₦airaland Forum

Most delegates from Akwa Ibom State have confessed that despite recent cash rains from Obong Bassey Albert Akpan (OBA), one of the Gubernatorial Aspirants for the Governorship position in Akwa Ibom State, their support remain intact for Pastor Umo Eno.

The excited delegates numbering about thirty (30) who where hanging out in a secluded joint in Uyo last Sunday narrated with excitement how each of them were cashing out in large sums of money, some with cars from Sen Bassey Albert wants their support during the forthcoming party primaries.

Each of them who seems to be leaders in their respective LGAs however stressed their resolve not to vote for OBA but for Umo Eno.

They maintained that they cannot betray their consciences by not voting for Umo Eno whom they identified as a symbol of peace and an easy going man who will not forget them.

The delegates also noted the desperation which OBA has shown just to ensure that he wins them to himself.

They however said that with such desperation, if he succeeds in becoming the Governor which is impossible, he will loot the state dry and will not remember anybody because he bought his way to the top, and therefore nobody will be remembered.

They encouraged each other to be firm and enjoy the cash outs from all aspirants but stick to wish of Ekamba Ette who is the leader of the party in the state and has done well.

Political pundits posit a whooping 95% votes from delegates in the forthcoming PDP Governorship Primaries in Akwa Ibom State.

They say delegates are likely to vote for Pastor Umo Eno because of his pedigree and remarkable achievements in managing business and people over the years.

Pundits say other aspirants may not enjoy massive support from delegates as some of them are either seen as opportunists vying for the office for their gains, or as rulers who will drag the state back to the dark days of cultism and kidnapping.

The analysts have also suggested that Akwa Ibom, a state named after God, will be safer in the hands of a transformational leader who has the required emotional intelligence and maturity to place a premium on the interest of the people.

Pastor Umo Eno fits into this mould and it is widely believed that his emergence will Connect the Dots and advance the Peace and Prosperity in Akwa Ibom State.

I have always maintained my stance that no amount of insult hurled on me can change, as I'm not moved by any sentiments. I cannot see a pit in the day time and be careless to fall into it at night.

If OBA could get involved in all these financial related crimes as a Commissioner and then as a Senator, one wonders how the State funds will perish in his hands. God forbids that he becomes our Governor.

This is why God will not allow him to govern Akwa Ibom. Read for yourself the crimes below;

Car bribery

In May 2017, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission detained Akpan over cars that Akpan had allegedly received as a bribe from Jide Omokoreyears beforehand while Akpan was Akwa Ibom Finance Commissioner and Chairman of the State Inter-Ministerial Direct Labour Coordinating Committee. Reporting showed that the Omokore's companies – Bay Atlantic Energy and Sahel Energy – received contracts from the Direct Labour Coordinating Committee and the EFCC claimed the vehicles were used to bribe Akpan. Akpan called the detainment and investigation politically motivated and claimed to have filed a suit against the EFCC for breaching his fundamental human rights.
In August 2018, the EFCC filed charges against Akpan and Omokore in the High Court of Lagos Statefor corruption and bribery. The case was later tossed out by Justice O.A. Taiwo due to jurisdictional issues based on the defense's argument that the case should have been brought in Akwa Ibom not Lagos State.

False Asset DeclarationEdit

In June 2018, charges were filed against Akpan for failing to declare his true assets after an investigation by the Special Presidential Investigation Panel on the Recovery of Public Property (SPIP) which accused Akpan of failing to disclose his ownership or the true cost of several houses.[28]Akpan labeled the charges a plot to tarnish his image and bound to fail.

Petroleum Industry Bill bribesEdit

After the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) in August 2021, Akpan was accused of facilitating the bribery of federal legislators to guarantee the legislation's advancement despite significant public opposition to parts of the text. According to Peoples Gazette reporting, at least $10 million was paid to legislators in payments organized by Akpan and Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Timipre Sylva with between $1.5 million and $2 million going to both Senate President Ahmad Lawan and House Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila.

Multiple legislators corroborated the story with several legislators expressing anger, not that the Gbajabiamila and Lawan allegedly took bribes but instead that the bribes were not shared equally among the legislators as other legislators claimed to have received $5,000 for representatives and $20,000 for senators. Gbajabiamila, Lawan, Sylva, and Akpan all declined to comment on the story.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bassey_Albert_Akpan
click on corruption and allegations

https://saharareporters.com/2021/08/20/petroleum-bill-shameless-nigerian-lawmakers-battle-senate-president-lawan-house-speaker

More than two thousand years (2000) years, the Messiah came, and the religious leaders of that time failed to recognize him as such. Possibly, they were expecting to see a Warrior Messiah who would lead them to victory in war.

Today, Nigeria is at war. A war against a plethora of mischief in society. A war against economic mismanagement, insecurities, unemployment, religiosity, sycophancy, favoritism, and many others.

Today, the nation is in dire need of a messiah. A political messiah that would wield his power and restore us to the Nigeria of our dream. A Nigeria that our generations yet unborn would be proud of. A true giant of Africa; capable of representing the content in the comity of nations.

That messiah has emerged. Just like the Biblical messiah, he has emerged from a small tribe of our nation. From a people with little to no say in our dear country. That political messiah is Udom Emmanuel: the incumbent governor of Akwa Ibom State.

As Nigeria's Political world brims with aspiring political leaders, only a few are truly brimming for the messianic mandate. Only a few are truly prepared to pay the ultimate price of living up to societal anticipated objectives.

Nigeria's political scene has long been portrayed by fragmented gathering initiative and fractionalized portrayal which has, throughout the long term stunted the progression and improvement of the country. Fundamentally, Nigerians' striking assumptions rotate around successful leaders with functional strategies that can upgrade our financial situation, and social and political frameworks which will, thus, assist with fostering the nation at all levels: and Gov. Udom Emmanuel is the individual Nigerians need at this perishing second.

Gov. Udom as the President of Nigeria will be a messiah that will re-engineer what good governance is and strong financial stability where our kin will indeed not exclusively be gotten once again to ordinariness. It will be a period of melodious sing-song for the entire nation, a blissful tune for the savior has come.

I tell you, the Social framework is deprived of leaders who are truly prepared to know, lead and point others toward a path that shineth unto all: A path that will change the status quo for the better. This is what the Nigerian President's "wannabe" Gov. Udom Emmanuel embodies for the good of the nation.

In the lead-up to the 2023 presidential elections, our shared objective as a group ought to be to pick a leader that represents characteristics of solidarity, equity, and decency. A visionary chief that will accomplish results; a leader that will lead us to the significance we so frantically look for; a fair and reformative leader. With the status quo presently in Nigeria, steadily buried in the sand trap of apparently unresolvable intricacies, it is the ideal opportunity for us to pick a leader who rouses, a groundbreaking administration, a leader that is washed in sympathy, a leader that proffers useful arrangements with quantifiable results to the bunch of apparently unresolvable intricacies that assail us as a nation and over time, Gov. Udom Emmanuel has demonstrated to be a problem solver, a case study of is Akwa Ibom State under his administration.

In Akwa Ibom State, Governor Udom Emmanuel has successfully utilized three getting through methodologies toward controlling frailty and supporting harmony in the State. These strategies include education, healthcare, and job creation.

In the education sector, the governor has invested in both formal and informal forms of education, going to the length of adopting the free and compulsory education policy of his predecessor, accepting to offset huge liabilities incurred by it. He also went on to invest millions of Naira in registering qualified pupils and students for their certificate examination

As Udom Emmanuel responds to the call by a media organization, the Brekete Family Human Rights Radio and TV, and well-meaning Nigerians urged him to run for the 2023 presidential elections under the platform of the PDP, his passion and head to revive and modify the Nigerian dream without a moment's delay motivate and interests. It is certainly something special to recognize, imitate, and anticipate.

“Those who can rescue Nigeria are the professionals in politics. Those who understand the language of the economy: the language of money and can manage resources, as well as those who have experience in the private and public sector.” Udom Emmanuel is a force to reckon with.

Nigeria would be in for better times if selfless people with capacity are allowed to rule.

We must not fold our arms and watch the destiny of this great nation wield in the hands of visionless leaders. It's a collective responsibility to shun partisan politics, favoritism, and ethnicity to rise to the call of greatness. A call to bail out our nation's present state.

... Describe Akpabio as ‘Food is Ready’ Politician

The All Progressives Congress may not field candidates for the 2023 general elections in Akwa Ibom states, even as one of its major stakeholders Umana Umana has described Senator Godswill Akpabio as a “food is ready politician”.

Blaming the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Sen Godswill Akpabio, they have maintained that APC can only make in route in Akwa Ibom if the national leadership of the party ceases to recognize the Stephen Ntokekpo led State executive committee of the party.

Last week, Don Etiebet had stormed the national party secretariat in Abuja with Senator Akpabio, and after meeting with the National Chairman Adamu Abdullahi, both came out and quarreled before the cameras on the authentic chairman of their party.

But reacting, former governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Akwa Ibom State, Mr Umana Okon Umana has charged the national leadership to restore the Augustine Ekanem led leadership of the party he insists was validly elected.

Umana who is presently the Managing Director of the Oil and Gas Free Zone Authority lamented that those he described as food is ready politicians were the ones behind the factional crisis in the state chapter of the party.


Speaking against the background of the endorsements and commendations poured on Akpanudoedehe by party leaders at the reception for the former national secretary, Umana said:


“I am not surprised at the very warm way you have turned out to receive our very distinguished son. He made us very proud there is no question about that. I believe that he made Akwa Ibom proud because he served meritoriously as the National Secretary of our party. It is the first time we have had somebody from Akwa Ibom ascend that position at the national level.

“Well what we are witnessing today I don’t have anything to say because our Leader Atuekong Don Etiebet briefed you very comprehensively.

“And I will like to add my voice to say that “on Status quo we stand’. Because as Leader of the party in Akwa Ibom we are Law-abiding.

“We have been advised by the Lawyer of Senator John Akpanudoedehe as to what the status quo means. That is why we will continue to recognize Augustine Ekanem as the State Chairman of our party.”

Calling on the national leadership to tow the path of rule of law, Umana said:

“And we will like to appeal to the National leadership of our party that they should please save us from this distraction, so that we can focus on the task ahead, which is to win government house in 2023.

“Some of these people, you know they don’t know what we have suffered from 2015. They came when dinner has been served. Some of us were in the kitchen but when the food was ready they took over, they pushed all of us out.

Vowing that the APC leaders will restore order in the Akwa Ibom State chapter of the party, Umana said:

“But we have determined that we will restore our party to the path of glory, because the antics of this people may lead to a situation where we may have no candidate in Akwa Ibom, and they will not care. So we are appealing to the national leadership , they should look at this matter, and the Congress that was properly conducted, there is a video, the Chairman who was designated to handle the Congress by the party, Alhaji B. Sheriff we have him on tape, on video announcing the results for goodness sake.

“He petitioned the IGP, the Director SSS that his signature was forged. We cannot run the party on the basis of criminality, we cannot. And that is why all of these leaders you find here are determined that we will stand on the truth. I cannot be playing that video in my house and see Ekanem being declared winner by Banky Sheriff to conduct the primaries here and somebody else suddenly becomes the Chairman.


“I congratulate my brother, he is a man of capacity, he is the Caterpillar of Akwa Ibom politics, when he moves the ground will shake. So they are afraid because they know he is a Caterpillar, my brother God will be with you , and may God bless APC.”

Commenting further Don Etiebet narrated that “they lied to both the court and Abdullahi Adamu that Ntukekpo participated in the State Congress and even won. When Adamu later heard from stakeholders and saw documents including NTA clips (both audio and video), he then realized that he was deceived and, that he (Akpabio) actually organized an unauthorized parallel Congress where Ntukekpo emerged as his own chairman,” Don Etiebet lamented.

Source: Global Pilot
://www.facebook.com/100008209301173/posts/3262349564048655/?d

Dawned with the stark realities of losing woefully at Akwa ibom PDP primaries slated for May 21st 2022, an Aspirant in the race who is already feeling intimidated by the massive endorsement and wide acceptability of the aspiration of Pastor Umo Eno is now exploring loopholes to embark on litigations after the primaries.



In other to successfully achieve this latest plot, according to our privileged source who is a top member of the state legislature, he is keenly watching to see how the election of the adhoc delegtes will be conducted to use any lacuna to seek legal redress.

Our Sources who pleaded anonymity owing to his current position in government disclosed that one of the noisy aspirant who have been boosting of being the next governor has suddenly realized that the tide and tempo of political current is tilting towards Pastor Umo Eno notwithstanding the several propaganda and arm-twisting politics he has played in the past months.

According to him, “The Aspirant, a current member of the national assembly after an elaborate meeting with his cabal has decided to buy several forms for supporters to stand election as adhoc delegates, he is convinced that the government will influence the party by hijacking the process and merely announce names so that he will discredit the entire process through courts”.

Our Source maintained that their latest tactics is a product of frustration having seen the bold handwriting of the wall that the next administration in the state is already within the ambits of Pastor Umo Eno.

Earlier our correspondent gathered that the same Aspirant using several fronts have written over 17 petitions to INEC, Police, ICPC, and other agencies to seek the disqualification of Pastor Umo Eno from the race to no avail.

Mr Kembiet Ekpo who spoke to our reporter said the same petitions have been recycled and rewritten with different names to attract the attention of the concerned agencies.

“Their contents are watery, amusing and very frivolous. The master minders are already wobbling upon realizing that they will be standing the May 21st primaries with a formidable aspirant like Umo Eno a pastor whose antecedents is unblemished”.

He advised petition writers to seek more profitable ventures to engage their time as Akwa ibom people are now wiser and can see through their dirty pranks and won’t ever fall for it.

“The politics of this aspirant who has been in government since 2007 and believe that Akwa ibom government house is his birthright is daily witnessing frustration which is a product of desperation. We need a God fearing man as the next governor who will continue from where the incumbent administration will stop.

Mr Ekpo highlighted that any break in the current tempo the administration of Governor Emmanuel has taken the state to will drag the state several years backwards and pleaded with Akwa ibom people to keep the desperados at check and avoid unnecessary calamity.

...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

[size=8pt][/size]


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.