Best performing governor

Desperate efforts by blackmailers to malign the Member Representing Uyo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon Michael Enyong has been exposed.

The operator of the fake Facebook account with name Emem Etina criminally lifted from the website of World Health Organization ( WHO ), picture of pregnant Esther Sabouangis , a Cameroonian from Yaoundé receiving preventive malaria Medicine during Pregnancy.

For the past three weeks the said Emem Etina who operates the fake Facebook account , with fake profile pictures, and fake identity created false stories which she shared with members of the public claiming that Hon Michael Enyong impregnated one Regina Christopher of Itiam Etoi in Uyo LGA of Akwa Ibom State.

Investigations revealed that the picture of Esther Sabouangis was criminally lifted from “WHO” website, posted on the internet and given pseudo name; Regina Christopher.

Enlightened members of the public are advised to click World Health Organization website http://www.who.int/features/2017/malaria-pregnancy-africa/en

-Samuel Ayara

Wired to do good, raised to touch lives, trained to live right and graced to fulfill destiny without coercion, Hon. (Elder) Aniekan Umanah is a limited edition of his kind. One that has done more than memories can capture in changing the narrative of the political and socioeconomic depth of his people, to brighten every corner life has pushed him to, by discouraging beggarly dispositions in doing great things with love and optimism.

Braving age-long sentiments of political and clannish leaning this scion of the Umanah’s dynasty has availed humanity an opportunity to live and express their capabilities, which in saying the least is an alien culture in our society where pettiness have become an order, such that people are subjected to scaling walls of doubt before they are given a chance.

Leveraging on social toga to demolish the walls social and political dichotomy that hitherto engulfed the Abak space, Aniekan Umanah in his eight years of stewardship to the state, as Commissioner for Information and Communications has worked to put the people to eternal debt of irrepressible gratitude to his heart of unmistakable and boundless goodwill.

It is unarguable that his coming on the turf heralded a new era that displaced pettiness, mediocrity, hooliganism and divisiveness. Today one can rightly point that he has unified every strata of his native Abak Local Government Area, to allow for a regime of socioeconomic and political harmony, where issues are better discussed than resort to violent confrontations.

Without seeking to spur a needless comparison, it is incontrovertible that serving for eight years in the State Executive Council as the longest serving commissioner for Information was worth the while. Such feats are not attained by luck, but through determination, capacity and competence, hence, one can afford to discuss his classic example in mandate delivery, without faulting his strategies.

While gracefully delivering on his briefs in office to raise Akwa Ibom to international acclaim, one would gladly agree that he went all the mile in perfecting the caste of propagating government policies and programmes, expending twice the energy the job required in putting Abak to sociopolitical and economic reckoning.

Needless enumerating how far he went in achieving the much he did, since that may smack an attempt to dwarf the achievements of others, but an highlight of his timely interventions would suffice as it does no harm, but sets a template for others to follow through in making lives better for their people whenever an opportunity calls.

Away from holding a yet to be challenged record of empowering his people, one is quickened to a flashback of how others before Umanah organized elaborate celebrations to donate motorcycles in our clime. This memory leaves people jaw-dropped at how the former information boss was able to reach out to more than 30 people with car gifts without any celebration.

Those he empowered for businesses are not only doing well but also helping others to economic independence, privileged to have accessed a man who assisted them without exposing them to the societal pressures of the camera. This were targeted interventions extended without prejudice to political, ethnic and filial considerations, but purely on the conviction that humanity deserved all the help it could get.



Government has done and is still doing so much, but never will it ever do everything; this unarguably could form the basis for Umanah’s decision to take up special intervention on the Government Primary School Midim Waterside, where he solely bankrolled the renovation and furnishing of two dilapidated school blocks, to avail the pupils an environment that supports learning.

Securing jobs for people excites him, since he abhors idleness and mediocrity; these are among the few things he can sacrifice everything for, and its proof is evident in the creation of a legion of people who are genuinely earning a living around him. Truth be told; this is one character that does not hold back ascent and consent to endeavours that would secure an individual a means of livelihood, even as he surrounds himself with upward-bound and result oriented people.

Until very recently, never was it heard that the Abak Local Government Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party had a challenge that required outsourcing solutions, as this thoroughbred media expert and political strategist showed an unparalleled commitment to putting smiles on their faces to promote the fledging political culture that has enveloped the area, to date. One of such efforts of his included bearing the rent cost of the Chapter Secretariat and at a time, donated cars to the Chapter Chairman and all eleven Ward Chairmen in the area.

Interestingly all these were achieved with more than money, as he employed a workable heart and empathetic disposition at seeing to it that whatever came his way in the course of discharging official duties never slid without meeting a need. This avails an appropriate testimonial to the golden heart he clearly exuded as an appointee of government.

The assurance this offers, lie greatly in his capability to do more, considering that he did so well in a position he was neither voted for, nor had a constituency purse to draw from. Nobody can rightly say what political favour they did him, since there was never a time he went canvassing for votes for himself, but was overly committed to supporting other peoples’ political ambition with his resources, goodwill and wide reach.

In consonance with the African proverb “if you want to go fast go alone, but if you want to go far go with the people” Aniekan Umanah had long positioned himself to go far by inextricably twinning his interest and concerns with those of his people, demystifying age, class, education and political leaning.

Thankfully, a leadership opportunity that requires his kind has beckoned, and with the decision of stakeholders of Abak federal constituency to zone the National Assembly seat of the area to Abak Local Government Area, to allow for harmonious coexistence of the people of Abak, Etim Ekpo, Ika; who are in dire need of quality representation at that level.

His plans and projections are laid bare and plain, having invested so much in ensuring his people resonates an irrepressible voice in every nook of the Nigerian nation, exploring his education, exposure, contact, proficiency and conviction to finding solutions to their deafening concerns.

One cannot but agree that an Aniekan Umanah representation in the House of Representatives in 2019 is a-win-win for the constituency and State as it will be a replay of the niche brilliant and rewarding performance he has carved for himself.

There is so much to do, but the haste in getting them done depends solely on how fast we mobilize our appeal towards the robust and quality representation that will see to unfettered involvement in law making, policy formulation and a massive empowerment plan for the constituents of Abak, Etim Ekpo, Ika Federal Constituency.

Behold the birth of a new order!

Samuel Ayara writes from Ibong Otoro, in Abak Local Government Area

Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State has warned people against hiding under the cloak of political party lines and pecuniary interests to fight against the developments of the state.

Governor Emmanuel who spoke at the Onna township stadium during the funeral of the late Paramount ruler of Onna and Oku Ibom Ibibio 111, Late Akwa Edidem Akpabio Udo Ukpa, called on all Akwa Ibomites to unite and pursue the overall interest of the state.

Alluding to the unity witnessed at the occasion by the gathering of all stakeholders in the state, he said, “There are no political parties here, but Akwa Ibomites, may this unity abound in us.”

He lamented the ugly scenario where several people could work against the interest of the state by sponsoring attacks and vandalism against his projects and programmes in the state, in order to score cheap political points.

Decrying the vandalism at his administration’s coconut plantation and refinery project site, among other similar incidents, he urged people to hearken to the sermon delivered at the occasion by fighting just causes in order to leave behind positive legacies for the unborn generations.

“A good fight must recognize that politics is over, and it is time for governance. A good fight must recognize when we live above party politics and think of the future generation,” he enthused.

Eulogizing the late social crusader, Emmanuel said, “We are gathered here today to bid farewell to a colossus, a giant among men who straddled the political, social and traditional space of this land with flash and dash.”

He said that the late Oku Ibom Ibibio 111 was “destined to be the loadstar that would eventually guide, direct and illuminate the path for thousands of people to find their purpose in life, and he did this, with utmost humility and a deep sense of community.”

“We have come here today to pay tribute to the last of that group of rare breed of men who dedicated their lives to public service, accepting in the process, the praise that is usually in short supply and the abuses that also come in torrents.”

The governor in an emotional tone, eulogized Chief Ukpa as one who was in the vanguard for the struggle against oppression, colonialism, and other forms of rights abuse, dating back to 1957 when he served in the Eket County council as pioneer secretary and treasurer, and later Executive Chairman, Onna County Council, before proceeding to serve as Member, Eastern House of Chiefs, Enugu from 1960-1966.

He described the passage of Edidem Ukpa as a sad event, and urged his family, friends and admirers to be consoled only by his services to humanity, to his community, state and the nation.

He announced the renaming of the Onna Sports center as the Akwa Edidem Akpabio Udo Ukpa Sports Stadium,and promised to build a befitting sports center to immortalize the late pace-setter in the wellbeing of the oil communities of the country.

Quoting Alphonse de Lamartine Governor Emmanuel who was flanked by his wife Martha opined that, “Sometimes when one person is absent the whole world seems depopulated,” adding that, “our community, state and the nation is indeed depopulated by the passing of this towering and proud son of Onna, Akwa Ibom and the nation at large.”

Former governors of the state Arch. Victor Attah and Senator Godswill Akpabio described the late sage as a disciplined leader who was not involved in partisan politics but exuded positive influence on the polity of the state especially in the course of justice and equity.

Akwa Edidem (Dr.) Akpabio Udo Ukpa, JP, FCE, Pfd, the Oku Ibom Ibibio 111/ Paramount Ruler of Onna Local Government area was born on the 29th of June, 1923, in Ikot Edor and died at the age of 93.

Source #AKSGICT

Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State, has opined that the country’s democracy would be stronger if our economy is strong.

Mr Emmanuel stated this on Friday evening shortly after receiving the prestigious Governor Of The Year Award by Leadership Newspapers.

The epoch making event which was held at the Abuja International conference centre, attracted dignitaries across the globe.

Governor Emmanuel who became the star of the night was heavily praised by the Publisher of the newspaper; Sam-Ndah Isaiah as well as other speakers for his monumental strides in Akwa Ibom.

Governor Udom Emmanuel dedicated the award to the people of Akwa Ibom State who are very supportive in his vision.

“I dedicate this award to the people of Akwa Ibom State, who are supportive of my vision and continue to inspire us to work harder. The challenges are daunting, but with God on our side, we shall succeed”

Below are pictures of the event.

SEE MORE PICTURES HERE https://akwaibomstate.gov.ng/read-article-LEADERSHIP-AWARDS-CEREMONY-IN-PICTURES-.html

Investment Opportunities in Akwa Ibom State - Nigeria www.akwaibomstate.gov.ng

Akwa Ibom State is safe for investment - Gov Udom Emmanuel


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2YKnOTWD1Mc

GOV. EMMANUEL ASSURES OF DIVINE INTERVENTION IN THE AFFAIRS OF THE COUNTRY

Akwa Ibom State Governor Mr Udom Emmanuel has spoken of faith based Organisations as dependable partners in the development of the State acknowledging that they have impacted positively on the state as God answers to the supplication of men who daily seek divine intervention in their personal affairs, that of the state and country.

Governor Emmanuel stated this at Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries, South South Region 3 Headquarters, Uyo where he attended the church service.

He said "prayers of the church has positively impacted on the state as God always answers to the supplication of the men of God who daily seek divine intervention in the affairs of the state and country."

This, he said, compels his partnership with the church and that the present economic condition cannot hinder God's plan and purposes to the state which is named after him.

Governor Emmanuel who took the first Bible reading from Psalm 23 testified to God's benevolence in piloting the affairs of the state and said that Akwa Ibom in a short-while shall become the much sought after destination in industrial development.

Mr Emmanuel lauded the Mountain of Fire And Miracles Ministries for its rapid growth and contributions to the spiritual uplift of the Nation as well as salvation of mankind and particularly lauded the founder and General overseer of the Church Dr. D.K Olukoya for holding on to the vision of the ministry with it sound doctrine, spiritual impartation and deliverance.

Preaching on the topic "Victory of the Chosen Temple." the Assistant General Overseer of the Church Dr Peter Felix said that God created man for the purpose of worshiping him and that man has been sanctified as a chosen vessel with a defined destiny.

He said that Christians have been set apart through faith as a chosen generation and whatever challenges the church challenged God and that no matter the affliction and adversity the church has risen to demonstrate the supremacy and sovereignty of God.

The man of God based his sermon on Psalm 68 verses 15 to 16 saying that God shall deliver the church and believers from shame and enforces his sovereignty in the affairs of the Nation.

Governor Emmanuel was accompanied to the service by his wife Martha, Deputy Governor Moses Ekpo, Secretary to the State Government Sir Etekamba Umoren, Head of Civil Service Mrs Ekereobong Akpan, Commissioners, Chairmen of Boards and Parastatals .

https://akwaibomstate.gov.ng/read-article-GOV-EMMANUEL-ASSURES-OF-DIVINE-INTERVENTION-IN-THE-AFFAIRS-OF-THE-COUNTRY.html

Akwa Ibom State government has disclosed plans to construct Super economic highway linking Uyo, Etinan, Eket, East - West road with the Ibeno shore lines to ease transportation of commodities in the coastal Region and open up the state for the increased economic activities which Ibom Deep Seaport and subsidiary companies would herald in the state.

The state Governor Mr Udom Emmanuel announced this at the International Headquarters of Qua Iboe Church, Ukpenekang - Ibeno Local Government Area of the state where he attended the Church service. .

According to him: "the desire of my administration to see to the completion of the road is based on the economic significance of the road to the lifeline of not only the state but the country in view of the fact that greater percentage of natural crude oil and gas resources are explored off shore using the coastal communities and the roads as entry points."

“from assessment of the quality of work undertaken by the expatriate contractors in sand filling, excavation and construction, there is confidence of inaugurating the road as part of plans to realizing the vision of a super highway from Uyo through Etinan, Eket, emptying at the Atlantic coast."

The Governor indicated that on inauguration, the Eket Ibeno highway would offer easy reach to investors with huge sums already committed at sites in the search for commercial quantity of gas resources.

He explained that God has deposited enormous wealth in the routes which the Irish missionary Rev. Samuel Bill traversed to propagate Christianity and that the creation of Qua Iboe Church in 1887 in the coastal Community of Ibeno Local Government Area of the state is symbolic as it coincide with the creation of the state in 1987 as well as restoration of International headquarters of the church to Ukpenekang after it was taken from the area in a period of seventy years.

Mr Emmanuel commended the Church hierarchy for taking steps to reconcile the different Conferences of the church and reminded the members to continue in appreciating the work of God by maintaining their records in morals and accepting the reconciliation of interest and missions in the spreading of the Gospel.

He reminded them that the foundation of coexistence initiated years back by QIC has positively affected nearly every family in the state adding that God has lifted the church and the state and assured of his administration's readiness to create landmark legacies as it concerns development of infrastructure and capacity building.

The Governor said that Quantum Petrochemical Company would soon commence refining operations while processing. The documentation for the supply of gas and that the Eket - Ibeno road constructed by Chinese Civil Engineering and Construction Company (C.C.E.C.C) would be commissioned in the month of this year. .

Earlier, the General Superintendent and Chairman of Conference Qua Iboe Church, Reverend Ekpedeme Moffat Effanga said that God gave Akwa Ibom State as a centenary gift to Qua Iboe Church

He said that the Conference hqtrs of the church was returned to its cradle Ukpenekang after seventy years after a resolution in 2010 and that the meeting to canvas for the state creation was held at Qua Iboe Church, Abak road by the founding fathers of the state..

He described the visit of the Governor to the church and his partaking in the first Eucharist after the return of the Ark to its cradle as significant Chapter in the church history.

Preaching on the theme ' Dining with the king' the Cleric said dining with a king was very significant as it could attract blessings as well as a curse.

He read from the book of Esther Chapter 7 verses 1 to 7 and Luke 22 verses 14 to 23 and recalled the emergence of Esther as a Queen following the fall of Vashti and the antics of Haman to anihilate the Jews and how God used Esther to stand in the gap and reverse the evil programming orchestrated by Harman.

The man of God said that Esther's Banquet for the king brought Haman to his waterloo maintaining that God's strategy in the salvation of those who trust in him is always miraculous. .

He said that God brought Governor Udom Emmanuel to Akwa Ibom to fulfill his Divine purpose in the state and urged detractors to desist from their antics and support him to fulfill his development agenda.

Governor Emmanuel also paid homage on the Chairman state Council of Chiefs and paramount Ruler of Ibeno. H.R.M Edidem Effiong Achianga at his Palace where the Royal father conveyed his blessing urging him to continue on his Industrialization Programme.

The Governor who was shown round the grave of the Qua Iboe Church founder Reverend Samuel Bill and other projects executed by the church attended the service alongside Speaker of the State House of Assembly Hon Onofiok Luke, Eket Federal House of Representatives Member, Hon Owoidighe Ekpoattai, Secretary to the State Government Sir Etekamba Umoren, State PDP Chairman Obong Paul Ekpo, Members of the state Executive Council and other dignitaries.

https://akwaibomstate.gov.ng/read-article-EKET-IBENO-CARRIAGE-WAY-FOR-INAUGURATION-MAY-2017-GOV-EMMANUEL.html

Akwa Ibom Christmas Carol 2016

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGDM5Dpctto

Let Our King Be Lifted High

The above subsists as the theme of the AkwaIbom Christmas Carols Festival 2016; an annual celebration heralding the birth of Christ, which the AkwaIbom State Government began to mount at elaborate scale from 2008. From that year, the routine event has moved from one level to the other in terms of content leading to improvement with the planners leveraging on the experiences of the previous to give each edition unique character and trappings. This year's edition is therefore a product of eight years of cognate experience endued with distinctive features that would fascinate, excite and entertain. https://akwaibomstate.gov.ng/read-article-Let-Our-King-Be-Lifted-High.html

Where will you be on the 17th of December 2016? Come and Experience True Worship from the Largest Carol Singers. "Let Our King Be Lifted High"

Venue: Uyo Township Stadium, Udo Umana Street, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State - Nigeria

For more information visit akcarolsfest.com

Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGDM5Dpctto

#akcarolsfest2016
19 Days to go...

#NigeriaAt56 celebration in Akwa Ibom State: 53 Exclusive Independence Day pictures.

https://akwaibomstate.gov.ng/read-article-NigeriaAt56-Celebration-in-Akwa-Ibom-State-.html

Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital is set to play host to a historic converge of all old boys of the famous St. Joseph’s College SASSE, BUEA, Cameroon, as they will be meeting to formally launch the old boys association of the school in Nigeria.

invitation-soba

A release signed by the National President of SASSE Old Boys Association,(SOBA), Mr. Charles Oben and made available to our news medium indicates that the 3 day National convention of the body tagged “SOBA National convention which has as its theme “Launching SOBA Nigeria: Discovering a History of Educational Excellence”, will commence from October 21st through the 23rd October, 2016 in Uyo.

According to the invitation, the convention will be graced by old students of the school resident in Nigeria and their spouses, members of exco of the body, The school Principal of Sasse College as well as old boys of the school resident outside Nigeria.

St. Joseph’s College, Sasse, is a a secondary school in the southwest region of Cameroon, with its campus located in Sasse, Buea. The college is affiliated with Catholic faith as an all-male institution, it provides education at first cycle and high school levels, offering programs in science and arts.

In 2013, Sasse College was awarded the pioneer prize as best school in Cameroon by Foundation Terre d’accueil.

The programme of event are as follows;



DAY 1: FRIDAY OCTOBER 21

Arrival of Sobans and Invited guest

6pm: Registration of attendees

7pm: Welcome Dinner

a) Introduction
b) Welcome address by Host Pastor Umoh Bassey
c) Dinner and Networking


DAY2: SATURDAY OCTOBER 22

8am-10am: High mass

10-12noon: Brunch and Networking

12 noon-6pm: Deliberations/Working Session

a)Welcome by Chairman SOBA Convention Planning Committee. Nomination of Convention Chairperson

b) Address by South East Chapter President: Professor Afam Anene
c) Address by Lagos Chapter President: Chief EniDiamen
d) Address by President SOBA General: Professor Ephraim Ngwafor
e) Address by Principal Sasse College:
.Health Check of Sasse College

.Update on current projects

.Academic Report on Sasse College

f) Chapter Reports
g) Brief History of Sasse College and lecture by guest Lecturer Prof Esimone
Refreshments

-Break Out Sessions

.Soba Nigeria Way forward

Soba Wives Report

Next Soba Nigeria Convention

.Committee Reports

.Closing Remarks

Dinner& Gala Night



DAY3: SUNDAY OCTOBER 23

8am-10am: Mass

Brunch & Departure of Convention participants

A Special Interdenominational Thanksgiving Service to mark the 29 Anniversary of the Creation of Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria's 56th Independence.

Theme: Our Ever-Present Help.

Venue: St. Anne Catholic Cathedral, Ifuho, Ikot Ekpene LGA Live

Broadcast Time: 11:00am

Live Broadcast Channel: www.facebook.com/aksgovt and www.akwaibomstate.gov.ng

#AkwaIbomAt29
Join us.

AKSG plans to booAs efforts to diversify Akwa Ibom State economy gathers momentum, government is considering boosting the state’s tourism sector by proposing an annual cultural heritage festival tagged IBOMFEST.

Speaking on the project, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr. Emmanuel Ibiok, disclosed that Akwa Ibom Heritage Festival (IBOMFEST), is in sync with Governor Udom Emmanuel’s vision to further develop the tourism industry in the state.

According to the commissioner, “IBOMFEST is planned as an annual tourism platform designed to divert tourism traffic and investments to Akwa Ibom State by providing, artistic, cultural and tourism platforms that will add value to the fledgling economy”.

He further noted that IBOMFEST is an integral component of His Excellency, Governor Udom Emmanuel’s Five point development agenda designed to ensure the growth of the economy of Akwa Ibom State, adding that it will contribute significantly towards the enhancement of the revenue base of the state and yield positive harvests to the people and government of the state.

He likened the proposed festival to cultural and artistic events like the Calabar Carnival, Osun/Osogbo Festival, Ofala Festival and Argungu Fishing and Cultural Festival that are recognized globally.

The commissioner expressed conviction that Akwa Ibom State is a natural haven for tourism, noting that “above all, the clean, healthy, secure and peaceful environment of the state, even in these turbulent times of terrorism and insurrections the world over, makes it the prime tourism destination in our country”.

Also speaking, the Special Assistant to Governor on Tourism Matters, Ini Edo, disclosed that IBOMfest, will be a yearly event which will be held every December in the State with Uyo the state capital as the venue.


“This year, the festival shall be celebrated in December from the 15th – 17th with the theme ‘Our Cultures Beyond Boarders”.

“It is my hope that this event will showcase the rich culture and beauty of Akwa Ibom people, attract tourist traffic and tourism investors to the state and contribute to its revenue base”.

“This year’s festival will commence with a cultural float tagged ‘Parade of Colours’, a fashion parade in Ibeno beach, where international and local designers of cultural attires will compete among themselves.”

“There will be a cooking competition, eating and drinking competition, food exhibition, comedy, live band and other recreational activities, there will be a gala night and exclusive dinner party for distinguished guests, government functionaries, event sponsors and tourism stakeholders and there will be a colourful boat regatta at Ayadehe, Itu Local Government Area, involving all coastal communities in the state and visitors from other climes and tourists”.

As efforts to diversify Akwa Ibom State economy gathers momentum, government is considering boosting the state’s tourism sector by proposing an annual cultural heritage festival tagged IBOMFEST.

http://ibomfest.com/read/blog/AKSG-Plans-to-boost-tourism-with-IBOMFest.html

Supreme Court Judgement: The Fun, the Panache and the Excitements in Akwa Ibom State. Take A Look!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DI9F0r9JIs

Gov. Udom Emmanuel's Supreme Court Victory Broadcast.
Take a look. <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/B6kGzyarMxU" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6kGzyarMxU

His Excellency, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State Mr. Udom Emmanuel, today breached protocols when he was passing through Mbiaobong Etoi, he came down amidst the cheering market women to have a chat with them.

Source: http://insideakwaibom.com/see-governor-udom-emmanuel-of-akwa-ibom-state-was-seen-doing-today/

Frontline MC, TV presenter and Media Ace, Patrick Reuben has joined the Akwa Ibom State Government media team as the latest Personal Assistant to the Governor on Media.

The lanky Etinan-born media guru served in the campaign team as the presenter and Associate Producer of the campaign trail documentary series, The Right Platform TV.

Pat has been the producer/presenter in several popular TV programmes including AM Express Extra, Thrills and Glamour, Terra Vista TV Show, The Verdict Tv and Branded Tv show.

InsideAkwaIbom.com wishes to join other eminent Akwa Ibom people to commend Gov Emmanuel on this appointment and wishes Pat the best in his new assignment.

http://insideakwaibom.com/pat-reuben-emerges-udoms-latest-media-aide/

News Editor December 8, 2015 News & Reports, Politics 20
…FAULTS CANCELLATION OF 18 LGAS BY TRIBUNAL

Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom state has asked the Court of Appeal to dismiss the ruling of lower court that annulled elections in 18 local government areas of the state.

Governor Emmanuel whose position was contained in a brief of argument submitted by his lead counsel D.D. Dodo (SAN) and Paul Usoro (SAN), noted that the tribunal erred in law when it nullified the Akwa Ibom State Governorship election results and ordered re-run elections in the said local government areas on grounds that “thousands of voters indicated to vote and were disenfranchised.”

He has also urged the appellate court to dismiss the counter appeal filed by the Obong Umana Umana on ground of lacking in merit.

The governor insisted that the tribunal erred in entertaining a petition by Mr Umana Umana who was not qualified to present himself as a candidate, having failed to fulfil the relevant conditions of the electoral law, and urge the appellate court to dismiss his cross appeal.

Citing Section 85 (1) of the electoral act 2010 (as amended), the governor averred that according to stipulation, “every registered political party shall give the commission at least 21 days notice of any convention, Congress, conference or meeting convened for the purpose…nominating candidates for any of the elective offices specified under the Act.” He said that the primaries which produced Mr Umana Umana, took place on the 4th of December 2014 which is exactly 16 days after APC’s notice to INEC dated November 19, 2014.

Emmanuel also urged the court to quash the judgement of the tribunal on the basis that Umana and APC did not call voters from each of the polling units in the 18 local government areas where elections were nullified, to tender their voter’s card and voters’ register to show that they were actually disenfranchised from voting but, called in the aggregate, 52 witnesses out of which 4 were classified by them as expert witnesses and were specifically not registered to vote in the Election.

Emmanuel relied on the Supreme Court decision in Ngige and 1 other V Independent National Electoral Commission and 3 others (2015) 1NWLR (Pt 1440) 281 that “disenfranchised voters must testify to show that if they were allowed to vote their candidate would have won the election”, a position the supreme Court had earlier relied on in Ucha and Anor v Elechi and Oke v Mimiko.

Based on this, it was the position of the Governor that for a petitioner to fault the election in any local government area by the provisions of the electoral act, he is to prove the anomaly unit by unit and ward by ward, and argued further that the best eligible person who should testify on the polling unit activities, according to the act, is the polling agent.

Emmanuel said that the tribunal erred and occasioned a grave miscarriage of justice when it relied on testimonies by a single individual to nullify election in an entire local government area.
However in his cross appeal, Wole Olanipekun(SAN), who represented Umana Umana in the court urged the appellate court to set aside the ruling of the tribunal and nullify the remaining 13 local government areas elections result.

The appeal court has reserved ruling on all the appeals to a later date.
Sitting right majestically in the Appellate court was Governor Udom Emmanuel, with some senior citizens including former Governor Idongesit Nkanga, Sir Emem Akpabio, Senator Effiong Bob, Senator Emmanuel Ibokessien, Sen Anietie Okon, Senator Bassey Albert, Rt Hon. Nduese Essien, Sir Val Attah, Gen Anthony Etukudo, Barr Emmanuel Enoidem, Hon Aniekan Umanah and Hon Udo Ekpenyong, Dr. Victor Udoh among others.

Mr Umana was accompanied by his running mate Ben Ukpong and Mr Ita Awak among others.

http://insideakwaibom.com/akwa-ibom-governorship-appeal-update-gov-udom-says-umana-was-not-a-valid-apc-candidate/
#UdomRemainsGovernor

Are You Ready? Want to know more About #Inyene is coming to Uyo.

Be anxious no more. #inyene is actually coming to Uyo tomorrow 20th Nov. 2015

Save the Date!

The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr. Aniekan Umanah, has referred to the recent secession call from some section of the society as a threat to Nigeria’s unity and sovereignty, describing such as unpatriotic.
Mr. Umanah bared his mind on the recent Biafra and Republic of Niger Delta issues while fielding questions in his office, on the Akwa Ibom State Gazette Tweet Meet, #AKSGTweetmeet, which featured key players in the online media practice.

The TweetMeet, among other issues allowed the commissioner the opportunity of interacting with thousands of online followers of the tweet threads on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Live internet streaming on Youtube, provided a window for citizens to ask questions on topical issues.

Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information & Communications, Mr. Aniekan Umanah (m) in a group photograph with Online Publishers/Bloggers shortly after an online interactive session in his Today.

Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information & Communications, Mr. Aniekan Umanah (m) in a group photograph with Online Publishers/Bloggers shortly after an online interactive session in his Today.

Describing Governor Udom Emmanuel’s performance in the last five months as superlative, the information and communications boss, asserted that no governor has performed better, pointing at the governor’s commitment to industrialization, wealth creation, job creation, economic and political inclusion, poverty alleviation, infrastructural consolidation and expansion, as unparalleled.

On government obligations to staff and retirees, he noted that government was up to date in its responsibility of ensuring every worker gets his due, except recently employed staff, whose process of documentation were plagued with several mistakes, while some presented falsified information. He however assured that government was considering ways to resolve the impasse.

Mr. Umanah who all through the session was calm despite the barrage of questions from the online audience never allowed the TweetMeet slip through without mentioning Governor Udom Emmanuel’s giant strides in infrastructure, while calling on the people to expect more in the coming days.

He emphasized on the state government’s readiness to revamp the health, education, agricultural and investment sectors of the state economy to create employment, and called on the people to be proactive, and rise to their faith in greatness, as contained in the current administration’s DAKKADA philosophy.

He reminded the AKSGTweetmeet team to always verify their reports before going to the press, to avoid falling victim of unethical media practices.

http://insideakwaibom.com/nigeria-remains-indivisible-umanah/

The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information & Communication Mr. Aniekan Umanah will be guest on #AKSGTweetMeet, next to Ambassador Sampson Akpan, erudite broadcaster and Special Assistant to Akwa Ibom state Governor on Electronic Media, who featured on the debut of what is referred to as ‘The biggest Interactive Session with millions of Akwa Ibom people Online.


#AKSGTweetMeet interactive session is designed to facilitate a conversation with an average 1 million internet users, precisely Akwa Ibom people at home and in diaspora, including prospective investors and visitors who will like to know more about Destination Akwa Ibom.

The Interactive Session is organized by The Gazette Media; publishers of www.thegazette.com.ng a reliable online news portal, although with a focus on the South, but also with a wide reach on the web.

The Tweet Meet deploys new media technology to engage policy makers and government officials in a LIVE tweet interview, streaming online and torch lighting issues bothering on governance as it affects the citizens. It features Live Tweets, Live Streaming and Compilation of the Questions & Answers for Bloggers & Print Media.

Mr. Umanah will digress issues pertaining to the mission of Governor Udom Emmanuel's administration, the achievements so far, the issues at hand, and the prospects envisaged, following questions unanswered by the previous guest- Ambassador Sampson Akpan.

Interview Date

Wednesday, November 18th 2015

Time- 3pm

Follow @aksgtweetmeet and @aniumanah or Join the conversation at #AKSGTweetMeet on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & Youtube

Join #AKSGTweetMeet : The biggest Interactive Session with millions of Akwa Ibom people

The Gazette Media invites all to #AKSGTweetMeet on Friday 13, 2015, what is dubbed ‘The biggest Interactive Session with millions of Akwa Ibom people Online.

According to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the number of mobile internet users on Nigeria’s telecoms networks had reached 97.21 million as at 30th September, 2015. The NCC also revealed that 97.06 million mobile internet users were on GSM networks and the other 151,816 users on CDMA networks.

#AKSGTweetMeet interactive session is designed to facilitate a conversation with an average 1 million internet users, precisely Akwa Ibom people at home and in diaspora, including prospective investors and visitors who will like to know more about Destination Akwa Ibom. Organized by The Gazette Media; publishers of www.thegazette.com.ng a reliable online news portal, although with a focus on the South, but also with a wide reach on the web.

The Tweet Meet is a weekly interactive session which deploys new media technology to engage policy makers and government officials in a LIVE tweet interview, streaming online and torch lighting issues bothering on governance as it affects the citizens. It features Live Tweets, Live Streaming and Compilation of the Questions & Answers for Bloggers & Print Media.
In this digital age, it is inevitable for corporate bodies and government to change the way they communicate with the people.

The session will be dedicated to addressing pressing issues related to governance in private & public sector, while attending to questions from the general public on several social media platforms.

Join the conversation: #AKSGTweetMeet on Facebook, Twitter & Youtube

EXPOSED: APC’S EVIL PLANS TO CAPTURE AKWA IBOM, RIVERS STATES

Finally, a clearly mapped out plan to forcefully and mischievously snatch the PDP controlled states in the country and hand them over to the APC, has been uncovered.

A strategy document at our disposal, shows that the Federal Government ruling APC has vowed to use all crooked and extra judicial approaches to wrestle power from PDP in Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Bayelsa and Kogi states.

As shocking and unpalatable as it may sound, some of the plans have already been hatched with the full nullification of the governorship elections in Rivers state and the re-run that was ordered in parts of Akwa Ibom state.

Unravel the mystery in the classified document below and ask yourself if this is the change they promised:

http://insideakwaibom.com/e-x-p-o-s-e-d-apcs-evil-plans-to-capture-pdp-states/

By Inibehe Udosen
Contrary to belief in a section of the media that Senator Ita Enang will present the list of ministerial nominees so the senate president,it turn out that Mr Abba Kyari got the mandate for that assignment. Senator ita Enang had earlier told reporters in New York that he had been given the list to go and present to the Nigerian senate, however a source at the presidency explained that Ita was lying all along.
“It was only after a meeting this afternoon between the president and his chief of staff,that the chief of staff was given the list and directed to take it to the senate president,” the source revealed.
Our Investigations revealed that senator lta Enang’s position as a mere assistant to the president does not give him the power for such delicate responsibilities. Previous occupants of that role were special advisers whereas Ita’s appointment downgraded the office to a non cabinet role.
“Recall that the Senate had earlier approved 16 Special Advisers for the President and Ita was appointment as a minor personal staff to the President.”
Accordingly, it was also gathered that Sen Ita Enang was not in the confidence roll of the President owing to his series of betrayals of his former benefactors including PDP and Senator Godswill Akpabio.
It is not yet clear why the former senator deceived the public that he was with the list of nominees, but analysts believe it may as well have been a ploy to blackmail the president into giving him some responsibilities.
Meanwhile the senate president Bukola Saraki has admitted receipt of the list of nominees from the Presidency. Saraki who did not disclose the names of the nominees however confirm the development via his twitter handle.
“I can now confirm that I just received the list of ministerial nominees”, he said.
Supporters of APC governorship candidate in Ita’s home state Akwa Ibom State Mr Umana Umana may have been disappointed, as their high belief was that Ita Enang had the confidence of the President, and will use the federal might to influence the decision of the tribunal in Umana’s favour. ‎

http://insideakwaibom.com/ministerial-list-buhari-disappoints-ita-enang/

Akwa Ibom State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, Monday the 14th day of September, 2015.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Akwa Ibom State monday rounded off its defense at the on-going Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja. Announcing the formal closure of its case, Lead counsel for the 2nd respondents, Tayo Oyetibo SAN told the court that the party is glad to bring its defense to an end. He thanked the tribunal judges for their kind disposition and patience in meticulously directing the proceedings.

Oyetibo SAN said that the documents tendered by the subpoenaed INEC witness will be admitted at the appropriate time. The 3rd respondents, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) pledged to open their defense on Tuesday as INEC Lawyer, Tobechukwu Nweke Esq assured that the Electoral Officers will be available on demand.

Speaking to journalists after the sitting, PDP lawyer, Tayo Oyetibo SAN noted that the party decided to close its case today satisfied by the evidence so far laid before the tribunal. “we are satisfied that going by the quality of witnesses on record so far, we do not need to call any more witnesses. It is actually not the number of witnesses that you call that sustains a case but the quality of evidence. And having assessed the quality of evidence established so far, we have decided to close our case today”. He added.

The respondents, Mr Udom Emmanuel and the Peoples Democratic Party have so far called 23 witnesses to support their defense that elections held on April 11, and that Mr Udom Emmanuel won.

The tribunal has adjourned its sitting to Tuesday, 15th September, 2015.

More on Akwa Ibom Tribunal Live Update: visit @insideakwaibom

Good Morning ‪#‎AkwaIbom‬

Akwa Ibom State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal:- Monday the 14th day of September, 2015.

FACTS:

* PDP has subpoenaed one Mr Ayogu a staff of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) who brought incidence forms, contained in three giant bags, were tendered before the Justice Umar Sadiq chaired tribunal in Abuja. One of the bags was physically brought into the court room and examined.

*Today PDP will continue in its defence and will probably close its case

*INEC will commence its defence immediately.

* The Court of Appeal on August 26 in the case of Agbaje vs Ambode held that the Electoral Act (2010) as amended does not recognise the malfunctioning of a card reader as one of the factors that can lead to the nullification of an election.

Venue: Court 8 High Court Of The Federal Capital Territory Abuja,

Case Between

Umana Okon Umana (The Petitioner)

Mr. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel, Akwa Ibom State Governor ( 1st Respondent) ,

PDP Akwa Ibom State (2nd Respondents)

INEC (3rd Respondents)

Follow Uninterrupted LIVE UPDATE Via Twitter @insideakwaibom

…Petitioner Lied on Actual number of Voters

An alleged attempt by Mr. Umana Umana, Governorship Candidate of the All Progressives Congress to mislead the tribunal over the Governorship elections in Etim Ekpo Local Government Area was Tuesday rebuffed.

While cross examining a PDP witness Solomon Umoh(SAN) Umana’s Counsel in the Akwa Ibom State Governorship Elections Tribunal tried to force the witness into accepting that the total number of accredited voters in the local government was lower than the total number of actual voters.

“I put it to you that the total number of those accredited to vote in your local government is lesser than the actual number of voters in that election,” Umoh fumed, while pretending to examine the governorship election result sheet as signed by Barr Okorie.

But Okorie, himself a lawyer would have none of the pranks and called for the result sheet, Exhibit DDDD6 also known as Form EC8C and showed the tribunal that Umana’s lawyer was lying, “My Lord, it is a lie, according to this result, total accredited voters are 45,922 and total votes cast is 45,465,” to which Solomon Umoh(SAN) put on a bewildered look.

Testifying under examination by counsel to 1st Respondent Paul Usoro(SAN), Barr Chris Okorie a former councilor and local government chairman in Etim Ekpo admitted to seeing a member of the APC a certain Mr.Charles Udoetuk (PW12) on the day of the election, but denied knowledge of his role for APC in that election.

Okorie disagreed with the earlier testimony of the said Charles Udoetuk, and insisted that elections took place and that he voted at his Polling Unit 004, and that PDP won in the area after confirming that he signed the collated results sheet DDDD6 along with the APC local government agent.

Under cross examination, Umana’s Counsel Solomon Umoh(SAN) attempted to refer the witness to another statement allegedly written by him, to which the witness does not admit not remembering, resorting in an objection by the PDP lead counsel Tayo Oyetibo(SAN) who pointed out to the tribunal that a document not admitted as evidence in the tribunal cannot be used to cross examine a witness.

IMG_20150902_132118
Paul Usoro addressing Journalists immediately after the session in court
“ Any witness statement not adopted cannot be used to cross examine a witness more so when this tribunal had earlier ruled severally on this matter that any statement on oath not adopted by a witness is not tenable in cross examination” Oyetibo submitted. A position which was adopted by Counsels to the Ist, 2nd and 3rdrespondents.

“This is very distinct from a situation where a witness statement of another witness is sighted for the purpose of cross examining another witness. And I don’t want to regret not asking him questions from that statement since he is right here in front of me,” Solomon Umoh argued fruitlessly for several minutes in a tone loud enough to bring down the walls of Jericho, forcing the court to adjourned for almost four hours.

Ruling on the matter, the three man panel of judges upheld the objection by PDP citing relevant provisions of the law that the position of the law is clear that a witness statement on oath not adopted is only an intention to give evidence and not an evidence in itself except when adopted.

The ruling was done in favour of the PDP, forcing some frustration on the face of the Petitioner Umana Umana and his supporters who had thronged the court venue, while the state PDP Chairman Paul Ekpo, clad in his white native attire, and native hat, was all smiles throughout the session.

Okorie also added that as both the LGA collation agent and ward agent for his ward at Obong ward 7 he witness a perfect distribution of election materials and collation of result, adding that although he knew Barr Emmanuel Enoidem his kinsman, he is unaware any other role he played on the day of the election.

He asserted energy on the fact that as a former local government chairman who joined PDP in 2002, he had a large followership and that no other party commands recognition in his locality.

Speaking to journalists after adjournment of Tuesday’s proceedings, the lead counsel to the PDP Mr Tayo Oyetibo(SAN) said so far his witnesses have maintained that there was election and that the pattern of election in the state since 1999 was always in favour of the Peoples Democratic Party.

Also Speaking, Paul Usoro (SAN) counsel to the 1st defendant said they were determined to prove to the tribunal that there was a credible election in Akwa Ibom State, and the defense witnesses have been consistent in their testimonies that there was that people voted freely in the April 11 elections.

The petitioner Umana Umana of the All Progressives Congress through his counsels Solomon Umoh(SAN) and Dayo Akinlaja(SAN) want people to believe that no election took place in Akwa Ibom State on April 11, 2015.

http://insideakwaibom.com/aibom-tribunal-update-okorie-carpets-umana-umana-on-voters-in-etim-ekpo/

The belief that propaganda does no man or society good is a universal reality; in fact, Malcolm X, the African-American human rights activist was within the right perspective when he said: "I am for the truth, no matter who tells it. I am for justice, no matter who it's for or against".

During the World War II (1939-45), Adolf Hitler, the architect of the war and Head of the German Republic engaged the services of Paul Joseph Goebell, a Doctor of Philosophy degree (PhD) as Reich of Propaganda Minister.

Goebell's propaganda promoted anti-Semitism and attacks on the Christians and laid the foundation for "total war" including closing down of businesses which were indisposed to the war effort. It was this system-induced propaganda orchestrated by Goebell which strengthened Hitler in his pro-Aryan race and war policy which led to his self-destruct. Lies, are indeed, a sinking sand.

In Akwa Ibom State, the use of propaganda and falsehood by the opposition All Progressives Congress to mislead the innocent public reached its climax during the 2015 governorship election, which the people unanimously chose the path of reason and justice and voted for Udom Gabriel Emmanuel as their Governor.

Unlike the PDP presidential standard bearer in the 2015 election, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan who expressly congratulated his APC counterpart, Muhammadu Buhari, the APC Gubernatorial candidate, Umana Okon Umana, perhaps, in rhythm of falsehood churned out by his propaganda machinery challenged the people's collective verdict and took victorious counterpart, Governor Emmanuel to the Governorship Petitions Tribunal, in what many have come to identify as a wild goose chase.

In his speculative petition, Mr Umana contended that no elections were conducted in Akwa Ibom State, and most of the witnesses he hired, fruitlessly failed to establish his claim beyond mere speculative rhetoric.

Then came the time for the 1st respondent, Governor Udom Emmanuel to defend the people's sacred mandate through his witnesses at the tribunal. Among the coterie of persons who testified to the fact that there was election in the state, were Akparawa Godwin Ntukudeh who is the state commissioner for Transport, Maxwell Ojoko, Engr. Etido Inyang, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Special Duties, among other political gladiators.

Flamboyantly clad in a dark- color Italian suit with an enchanting bow-tie and armed with the power of factual articulation, Etido Inyang's testimony could at best be described as 'a masterly display' during evidence -in -chief and cross-examination, in that "it nailed the final coffin" of the APC in the tribunal.

When asked if he participated in the elections, the former 19 year Slumberger staff responded in the affirmative. He took time to educate the tribunal on the peaceful conduct of the election throughout Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District and reiterated that after he heard on the radio of the peaceful conduct of the election, he received guests that trooped into his Ikot Ekpene home in solidarity.

During cross-examination, Engr Inyang also shed light on salient issues. According to him: "I have lived in Ikot Ekpene, Port Harcourt and Houston... I worked in Slumberger for 19 years...I would be surprised if anyone says there was no election in Ikot Ekpene. After the election, I got updates on the peaceful conduct of the election".

In an effort to discredit Engr. Inyang's testimony, the petitioner's lawyer "manufactured" a police report which showed that someone was murdered during the election and that shootings were recorded somewhere in Obot Akara of Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District.

Apparently desperate in seeking loopholes in Etido Inyang's account, the petitioner's lawyer Dayo Akinlaja, asked the Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Management to read the police account, which he did without hesitation while maintaining that he did not witness or hear about the incidents since none of them took place in Ikot Ekpene local government on the said day.

That the police report was rejected by the judge as exhibit is not the crux here, what is nonsensical and illogical in the lawyer's argument is that the murder of one person and shootings at a particular unit in a senatorial district could not impinged on the credibility of the election.

Engr Inyang did justice to the question as to whether the entire Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District recorded a peaceful election: "I was duly accredited in my unit using card reader and I left after voting... I learnt elections were generally peaceful in my senatorial district", submitted Engr Inyang.

Obviously embarrassed at the empirical account and tutoring on the electoral process by Engr Etido Inyang, the petitioner's counsel, Chief Akinlaja ran out of patience and began shouting at him. Engr Inyang chose to maintain his calm in order to dominate the pace of the cross-examination.

The tribunal judge, acting on the objection by the 1st respondent’s lead counsel Paul Usoro(SAN) called Akinlaja to order, citing relevant sections of the law. He advised Chief Akinlaja to be civil and be guided by the fundamental principles if the law in cross-examining witnesses.

One thing is certain about Engineer Etido Inyang's testimony and composure: it demystified the petitioner's lawyer who thought he could use the Special Duties commissioner to have a legal field day.
With the level of intellectual articulation by Eng. Etido Inyang and other Governor Udom Emmnuel’s witnesses, vis -a -vis the governorship election, the question as to whether the governorship elections were conducted in Ikot Ekpene and by extension Akwa Ibom State, was brought to a final rest

Using Ikot Ekpene as a case study, some fundamental questions should be pondered on: did the governorship election actually take place in Akwa Ibom State on the 11th of April, 2015? No doubt the answer is YES.

Does the murder of 1 person and the prevalence of shootings in one or two villages as contained in a "manufactured" police report tantamount to "widespread irregularities" in a state that has 31 local government areas? The answer again is NO.

Does propaganda and mendacious falsehood have the propensity to affect the verdict of tribunal judges? The answer to this is NO. That is because the law relies on fact, or the strength of an evidence - having been proven beyond reasonable doubt.

Finally, may I make appeal to the APC in Akwa Ibom to make heed to the above words Malcolm X, by giving truth the sanctity it deserves as no gain made from falsehood can stand the test of time.


Uwemedimoh Umanah, a Diplomatic Scholar, Peace & Conflict/Development/Public Affairs Expert, writes in this piece from Maitama -Abuja

A Lagos based lawyer and activist , Barr Usanga Edet has petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate the former Secretary to the Akwa Ibom State Government, Obong Umana Okon Umana over alledged fraudulent looting of the state treasury during his stay in office as Commissioner For Finance and later Secretary to the Akwa Ibom State Government.

In his petition to the anti-corruption body, Edet accused Umana of fleecing the State Treasury via several foreign accounts. The Legal luminary said Umana stole so much from state coffers enough to enable him buy an oil block with the name, Kanex Oil , acquired a mega construction company, AEC Works Limited, established a bank, Prospect Microfinance Bank, along Oron road by Udotung ubo, Uyo, while also affording the luxury of atleast ten choice properties in London and New York . The Lagos Lawyer also accused Umana Okon Umana of owning four aircrafts in the fleet of Arik Air, while also operating a private cash dump in his Ewet Housing and Osong Ama residences.

He therefore asked the EFCC to prosecute Umana with immediate effect in line with President Buhari's strict stance on graft. "How can a man who has spent his entire career in public service amass so much wealth? Even Mr President had expressed surprise during his campaign visit to Akwa Ibom State. Therefore, If Mr President was sincere about fighting corruption, corrupt officials like Mr Umana Umana should be behind bars". Edet has also appealed to President Buhari not to consider Mr Umana for any political appointment as he is "more corrupt than corruption".

Ben Ukpong watches as Umana’s lawyer flays up with Tribunal

* Stop shouting in Court – Judge orders APC’s counsel

BY NDANTI EKUH

Today’s sitting at the Akwa Ibom 2015 Governorship election tribunal holding in Abuja might have been the worst outing so far for the All Progressive Congress in Akwa Ibom State as their counsel, Dayo Akinlaja could not controlled his anger owing to the frustration he suffered while cross-examining one of the PDP witnesses, Elder Ufot Tobby Nkangude, a former Commissioner for Commerce and Industry.

Our reporter observed that Akinlaja who stood in for Umana’s lead counsel, Chief Wole Olanipekan, SAN seemed to lack the required expertise to cross-examine the soft spoken Ikot Abasi-born politician who carefully tackled his questions words to words, to the disappointment of APC deputy governorship candidate Mr Ben Ukpong who was among few APC faithful at the tribunal room.
It could be recalled that one of the APC witnesses had while testifying in the tribunal accused Nkangude of storming his polling unit like thug with three hilux vehicles to hijack election materials during the April 11 Governorship election.

But Nkangude told the Tribunal that the witness’s testimony was a total falsehood wrapped with a shame of defeat and aimed at tarnishing his reputation before the tribunal and the general public.

While giving his testimony, Nkangude stated thus: “There was election in my unit and I participated in the election. That day, I went to the polling unit with my Toyota Prado Jeep; not white Hilux as claimed by APC. Getting to the venue, I witnessed the presence of heavy security men which wouldn’t have made it possible for anybody to even attempt to run away with election material. So, I joined the well-behaved queue which I met and then got myself accredited by the INEC officials.

After the accreditation, I went home and later returned at about 2:30pm to cast my vote. To the best of my knowledge, there was no iota of violence in my unit as well as my village through the Election Day. Moreover, the APC witness claimed that I came in like thugs but I am not a thug and I don’t even look like one. I have never in my life handled a gun before and above all, I don’t think the witness was referring to my unit because he did not mention the name of my unit.”

Nkangude’s testimony disappointedly provoked Umana’s lawyer as he took his time to steadily respond to each of the questions thrown at him by his examiner.
Out of disappointment and anger, the lawyer started shouting in the court room, lamenting that the witness failed to answer the questions as he (Akinlaja) wanted, a development which stirred the atmosphere in the tribunal.

Reacting, the Tribunal Judge, Justice Sadiq Umar frowned at Dayo’s action and immediately called him to order. The Judge further told Umana’s lawyer that he should be mindful that he is in the court and should conduct himself properly.

On Dayo’s request for more time to cross-examined Nkangude, the judge reminded him that when APC was testifying, the party’s legal team did not allow such time to be given to PDP.
The Judge, in words, said, “Dayo, you didn’t do equity when your witnesses were testifying and now you are asking for equity, it will not work.”
The Judge’s respond forced Umana’s lawyer to stop further cross-examination of Nkangude as he disappointingly gave up.

Senator Godswill Akpabio, the former governor of Akwa Ibom State, is the Minority Leader of the 8th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. His selfless service to the state, unfettered loyalty to his party; the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP), his unprecedented leadership of the party’s Governors’ Forum, are said to be among the very many reasons which earned him his current position in the Senate, even though,he is a non ranking Senator.

Akpabio, as the governor of the state, left the state better than he met it in 2007, and this has been and still being attested to, by those who had either visited the state when he called the shots, or visited after he had left office as the state chief helmsman.

The history and the development trace which the Ukanna- born legal practitioner cum politician left behind after his meritorious service to the state abound in all the nooks and crannies of the state. Akpabio, whether we like it or not, remains a recurrent decimal in the history of the modern Akwa Ibom state which he took from the level of land of promise to that of promise and fulfillment.

Continue reading, Click here http://insideakwaibom.com/akpabio-debts-and-the-many-misgivings/