₦airaland Forum

If all councillors are like this

Effective representation

~By Mfreke Udonkang

Rays of sunshine has beamed on the family of Mr Ekerette Udo Ebong of Ikot Akpa Edet, of Ndiya as the Honourable councillor representing ward 8 in Ikono Local Government Council, Hon. Aniekan Asuquo Akpan popularly known as "Pele" on Monday, laid a foundation of a 4-bedroom apartment for Mr Ekerette’s Family. Mr Eterette has sight impairment and is taken care of by his immediate family.

Mr Ekerette disclosed that he was a welder until his sight began malfunctioning and eventually got damaged completely, making him homebound for 20 years. He could not hold back tears of joy as he threw encomium on the councillor and the People's Democratic Party (PDP) for giving Hon. Aniekan the platform to serve his people. He described himself as a major beneficiary of the councillor's milk of kindness.

"The councillor saw that my house was almost collapsing and we didn't have another place to live, so he decided to build this house for me and my family. I did not expect that I will ever live in a block house, I pray that God should protect him and his family, replenish his funds expended on this project; he will find favour before God and men in everything he touches to do". Mr Ekerette implored.

Speaking with Akwaibom Daily reporter, Mr. Udeme Ekerette, the eldest son of the beneficiary with ecstasy expressed his gratitude to the honourable councillor for his graciousness and benevolence. He extended his appreciation to the member representing Ikono/Ini Federal House Constituency, Hon. (Obong) Emmanuel Ukpong-udo, who supported Hon. Aniekan Asuquo councillorship’s candidacy, praying God's blessings in their lives.

The honourable councillor said he decided to provide a shelter for Mr Ekerette as a fulfilment to the promise he made the day he first saw the worrisome, despicable and unhealthy state of the family’s Shelter. He revealed that his motivation came from his political mentor Hon. Ukpong-udo who he described as a philanthropist, always being charitable to the needy. While promising the completion of the building in three months, Hon. Aniekan pledged his commitment to his selfless service and delivery for his people.

He however noted that it was not only shelter that Mr Ekerette needed, hence calling on good spirited people to come to his aid, as he also need good healthcare, good food and other necessities of life.

https://akwaibomdaily.com.ng/13760-2/

CORONAVIRUS NIGERIA!!

WHAT ABOUT ALL THE PASSENGERS ON THE FLIGHT WITH THE ITALIAN? HAVE THEY BEEN CHECKED? WAS HE NOT IDENTIFIED IN ITALY AS A CARRIER OF THE VIRUS BEFORE TRAVELLING? ARE THEY NO MONITORING UNITS AT THE NIGERIAN AIRPORTS? NIGERIA SHOULD NOT JOKE WITH THIS VIRUS OR POLITICIZE IT IN ANYWAY. SEND THAT ITALIAN BACK HOME, NO SENTIMENTS.

CORONAVIRUS NIGERIA!!

WHAT ABOUT ALL THE PASSENGERS ON THE FLIGHT WITH THE ITALIAN? HAVE THEY BEEN CHECKED? WAS HE NOT IDENTIFIED IN ITALY AS A CARRIER OF THE VIRUS BEFORE TRAVELLING? ARE THEY NO MONITORING UNITS AT THE NIGERIAN AIRPORTS? NIGERIA SHOULD NOT JOKE WITH THIS VIRUS OR POLITICIZE IT IN ANYWAY. SEND THAT ITALIAN BACK HOME, NO SENTIMENTS.

If soldier no fit pass for that road how do you expect a bloody civilian like me to come and pass there and help you?

Amazing Lawmaker

https://akwaibomdaily.com.ng/macaire-enterprise-development-scheme-kicks-off-in-nkari-ward-4-ini-lga-7-beneficiaries-get-4-5m-business-support-grant/
MACAIRE ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT SCHEME KICKS OFF IN NKARI WARD 4 INI LGA. ..... 7 beneficiaries get 4.5M business support grant

7 beneficiaries recieved 4.5 million naira business support grant under "Macaire Enterprise Development Scheme", a 100 Million business and economic support initiative of Hon. (Obong) Emmanuel Ukpong-udo, the member representing Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives kicked started yesterday in Ini LGA - Nkari Ward 4 with 7 constituents from the ward receiving business start up and support grants ranging from Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N500,000) to One Million Naira (N1,000,000).

Setting the tone for the event, the Director General, Mkpoikana Abasi Campaign Organization, Barr. Inyangidim described Ukpong-udo as a marketable product admirable by all and lauded him for hitting the ground running from the outset. The scheme, he said was an initiative aimed at providing economic empowerment and sustainable livelihood to his constituents from the 21 wards of the constituency while thanking the ward for the huge support they had given the member which had enabled him perform creditably well. He admonished the beneficiaries to maximally utilise the grants while suing for patience from those yet to benefit.

The PDP Ward Chairman, Evang Clement Ita, in his welcome remarks stated that the day was epochal in the history of the Ward and Ini L.G.A at large as it was the first time a serving Federal Representative had visited Nkari for any form of constituency briefing or empowerment and prayed God to bless the member and grant him more enablement to do more for the people.

In his address, the member Hon.(Obong) Emmanuel Ukpong-udo said the Macaire Enterprise Development Scheme is one of his initiatives to have ensued as a result of his drive to "support viable businesses" amongst his constituents as the welfare of every member of the constituency was of utmost importance to him.

He decried negative criticisms from naysayers about his magnanimity to the people stating that though it was heart breaking, he will never be deterred from doing good to as many as come his way. He thanked Ini people for their overwhelming support and promised to justify the confidence reposed in him.

He promised to make regular economic empowerment an integral part of his 4-year term as he was strongly averse to a one-off empowerment event which had no meaningful impact on the people. He meticulously reeled out his achievements in his 4 months of active legislative engagements in the areas of student support, job creation, employment and wealth creation, social welfare and other various empowerments while reiterating his commitment to delivering on all his campaign promises.

Ukpong-udo disclosed that the 100 Million empowerment fund was being earmarked for a 12 months period with Nkari Ward 4 chosen as the pilot scheme. Furthermore, he maintained that at least 3 wards would be reached monthly to ensure all the wards benefit maximally within year 2020 "My hope is that before 4 years, at least 100 persons from Ikono/Ini will be employed through my recommendations into various forms of work employment", he said

Speaking on behalf of the female beneficiaries, one of the beneficiaries, Mrs Nsikak Benjamin Christopher described the federal lawmaker's gesture as unprecedented while praying God to reward him bountifully for his show of love. She urged the beneficiaries to put the package to profitable use so as not to negate its essence.

Several messages of commendation poured in from the dignitaries in attendance who all lauded the member for daring the odds and setting a standard for effective representation in the constituency.

Luvlyfal:
heard close to 80k

Do they provide accommodation and other things?

-Special Tactical Squad, one of the most successful unit in Nigeria Police - Engr. Uwem Okoko


The Managing Director of Hensek Engineering Services, Engr. Uwem Okoko, has hailed the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu for the formation of IGP Special Tactical Squad, describing it as one of the most successful unit in the Nigeria Police.

He made this known in Uyo during the closing ceremony of a 5-day IGP Tactical Police Krav Maga training for officers at the weekend.

Engr. Okoko who was a Special Guest of Honour said, "I want to commend the IG for the formation of this special squad".

"I want to equally thanked the leader of this unit and his men for joining hands with the State Commissioner of Police, CP Imohimi Edgal to make Akwa Ibom safe".

According to him, some of the achievements recorded by the Nigeria Police Force in the state can be credited to the special squad.

Reacting on behalf of the trainees, DSP Uche Okoye thanked the Commander of the IGP Special Tactical Squad, Uyo Sector, SP Julian Igbudu for organising the training for them, saying "we have learnt a lot from the practical session since Monday".

He said the training will enhance their approach towards combating crimes in the society.

On his part, the Commander of the IGP Special Tactical Squad, Uyo Sector, SP Julian Igbudu, thanked the IGP for approving the training for his officers, and promised to use the various tactics learnt during the training.

While thanking the State Commissioner of Police for giving the enabling environment, SP Igbudu noted that the IGP was committed to training its officers to be able to carry out their duties effectively.

He said the training was part of a holistic reform to get police personnel adequately equipped to discharge their duties.


IGP Tactical Police Krav Maga Training Ends in Uyo https://akwaibomdaily.com.ng/igp-tactical-police-krav-maga-training-ends-in-uyo/

In the aftermath of a disappointing eight match start to the 2019/2020 NPFL season by Akwa United FC, Head Coach of the team John Obuh has resigned his appointment "...with immediate effect ".

In a tersely worded four paragraph resignation letter addressed to the Chairman of the club and dated December 15th, 2019, the experienced coach regretted that his "decision to step aside was as a result of some level of discipline and insubodination by some of the players which has caused the team valuable points since the start of the season ".

Meanwhile the club has accepted the resignation with "mixed feelings".

In a letter of acceptance, club secretary Comrade Omon Bassey expressed the "gratitude of the chairman, for service rendered to the club during your short stay with us.

"Yes, coaches take responsibility when things go awry, yet we can testify to the professionalism and discipline you brought to bear in the running of the club including your untiring belief in the God factor in the life of this great organisation. We will miss you" the letter stated.

Akwa United wished him well in his future endeavours, "even as we daily strive to restore the confidence of our numerous fans worldwide, especially the government and good people of Akwa Ibom State.

In another development and in a move to restore sanity, the club management has suspended one player indefinitely, while two are undergoing disciplinary related investigation.

Mfon Patrick
Media Manager,
Akwa United FC

https://akwaibomdaily.com.ng/coach-obuh-resigns-akwa-united-accepts-resignation-with-mixed-feelings/

Osaze, a former professional footballer, popular Nairalander and head publisher www.akwaibomdaily.com.ng drops a banging tune to your listening pleasure. "Just like that is a beautiful love song that encourages men to love and be faithful to their wives. The song produced by Maslee with a budding guitarist Ablaze giving out his best to displace Fiokee as number one guitarist in Nigeria.

Download and stream the song via the link below

Music: Osaze - Just like that http://www.southjamz.com/2019/11/16/music-osaze-just-like-that/

•••Orders Nsima Ekere to pay N500,000 as fine to Udom Emmanuel

By Morgan Ekanem /Borono Bassey/Emmanuel Sam

The Court of Appeal sitting in Calabar today, November 13, 2019, has affirmed the victory of Governor Udom Emmanuel of the PDP in the March 9 gubernatorial elections in Akwa Ibom State.

The Appeal was filed against the judgement of the Tribunal delivered on September 5, 2019 at Uyo, which dismissed Mr Ekere's Petition for wanting in merit. The Tribunal had held that the petitioner could not lead credible evidence to prove his claims that the elections were not conducted in substantial compliance with the Electoral Act.

Delivering judgement in the Appeal filed by Mr Nsima Ekere, the Governorship Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) challenging the re-election of His Excellency, Mr Udom Emmanuel in the March 9, 2019 Gubernatorial Elections, the five-man panel gave her judgement on all the issues set out by parties in the appeal.

The Appellate Court first affirmed the decision of the Tribunal rejecting a series of documents filed by the Petitioner at the Tribunal and held that the reasoning of the Tribunal were unassailable citing that the documents which were all public documents and therefore could not be admissible if there were not properly brought as Certified True Copies of the public documents sought to be tendered.

Furthermore, on whether the Tribunal was right in holding that the Petitioner/Appellant did not lead credible evidence to prove their case, the Court of Appeal affirmed the Tribunal's judgement and upheld the Tribunal's findings on evidence. The Appellate Court noted that out of the results of twenty one (21) Local Government Areas challenged, the Petitioner did not lead any evidence in prove of their case in eight ( and led very scanty evidence which on cross examination were rendered very impotent in the other Local Governments were they made any effort to prove their claims. The court again held that the decision of the Tribunal was unassailable on that score and therefore affirmed same.

The court also agreed with the Lower Tribunal for not relying on documents dumped on the Tribunal by the Petitioners/Appellants without being linked by them to any of the issues raised and canvassed by the petitioner.

The court thereupon affirmed the Victory of His Excellency, Mr Udom Emmanuel as the Governor of Akwa Ibom State from the Gubernatorial elections held on March 9, 2019, and awarded the cost of 500,000 naira in favour of the First Respondent to be paid by the Appellants.

The lead judgement was affirmed by all the other justices of the Court of Appeal.

Read Further Here
https://akwaibomdaily.com.ng/court-of-appeal-udom-trounces-nsima-ekere-again-%e2%80%a2%e2%80%a2%e2%80%a2orders-nsima-ekere-to-pay-n500000-as-fine-to-udom-emmanuel/

The Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, Akwa Ibom State, Comrade Ini Ememobong today joined Pharmacists in Akwa Ibom under the aegis of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (Akwa Ibom State) in their annual celebrations.

The event which held at the Governor's Office Annexe, Wellington Bassey way, Uyo, was chaired by the Immediate past Head of Service Mrs. Ekereobong Akpan and Co-Chaired by the Permanent secretary Ministry of Environment and Mineral Resources Pharm. Mbuk Inyang had as it's theme "safe and effective medicines for all".

A Distinguished Service award was presented to Comrade Ememobong for his support to Pharmacy Students and the entire Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (Akwa Ibom State).

In his speech, he charged the pharmacists to continue with the good work they were already doing as the results of their work so far has kept humanity and also pledged to sponsor two students (male and female) chosen by PSN for a fully funded masters program in the University of Uyo.

Recall that a fortnight ago, Comrade Ini Ememobong was at the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Uyo to present cash awards to best performing students.

People are bringing more mad people oh, and they are getting healed

More mad persons completely healed

According to Mfreke Udonkang Osaze, a FACEBOOK user, a strange Prophet heals mad people in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

"A Strange Prophet adorning a vail with the tag "Divine Authority" delivers mentally deranged

persons at Itam Fly Over"

On Tuesday 10th September 2019, exactly three months and a day since we began commercial flight operations, Ibom Air carried our 50,000th passenger. And what a pleasant surprise it was when at the ‘count up’ during the boarding of flight Z4100 from Uyo to Lagos, passenger number 50,000 turned out to be first time Ibom Air traveler, Ms Ruth Nsaka.

Ms Nsaka was ‘ambushed’ by an excited team of Ibom Air Executives led by Chief Operating Officer Mr George Uriesi. She was handed a ’50,000th Passenger Certificate’, which entitles her to a free return ticket on any of Ibom Air’s routes. She was also upgraded to our Premium Economy cabin for her flight and treated with lots of Ibom Air goodies.

Completely blown away by the surprise, Ms Nsaka said “I can’t believe this. This is my first flight on Ibom Air. I have heard so much about the airline and it’s services and looked forward to this first experience. And now this! I’m calling my Mom”. And indeed she called her Mom who spoke to the crew at the end of the flight and thanked them for the recognition of her daughter.

Ibom Air Chief Operating Officer, Mr George Uriesi said “this is one of the ways in which Ibom Air will be giving back to our customers and the communities in which we operate. We are excited to carry our 50,000th passenger within three months of operations and heartily congratulate Ms Nsaka for being ‘the one’! We are thankful for the support of our passengers and thoroughly excited about the future”.

Check out all the photos of this special moment!!

#ibomair #Uyo #AkwaIbom , #Lagos, #Nigeria


IBOM AIR DELIVERS ITS 50,000TH PASSENGER https://akwaibomdaily.com.ng/ibom-air-delivers-its-50000th-passenger/

Have you been looking for opportunity to hit stardom? Look no more, for that opportunity is right here. The overseers of "SYMBOL OF IBOM HOTEL AND GOLF RESORT?" are searching for a brand ambassador for Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort.

Sponsored by Ministry of Culture and Tourism in conjunction with Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort. The "SYMBOL OF IBOM HOTEL AND GOLF RESORT" is expected to be an embodiment of physical beauty, intelligence, good character and appealing personality.

This is the maiden edition of the event since the hotel was commissioned in 2007, it's a wonderful opportunity for you to be on history books.

According to the organizers, the Selection Date is slated for September 15, 2019 at Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort, 2pm prompt.

Interested persons are adviced to click on the link below and drop their pictures.

Hurry!

https:///IL69WHKXcdeCLNrOyHT18g.

By Mfreke Udonkang

An Akwa Ibom born Abuja based legal practitioner, Mr Edikan Ekanem who is also a contemporary writer on matters of public interest has petitioned the Vice Chancellor of the University of Uyo over the alarming rate of insecurity in the University campus.

Ekanem as an alumnus of the university observed with pity and dismay how students have lately become victims of robberies in the university premises, specifically in the school hostels thus rendering the environment not conducive for studies.

In a four page (13 paragraphs) dully acknowledged letter dated 5th August, 2019, he formally called the attention of the Vice Chancellor to the situation of things in the university environment and urged him to take swift actions to prevent and arrest the situation accordingly.

The letter reads:

The Vice Chancellor
University of Uyo
Akwa Ibom State
Uyo

Sir,

PETITION OVER THE ALARMING LEVEL OF INSECURITY IN THE UNIVERSITY CAMPUSES AND A CALL FOR IMMEDIATE INTERVENTION

The above subject matter refers.

My name is Edikan Ini Ekanem, an Akwa Ibom born Abuja based Legal Practitioner and a contemporary writer, a proud alumnus of University of Uyo, currently serving my fatherland in the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria; and on this premise i write.

Following my recent visit to Uyo capital city and the University Campus, I am impelled to formally write to draw your attention to recurring but repulsive and unjustifiable security threats and rampages in the University Community, especially in the Town and Annex Campuses.

It is no longer novel news that students in the university community have become preys to vicious and callous predators who keep harassing, robbing, bullying, injuring and maiming innocent students in the university community.

The Punch Newspaper on 2nd August 2019 reported that gunmen suspected to be armed robbers invaded female hostel (W6) of the University Town Campus on Wednesday 31st July 2019, stole undisclosed amounts of money, phones, laptops and other valuables items belonging to the students. Unfortunately, this incident in the aforementioned hostel was preceded by an earlier attack on female students by unidentified persons in the hostels which was confirmed by Akwa Ibom state Police Public Relations Officer, Odiko Macdon.

This is not the only infraction perpetuated in the university community as many others go unreported. Cases of robberies at the ATM posts situate at the University campuses, use of POS by the miscreants to rob students who are in possession of their ATM cards permeate the social media platforms and the practice is seemingly becoming a “new normal” as many professed.

Sir, it is settled that security, protection and preservation of lives and properties is always the primary function of a legally constituted government and authorities which i humbly believe that the government and management of the University is not exempted.

Expectedly, the institution’s security consciousness should impress and even attract students to seek accommodation in the hostel but unfortunately, reverse is the case. One wonders if students staying the University hostels do not have a relevant level of protection, what will then happen to those staying off the campus?

Furthermore sir, beyond the loss of valuables by the students, injuries sustained, emotional shocks, pains and trauma sustained by the students, the national image and prestige of the Institution is sluggishly battered, shattered and jeopardised. If the needful is not done timeously, students nationwide will be discouraged and deterred from seeking admission in the institution.

With due respect sir, if the campus was this bad, some of us would not have enjoyed going for evening and night classes without fear of apprehension unlike what is experienced in recent times. The campus is seemingly becoming a death trap to her students and den of criminals. It is quite unbecoming that the forbidden is now striving hard to form a new status quo.

It has never been this bad to the extent that students at their own instance and peril embark on protest to ventilate their misgivings and grievances in opposition to insecurity trend in the campus. It troubles my mind on how it got to this extent.

Our students who double as citizens of the country cannot continue suffering from this predicament when we have a duly constituted university management established under the extant laws of the Nigeria which at the exercise of her statutory powers can salvage and ameliorate this pitiable and worrisome plight. Their constitutional rights must be safeguarded accordingly especially in the university community.

Finally, i respectfully pray you to find and hold the present condition as being intolerable and hideous on our students, thereby issuing directives accompanied with decisive actions that will combat and override the present menace by our dear students. Injury to one is injury to all.

Accept my warm regards and assurance of the highest esteem.

Yours Truly

Edikan Ekanem Esq
Eddy4jah@gmial.com
08130015006

It could be recalled that Ekanem sometimes last year wrote a similar letter to the Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria over the gory and deplorable state of one hundred naira notes in the country. Ekanem is politically neutral.

https://akwaibomdaily.com.ng/lawyer-petitions-uniuyo-vice-chancellor-over-insecurity-in-the-campuses/

Ex- NBA VICE PRESIDENT PLOTS MEDIA WAR ON A'IBOM REC



Former Vice President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Monday Ubani has been fingered as the ring leader in the current smear campaign plot against Barr.Mike Igini, the Akwa Ibom State Resident Electoral Commissioner.

One of such is an alleged doctored audio tape between one Dr. William and a female supposedly to taint and scandalize the reputation of the electoral commissioner after failed attempts to relocate the tribunal sitting to Abuja were they boasted that they are in control of judges who can be given order and skew judgements of the National Assembly Tribunal sitting in Uyo to Senator Akpabio's favour .

A very reliable source in their team who spoke in confidence, stated clearly that, Senator Akpabio, sensing an imminent defeat at the Election Tribunal due to his inability to defend his alleged victory at the poll, accepted an offer from and recruited the crude services of the ex Ikeja branch Chairman of Nigeria Bar Association.

Rather than remain an advocate of Justice, he is said to have encouraged and advised that the self indicting doctored audio clips which Akpabio was afraid to tender before closing his case at the tribunal, should be put on the social media with false and spurious written claims.

Their intention was to create an impression with the manipulated audio, that Igini instructed the returning officer to cancel Akpabio's votes in Essien Udim; a false narrative that the witness himself denied in the tribunal and was widely reported by national dailies.

Another aspect of his involvement was his claim that he was close to certain judges who could help influence the judgement in favour of Akpabio.

"Ubani, a Lagos based lawyer and supposed human rights activist, surprisingly accepted the mouth watering pay for this, and now works undercover, hand-in- hand with Akpabio as a member of his legal team which he cannot deny and other publicly identified corrupt people to smear people like Mike Igini," the source added.

It could be recalled that Ubani, who has been on the wrong side of the news lately and deservedly so given his new found attraction to and full embrace of people associated with monumental corruption with the sole material drive for money, was detained on March 19, 2019, by EFCC and kept in their custody for thirty (30) whole days for standing sureties for Ngozi Olejeme, who once served as Chairman of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund between 2009 and 2015.

"A lawyer standing surtie for his client? Even though I am not a lawyer but is it proper for a lawyer to do that for a client who can run away or jump bail?

"What many Nigerians whom this impostor who claimed to be an activist did not know and, were just castigating EFCC was shocking findings amongst which are, Deed of transfer documents that this man called Ubani transferred properties that are subject of investigation to himself and hide them from EFCC on behalf of the fugitive Mrs. Olejeme" -confirmed a source.

It took the intervention of so many people to secure him bail that he is temporarily enjoying at the moment.


Our source further explained that "Akpabio whom we know has pending issues with EFCC can only be seen parading with and recruiting persons of Ugbani's pedigree who are swimming in EFCC net.

"Luckily for him, he found Ubani who's records are already soiled like his.

He was heard telling some people in Akpabio's camp that "after Igini had signed on the original result figure in favour of Akpabio, that he Igini later changed it"

"Does Ubani really understands the process ? If he does probably he would have known that lgini has no power to sign any result nor instruct anyone to cancel votes except reminding all poll officials to abide by the rules and regulations that govern the election process from opening of polling, accreditation, voting and collation."

Our source further hinted that his sudden involvement in the legal team did not go down well with some of them who are uncomfortable with him.

He has boasted and assured Akpabio how the written address they are working on will give victory to Akpabio and then disgrace lgini.

"Akpabio is ready to do anything, I mean anything to win the tribunal and has recruited the services of Ubani to tarnish Igini's image and I can tell you confidently that Akpabio has released heavy amounts of money to reach a compromise with Ubani who boasted of his close relationship with some judges in Abuja who will intervene as he claimed the same way they did for Uche Ogar that led to the nullification of Governor lkpeazu's victory initially in Abia state."

Our source suggested to Nigerians to Google Uche Ogar and the subsidy scam and that they can then understand why Ubani is a fake bread and butter activist like many still out there deceiving Nigerians.

It could also be recalled that Akpabio's hatred for Igini led to his open demand for the REC to be removed and transferred from Akwa Ibom State during the electioneering period when he knew that with Igini it won't be game as usual of pre-writing of election results .

Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Saturday, closed its defense in the petition by Chief Godswill Akpabio challenging the election of Senator Chris Ekpenyong for Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District.


August 1st and 5th have been announced for filing of Written Address by Respondents and Petitioners respectively and August 8, 2019 for filing of Reply on Point of Law.

The Tribunal will sit on August 8, 2019 for adoption of Written Address.

https://akwaibomdaily.com.ng/ex-nba-vice-president-plots-media-war-on-aibom-rec/

Mohammed Lebo, Deputy Political Editor, Abuja

The All Progressive Congress (APC) in Akwa Ibom State has polished up plans and might move any moment from now to file an application at the Tribunal seeking to compel the Chairman of the Tribunal for National and State Assembly elections Justice Jennifer Mbalamen Ijohor to step down with immediate effect.
This Newspaper gathered that the plan which is a product of the advice handed to the APC by the "Powers above" is meant to serve as additional effort to stir up ill-will against the tribunal chairman in a bid to stampede her to relinquish her seat as chairman of the Tribunal.
Our source who is one of the chieftains of the APC in Akwa Ibom State disclosed that some bigwigs of the party who are deeply interested in the case met on Monday night to deliberate on the issue and rose with the decision to file a strong-worded application before the tribunal stating their discomfort with the chairman of the tribunal and demanding her to recuse herself from presiding over cases at the tribunal.
The submission of the Application, it was further gathered, will be followed by a heightened media campaign which will amplify the message that Justice Jennifer Ijohor is not objective enough in the discharge of her duties as chairman of the tribunal.
This plan to file an application seeking to compel Justice Jennifer Ijohor to step down as chairman of the tribunal is coming just a few days after the All Progressive Congress in Akwa Ibom had frontally accused the tribunal chairman of bias, insisting that she has a strong family relationship with a PDP stalwart, and so, there is a clear conflict of interest in her work as the Chairman of the Tribunal.
The APC in a Press Conference addressed by the State Chairman of the Party further insisted in their accusations that the cases which have so far been dismissed by the tribunal were done out of bias against the APC.
But the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State in sharp response has siad the fears expressed by the APC on the standing of the chairman are transparently lacking a strong foundation in both facts and law., reminding the APC that there are different laws enacted for the adjudication of election petition matters before the tribunal, which must be followed stricto sensu and failure to do so, usually attracts consequences.
The PDP in a Press Conference addressed by the Publicity Secretary Comrade Ini Ememobong in Uyo on Monday also drew the APC's attention to the fact In Amaechi v. INEC, the court of Appeal held inter alia that failure to comply with procedural steps, which ordinarily could be waived in a civil matter, will be fatal to the petition.
"Additionally, in the cases mentioned by Mr. Okopido, the petitioners(APC and their failed candidates) failed or neglected to apply for Pre-trial forms which is in contravention of the provisions of the extant Electoral Act and the consequence is trite- the petition must be dismissed, same being incompetent." The PDP maintained at the Conference.
The PDP further insisted that a careful observation of the issues raised by the the APC will reveal that the APC is blaming the judge(who incidentally is not sitting alone )for their woes. The PDP wondered how the judge is responsible for the omission by APC counsel to comply with the provisions of the law governing election petition.

Read More
https://akwaibomdaily.com.ng/exclusive-apc-moves-to-file-application-to-compel-tribunal-chairman-to-step-aside-mohammed-lebo-deputy-political-editor-abuja/

deomelo:
This is viral abi? Do you know the meaning of viral?

APC man with bad belle

All is set for the official commissioning of the house

HOPE RESTORED!

A widow, Mrs Ofonime Harrison, whose home was brought down by a turbulent wind recently at Ikot Ekpene Road, Uyo, is about to smile again as the Wife of the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Her Excellency, Mrs Martha Udom Emmanuel is set to handover a new building to her.


The new structure which is built under the pet project of the Akwa Ibom First Lady - the Family Empowerment and Youth Reorientation Path-initiative (FEYReP), is the latest addition to the many SHELTERS OF HOPE built by FEYReP.

Other initiatives under the pet Project of Her Excellency include food processing factories, Martha Pregnacare, Medical Outreaches among others.


#FEYReP
#EmpoweringFamilies
#TouchingLives
#CompletionAgenda

Here are pictures of a fully furnished house that the Wife of the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Her Excellency Mrs Martha Udom Emmanuel will commission for a widow who got her little Hut destroyed by wind at Ikot Ekpene road by Akpan Essien Street, Uyo.

HOPE RESTORED!

A widow, Mrs Ofonime Harrison, whose home was brought down by a turbulent wind recently at Ikot Ekpene Road, Uyo, is about to smile again as the Wife of the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Her Excellency, Mrs Martha Udom Emmanuel is set to handover a new building to her.


The new structure which is built under the pet project of the Akwa Ibom First Lady - the Family Empowerment and Youth Reorientation Path-initiative (FEYReP), is the latest addition to the many SHELTERS OF HOPE built by FEYReP.

Other initiatives under the pet Project of Her Excellency include food processing factories, Martha Pregnacare, Medical Outreaches among others.

https://akwaibomdaily.com.ng/see-viral-pictures-of-beautiful-house-udoms-wife-will-donate-to-a-widow-in-uyo/

Mike Edikan, Uyo

Dr Godswill Akpabio's defeat at the 2019 general elections is nearing permanence as proceedings at the Election Petition Tribunal so far has been a confirmation of his loss at the elections rather than a pointer to the possibility of his return to the National Assembly.

The former Governor of Akwa Ibom state and immediate past Senator representing Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District at the National Assembly was defeated by Senator Christopher Ekpenyong in what commentaries have described as the "uncommon defeat" of the 2019 elections. The former Senator who even after defeat has not embraced the reality of his loss was among the first to file processes at the National Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal in Akwa Ibom State in his efforts to reclaim his mandate which in his word, was stolen. Senator Ekpenyong had long been sworn-in as the incumbent Senator representing Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District at the National Assembly.

Without a doubt, Akapbio's journey to the Tribunal was to avert what many have considered as his rather untimely exit from political relevance, the result of his ill-conceived decision to "move" from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressive Congress. About three months into the Tribunal, there is no scent of hope for Akpabio. The proceedings may in no time end just as his first suit at the Federal High Court, seeking to restrain INEC from issuing the Certificate of return to Senator Ekpenyong ended, a futile attempt at nothing.

At the pre-trial stage of the petition, the Respondents brought an application asking for Akpabio's petition to be dismissed for being incompetent. The grounds were that Akpabio had asked for the impossible; in the petition, he stated that the election was illegal being fraught with violence and corrupt practices and unfortunately went on to ask that he be declared the winner of the elections. With common sense, one can see the ridicule in this scenario, if the election was illegal, how then does he claim to be declared winner from such illegal elections? In the arguments to this application, Akpabio's counsel submitted that the petition only challenges the return of Senator Ekpenyong and not the elections, that it is the return that is illegal and not the elections. This is where the shock began, how do you approve a process and disapprove of the result of the same process? From sound legal analysis, the former Senator's case would have been dismissed at this point. He had asked for the impossible, he is attempting by his claims, to forge a solemnisation of oil and water, immixible. The rules of the Tribunal however bought him sometime; rulings on preliminary objections may be deferred to be taken as part of the final judgement.

June 10,2019, the trial started in ernest and Akpabio has so far filed about fourteen (14) witnesses. In trial, witnesses have testifed to results not in tandem with INEC's official results, witnesses have debated over issues of cancelled units cum wards. Akpabio's witnesses have consistently revealed that Senator Ekpenyong in truth has no case to answer; ward collation agents have said they do not know the number of units in their wards, they have admitted that they did not sign the results from their ward. Some others have confirmed that supporters of the APC in the affected Senatorial District voted without accreditation and one, either in arrogance or sheer ignorance even dared to say that the aggregate of votes cast (valid and invalid) does not need to agree with the number of accredited voters. The last in the series of infamous testimonies, one witness admitted that what he said in court is what the lawyer told him to say, that he only signed a prepared statement.

Although from the pre-trial report Akpabio may still have about 90 witnesses to call, the foregoing testimonies are from his acclaimed "star witnesses". Caveat: If these be from the best, what should we expect from the subsidiaries?

The matter was adjounred for continuation of the Petitioner's case after which the Respondents will have the opportunity to also open and state their own case.

Comr. Akwaowo Clifford Ukpong, Deputy Coordinator, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Zone B in collaboration with the students Union government of Akwa Ibom State University led by Comr. Edianaobong Benson accompanied by the immediate past SUG president Comr. Ikobong Ekette and other student leaders celebrates the birthday of Professor Eno Ibanga (FNIP), Vice Chancellor of Akwa Ibom State University

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Aksu Vc Cuts Birthday Cake � With Students Amidst Soiree

The family home of Prof Eno Ibanga in Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin LGA, Vice Chancellor of Akwa Ibom State University was thrown into wild jubiliation and massive soiree Wednesday, as students and well wishers in their numbers trouped into his compound to celebrate his birthday.

The Professor who gave out his daughter in marriage on Tuesday with a talk of the town traditional marriage attended by the state governor and other top government functionaries was overwhelmed with joy as he cut the birthday cakes gifted him by his students, staffs, friends and well wishers.

https://akwaibomdaily.com.ng/photo-news-vice-chancellor-cuts-birthday-with-students-and-staffs/