the state.

Governor Emmanuel hinted that as part of government's efforts in aviation development, 100 youths will be trained in aeronautical engineering and other specialized fields beginning with first badge of 40 youths which will be handled by experts from Airbus Company.

“I want to assure Akwa Ibom people, this is what we call a total approach to aviation development and we want to take all at the same time, Airline, Airport Terminal Building MRO, Runway and other aviation facilities.

" I hope you are aware that Airbus experts are on ground, to train youths in Piloting and Aeronautical Engineering, they are on the first phase here in Nigeria while the second and the third phase will be done at Airbus in France.

We will train more once we finish the first badge of 40 my target is to train 100 youths before I leave office”, he explained.

The Governor who expressed satisfaction with the 3.6 km taxi way, appreciated the quality and standard of the project executed by GITTO Construzioni Generali Nigeria.

The Project Director of Camosa Nigeria Limited handling the MRO project, while conducting the Governor around the project, said that the project has been on for thirteen months and was currently at 84% completion.

At the International Terminal Building, the Project Manager, VKS Construction Limited Mr Ziya Sungur clarified that the major structural works have been completed and is left with furnishing with the required fittings for smart operations.

Similarly, the Project Manager of Gitto, Chief Ghanem Rasbeih, said that the 1.5 out of 3.6Km of the new Taxi Way is 100% completed, while the remaining was at 80% completion .

The project managers assured the Governor that the three projects will be completed before the end of 2022.

...PLAN MEGA ENDORSEMENT RALLY FOR UMO ENO'S GOVERNORSHIP BID, SATURDAY


Traders in Akwa Ibom have urged Governor Udom Emmanuel to accept the offer by the Brekete Family Media and other well meaning Nigerians to step forward and rescue Nigeria, even as they have pledged a N500million donation as their own contribution for the actualisation of the Presidential bid.

They have also concluded plans to down tools on Saturday, close down all shops for a mega rally in Uyo to support Pastor Umo Eno's ambition as Governor.

Speaking on behalf of the traders, Wednesday in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, President of the Akwa Ibom State Traders Association, Mr. Idorenyin Raphael said the call was necessitated by the Governor's track record of performance so far in less than 7 years as Governor.

He explained that Nigeria at the moment needs a leader in the mould of Mr. Emmanuel with proven track records of performance, competence, credibility and capacity to fix its cracks and restore the country.

Raphael who also doubles as the South/South & South-East Chairman, National Association of Nigerian Traders as well as the Special Assistant to the Governor on Traders Matters, disclosed that the traders had carried out a thorough appraisal of the contenders for the nation's Number One seat, and came to the conclusion that Mr. Udom Emmanuel remains the best man for the job.

"Now, that Nigeria has challenges, now that Nigeria has a problem, we need such a performer in the person of Udom Emmanuel. We are asking him to run for the office of the President. He shoud not be silent, he has what it takes to transform Nigeria".

He described Governor Udom Emmanuel as the most traders- friendly Governor the state has ever produced, and lauded him for the N2billion business support and free interest loan he gave to the traders. Mr. Raphael hinted that another interest free loan to the tune of N4billion is underway for Akwa Ibom traders.

Describing the Governor as a promise keeper, Idorenyin Raphael stated; "He said he was going to appoint traders into his government as aides. He promised to donate buses to the traders and also promised to provide interest free loans of N2 billion to traders. We were thinking it's politics, but within 30 days in office, he appointed me as his Special Assistant on Traders Matters, he appointed four other traders as his aides on Projects Monitoring and Market Monitoring".

Flanked by other Market leaders, the Governor's aide described a leading Governorship aspirant in the build up to the 2023 Governorship election in Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno as 'the best for the State'.

He said Umo Eno who is also a trader given the nature of his business, has the full backing of Akwa Ibom traders.

"Now that a trader is coming to transform Akwa Ibom State, he has our support. We traders don't believe in micro-zoning. We have assessed those aspiring to govern us and have found Umo Eno as the best among all of them.

"Ask those contesting if they have created a kiosk in all their lives? Ask them how many people they have employed?. We did our assessment and the only man qualified is Pastor Umo Eno".

"Look at his investments. Akwa Ibom traders are routing for Umo Eno. Don't also forget that traders are also delegates in the forthcoming primary election of the party. I can mention so many of them who own shops and are our members"

"On Saturday we are going to close our markets just for our man, a trader of proven integrity.

"During his brief stint as Commissioner for Lands and Water Resources, he signed over 200 certificates of occupancy for traders in Akwa Ibom and remains the only man that consulted traders and intimated them of his aspiration," Mr Raphael added.

This position was also collaborated by the State chairman of National Automobile Technicians Association, NATA, Elder Umoh Paul, the Woman Leader of Mrs Magdalene Udom, the President of Akwa Ibom State Timber Dealers Association, Deacon Effiong Ekpenyong, and the State Chairman of the Cooperative Society of Nigeria, Mr Jonah Asuquo.

[sub][/sub]Ahead of the of the 2023 Presidential election, Nigeria Delta Youths under the aegies of the 'Niger Delta Youth Congress' NDYC have called on Political parties in Nigeria to zone the Presidential seat to the 'core South/South' part of the country in the interest of equity, fairness and justice.

The youths made their position known at a press briefing held at the D.S.C. Conference Hall in Warri, Delta State.

The NDYC hinted that youths of the region have resolved not to support any presidential aspirant or candidate who is not from the core South/South part of the country in the forthcoming Presidential poll.

In a statement endorsed by the National Coordinator of NDYC, Snr. Comrade Israel Uwejeyan and the National Secretary, Snr. Comrade Bakpa Orehime, the youths stated emphatically that having watched keenly, those aspiring from various political parties to lead the country in 2023, the youths have come to the conclusion that these crop of politicians are not really the persons Nigerans want, including the. Niger-Dela Youths.


"Already, as you know there are a lot of people in various Political parties gunning to be President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and they are moving across the country to garner support for their ambition to be actualized. We have keenly watched them and their activities, but have clearly seen that they are not really the persons Nigerans want including we in NDYC"

"We want to state unequivocally that the Presidential candidate slot is to be zoned to South/South region of Southern Nigeria. We should not forget that this part of Nigeria, which is the core South-South have brought about stability, prosperity and progress since 1960 Nigeria got her independence till date"


"The core South-South have been in strong alliance with the Northern part of Nigeria as a people right from the second republic. The South-South played a vital role for the late President Shehu Aliyu Shagari of blessed memory to win the keenly contested Presidential election of 1979, and this same core South/South people massively voted for his reelection in 1983 for a second term as Nigeria's President".


Continuing, the group lamented that the core South-South is yet to complete 'its' second tenure' 2015 . The group is of the believe that since the South-South zone was deprived the opportunity of going for a second term in office, 2023 is the right time to allow the zone the opportunity to produce the next President.

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, has inaugurated a five-man Dakkada Luxury Estate Board, with an assurance that the state government will not rest on its oars in expanding the housing and educational facilities to accommodate the influx into the state occasioned by alluring government policies.

Performing the inauguration today on the floor of the Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Uyo, Governor Emmanuel observed that the Ewet Housing and Shelter Afrique estates in Uyo are already overstretched hence the Dakkada Luxury Estate becomes a necessity as a next point of call for a serene topnotch housing area.

Constituted into the Board were, Paul Usoro SAN as Chairman, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem, Mr. Churchill Udo, Brig. Gen. Koko Essien (Rtd.) as members and Hillary Ekpo as Secretary.

According to the governor, the essence of the Dakkada Luxury Estate Board was to clarify its status as a Limited Liability Company that will not be running at government expense.

The governor assured that with the assurance of steady power, a reliable reticulation system for portable water, LPG duct, broadband internet service in the very low density housing estate, the demand for the estate is already high, hence the guarantee that it will be self sustaining and generate enough revenue for expansion before the 600 units are exhausted.

Expatiating on the importance of such a facility in the state, Governor Emmanuel said shelter was very key in any developing economy, adding that the free and compulsory education policy in the state has caused influx of people into Akwa Ibom, thus overstretching public facilities and raising the need to expand educational and shelter in time to avoid the state being overrun.

He disclosed that also in the offing were plans to develop a medium density and high density estates that will accommodate people who cannot afford the multimillion low density luxury estate adding that the government has also secured financing to develop housing estates for Civil servants.

To accommodate the influx of families with children of school age, the governor said his administration was considering setting up another big school in the outskirt of Uyo to ease the already overstretched schools in the Uyo metropolis.

He said, "the way the city is expanding is alarming, but it's a good problem. Nature has a way of creating these expansions so we have to deliberately expand to accommodate.

"So we are ready and I am sure within the next one year we should get set with high density and medium density housing estates.

"Even in terms of schools, all the schools in Uyo are overstretched. We are considering setting up a very big secondary school somewhere around Ikono Uyo"

The Board Chairman, Mr. Paul Usoro SAN, in his response, lauded the Governor's ingenuity in providing a development compass for the state, well beyond the period of his regime and thanked him for an opportunity to share in his vision.

Usoro assured the governor and the people of the state that the Board will walk as a team to deliver on the vision behind the establishment of the Dakkada Luxury Estate, make effort to achieve the second phase of the project and beyond.



Media Unit
Govt House, Uyo
Akwa Ibom State
05/04/22

Insult and appeal are two words that are not similar in any guise, no matter who attempts to force a resemblance. While the former means to offend (someone) by being rude, insensitive or insolent; to demean or affront someone, the later simply means to call on one for aid; to make earnest request, etc. While insult suggests disrespect, disregard, demeaning disposition, appeal amplifies humility, respect and regard for others views.

Attempting to compare the outright disrespect on Akwa Ibom sons and daughters by OBA who called them dogs with Pst. Umo Eno's solemn appeal for people to "enter a car without reading the inscription" is laughable. OBA'S statement of "Who Born dog" is alien to our culture, but popularly believed to be imported from clandestine/nocturnal associations while Pst Umo Eno's statement is a common adage used by our elders to appeal or encourage people.

Interestingly, there are two broad instances to the contextual usage of the above lines by the frontline gubernatorial aspirant of the People's Democratic party, Pst Umo Eno. First, the statement is a faith-based statement. It suggests trust and undying faith in the promise of God. As a pastor, Umo Eno will never make any statement that is not wrapped in the cloak of faith, and as the scripture puts it, spiritual things are considered as foolishness in the eyes of a carnal man.

God told Abram to leave his hometown to a strange land where he knew nobody. Abraham would have asked God for direction, for guarantee, for clear terms and all of that. But as a man of faith, he didn't question God. He gathered his household and off they embarked on a journey of "undefined" destination. Abraham simply entered the vehicle of God without reading the inscription. This is faith. When God is involved in a case, your job is to trust Him and not to explain to him how difficult the case is.

Pst Umo Eno simply told the people
to trust him on this assignment, and forget the campaign of calumny, character assassination, body shaming and name calling. His words as resoundingly echoed was "Trust me on this race, and forget about what they are writing against me". It was an appeal. He never called them dogs. He didn't beg to be compensated. He gave the people hope, and staked his integrity, when he urged the people to enter the vehicle and forget about all else.

Second, the statement "enter the vehicle and forget the inscription" is similar to the popular statement: "Don't judge a book by the cover."
This English idiom " is a metaphorical phrase that means one should not judge the worth or value of something by its outward appearance alone. For example, "That man may look very small and insignificant, but don't judge a book by its cover – he's a very powerful man in his circle".

It equally means that one should not form an opinion on someone or something based purely on what is seen on the surface, because after taking a deeper look, the person or thing may be very different than what was expected.

This phrase which goes back to at least the mid-19th century equally made an appearance in the newspaper Piqua Democrat, June 1867 and was quoted in full thus:
“Don’t judge a book by its cover, see a man by his cloth, as there is often a good deal of solid worth and superior skill underneath a jacket and yaller pants.”

Pst Umo Eno is a man of character who knows how to choose his words. He has been in the corporate business world over the years, and trust me, these business players value words, and they know how to use them.

Richard Peters

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As the race to Hilltop mansion, the official residence of the Governor of Akwa Ibom state enters critical stage, startling revelations of the arm-twisting and desperate political maneuvers of the Senator representing Uyo senatorial district in the senate Obong Bassey Albert popularly called (OBA) has been exposed.



The latest revelation emanated from a prominent man of God and founder of one of the top churches in Akwa ibom state who gave an insight into Senator Albert desperation to penetrate the governor’s heart by trying fruitlessly to compromise the Christian leaders in the state popularly called “fathers of faith”.

According to the Christian father who craved anonymity for safety reason in a chat with our reporter, “Oba had long before the Governor revealed Pastor Umo Eno as his preferred candidate for PDP ticket enlisted Bishop Cletus Bassey with mouthwatering offers to break into the ranks of fathers of faith and get them endorse and present him to the governor as their chosen candidate and God’s ultimate revelation to them.

Arch Bishop Cletus Bassey popularly called political Bishop Swing into action and mobilized some prominent fathers of faith to Abuja on all expense paid trip with adequate hotel and other bills footed.

However trouble started when the agenda of the Abuja meeting was unveiled to the fathers of faith who immediately discovered that they are in Abuja to be used by Oba to achieve his dream of taking over from Emmanuel in 2023.



Our Sources explained that after the fathers of faith have been treated to some sumptuous meal and rested, they were told in clear terms that they were in Abuja on the invitation of Senator Bassey Albert’s 2023 ambition.



He further highlighted that Oba sent for them to strike a deal which will fetch all of them a cool N50 million each and all they need to do is to go as a united front to Governor Udom Emmanuel and inform him that after ceaseless prayers and fasting God revealed him to them as the next governor and should be supported.



Our Reporter gathered that the meeting was abruptly brought to an end with the fathers of faith exchanging hot words with bishop Cletus bassey for cajoling them to Abuja to compromise their integrity and hard earned reputation.



Our reporter gathered that Bishop Bassey sensing that the project which he hoped to reap millions of naira was dead on arrival hurriedly called the senator to come over while appealing for their understanding.



Senator Bassey Albert arrival and confirmation of the promised N50million each for them further infuriated the fathers of faith who walked out on the Abuja meeting and returned home.



Unperturbed and still filled with false hope and confidence, Oba last December again approached Bishop Cletus Bassey and energized him to resurrect the Akwa ibom Christian Assembly popularly called (ACA) and mandated him to use it as an alternative platform to confront and possibly diminish the strength and popularity of fathers of faith in the state.

In the spirit of the then season over 1000 bags of rice and undisclosed amount running into millions of naira was put at his disposal to commence the onslaught.



Our source who said he has keenly observed the political style of senator Bassey Albert described him as a very desperate and vicious politician who has no interest in the future of the state but rather to perpetuate himself in government and continue to feather his nest from common patrimony.



According to him, “Akwa ibom needs a visionary and result oriented leader who fears God and loves the people. We need a man who will continue the developmental strides of the governor and not one coming to pursue vendetta. Akwa ibom has seen a man who had through sheer hard work and faith in God built ever growing business empire and have employed several youths of the state to earn decent living through his conglomerate in the person of Pastor Umo Eno.

“He has displayed maturity and love for the state by not joining issues with those bent on blackmailing him for no just cause and Akwa ibom people are now better informed on the real enemies of the state”. He intoned.

https://nationnewslead.com/aibom-2023-sen-akpans-desperation-to-compromise-clergies-exposed/

Another milestone in the Udom Emmanuel's Completion agenda and fulfilment of his campaign promise to industrialize the state, create opportunities for the teeming youths and provide avenues for wealth creation gave rise to Kings Flour Mill through the Public Private Partnership of Governor Udom Emmanuel administration.

Located at Mkpok-Okad Village, Onna LGA, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, is the Kings Flour Mill which occupies 4.892 metres square of closed area with 47.406 metres square of open area.

The far-sighted Governor Udom foresaw the need to catapult Akwa Ibom into a state bubbling with industries and attract private Investors who will partner with the state to bring investment into Akwa Ibom.

Kings Flour Mill is built with high-tech full automated machines including: wheat flour milling machine, family workshop milling, flour milling plants, single sifter machine and the double roller mill.

It is worthy of mention that, the factory has different sections including the emergency unit, the administrative block, expatriates apartment, warehouse, tunnels for wheat and other raw materials.

The flour factory produces and packages wheat flour and semolina. With raw materials silos of over 15,000 tons capacity, the mill produces more than 500 metric tons of flour everyday and is capable of providing direct and indirect jobs for 1500 youths of Akwa Ibom State.

Agriculturist in the state are all out to explore the diverse opportunities that comes with the mill as Akwa Ibom is blessed with vast land area with good soil which is wheat friendly. This window will allow wheat farmers to venture into local production of wheat and also become major producers of raw materials for the mill.

Indeed Udom Emmanuel saw the future ahead and decided to turn Akwa Ibom into Nigeria's new industrial hub by creating industries and partnering with private Investors to bring investments to Akwa Ibom State.

~ Ini Mbang

...as PDP tours Ikono/Ini federal constituency

The immediate past Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Glory Edet has stated that her loyalty and that of Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency to Governor Udom Emmanuel and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is total.

The Ini Chapter Coordinator of Maintain Peace Movement (MPM) stated this when the PDP train arrived Ikono/Ini for its ongoing federal constituency tour which took place at Ikono local government council headquarters, Tuesday, March 29.

Addressing a mammoth crowd of party faithful, Dr. Edet while assuring the state Chairman and hierarchy of the party of the unwavering structure of the party in the area also restated that Governor Udom has done well and the Party.

"I want to assure you sir that the Ntippe Ibibio are solidly behind the party and the Completion Agenda of the Governor and we shall properly demonstrate this at the polls", she added.

In his remarks, the state Chairman of the PDP, Elder Aniekan Akpan commended the Ikono/Ini party structure for their loyalty and commitment and warned against any action that is capable of breeding disunity in the party.

"I am here to thank the party structure of Ikono and Ini for maintaining peace and for their continuous support to PDP; you have always done it and I know you will do it again". "If you aspire for a position and it doesn't turn out as expected, stay with us as there will certainly be sufficient settlement for all persons who may end up disappointed", Mr. Akpan stated.

In their seperate remarks, the Ikono chapter Chairman of PDP Barr. Ekemini Uba and his counterpart from Ini, Hon. Emmanuel Uma both reaffirmed their unwavering support to the party and advised all aspirants to abide by the existing zoning arrangements which bind the two sister LGAs to further engender equity, justice and peaceful co-existence.

Those who also spoke were, senator Aloysius Etok, Dr. Offiong Offor, the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture, Prof. Augustine Umoh, Hon. Commissioner for Health, Sir Victor Etefia, SA on Petroleum, state Organising Secretary of PDP, Barr. Moses Akpan and a host of others.

Highpoint of the event was the welcoming back into the party of a former two term House of Representatives member, Rt. Hon. (Prof.) Ini Udoka, who rejoined the party alongside his supporters from APC.

PURPORTED ACCORD BETWEEN OBA AND GOV EMMANUEL OVER 2023 VERY LAUGHABLE - UDOM'S AIDE REPLIES EPHRAIM INYANG

The claims by the former Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr Ephraim Inyangeyen of a purported existing political accord that tended to cede the governorship position of Akwa Ibom State in 2023 to Senator Bassey Albert, has been described as laughable and a fictitious.

Speaking in a radio interview programme in Uyo on Monday, a public affairs analyst, Mr Essien Ndueso said the election of Governor Udom Emmanuel in 2015 came after the people of Akwa Ibom State had unanimously agreed that whether by zoning or rotation, the political authority of the state from 2015-2023 should reside in Eket Senatorial District.

Mr Ndueso, a Special Assistant to the Governor on Research and Documentation wondered how Senator Albert could have stepped down for Governor Emmanuel in a race he was never qualified to contest.

"Senator Albert was at the time the Commissioner for for Finance and was part of the State delegation led by the then Governor Godswill Akpabio that tour all the federal constituencies in Akwa Ibom State through town hall meetings.

"He witnessed a general opinions of traditional and religious clerics, the business and political classes, traders and artisans, women and youth leaders, and the consensus was that power should shift, rotate or be zoned to Eket Senatorial District in 2015."

Essien Ndueso, who at the time was a Personal Assistant to the immediate past Governor, said that it was unfortunate that despite being a ranking member of the State Executive Council who was on the entourage of Governor throughout the town hall meetings, Bassey Albert went on to defy the unanimous decision by purchasing the governorship form.

Mr Ndueso also took a swipe at the allegation of poor reward system as peddled by the former Commissioner for Works.

He said Senator Bassey Albert negotiated and got a senate ticket ahead of his kinsman Senator Ita Enang in 2015 and got returned to the Senate in 2019, still another case of reward, and wondered why a person who has been appointed a Finance Commissioner for 7 and a half years and Senator for another eight years, complain of not being adequately rewarded.

To this end, he felt disappointed that Chief Ephraim Inyang who joined the government of Akwa Ibom State for the first time in 2015, before he was sacked for incompetence few weeks ago, could come out to mislead the public on a non existent accord that had no witness except himself.

Mr Ndueso, who served under the Director of Media Mr Ekerete Udoh and the Chairman of the Media and Publicity Directorate of the Campaigns Hon. Aniekan Umanah, as the Chief Information Officer in the 2015 PDP Campaigns, said Mr Ephraim Inyangeyen obviously erred in his submissions since he had not yet returned to the state from his sojourn in Lagos during the buildup to the elections.

The press has gradually been reduced to what Hunter Thompson described as a gang of cruel gays; a cheap catch-all for fuckoffs and misfits—a false doorway to the backside of life, a filthy piss-ridden little hole nailed off by the building inspector, but just deep enough for a wino to curl up from the sidewalk and masturbate like a chimp in a zoo-cage.
This is the picture that emergency media groups birthed from the pockets of OBA and Inyangeyen have turned a noble profession into.

The continuous display of tantrum and desperation by Bassey Albert, Ephraim Inyang and their cohorts because of the staggering credentials of Pst. Umo Eno is enough proof that the later is the best hand for the Hilltop mansion in the 2023 general election.
Already, Pst. Umo Eno's aspiration has suffocated sleep from their eyes, and these attacks are the last effort of a dying man to gasp for air. It is the similitude of a snake whose head has been chopped off.

This last display of failed strength by these fellows is simply a means devised to win the sympathy of members of the public. They have engaged pseudo groups and media hirelings to attack Gov. Udom Emmanuel and the aspiration of Pst Umo Eno, but all have failed. They recruited spies and paid persons to make comments capable of inciting violence, and all their efforts ended in futility. Now, they are engaging Ephraim Inyang to spew lies and fabricate falsehood, that he was at the meeting where Bassey Albert was asked to be patient, that when the Governorship position rotates back to Uyo Senatorial District, he would be given the first right of refusal.

The question begging for answer is: Who was Ephraim Inyang prior to 2015? Who heard his name? He was not even in Akwa Ibom, not even a decorated custom officer in the real sense of it. Who would even invite him to such meeting. He should eternally be thankful to Gov. Udom Emmanuel who made him, and now he can boast of an address in the heart of Uyo.

Another insulting lie from Inyangeyen is that OBA was begged to step down. Can he produce the agreement reached on that day? Was it just a voiced agreement, and he consented to that? No former banker would just take an empty agreement, if such had ever happened, without desiring that a legal document be attached to it.

Again, how can someone who was not standing for election step down? OBA never bought declaration of interest form/nomination form. He only granted interview to social media writers, and that was all. He then erected few billboards in Uyo. That's all. Besides, the Governorship seat as at 2015 was not even zoned to Uyo Senatorial District, so how could he have stepped down?

Now that the seat is zoned to Uyo Senatorial District, why is he also wailing that no one else should contest? Is the seat his birthright?

To start with, is Pst Umo Eno not an Akwa Ibomite? Does he not have the right to contest election?
Beyond the constant narrative of being the preferred candidate, does he not have the requisite qualification to aspire for the office of Governor?

His track records, pedigrees and achievements in both private and public service attest to the fact that he is the most qualified.

Are the people of Akwa Ibom not clamouring for a Governor with the staggering credentials of Pst Umo Eno? Why then the hatred and attack of calumny and propaganda?

Pst. Umo Eno is an accomplished entrepreneur who has provided employment to over 2000 indigenes of Akwa Ibom state, a revered clergy and administrator. As a political science scholar, he understands the art and science of leadership. When it comes to board room politics, he is an expert. He has been the chairman of Hotels and Tourism Board and Executive Director of Agric. Investment, after years of sitting as the Governor of Royalty Hotels, before his resignation to serve as Commissioner for Lands and Water Resources, Akwa Ibom state.

Let it be re-echoed that Pst Umo Eno's aspiration and pedigree will continue to rob the enemies of Akwa Ibom of sound sleep and peace of mind. For the righteous, it shall be joy unspeakable.

Governor Udom Emmanuel's tour of the oil and gas exploration site, OML-13 in Atabrikang, Eastern Obolo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State has left so many people in awe, after it was discovered that the facilities would commence operations by the ending of the year and is capable of engaging over 5,500 young people.

The project seeks to actualize rural and riverine area development drive of Governor Udom Emmanuel as captured in his Completion Agenda to meet the anticipated goal of tackling unemployment and expanding the economic growth of the State.

"I have assessed the level of work done. Most times when we make statements, because people are so used to political statements, they probably think that we are just talking politics. I believe that today Eastern Obolo has seen tremendous progress”, Governor Emmanuel said of the project.

Seven oil fields is at advance stage of completion, with floatation station, storage station and other facilities built in the space of seven months.

The project is undertaken by Sterling Oil in collaboration with the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company, NPDC, Natural Oil Services Limited, NOSL and other partners in oil and gas sector.

... Lauds James Iniama, Other Aspirants for Orderliness

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State has given reassurance that it will not shift grounds on its democratic ideals in the process of nominating the standard bearer of the umbrella party for the 2023 gubernatorial race.

Akwa Ibom State Chairman of the PDP, Rt Hon (Elder) Aniekan Akpan, who re-echoed the Party's assurances on Friday March 25, during the consultative visit of a governorship aspirant, Mr James Iniama, said the entrenched fundamental policies of internal democracy which the PDP in Akwa Ibom State has been noted and celebrated for, will be fully upheld to give credibility and fairness to all aspirants in the race.

"We will not change from our democratic ideals and we have said that the entire process will be very transparent and credible. It is not the first time we are doing this and we will not change in that direction", the chairman said.

Akpan who welcomed the Itu born estate manager and business man, James Iniama, specially lauded his campaign delegation for adhering to the party's directive on decorum as well as other aspirants for the orderly pre-primary engagement.

On his part, the guber hopeful, Iniama, while soliciting support from stakeholders of the party in his governorship bid, said he is ready to serve and make the party proud as governor if given the opportunity.

"I find great joy and fulfilment when I am given opportunity to serve. I find politics very sacrificial."

"I carry the Akwa Ibom dream, the dream that will offer equal opportunity to everyone.
I know the nooks and crannies of this state. I understand the needs of Akwa Ibom State and I am ready to offer solutions", said Iniama.

The guber hopeful also harped on educational development and infrastructure, making a case for agricultural development plan and more investments in the trade sector of the state.

By his consultative visit, Iniama became the tenth governorship aspirant to meet the state leadership of PDP to declare intention for run.

Public officers have again been charged to allow selflessness and integrity to guide them in the discharge of their responsibilities.

They have been reminded to abide by their oaths of allegiance and office which bound them to be more committed to service rather than engaging in acts that serve only their personal motives.

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, stated these when he swore in six new Commissioners into the State Executive Council to replace those who have left in pursuit of sundry political interests.




Governor Emmanuel, at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Uyo, said with barely a year left for his tenure to elapse, the appointees were required to bring their ingenuity to their new assignments as the administration aimed to land successfully.

The Governor used the occasion to also cautioned everyone to be wary of politicians who exhibit anti-state tendencies, political violence and inactions that tend to breach the peace in the state, but rather to make peace the centre of their conduct in the general interest of the state.

He said any politician...

Read more https://nowupdateonline.com.ng/2022/03/26/governor-udom-charges-newly-sworn-in-commissioners-on-selfless-service/

... Promises 5,500 Job Opportunities For Youths, As Firm commences Operations December

Governor Udom Emmanuel has assured that about 5,500 youths will be employed at the commencement of operations of Seven Oil Fields handled by NPDC/ NOSL located in the state by the end of 2022.


Governor Emmanuel made this known on Friday, during an inspection of NPDC & NOSL Oil & Gas Exploration in OML-13 site, at Atabrikang Fields, Eastern Obolo Local Government Area.


The Governor expressed satisfaction with the pace of work ongoing at the project site executed in partnership with Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation( NNPC) and Natural Oil field Service Limited (NOSL), a subsidiary of Sterling oil.


The Governor who assured the people of Eastern Obolo of commencing operations at the Oil Fields, where oil will be drilled by the end of 2022, pointed out that the project will stir up a robust economic chain to the advantage of youths in the community and thanked the implementing partners for their cooperation towards actualising the project.


"Today was for me to come and assess the level of work done, most times when we make statements because people are so used to political statements they probably thought that we were just talking politics, I believe that today Eastern Obolo has seen tremendous progress.

"Let me appreciate our partners in this progress I am shocked by the level of work. You can see within a short period we have developed Seven Oil Fields already, you can see the floatation station, the storage station and the flow lines of the crude oil", he stated.

The Chief Executive advised youths in the area to cooperate with the state government and the companies by maintaining a peaceful environment in order to aid the speedy completion of the project, which will open the area for economic activities.

"I want to plead through the Paramount Ruler and the stakeholders, let the youths cooperate with me, I can bet by the time we start the full refinery the youths will be employed over 5,500.

"We have made a promise to start floatation by the end of 2022, once we start floatation a lot of benefits will follow", the governor assured.

In his remark, the Managing Director, NPDC, Ali Zarah, thanked Akwa Ibom State Government for a peaceful atmosphere to operate as a company and assured of bringing development to the community as well as mutual benefits for all.

Also in his remark, the Chief Executive Officer, Sterling Oil, Mr. Mohit Barot, stated that the company has created over 1000 jobs for youths in the area, and assured of completing the project, adding that Sterling Oil is active in 18 locations and operational at Eastern Obolo, ONNA and Mkpat Enin local government areas.

Member representing Ikot Abasi/ Mkpat Enin/ Eastern Obolo in the House of Representatives, Hon. Francis Uduyok, in a goodwill message thanked Governor Emmanuel for making the project a reality, and expressed satisfaction with the performance of the companies.

He assured of cooperation from the host communities and peaceful atmosphere for the success of the project.

The Akwa Ibom State Caucus in the National Assembly, has shunned three if their members to adopt Mr Umo Eno as their sole candidate for the May 21, 2023 PDP governorship primaries and the 2023 Governorship election.
Akwa Ibom has 13 members in the national assembly made up of three senators and 10 house of Representatives members.
Out of the the 13, three members; Senator Bassey Albert Akpan ,Mr Onofiok Luke and Mr Mike Enyong both of the House of the House of Representatives have openly indicated their aspiration for the governorship in the coming general election.

But in a surprise move, the state caucus in the national assembly, reportedly, adopted Mr Umo Eno, as the sole candidate for the election.

A press release signed by Me Anietie Usen, what is the head of national media of Umo Eno campaign organization, the motion to adopt Umo Eno was moved by a member representing Itu/Ibiono federal constituency, Dr Henry Archibong and seconded by the member representing Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency, Mr Nsikak Ekong.

According to the release, “the lawmakers said their decision to support Umo Eno is premised on his integrity, entrepreneurial accomplishments and strong believe in inter-governmental collaboration and partnership to complete ongoing projects of Governor Udom Emmanuel and sustain the much need peace and serenity in Akwa Ibom State.”

“The parley which took place at the Abuja residence of Senator Akon Eyakenyi saw 10 out of the 13 members of the caucus in attendance and witnessed by frontline politicians and former lawmakers of AkwaIbom origin, including Senator Effiong Bob, Senator Ibok Essien and Senator Aloysius Etok, among others. Senator Chris Ekpenyong, a serving senator, who was indisposed sent his goodwill and solidarity message through Senator Eyakenyi.”

Umo reportedly thanked the lawmakers for their support and solidarity, stating that his emergence as the preferred successor is nothing but a product of God’s grace and not his political strength and know-how.

“I am humbled by the calibre of people here. I thanked God who found me through His Excellency, Governor Udom Emmanuel. The job ahead of us going into the next phase is very crucial. We must be able to convert our State assets into job creation to stem the tide of unemployment. The general national unemployment figures are not looking good. In Akwa Ibom State, agriculture will serve as the low hanging fruits that will create quick impact which must be explored”.

“I am offering myself to provide service. I am ready for a public debate with any other aspirant on job creation with specifics on timelines for implementation”.

” I do not know everything. I am not one of those who knows it all. That is why I will need your advice and support. You need that Governor that you can advise, who will listen to you and who will respect you. I will create a partnership that works between the executive branch of government and the legislature for the good of our people”, he stated.

Eno said Small and Medium Enterprises, SME’s, remains the engine room of even the advanced and developed economies, promising to reposition agriculture to play a major role as one of the biggest employers of labour. He promised to enthrone the sustainability of the prevailing peace, reiterating the need for the peace Governor Udom Emmanuel has built in the State to be sustained.

“Stand by me, give me your shoulders so that I can ride on your shoulders. My aspiration is not an ambition but a calling to serve. With your support we will make Akwa Ibom State better”, he assured.

Addressing the gathering, the DG, Umo Eno Campaign Organisation, Amb. Assam Assam, SAN, said endorsement by any caucus is a great political capital in any democracy the world over. “You are not just representing the people. You are speaking for the people. Today, we stand at a threshold of history. Akwa Ibom caucus has done well and would have done more if the country had a PDP government at the centre”, he noted.

Also speaking, the National Chairman, Maintain Peace Movement, MPM, Hon Barr Emmanuel Enoidem, thanked the lawmakers for their show of patriotism, love and oneness, stating that their endorsement by the national legislators is of great significance, following a similar endorsement by the entire State legislators.

“Parliament is the major ingredient of democracy. Without parliament there is no democracy. We thank you for your support and I can assure you all that with Pastor Umo Eno as Governor, the future of Akwa Ibom State is guaranteed and prevailing peace will be perpetuated.

Responding, the host, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, thanked the team for the visit, stating that it was a honour for the Umo Eno Campaign Organization to visit and consult them in Abuja.
“We feel honored to have you come to consult us officially. We are with you and for you. We are the people’s representatives. We have control over the delegates which is the first bridge to cross. If you have the support of the National Assembly caucus, go to sleep, victory is yours. We will follow you till the end. Your victory will be clean and landslide”, she assured.
Goodwill and solidarity messages were made by Senator Effiong Bob, Senator Emmanuel IbokEssien, Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Caucus in the 7th National Assembly, Senator Aloysius Etok, leader, House of Representatives Caucus, Rt Hon Francis Uduyok, member representing Abak Etim Ekpo Ika Federal Constituency, Hon Aniekan Umanah, Deputy Speaker, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Felicia Bassey, Dean, College of Commissioners and Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Hon Sir Monday Uko, among others.

The atmosphere at the National Secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Wadata Plaza, was Thursday electrified as hundreds of Akwa Ibom State stakeholders accompanied frontline governorship aspirant Pastor Umo Eno to pick his nomination and expression of interest forms.

The stakeholders included the leadership of the Umo Eno Campaign Team,led by the Director General, Amb Assam Assam, the MPM executive members led by Barr Emmanuel Enoidem, serving and former National and State Assembly members, members of the Akwa Ibom Executive Council, local government chairmen, as well as various support groups of Akwa Ibomites.


Addressing reporters shortly after receiving the forms purchased for him by Uyo Senatorial District Stakeholders, Pastor Umo Eno thanked the media for the strategic and supportive role in sustaining the nation's democracy and encouraged journalists to remain committed to fair media attention for everyone seeking elective offices.

He assured them that Akwa Ibom people were in for a new dawn, as he will sustain the peace and development of infrastructure that have become the signature of the state at the moment.

Pastor Eno appreciated the leadership and people of Uyo Senatorial District for their unwavering support and especially for being true to their promise and purchasing the governorship form for him.

The seasoned entrepreneur who was emotional by the gesture said, "I want to thank our brothers in Uyo Senatorial District. I sincerely appreciate you. I appreciate the political leader, Senator Effiong Bob who God has brought for us at a time like this.

'I want to assure you that I would not disappoint Uyo people, and by extension the Akwa Ibom people."

Pastor Eno also consulted the PDP National Secretary, Hon Samuel Anyanwu, the National Organizing Secretary, Umar Bature, the Akwa Ibom/Cross River representative in the National Working Committee, NWC, and National Woman Leader, Prof Stella Effah-Attoe, as well as the National Treasurer, Alhaji Ahmed Mohammed, who was full of kind words to Governor Udom Emmanuel and other Akwa Ibom sons for their contributions to the success of the party.

Members of the Akwa Ibom State Caucus in the National Assembly have declared their unwavering support for the 2023 governorship aspiration of Pastor Umo Eno.


The legislators made their position known during a consultation visit on them by the seasoned entrepreneur and leading Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP) aspirant which took place at the Abuja residence of Senator Akon Eyakenyi.


In a motion moved by Hon (Dr.) Henry Archibong, and seconded by Hon Nsikak Ekong, the members representing Itu/Ibiono, and Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituencies respectively, the lawmakers unanimously endorsed Pastor Eno as their sole candidate for the 2023 Akwa Ibom State Governorship seat.


They noted that their decision to support Pastor Eno is premised on his strong belief for inter-governmental collaboration and partnership, as well as their support to the Completion Agenda of Governor Udom Emmanuel.

In her remarks, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, thanked the team for the visit, stating that it was the first time an aspirant is visit National Assembly members in Abuja to share ideas on collaborative leadership.

"We feel honoured to have you come to consult us officially. We are with you and for you. We are the people's representatives. We have control over the delegates which is the first bridge to cross. If you have the support of the National Assembly caucus, go to sleep, victory is yours. We will follow you till the end. Your victory will be clean and landslide," she assured.

Senator Eyakenyi advocated for the state to recognize the benefits of having ranking legislators in the National Assembly, and appealed that lawmakers seeking return tickets in the 2023 elections should be encouraged.

While maintaining that three of their colleagues are also gunning for the same office of Governor, the national lawmakers were ready to turn in all their delegates and supporters to Pastor Umo Eno.

"See them here, they came here on their own volition, I couldn't have forced them, and they have freely and sincerely expressed readiness to support you."

Addressing the Caucus, Pastor Eno thanked the lawmakers for their support and solidarity, stating that the strong backing he has from senior citizens and political leaders in the state towards the realisation of his 2023 governorship project, is a product of God's Grace.

"God has used Governor Udom Emmanuel to bring so much developments into Akwa Ibom State. We have seen roads, we have seen industries on ground, Ibom Air is flying and we know we have to convert all these to generate massive employments for our youths. Governor Emmanuel has laid a foundation that we must build on, there are low hanging fruits that will turn out employments for our children."


"You need a Governor that you can advise, who will listen to you, listen to the people and also respect you. I do not know everything that is why I will need your advice and support. I will create a partnership that works between the executive branch of government and the legislature for the good of our people," he stated.

Pastor Eno who pledged to run an all inclusive government, said Small and Medium Scale Enterprises, (SME's), remains the engine room of any economy, promising to reposition agriculture to play its major role as one of the biggest employers of labour.

Reiterating the need to further the peace currently enjoyed in the state, the accomplished entrepreneur assured that the legacies of the Governor Udom Emmanuel led administration would be protected.

"Stand by me, give me your shoulders so that I can ride on your shoulders. My aspiration is not an ambition but a call to serve. With your support we will make Akwa Ibom State better," he assured.


Introducing the aspirant, the Director-General, Umo Eno Campaign Organization, Amb Assam Assam (SAN), said endorsement by any caucus is a great political capital in any democracy the world over.

"You are not just representing the people. You are speaking for the people. Today, we stand at a threshold of history. Akwa Ibom caucus have done well and would have done more if the country had a PDP government at the centre," he noted.

He therefore solicited for their endorsement towards the realisation of the Umo Eno 2023 Governorship project.

Also speaking, the National Chairman, Maintain Peace Movement, (MPM), Barr. Emmanuel Enoidem, thanked the lawmakers for their show of patriotism, love and oneness, stating that their endorsement as legislators is symbolic and of great significance.

"Parliament is the major ingredient of democracy. Without parliament there is no democracy. We thank you for your support and I can assure you all that with Pastor Umo Eno as Governor, the future of Akwa Ibom State is guaranteed and prevailing peace will be sustained.

Goodwill messages were received from Senator Effiong Bob, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Caucus in the 7th National Assembly, Senator Aloysius Etok, leader, House of Representatives Caucus, Rt Hon Francis Uduyok, member representing Abak, Etim Ekpo, Ika Federal Constituency, Hon Aniekan Umanah, Deputy Speaker, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Felicia Bassey, and Dean, College of Commissioners and Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Sir Monday Uko, among others.

... SORDID DETAILS OF EX WORKS COMMISSIONER'S 10% CONTRACTS SCAMS

The Uyo office of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC has invited the deputy chairman of the Senator Bassey Albert's Campaign Council, Mr. Ephraim Inyang to appear before it in two weeks, to answer questions bothering on professional fees of Estate Surveyors and Valuers in Akwa Ibom State deducted at source during his tenure as Commissioner for Works between 2015 to 2020.

The amount which is said to be in the region of N1.1Billion was deducted at source during his tenure, but the said amount has not reflected in the compensation/indemnity certificate issued by ArkWay Projects Ltd, the payment consultant hired by Mr Ephraim Inyang for the Works Ministry, during his tenure.

The invitation by the ICPC, comes on the heels of a petition by some estate valuers, notably Mr Godwin Timothy, an Estate surveyor and Valuer, whose firm, Godwin Timothy & Co, represented property owners affected by the Uyo-Etinan road dualisation road project, Ikot-Oku Ikono flyover, Eket remodelling Project and Mkpok-Okat-road construction project.

In the petition of which a copy was obtained by this newspaper, the Estate Surveyor and Valuer had accused the former Commissioner for Works, Ephraim Inyang and one Ubong Williams of Arkway Project Ltd in respect of Attorney fees due to consultants estate surveyors and valuers in Akwa Ibom State.

The former Commissioner for Works, had following an earlier petition to EFCC in February 2019, allegedly paid the estate valuers the sum of N100m, from the initial N1.2bn claims the had presented. The payment was said to have come after Ubong William his financial consultant had been allegedly arrested and detained by the anti-graft agency.

The petition reads in parts; "We are a firm of Estate Surveyors and Valuers with the name (Godwin Timothy and Co) retained by numerous property owners to represent them through power of Attorney at 10%(Ten percent) Professional fee on various road construction projects undertaken by the Akwa Ibom State government namely;Eket Urban Remodelling Project, Uyo-Etinan road dualisation Project, Mkpok-Okat-road construction, Ekom Iman flyover project."


Based on the above listed projects, we submitted our duly registered power of Attorney to ArkWay Projects Limited" who is the Government Appointed Payment Consultant under the State Ministry of Works that is manned by (Mr. Ubong Williams), the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer. However, Mr. Ubong Williams resorted to paying our client (property owners) directly after deducting 10% Professional fees due to our client, same has not been reflected on the Indemnity Forms our Clients were made to sign before they were paid their compensation sum,,

It is our humble submission that the final value of valuation report submitted by the Government Valuer to ArkWay Projects Limited does not reflect the same value that is paid to our clients.

Therefore we plead that you launch discrete investigation into the activities of Arkway Project Limited and that of Hon. Commissioner for Works to unravel the fraud perpetuated in the course of payment of compensation sum.


Fraudulent actions against the former Works Commissioner, include the alleged deduction of ten percent of total released funds for properties, payments for ghost houses, payment for properties that were not affected by the construction and were never demolished, among others.

For example, it was revealed that money approved and claimed to be released to a property owner whose property was on Awa Iman road Project, was N2,525,523. But the property owner, Otobong Udo Ntuen with property code number BNP/DUA/AI/R/01A, fr available documents received only N2,272,971(Two million, two hundred and seventy two thousand, nine hundred and seventy one naira, with ten percent of the money unaccounted for.

The anti-graft agency is said to have written to Ephraim Inyangeyen demanding for the release of valuation report especially on Etinan-Ndon Eyo road Project, payment schedule on the same road project and indemnity certificate.

It is not clear why Ephraim Inyangeyen has refused to cooperate with the agency in unraveling the mystery behind the disappearance of the said 10percent of compensation funds.

Speaking with this newspaper, the CEO of Godwin Timothy & Co, Surveyor Godwin Timothy, armed with documents to back his claim, said he was miffed at the magnitude of underhand dealings allegedly pepetrated under Ephraim's watch.

He showed documents showing how compensation for fictitious properties in three villages along Etinan-Ndon Eyo road dualisation Project were paid while Mr Inyangeyen strolled as seer in the Ministry of Works.

Speaking with this newspaper on the frustrations he has encountered in his attempt to get the money for property owners who contracted him to represent them, Godwin said "the 10 percent Money belongs to owners of property affected by Uyo-Etinan, Eket remodelling and Mkpok-Okat-Onna road".

"As at 22nd february, 2016, the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers wrote demanding for the release of their money he didn't respond. Up till today the money has not been paid".

A reference to an interview in a video during his time as Commissioner was referred to this reporter, where Mr Inyangeyen was seen explaining that he was reluctant to release the 10percent to the estate valuers until he finishes paying property owners, and would do so at a later date.

When reached on phone at press time, Commissioner in the Agency for Akwa Ibom, Sola Shodipo rather invited this reporter to meet him in his office and promised to give insights on the issue.



_Culled from Global Pilot Newspaper_

COMMUNIQUE OF THE SOUTH SOUTH STAKEHOLDERS MEETING OF THE PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY, HELD IN UYO, AKWA IBOM STATE ON MONDAY, 21ST MARCH 2022

On this 21st day of March 2022, Stakeholders of the South South zone of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, met in Uyo Akwa Ibom State and resolved as follows:

1. That the zone is committed to the enthronement of true federalism in all ramifications, both in principle and practice.

2. That the zone is worried over the prevailing state of insecurity across the country and calls for more concerted effort to enhance the operational efficiency of the security architecture. It therefore resolved that the zone reiterates it's demand for creation of state police.

3. The zone frowns at the continuous and unlawful violation of the Niger Delta Development Commission Act by the use of Sole Administrator in the management and running of the agency and calls on federal government asa matter of urgency to immediately constitute a Governing Board.

4. The zone also demands that the forensic audit of the NDDC be made public and implemented without further delay.

5. The zone is also fully in support of the provision of the Southern Governors Forum that the next President of Nigeria comes from the Southern part of Nigeria.

6. That the zone commends the PDP governors of the South South for putting the region on the world map through the development projects being initiated and commissioned regularly.

7. The zone also resolved that NNPC should recognize the region in siting infrastructural projects as being implemented in other regions.

8. The zone also frowned that despite the contributions of the zone to the economy of the nation, stakeholders are worried and frowns at the fact that there is no existent of federal presence by way of projects in the region, including the non completion of the East-West road.

9. The zone commends the government of Akwa Ibom State under the leadership of Governor Udom Emmanuel for making the hosting of the summit a memorable one .
We so submit.

Who is a deceiver? This is a question that only your conscience can answer. It is a question that Akwa Ibom people should judge and provide sincere answer to. The devil did not start today to accuse the righteous as the Bible clearly identified him as the accuser of the brethren. In our time, one of his sons who is faithfully doing the bidding of his father the devil, is doing what he knows best how to do: Betraying his master and deceiving his kinsmen.

There is a story credited to the former Commissioner for Works Ephraim Inyangeyen at Ikot Ekpene over the weekend where he said Ikot Ekpene people should refuse to be deceived again. As funny as that sound, it questions the moral standing of Ephraim Inyangeyen to give such a piece of advice.

Although he did not mention who he was referring to as deceivers, the people should know that Inyangeyen's movement, smile, body language, character and disposition are symbolism of deceit.

This is someone that has won many accolades for lying, a man that has been decorated in the Hall of Fame for liars.

How can you describe a man who would value your house, demolish same and gives you peanut as compensation while pocketing a greater percentage of the money for your property? Maybe there is something worse than a deceiver or traitor.

To start with, who was Ephraim Inyangeyen before 2015? We were told he was sacked from the Nigerian Custom Service. Despite that, his kind-hearted brother, the governor, picked him, brushed him up and offered him a juicy appointment as Works Commissioner, with the belief that he would deliver on his assignments. But what did Ephraim do? As someone who has been feasting on people's sweat and efforts without thinking of the suffering they would go through alongside their families, he started surcharging the people.

Ephraim Inyangeyen in his days as Commissioner made many Akwa Ibom people to cry, lament and wail helplessly. Some even developed cases of hypertension/high blood pressure. He was directly involved in compensating owners of buildings before demolishing buildings that needed to be removed before construction work commenced on some roads. He usurped the people's money. He would bring estate valuers that would dance to his tune, value the building and pay only a minute percentage to the owners of the buildings, and pocketed the rest.

People whose buildings were demolished could only afford to acquire land, but no money to build again. What a display of heartlessness? There was tears in the land. People were rendered homeless and families separated because of Ephraim Inyangeyen's selfishness.

But no one knew he was actually playing a script for today, so that he would have what to lay hands on and discredit the person who made him who he is today.

When Ephraim was the Commissioner for Works, citizens dragged the government to court and injunctions were placed for the government to discontinue construction work on several roads. A case in point is the family of Etukudo in Eket LGA where the learned members of the family filed cases against the Government because of Inyangeyen's trick and deceitfulness. He couldn't play on the intelligence of lawyers in that family and that thwarted the Eket remodeling project for over four years. He was busy abusing Etukudo's family on the media and told Eket People to hold the Etukudos responsible for the delay in the project, when he was actually the culprit.

He did similar thing to contractors. Contractors that would never succumb to his antics of negotiating his share, which in most cases were bigger than what was required to finish the job, would be pushed aside, while those that would dance to his tune were given contracts. He would bid with the these contractors and make lame offers that would put them at a crossroad where they could not deliver standard work at the end. Cases abound where road projects supervised by Inyangeyen collapsed less than 3 months after commissioning. The people blamed the governor for littering the state with substandard roads. The governor took the blows as a leader, when Inyangeyen was actually acting a script that he would use today against the governor. He is now the one castigating the governor for building substandard roads when he was directly handling the said construction work. What a world?

It breaks my heart that a man whom the governor so trusted with such sensitive position could betray the governor, his kinsmen and Akwa Ibom people. Today, he is preaching to people not to be allowed to be deceived again. Who is the deceiver here?

The present Commissioner for Works, Prof. Eno Ibanga is doing the same job Ephraim was asked to do, and nobody is complaining. There is no single court case. Buildings are demolished and compensations paid in tandem with current prices of building materials. If Ephraim wasn't removed, he would have built another edifice in choice location with the proceeds from sharp practices, especially in underpayment of building owners, to enrich himself.

Ephraim Inyangeyen should not talk about deceit where sane people are. Akwa Ibom people know him and his deeds are before all of us. The people suffered, cried and lamented during his reign of terror as works commissioner. Their tears will still hunt Inyangeyen.

When a crowned deceiver is the one campaigning for OBA, what do you expect in the end? All the people in their Campaign train are people who have benefitted so much from Udom's administration, and because they were not allowed to continue to embezzle funds meant for projects, they became aggrieved and decided to work against the Government that made them. The people should refuse to be deceived by these individuals.

Inyangeyen is known for promising and failing. He has promised to build houses to people but never did. He promised to give jobs to people but never did. He promised many cars, but never gave them. He promised many school fees, but never paid for them. He failed not because he didn't have the money, but because he is a selfish man.

In saner climes, people like him should not even talk in public again. He should be indoor because he has betrayed his brother, kinsmen and Akwa Ibom people. He deceived the people he demolished their buildings, and pocketed a greater percentage of the compensations meant for the owners of property. Who is now the real deceiver? Be the judge.

Richard Peters

Russia’s leader, Vladimir Putin has “finally agreed” he will need to meet with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky in person to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The Russian tyrant will allegedly meet Zelensky ‘at some point’, the Express reported, after the Ukrainian leader accused Russia of ‘war crimes’ amid the bombing of an art school and theatre in Mariupol where civilians were sheltering.

The two leaders have let their diplomatic teams conduct peace talks on neutral ground since after the start of the conflict on February 24.




BBC correspondent Lysa Doucet said the Russian President is now believed to have caved to his top diplomats and accepted he will have to attend negotiations himself “at some point.”

Putin has come to terms with fact he will have to lead the negotiations at some time in the future, the BBC’s Lyse Doucet said.

‘The diplomats are talking, the negotiators are talking. We understand President Putin has finally agreed that he will meet, at some point, President Zelensky who has been asking for a meeting since January,’ she said.

‘He hasn’t said it in public, he says quite the opposite in public.’

Zelensky yesterday declared that Russia will ‘go down in history of responsibility for war crimes’, and admonished the invaders’ bombardment and siege of southern port city Mariupol, which has for weeks been pounded by airstrikes and missiles.



Read more https://nowupdateonline.com.ng/2022/03/21/full-details-russian-president-vladimir-putin-agrees-to-meet-ukraines-president-zelensky/

Ifiok is the Ibibio word for 'wisdom'. Great ancient leaders were able to pilot the affairs of their nations to greater heights through wisdom.
According to the Christian bible, the wisest man on earth 'Solomon' became famous after God granted his request for wisdom, Solomon didn't only have an ordinary wisdom, he had wisdom from God which means 'ifiokobong'.

Nsit Ubium has been a quintessence of underdevelopment. Dilapidated infrastructures, lack of basic life amenities like water and good roads have unfortunately prevailed for donkey years.
The future of the youths looked conspicuously precarious, it is only a leader with 'ifiok' that will change this absurd narrative.

Ifiokobong comes with unmatched potentials, humility, and determination to salvage the good people of Nsit Ubium, he has the capacity to offload the people of Nsit Ubium from the present sinking/unstable ship and load them on a ship garnished with positives, pellucid and bright future.

This is a clarion call to the people of Nsit Ubium, Ifiokobong is a rare commodity, support him now!

Ifiokobong is not just a person, it is an 'idea' with myriad positives.

Come 2023, support Ifiokobong to represent the people of Nsit Ubium in the Akwa Ibom State House Of Assembly.

This will be your noble contribution for a better Nsit Ubium.

Recently, as often, a prolific writer, opinion leader and frontline aspirant for Eket Senatorial District, Rt Hon. (Barr.) Ekong Sampson, has philosophised the need for Nigerians to reevaluate the country's value matrix.

Barr. Ekong Sampson was a guest on AKBC Radio yesterday to lend his voice on a topic that needed serious public concern, "The Declining Value of Value in Akwa Ibom State". In such interesting and educating debate on "Udom's Legacies", a programme designed to examine the programmes, ideologies and projects that the Udom Emmanuel led administration in Akwa Ibom State will be remembered for after the expiration of its tenure, anchored by a broadcaster Michael Bush, Barr. Sampson said that the value matrix is an engaging metaphor that lowers the content of "our society".

According to the former two-term House of Assembly Member, the value matrix is not just restricted to Akwa Ibom State, it also challenges the sensitivities of all Nigerians.

"The value matrix is an engaging metaphor. The value matrix lowers the content of our society, and it raises basic questions as to, where we are headed. The value matrix is not only restricted to Akwa Ibom State. It's a bigger challenge. It challenges the sensitivities of all Nigerians. The questions are: where do we place our value system? How does our value matrix exist alongside the spectrum of sentiments? Between value and sentiment, which one should prevail?"

Dr Ekong Sampson linked the elements of value matrix to the present political period and the reality in the public domain. He added that beyond the excitement that flares the air, serious concerns needed to be raised about the distinction between aspirants who drive value and those that drive sentiments.

"We are living in interesting times. The drumbeats are are getting louder for politics. A number of aspirants are coming up and you can feel the excitement in the air. But beyond the excitement, we need to ask serious questions about our value matrix, because as a democracy, sometimes, I get worried. How secure is our democracy? How have we entrenched value that can drive our democracy?

The Onomkpoinam Mkpat Enin, called on the electorate to look at the content of the messages carried by different aspirants before deciding who has the requisite value to drive the democracy.

"The campaigns are now on. People are excited talking to and welcoming the aspirants. In the midst of these excitements, we also have to, as a collective, look at the content. What is the content of our emerging value system? What is the content of our message? I think we cannot isolate the message from the result. The electorates, the wider spectrum, have to ask these basic questions. This is very important, and it bothers me sometimes, because, unless we, ask these basic questions, we can be misled as a people and the masses will suffer."

Asked whether the declining value of culture has any impact on the value system in the society, Dr Sampson said "we are experiencing a drift from what used to be. Maybe it's because of the changing times that we are in. We used to have a profound value system that brought in peace. In the olden days, when the elements came together, our culture was protected. Our sensitivities were protected. Now we're having a steady deviation from what used to hold us together. Just as Chinua Achebe said that the white man has put a knife in the thing that held us together. Things fall apart. We need to look at those norms that held us together. We were so blessed when we saw culture as a bonding material. So, we need to go back to some of those cultural artifacts that were useful to our unity as a society."

Asked if it is the hardship that has taken the society away from the ball of value, Barr. Sampson said it was about the perception of Nigerians regarding why the economy is the way it is.

"I think it is how we are getting to perceive things. It is how we are getting to appreciate why we are where we are today. I am worried because the several trajectories of growth should challenge us to work hard. But we are giving so much attention to quick results. And our investment pattern is compromised. We need to invest in value, invest in substance, and we can get the results that we need."

Dr Sampson said that the value matrix has been compromised to the point that, value and content of the society do not matter to the people, adding that at meetings, these days, no one asks what the speaker is saying, rather, they are interested to know how much is given.

Barr. Sampson, once again, reiterated his political ideology that policy must be used to drive politics, but not the other way around.

He was of the opinion that the reason for the declining value of value is a two way thing, adding that the leaders should be blamed at one point, and, at the other point, the led should be blamed.

"I think it's a two way traffic. First, we, the leaders, have to manage our inclination, our made-belief. We always play to the gallery to impress the people. We know that our supporters may not be as alert as we are. We know what we're doing. We know that what we are really saying may not bring a long term result. But we say it to impress the people. We need to cultivate the right attitude. And we need to look at the parameters that will produce long term effects. The governed, on the other hand, need to ask basic questions that will give answers to the challenges faced in the society. Without value and content, we stand on fault earth.

"I had a discussion yesterday, with someone about Pst. Umo Eno. I told him to look at the content of the man's brain, not the colour of his skin, or his height. It reminded me about a poem I wrote sometime ago 'Vote for Me'. It was a satire, where I raised some basic questions. Don't vote for me because of my dance steps on the podium, which is sentiment. Vote for me because of the content of my brain. Don't vote for me because my grandmother and your grandfather worked together in the customs, or they used to sell fish together at Ibaka. Don't vote for me because my father and your mother were classmates in 1946. That's sentiment. Vote for me because of the content of my brain, because of the ideas that I have and because of my past records. And that calls for the issue of value.

In furtherance of the debate, Dr Sampson described zoning as an instrument that guarantees access to opportunities which should be encouraged.

He also reiterated his commitment to building bridges in Eket Senatorial District to marry the diversity of the area once voted into office as a senator.

He added that he was encouraged by the reception and acceptance his senatorial ambition has received since he started the consultations.

Scoring Gov. Udom Emmanuel on his legacies, Sampson lauded the governor for his Industrialization drive and numerous economic based project, adding that the governor's approach to time was one most important legacy and example he will leave behind.

As the political year of 2023 approaches, questions have begun to pour like a broken tap on the minds of Akwa Ibomites about which candidates to represent them at the State, Federal and Senatorial levels.

In Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency for instance, the people  believe in zoning, equity, fairness and justice. This reason and many more are responsible for the peaceful co-existence between the two sister LGAs. Following a long-standing agreement which has seen Ikono and Ini take their turns respectively on an agreed two-term basis, Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency has had several illustrious sons and daughters contribute their quota in their different varying capacities to the growth of the area.

As 2023 stares at the people of Ikono/Ini, one would be forced to think about the next generation and who will best answer the clarion call as Emmanuel Ukpong-udo gets set to wind down his term, after completing the two terms accrued to Ikono LGA as agreed by the stakeholders of the two LGAs.

The answer to the questions on the minds of the people is here.

As a seasoned lecturer turned politician whose impact has been felt from the hinterlands to the cities and as one prepared for the job to serve her people in the hallowed chambers, Dr. Glory Edet’s expertise in churning tangible results in every responsibility given to her has given her an edge over others as the most qualified for the job.

She held sway as the helmsman of two demanding Ministries (Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare) with diligence, class and distinction leaving behind a multiplicity of success stories in her wake.

Those close to her can attest to the fact that she is a workaholic and one committed to every responsibility given to her. She is a leader who is not scared of storms, one who rides through storms and fear to achieve her goals while soaring like an eagle.

Dr. Edet as an appointtee has attracted jobs, human capital development packages, empowerment programmes to women, men, elders and youths of Ikono/Ini as well as scholarships to deserving students from Ini and Ikono. Road grading has been a recurring decimal in her programmes and she has donated more cars and buses to her constituents more than anyone else has ever done.

Furthermore, Dr Edet is known for her ability to speak out when necessary and for her good reputation, sound character and excellent attitude.

The development of character is the greatest necessity of life. As stated by Byron Pulsifer "Character is not something that you buy; it is not a commodity that can be bartered for; it is not a quality suited for only the rich and famous; rather, character is built upon the foundational commitment of love, honesty and compassion for others".

Who else is better qualified to represent the people of Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency from 2023 other than Glory Edet, Ph.D?

#GodsGlory2023
#BeGloryfied

The people of Ibiono Ibom local government area have apologized to the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Mr Aniekan Bassey, and the entire people of Akwa Ibom State, over the attack by alleged supporters of Senator Bassey Albert who disrupted the Speaker's consultation visit to the area last week.

They have also alleged that those who came to force the Speaker into supporting the Gubernatorial aspiration of Senator Albert, were not true indigenes of Ibiono Ibom.


Mr Aniekan Bassey, who was endorsed by statutory delegates and stakeholders of Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area for the Akwa Ibom North East Senatorial District race.

They consequently reiterated their avowed support and commitment to the Governor Udom Emmanuel’s Completion Agenda, assuring that they will lead the campaign for his succession plan through Pastor Umo Eno and the Senate aspiration of the Speaker in both party primaries and general elections.

At a consultative meeting held on Monday in Uyo, they described Mr Bassey as a humble and viable aspirant who has what it takes to occupy the Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial seat in 2023.

Chairman of the House Committee on Education and member representing Ibiono Ibom State constituency in the State House of Assembly, Obong Godwin Ekpo specifically commended the Speaker for showing excellence and maturity during last week’s imbroglio by hoodlum who invaded venue of the event.


“Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of Ibiono Ibom State Constituency, I sincerely apologized for that show of shame on your person, the Office of the Honourable Speaker and the peace loving people of Akwa Ibom State, by hoodlums who invaded the venue of the event.

Ibiono Ibom people are not known to be rascals nor purveyors of rascality,” he said.

Speaking further, Obong Ekpo said “Mr. Speaker, like I said before, those hoodlums and touts were never delegates. The people seated before you today are the statutory delegates in Ibiono Ibom.

"They will stand by you, support and nominate you as the PDP flag-bearer for the Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial Elections. They will do same for Pastor Umo Eno as Governor Udom Emmanuel’s successor come 2023.”

Speaking on behalf of the PDP Ward Chairmen in Ibiono Ibom, Hon. Uwem Usua Okon, thanked the Speaker for showing humility, courage and capacity amidst the intimidation against his will and loyalty to Mr. Udom Emmanuel’s completion agenda and succession plan.

“Mr. Speaker, You have shown humility and I must commend you. Your landmark achievements as leader of the State Legislature are incomparable. Be assured that we will support your ambition and vote you into the Red Chambers,” he assured.

Others who also spoke, including Mrs. Affiong Ikpeme and Mr. Emmanuel Ekanem, said they were firmly in support of the Udom Emmanuel succession plan and commended the Speaker for his leadership style and commitment to the progress, development and unity of Akwa Ibom State.

Responding, Rt. Hon. Bassey thanked Ibiono Ibom delegates and stakeholders for the honour done him, assuring that he will lead and represent them at the National Assembly effectively and with the fear of God.

“I want to thank the people of Ibiono Ibom for this show of love and honour. Politics is a game of interest and no one should be compelled to go against his or her will.

"I want to assure you that by God's grace, I will reciprocate this kind gesture. As a loyal party man, I have come to pay respect to all of you and to also seek your support for my aspiration to the Senate,” he said.

"As a person and as the leader of the state legislature, my love, loyalty and support to Governor Udom Emmanuel are unflinching because of his sterling leadership quality.

"If our party, the PDP has a Presidential Aspirant, supported by Mr. Udom Emmanuel, I would still have worn the faze cap with the aspirant insignia on it. The goal is not to win alone but to win five-over-five from the President to State House of Assembly.

"The status quo for PDP in Akwa Ibom has always been five-over-five and God willing, it will remain the same,” he maintained.

He further canvassed support for the aspirations of his colleagues, Obong Godwin Ekpo and Barrister Ime Okon, to the State House of Assembly and to the Federal House of Representatives for the development of the area, stating the advantages of having a ranking and experienced representative.

Present at the event were Chairman of Ibom Airport Development Company, Dr Iniobong Essien; Chapter Executives of the PDP in Ibiono Ibom; Ward Chairmen; Ward Vice Chairmen, Ward Secretaries, Ward Women Leaders, Ward Youth Leaders; former Chapter Chairmen, among others.

Highpoint of the event included a special victory prayer for the Speaker by Rev. Victor Akan-Ibok and donation of vehicles by Obong Godwin Ekpo to Mr. Emeka Ekanem and Mr. Umana Umana.