NDDC: MINISTER SACKS PRESS SECRETARY OVER 'GHANA MUST GO'

Fresh facts have emerged that the sacking of the chief press secretary to the minister of niger Delta affairs may not be unconnected with the mismanagement of their recent visit by the minister to Chief Government Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo.

Anietie Ekong, is said to have attracted the irk of his principal, Senator Godswill Akpabio, when pictures of a large 'Ghana Must Go' bag, suspected to contain millions of hard currency, were seen on the social media being escorted by the Minister to the creek.

It is believed that the Akpabio's philosophy, "what money cannot do, more money can do", has led to alleged frittering of billions of public funds on frivolous expenditures.

The visit to Tompolo, followed a seven day ultimatum, where the ex militant threatened to disrupt operations by the NDDC and other federal government parastatals, if a substantial board is not put in place by the Minister.

However during the visit, reports confirm that Akpabio and his entourage were seen coming out of the creeks, but without the big bag they dragged with them.

Whatever the contents of the bag, it was enough for the ex warlord to grant an extension to the ultimatum he issued, with the Minister given till the end of June to constitute the substantive board for the regional money spinning intervention agency.


However, Mr Government Ekpemupolo disagreed with the notion that Akpabio's money moved him to shift grounds.

In a statement, he said he review the early ultimatum he issued last Monday due to the aftermath of the consultative meeting held at Oporoza in Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South West Local government Area (LGA), Delta State by leaders, youths and stakeholders from the region and not any form of inducement.

Ekpemupolo said he waded into the matter because of his love for the region and Nigeria, noting that he could not be compromised by money and other material things.

But Senator Godswill Akpabio is said to have been greatly embarrassed when the pictures of one of his aides carrying the huge bag, attracted widespread condemnations and ridicules from the media.

He blamed Anietie Ekong for negligent and careless in the pictures he sent out to the public.

His anger was further heightened when it was discovered that no external cameraman had access to the minister's visit which was done by boats and highly restricted.

A letter yesterday, by the Chief of Staff to the Minister, Sir Etekamba Umoren, announced that Anietie Ekong has been replaced by Jackson Udom, publisher of an online media platform, Pees Reporters.

Jackson Udom, a one time reporter with Tribune Newspaper had worked under Anietie Ekong in the media team of the Minister.

Illegal Dredging: COURT REMANDS OFFENDERS IN CORRECTIONAL CENTER

A Magistrate Court sitting in Eket has remanded some persons in prison for illegal dredging in Akwa Ibom State.

The Court which sat earlier February 15 2021 in the matter between the State government and one Samuel Itang Adiambuk who's also known as West End, ordered that the offender and his accomplices be remanded in the Eket Correctional Center pending when date for the final hearing is fixed.

According to the 2-count charges read by the Court, West End, and others had in December 2020, and February 2021 carried out illegal dredging activities at Ikot Ebok waterside by Qua River in Eket even after series of notice against unauthorized sand dredging was served by the state government through the Ministry of Environment and other agencies.

The Court which quoted extant environmental laws guiding sand dredging, maintained that the popular West End and his cohorts have not only carried out illegal dredging, but has also conspired to commit felony.

The Court ordered that no bail should be granted them.

It could be recalled that the Akwa Ibom State government through the state ministry of Environment, under Sir Charles Udoh, had called for the regularization of sand mining across the state as an avenue for not only protecting the environment, but to also see that the security of the state is not toyed with.

According to the State environment Boss, the only way the people as a state could achieve this, is by regularising sand dredging so that the government knows who dredges, where he dredges, and how he dredges.

With this, he said the government would now be able to distinguish between authorized dredgers and the ones hiding under the canopy of dredging to steer insecurity in the state.

Media Unit,
Ministry of Environment

Professor Mahmoud Yakubu, INEC Chair, deploys E-VOTING SCAM for reappointment

Openlife Reporter  October 1, 2020

Professor Mahmoud  Yakubu the current Chairman of the Independent  National Electoral Commission (INEC)  is being clever. He is deploying scam to seek reappointment desperately.

Less than two months to the end of his tenure, he wants to sell Nigerians another  pie-in-the-sky. This is coming after shutting down and declaiming INEC Server he spent Billions of Naira on. He is retreating from it, in order to fraudulently  distort the result of the 2019 Presidential  Election. Prof. Jega would not have chicken out as a man of conviction and courage to do the right thing. But Professor Mahmoud  Yakubu betrayed Nigerians and the public does not trust him to chair the election management body anymore. He should be stopped from this embarrassing subtle campaign for reappointment. Jega did just a term and left behind a hopeful legacy of trust and confidence in the Electoral process. But Professor Mahmoud  Yakubu has destroyed it.

He may  believe he has a chance to sell his new scam for reappointment because  he thinks Nigerians have forgotten so soon and moved on from the most egregious betrayal of Trust he committed against the Nigerian people. No. We have not forgot how he almost denied conducting the 2019 election while trying to deny the existence of Central Server . He has lost public confidence to preside over INEC and the 2023 election.

Nigerians who felt betrayed by his denial of the existence of an IT Server are want  to ask Prof Yakubu and his fellow scammers hard  questions and will like to know the following:

Attahiru JEGA

When Professor Attahiru Jega left INEC in 2015, the use of Card Readers authentication for finger verification before a voter was allowed to have access to ballot to avoid fraud and prevent those who stockpiled PVCs from using them was over 54% of voters during the 2015 elections.

How come Professor Mahmoud Yakubu mismanaged this innovation that brought President Buhari to power? The innovation is now reduced  to less than 19% performance of biometrics authentication in the 2019 election. That means people voted without their fingers verified as owners of PVCs. This was the worst performance in Kogi and Bayelsa elections. Card Readers were not used for finger verification according to INEC Ad hoc Staff  who participated in those elections?

Prof. Yakubu uninspiring leadership of INEC has not improved significantly on any of what Prof. Jega introduced like the Card Reader performance that should have been increasing  in figure above 70% by now. Why should Professor Mahmoud  Yakubu and his team expect Nigerians to trust them with a second term re- appointment ?

Is it not true that he has been systematically superintending over the decline of the Card Reader. And he has been embracing results from one Arena of Grand-Theft Elections to another?

Can Professor Yakubu and his National Commissioners Team  deny that they bought zPads as well as installed costly IT Equipment  with which they promised to transmit Election results during the  2019 General Elections ? What happened that forced them to drop the data from the huge IT investment?  Is it Pressure from Amina Zakari’s family ? What will prevent such scam again  when using E-voting ?

INTERNATIONAL  DONORS

Did Yakubu and his colleagues  not accept funds  from International  Donors. Specific donors include the European Union to train a category of staff they called RATECH to facilitate the transmission  of results and other field data from INEC state offices  only to deny using these facilities,  just to make his scam with the server stick?

Does  Professor Mahmoud  Yakubu and his  leadership think that Nigerians have forgotten the shame of several inconclusive elections he subjected the nation to since 2016 when he took over as chairman and the tragedy of the 2019 elections ?

 Does he realise that he no longer commands the confidence of the electorate in Nigeria  as well as  the respect and trust of  International  Donors?

Professor Mahmoud  Yakubu speaks of punishment of electoral offenders when its convenient to him since 2019 election. But no offenders have been arraigned in court of law.

What makes  Yakubu think he can deceive Nigerians in his quest for reappointment? He is trying to sell another chimera in  the name of Electronic Voting, another fantasy to Nigerians?

Does he think that Nigerians are  ready to listen to this Electronic voting Re-appointment campaign jingle?

EDO ELECTION

Is it not a fact  that Professor Mahmoud Yakubu and his National Commissioners almost shelved  the ICT that was used to transmit election results from Polling Units in the Edo State Election only to allow it at the last minute when instructions from “Above” were received  to ensure the defeat and disgrace of some national leaders of a Political  Party ? Why did he dropped the use of  z-Pad for authentication in Edo and allowed a Rec totally lacking of legal and moral authority  having been  a member of PDP at one time and now a member of APC to preside over Edo election when he has power to redeploy him to another  state ? But for media exposure and public outcry both Edo and Ondo elections are to be used as quid pro quo for second term re-appointment.

Will INEC allow the same ICT result transmission in Edo to succeed in Ondo?

Does the Constitution  not empower INEC to decide how Elections should  be conducted, but did Prof Yakubu not use his own whim to repudiate and abdicate that power when he declared that INEC had no enabling Law for using electronic transmission  of results, just to hide the INEC server? Where did he get the power to use it in Nasarawa and Edo states?

Prof Yakubu and his re-appointment-seeking colleagues launched  a public jamboree to invite everyone to witness the demonstrations of e-Voting  equipment. Is that not a process that the User Departments in INEC ought to have concluded before bringing it before the public? Must this be used as a campaign for second term re-appointment?

CO OPTING MEDIA

Why issue a press statement to Nigerians even a day after the launch of a re-appointment campaign jamboree, repeating what had been said before that more vendors would be coming to make presentations ?

When did  Prof Yakubu and colleagues invite the public to witness the testing of zPads, Result Transmission Servers etc?

This is the first time in the history of Nigeria that a sitting Chairman of INEC and his team of national commissioners would embark on a full scale re-appointment public campaign under the guise of E-voting to hoodwink Nigerians. Why should people be allowed to campaign for such a  sensitive office of an election umpire? In decent countries, such a move attracts automatic disqualification. This is because engaging politicians to secure such offices would involve making partisan commitments and promises.

Professor Mahmoud  Yakubu please, sell your dreamscape to the gullible. It will not fly this time ! Nigerians have no confidence in you. Your re-appointment would spell doom for the 2023 elections. With you, President Muhammadu Buhari would have left no enduring legacy unlike his predecessor if he reappoints you.

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE, NIGERIA!

AKAN OKON: 55 HEARTY CHEERS TO A FINE LEADER

Aniekeme Finbarr

Born on Nigeria’s Independence day in 1965, this gentleman belongs to a rare class of people who have sweetly blended individual success with public service.

With a strong penchant for excelling in anything he does, Mr Akan Okon , the Honourable Commissioner for Economic Development and Ibom Deep Seaport, Akwa Ibom State is always poised, willing, ready and able to weave solutions out of every knotty circumstance. He is always ready to serve and to touch the lives of people in many exceedingly remarkable ways.

At first contact, you’d be tempted to take his target-oriented, no-nonsense posturing as a hard nut to crack. But beneath that facade lies a natural pleasantness, a friendly spirit and a charming brilliance.

Mr Akan Okon is a man of many worlds, from the intellectually competitive and demanding atmosphere of financial services to the crazy realms of politics and management in government, there hasn’t been any point of deviation from the normal for this intellectual giant in terms of inputs and outputs – the measure has been essentially the same. For Mr Akan Okon, service is service and life should be better for everyone.

From the moment he took over as Commissioner for Finance in May 2014, I have been impressed with his work ethics. He excellently oversaw the day to day running of Ministry of Finance, the Office of the State Accountant General, the State Internal Revenue Service and the State Budget Office. He scrupulously saw through the Financial Management and fiscal policy of the State while overseeing the day to day cash management systems of the State government. He developed models and strategies to ensure an effective and efficient delivery of key Government programmes and strategies. As at excellent man manager, Mr Akan Okon had effectively harnessed the human resource capacity of over 1,500 staff for service delivery.

That is not all, as Chairman, Akwa Ibom State/Local Government Joint Derivation Committee, Member, Akwa Ibom State Finance and General Purpose Committee, (FGPC) and Chairman Akwa Ibom State Micro Credit Committee; he has brought his years of experience to the table which had enhanced the smooth running of the system.

At the Ministry of Housing and Special Duties, and later Aviation development, he has brought his midas touch to interpret the visions of Governor Udom Emmanuel. The Uyo airport became beehive of activities even as the place wore a new look. The construction of the 2nd runway was under his strict supervision. The big one, Ibom Air enjoyed his midas touch and supervision. The Ibom Seaport project many may not know is advancing greatly and Mr Okon has his hands on them. The projects are numerous but there will be time to discuss all that. Not today.

I can testify that Mr Akan Okon is ensuring a robust implementation and delivery of the state’s turnkey projects through efficient management and innovative strategies for socioeconomic benefit and transformation of the state.

Mr Akan Okon's background offers an insight into his great personality. As MD/CEO of Fantixis Investments Limited from January, 2010 to October, 2013, he simply wrought wonders in the business world. Meanwhile, Fantixis Investments Limited is a Financial Advisory firm providing fresh impetus to the economy through the launch of an aggressive Enterprise Support Services spanning Corporate, Business, Project, Financial advisory and ICT/Telecoms consulting.

At First Inland Bank Plc. from January, 2009 to December 2009, Mr Akan Okon served as Area Executive, South South and bore the responsibility for supervising all the Branches of the Bank in Akwa Ibom State Cross River State, River State and Delta State. He was also responsible for business Development and the profitability of over 50(fifty) branches in the South-South region and a little down memory lane, his achievements are enormous.

He served as Head, Investment Banking at First Atlantic Bank Plc from October, 2002 to December 2006. At Standard Trust Bank Limited, he served as Area Manager, Calabar and Uyo, between January to September, 2002. He was Group Head- Uyo of the same Standard Trust Bank from July, 2001 to January, 2002 and Group Head, Electronic and Retail Banking (North Central Region) from September, 2000-July, 2001.

Mr Akan Okon was also Head, Treasury and Financial Institution Dept. - First African Trust Bank Limited from (November, 1995 – February, 1997) after serving as Branch Manager of its Apapa and its Victoria Island branches.

It is heart warming to note that Mr Akan Okon started his professional oddysey at the Central Bank of Nigeria, Lagos. He was Assistant Manager, International Remittance Office (IRO) – March, 1991 – January, 1992. He was Senior Supervisor, Investment Office (Foreign Operations Dept from January, 1990 – March, 1991. He served as Senior Supervisor, Banking Office (Banking Operations Dept) from September, 1988 – January, 1990. He was also a Senior Supervisor, Loans and Advances Office (NYSC) – June, 1987 – September, 1988.

Mr Akan Okon is so well schooled. Apart from holding a Masters degree in Business Management (MBA) in Banking and Finance from the University of Lagos, 1991 coupled with his B.SC in Business Administration (second class upper division), UNILAG, 1987, he has acquired great knowledge and education. He has attended courses at the London School of corporate Finance, London (Euromoney October 2012), Project Finance: Energy and infrastructure, Dubai (Euro money February 2012), Financing Energy projects: Oil, Gas and power, Montreal Canada (Euro money August 2011); Euro money corporate finance programme Wlaton House Dorking Uk, July 2008; International Capital Market Conference – Citibank New York – May 2007, Financial Engineering in Deal and Transaction Structuring Lagos - March 2007; Gilts Game (A Bonds Trading Course with simulation) August, 2006; Fixed Income Securities/internal process flow Training (NBS Assets Management LLC) London – May 2006; Corporate & project Finance Course – DC Gardner UK July, 2004; The role of Financial Institution in the implementation of Cabotage.

Mr Akan Okon is a core professional. A member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers, Fellow, Institute of Sales Management, Fellow, Chartered Institute of Leadership of Nigeria (CILN, member, Institute of Direct Marketing and member, Chattered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN)

A Paul Harris Fellow of Rotary International and married with a lovely wife and amazing children, Mr Akan Okon is sympathetic, empathetic, steady, kind, assertive, proficient, efficient, competent, aggressive, experienced, intelligent, mature, humble, attentive, generous, God fearing, broken, educated, honest, trust worthy, loyal and modernized. He is well celebrated by his people and the many lives he has touched. The people of Itu regard him as a special Godsent and when he speaks, they hear honesty, sincerity and love. Indeed, Mr Akan Okon is one of our sons in whom we are well pleased.

I wish him a superlative 55th birthday celebration. Happy birthday Sir!

Between Udom Emmanuel And Others: Who Is The Looter?




Leadership is not devoid of criticism and so is responsibility. Every one saddled with the mantle of leadership is often faced with countless criticisms in their rawest, baseless and even false forms yet, they must stand firm in their resolve to deliver on their agendum.
For Governor Udom Emmanuel, the story is not different when the array of criticism against his administration is considered, one of which is an article: “The Looting of Akwa Ibom: How Gov. Udom’s office Spent N8.85bn in one year”, written by an anonymous identity and published by PointBlankNews.

First of all, the weight of this caption which is not only insultive is indeed laughable when one brings to the table, the person of Udom Gabriel Emmanuel. Do people living down have any fear of falling? Or do people who are low by status and intelligence have any need for pride? If these questions can be answered correctly, it would imply that people who have grown to the echelon of success and have tasted power as well as financial affluence, are not moved by petty monies and allocations, one of which is Governor Udom Emmanuel whose unpolitical contacts, exposure and references are scattered across the length and breadth of the economic sphere.

The writer of the said piece lost his gravity when he made recourse to an amount of money spent in 2016 and acclaimed bank documents seen and captured; were these monies to have been looted truly, would those records have been seen? Recall that the year in mention was the year after Governor Emmanuel was sworn-in as the State Chief Executive. Bearing in mind the recklessness of the immediate past administration and the need to save the then revered image of one we have now come to understand has none, would the innocent successor had done otherwise than to immediately commence the payment of debts which were running into billions? Gratuities and contracts inclusive?

Is the APC in mention not the same Party harbouring the same person who stocked up this debt profile high up to the heavens? Or how do you explain giving approval for the release of N72billion naira for the construction of only 3km of the 25km Uyo-Ikot Ekpene road? How do you explain fully releasing over N150 billion for the uncompleted Tropicana? How do you explain the release of N19.5 billion for the uncompleted Etebi-Enwang road that was originally valued at N5billion naira? How do you explain the release of billions of naira meant for the construction of the 8-lane Goodluck Jonathan Boulevard on papers whereas in reality the road is 4-lane?
Should one mention the N42 billion paid for Ibom Specialty Hospital he left uncompleted or the N25 billion fully paid yet uncompleted Four Point by Sheraton?

What about the uncompleted Airport project? What happened to the N18 billion terminal building? Is the International soccer pitch (stadium) worth the reported $360 million dollars it allegedly gulped? Of what use today is the E-library to the common Akwa Ibomite? And out of the over 3trillion naira that accrued to the state in Akpabio’s terrain, how much investment dividends do the state derive today?

Is it not true that Akpabio left the state with huge debt, uncompleted white elephant projects and over N30billion pension arrears despite huge revenue?

If these facts are true, what would stop one from borrowing if that is the only option available to make people-oriented projects?
In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, even the blind has seen and the deaf, heard how States and nations were emptying their treasuries to ensure that the harsh effects of the lockdown is cushioned.

This was even made more manifest in Akwa Ibom with the reel out of palliatives and the building of a state-of-the-art isolation centre which stands out amongst similar structures worldwide today.

From where then comes this notion of the state money being looted? Can anyone refute the governor’s claim that he still drives the car he came into power with? Or has anyone seen a house he his living or building which was not acquired before he came on board?

Today in history, we recall Akwa Ibom being declared as best performing state in the south south by the World bank, who is behind this?

The World Bank at its 2019 fiscal year congratulated the State government for also being recognised by World Bank Task Team Leaders on its performance in project implementation, while commending the commitment of the Governor Udom Emmanuel-led administration for earning the award. What else do we need to hear for us to know that we are doing fair enough?

Truth is, no one values a thing when they have it until it is lost. The same can be said of this administration. The hidden truth will have its say someday!

GOVERNOR EMMANUEL INAUGURATES PROJECTS AT ARMY BARRACKS

Governor Udom Emmanuel has given a facelift to the Brigadier General Wellington Bassey Barracks at Ibagwa, Abak local Government Area. These include provision of water project, renovation of several blocks of flats, among others.

In the spirit of the State's 33rd anniversary of creation, the Army Barracks Community will today come alive with celebration as Governor Emmanuel visits to inaugurate some of these projects so that they can be put to use.

Media Unit
Govt House,Uyo
Sept 30,2020

Falsehood against Governor Udom Emmanuel: The Truth


Falsehood, over the years, has partly defined electoral contests across boundaries. More so, political interests ahead 2023 general elections may have provoked certain politicians in Akwa Ibom All Progressives Congress, APC to resort to falsehood.

In the past few months, falsehood has taken firm root in the camp of opposition ahead 2023. Key players in Akwa Ibom‘s opposition have deployed a mechanism of blackmail against Governor Udom Emmanuel.
Despite the governor’s clear and clean financial track records, oppositions have consistently oiled paid stories to be published as a way of putting him in a bad light.

Sketches of investigations reveal that  former governor Godswill Akpabio and other APC stalwarts including those eying Hill Top Mansion office in the State may have been the masquerades behind the consistent spewing of unconfirmed and malicious contents against the governor despite his financial intelligence and transparency.

Only recently, falsehood and indeed, a poorly written but obviously sponsored story surfaced in Point Blank Newspaper against the person of governor Udom Emmanuel on the subject of financial recklessness.
In the convoluted story which ranges from sublime to the ridiculous, the paper accused Governor Udom Emmanuel of superintending over fraud with specific reference to years 2016 and 2018.

According to the story, it was alleged that the governor spent over N8.851 billion in 2016 alone. Though this cannot be substantiated, it is however believed that what ignites this level of hatred against the governor is the level of unmatched developments he has brought to Akwa Ibom State.

Though the public has been alerted, through several media channels  to ignore the propaganda of lies aimed at Governor Udom, Reverend Richard Peters, Special Assistant on media to the Governor, in a  platform, NGRWailers Community, presents the matters as it is. His statement against the falsehood is presented below unedited.

REVEREND PETERS’ RESPONSE

“This is a sponsored post from some aggrieved APC bigots. My name is Rev Richard Peters, SA on media to Governor Udom Emmanuel. I can tell you authoritatively that the description on this post doesn’t suit the person of my boss. Names have meanings and tell much about the bearer.

An exploration of the Bible and other historical books proves beyond doubt that the circumstances surrounding a person’s birth, parental expectations and frustrations, future ambitions and hopes, the time of birth, actions and inactions of the parents, plus other variables influence the names people bear.

In the political setting, names are also given to people based on what they do. Leaders who are not transparent in handling public funds are named looters, corrupt leaders, wasters, and so on. There are others who bear names like transparency, integrity, prudence, accountability and good managers, because of their pattern of leadership.

Gov. Udom Emmanuel happens to belong to the latter class because of his high taste for transparency and accountability which is chiefly influenced by parental upbringing, religious background and  years of experience in the banking sector.

Throughout his years in the financial institution,  his gradual elevation to the highest echelon in the sector through hard work and prudent management of finance, he has never been linked to any sharp or fraudulent practices. Instead, his name has often been mentioned in connection with innovative ideas, intelligence, creativity, prudence, integrity and progress. That informed why his choice as Governor in 2015 was overwhelmingly received by lovers of progress and development across board.

GOVERNOR EMMANUEL’S FINANCIAL SKILLS

When he assumed office at a time that the country was submerged in recession, Gov. Udom Emmanuel through his wealth of experience in financial matters steadily led us above recession, dragging meaningful projects to the state. At a time when other leaders were lamenting for lack of funds, Governor Emmanuel was able to manage our lean resources to do what those that had surplus could not do. The Governor is a gift God has blessed Akwa Ibom with.

Even as a governor, he is not leading exorbitant lifestyle, but has ignored the pressure to flaunt flamboyant lifestyle consistent with some African leaders, changing cars every 6 months, buying properties everywhere, throwing parties every weekend, and many of such. It might surprise you to know that the governor is still maintaining till today the vehicle he acquired when he assumed office in 2015. How many Governors, past and present could have done this? This is the height of financial discipline.

It is regrettable to acknowledge the fact that there are people whose desire is to see the governor fail, but he is succeeding on all fronts. Since they have realized that their prophecy of doom has been averted by the governor’s focused leadership style and superlative performance, the aggrieved elements now resort to blackmail, blasphemy and politics of calumny, raising spurious allegations and unsubstantiated arguments coded in maleficence.

Having acknowledged the fact that there are damning consequences (litigations) that may trail their social media bigots for their false claims, they now attempt to utilize other sundry media like websites and others that are not easily traceable, to sell their blackmail.

FRUSTRATED OPPOSITION

These frustrated politicians who are displaying tantrums because of their 2023 ambitions, are already scratching all avenues to maintain a lifeline that will give them political relevance.

They are eager to do anything, pay people heavily to blackmail the present administration and engage in emergency and calculated act of benevolence.
However, their tactics are well known, and no effort to denigrate the present administration will yield fruit, as the Governor’s excellent performance in financial transparency test is already speaking volume and strategically positioning the state on world economic map, as more investors are relocating to Akwa Ibom.

The Governor will never be deterred by the activities of these individuals as his attention at the moment is not on election, but in the elevation of Akwa Ibom State to heights unimagined in industrialization, security, agriculture, rural development and aviation.”

#TodayinHistory

AKWA IBOM WAS DECLARED BEST PERFORMING STATE IN SOUTH SOUTH BY WORLD BANK

Akwa Ibom State was in August last year acknowledged as the best performing state under South-South region during the 2019 fiscal year by the World Bank Project Implementation.

The World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Africa Region, Rachid Banmessaoud made this known in a Commendable Performance letter addressed to the state government.

Banmessaoud congratulated the Akwa Ibom State government for also being recognised by World Bank Task Team Leaders on its performance in project implementation.

He commended the commitment of Governor Udom Emmanuel led administration cross the state, which according to him earned it the award.

“This is to appreciate your state’s participation in the just concluded Nigeria Porfolio Performance Awards ceremony hosted by the World Bank Country Office in Abuja, and to congratulate you on your states’s commendable performance which led to winning first position, as the best performing stste under the South-South Region.

“The event recognised the performance of project implementation teams across the states and Federal institutions.

“Through this event and award, we also believe Akwa Ibom State will significantly improve the overall momentum in the implementations of projects in the State” Banmessaoud added.

Media Unit
Govt. House, Uyo
2020

Akwa Ibom Remains Nigeria's big Destination for Culture, Tourism - Hon Esin

The Honorable Commissioner, Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Hon. Orman Esin has applauded Governor Udom Emmanuel for investing in key sectors of the economy that will enable the State to remain top as destination for culture and tourism in Nigeria.

Hon. Esin stated this on Monday during a radio programme, Akwa Ibom Arising on Inspiration FM 105.9 Uyo hosted by Mr Aniekeme Finbarr.

He noted that the newly established industries has brought key investors and businessmen within and outside Nigeria, which he said has boosted the activities of culture and tourism in the State.

He acknowledged that with series of programmes and activities organised in the state during the festive season, Akwa Ibom State is seen as one of the biggest tourist destination for most people, adding that the ministry is working towards getting legislative approval to sustain many festive programmes and activities beyond a particular administration.

He assured that the ministry will be back very strong to engage the people of the state with several activities shortly after the heat of the Covid 19 pandemic and will also bring out people to come together and celebrate life.

On what to expect in this year's Christmas season, the Commissioner insisted that any event that will be organised in the State must be in line with the safety protocols designed by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

"If you can recall last year December, we had a Christmas Village and the space provided was 11 hectares of land, we only made use of 3.5 hectares and it was huge. So if we have to consider such an event this time in line with the safety protocol, we have to expand and take advantage of the full 11 hectares of land. With that we can have a full physical and social distancing while the event is taking place". He said

He assured that they will be programmes at Christmas season to celebrate the birth of Christ and to also thank God for coming out victorious in an unpredictable year ravaged by the scourge of corona virus pandemic.

On the latest development in the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, he said that the Ministry in collaboration with Akwa Ibom State Hotels Management and Tourism Board has set up guidelines for hotels operation in the State.

"Adequate guidelines have been issued to hotel operators as part of measures taken to prevent the spread of corona virus within hotels and other tourist centres in Akwa Ibom State."

He noted that the monitoring team is specifically concerned on compulsory use of face mask, provision of water and hand sanitizer for washing of hands and limited number of people in hotel facilities to maintain social and physical distancing.Akwa Ibom Remains Nigeria's big Destination for Culture, Tourism - Hon Esin

The Honorable Commissioner, Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Hon. Orman Esin has applauded Governor Udom Emmanuel for investing in key sectors of the economy that will enable the State to remain top as destination for culture and tourism in Nigeria.

Hon. Esin stated this on Monday during a radio programme, Akwa Ibom Arising on Inspiration FM 105.9 Uyo hosted by Mr Aniekeme Finbarr.

He noted that the newly established industries has brought key investors and businessmen within and outside Nigeria, which he said has boosted the activities of culture and tourism in the State.

He acknowledged that with series of programmes and activities organised in the state during the festive season, Akwa Ibom State is seen as one of the biggest tourist destination for most people, adding that the ministry is working towards getting legislative approval to sustain many festive programmes and activities beyond a particular administration.

He assured that the ministry will be back very strong to engage the people of the state with several activities shortly after the heat of the Covid 19 pandemic and will also bring out people to come together and celebrate life.

On what to expect in this year's Christmas season, the Commissioner insisted that any event that will be organised in the State must be in line with the safety protocols designed by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

"If you can recall last year December, we had a Christmas Village and the space provided was 11 hectares of land, we only made use of 3.5 hectares and it was huge. So if we have to consider such an event this time in line with the safety protocol, we have to expand and take advantage of the full 11 hectares of land. With that we can have a full physical and social distancing while the event is taking place". He said

He assured that they will be programmes at Christmas season to celebrate the birth of Christ and to also thank God for coming out victorious in an unpredictable year ravaged by the scourge of corona virus pandemic.

On the latest development in the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, he said that the Ministry in collaboration with Akwa Ibom State Hotels Management and Tourism Board has set up guidelines for hotels operation in the State.

"Adequate guidelines have been issued to hotel operators as part of measures taken to prevent the spread of corona virus within hotels and other tourist centres in Akwa Ibom State."

He noted that the monitoring team is specifically concerned on compulsory use of face mask, provision of water and hand sanitizer for washing of hands and limited number of people in hotel facilities to maintain social and physical distancing.Akwa Ibom Remains Nigeria's big Destination for Culture, Tourism - Hon Esin

The Honorable Commissioner, Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Hon. Orman Esin has applauded Governor Udom Emmanuel for investing in key sectors of the economy that will enable the State to remain top as destination for culture and tourism in Nigeria.

Hon. Esin stated this on Monday during a radio programme, Akwa Ibom Arising on Inspiration FM 105.9 Uyo hosted by Mr Aniekeme Finbarr.

He noted that the newly established industries has brought key investors and businessmen within and outside Nigeria, which he said has boosted the activities of culture and tourism in the State.

He acknowledged that with series of programmes and activities organised in the state during the festive season, Akwa Ibom State is seen as one of the biggest tourist destination for most people, adding that the ministry is working towards getting legislative approval to sustain many festive programmes and activities beyond a particular administration.

He assured that the ministry will be back very strong to engage the people of the state with several activities shortly after the heat of the Covid 19 pandemic and will also bring out people to come together and celebrate life.

On what to expect in this year's Christmas season, the Commissioner insisted that any event that will be organised in the State must be in line with the safety protocols designed by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

"If you can recall last year December, we had a Christmas Village and the space provided was 11 hectares of land, we only made use of 3.5 hectares and it was huge. So if we have to consider such an event this time in line with the safety protocol, we have to expand and take advantage of the full 11 hectares of land. With that we can have a full physical and social distancing while the event is taking place". He said

He assured that they will be programmes at Christmas season to celebrate the birth of Christ and to also thank God for coming out victorious in an unpredictable year ravaged by the scourge of corona virus pandemic.

On the latest development in the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, he said that the Ministry in collaboration with Akwa Ibom State Hotels Management and Tourism Board has set up guidelines for hotels operation in the State.

"Adequate guidelines have been issued to hotel operators as part of measures taken to prevent the spread of corona virus within hotels and other tourist centres in Akwa Ibom State."

He noted that the monitoring team is specifically concerned on compulsory use of face mask, provision of water and hand sanitizer for washing of hands and limited number of people in hotel facilities to maintain social and physical distancing.

RAIN OF MILLIONS OF NAIRA FOR ENTREPRENEURS AT DAKKADA 5TH ANNIVERSARY BUSINESS AND LEADERSHIP AWARDS 2020


The winner of the Dakkada 5th Anniversary Business and Leadership Awards in the entrepreneurship category, Miss Utibe Akwa has received her 500,000 Naira prize money. Akwa received the award today, 28th September 2020 at a brief presentation event which held at the Directorate of Marketing and Brand Management, Office of the Governor.

Others who won at the award event were were Mmanti Umoh took home the top prize in the advocacy category courtesy of the Office of the Wife of the Governor, Akwa Ibom State.

Other winners included John Amanam in the creativity and innovation category, sponsored by Hensek, Ekemini “Kemen” Ekerete in the professionalism category sponsored by HTG, Sifonabasi Okon in the Community service category sponsored by the ministry of local government and chieftaincy affairs, while Utibe Akwa took home the top prize in entrepreneurship as endowed by Eni Stores.

All five winners took home 500,000 each courtesy of the category sponsors, while two runners up in each of the five categories went home with 50, 000 naira. Hundred other nominees will receive 20,000 naira each from the award organizers.

The entrepreneur award recipient, Ms Utibe Akwa has expressed her gratitude to Governor Udom Emmanuel, the Directorate of Marketing and Brand Management, and category sponsors - Enistores for the award, stating that she has been spurred to do more. Akwa also seized the opportunity to present some of her products to the SSA.

Directorate of marketing and Brand management, Office of the Governor recently held the Dakkada 5th Anniversary Business and Leadership Awards on Wednesday, 23rd September, 2020.

The event which was beamed to an audience of Over 10, 000 combined viewers drawn from various online platforms had in attendance the Honourable Commissioner for Information and strategy, Comrade Ini Ememobong, a cross section of the Akwa Ibom State Governor’s Aides amongst others.

"In five years, together in faith and shared hopes we've achieved a lot for our collective well-being and we owe this to our ONLY GOD who sees the innermost depths of our hearts, the sincerity and transparency we bring to bear in the execution and management of the resources of this great State"

Mr Udom Emmanuel
29/05/2020

UDOM INOYO WRITES
ATUEKONG DON OBOT ETIEBET, CON ON HIS BIRTHDAY

My dear Atuekong,

It is with inexplicable joy that my family and I celebrate you today as you clock 76 years. Yours has been a life of huge, indisputable accomplishment—a life dedicated to humanity. There are many incontrovertible reasons that make us celebrate you today. First, you are my esteemed in-law. You have been an inspiration and a pathfinder.
I recall that as young men who arrived Lagos in the 1980s, and were desirous of confronting any impediments to a career success, your several accomplishments, especially in business, provided the much needed impetus and desired assurances that we too can break any glass ceiling.

You represented a generation of daring leaders from our part of the country, and it was not surprising that we all wanted to learn at your feet.
We came to appreciate what made you a shining star. From your academic accomplishments in Imperial College of Science and Technology, England; to getting your hands dirty while working for Shell Company in Holland, and Reo Trinto Exploration Co. Ltd, in Canada, and your interest in imparting knowledge, as a university lecturer in Physics and Applied Geophysics, both at the University of Western Ontario, Canada and University of Ibadan.
Being restless and always eager to better the society, you took a bold step upon return to Nigeria in 1972 to set up Earth Sciences Limited—a resources engineering and mineral exploration company—the first indigenous Nigerian computer services company in mineral data gathering and processing. That was indeed a bold statement about local content in the oil industry!

In 1979, your signature company, Data Sciences Nigeria Limited, emerged a pioneer company to market computer hardware and software systems to various sectors of the Nigerian economy. Of course, following thereafter was the first ever Nigerian brand name in Personal Computers: the OBODEX-PC, which was assembled in Nigeria with the Naira sign keyboard.

Sir, I thank you for invoking in us an unexplainable audaciousness as far back as the 1990s. As we traversed Bank Anthony Way, to and from Lagos Airport, there was this imposing edifice, ETIEBETS PLACE.

Being one from the oil industry, I will be remiss not to salute you for your tenure as Minister of Petroleum & Mineral Resources. You served the country with integrity.

So my dear in-law, on this special occasion of your birthday, we are thankful to God for keeping you in health. We extend to you our best wishes. We will continue to celebrate you.

Happy Birthday, Sir.


UDOM INOYO

PDP: TRULY THE PEOPLE'S PARTY

History will be made today in Akwa Ibom as the state-of-the-art Secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party in Akwa Ibom will be inaugurated by His Excellency, Governor UDOM Emmanuel

The edifice is located at Atan Offot, Uyo, a stone's throw from the Idongesit Nkanga State Government Secretariat.

The building was supervised by the Chairman Uyo, Capital Development, Otuekong Enobong Hammer Uwah.

Stay Safe, Stay at home and follow the live proceedings of the event via the following handles

www.facebook.com/aksgovt
www.facebook.com/mrudomemmanuel
www.twitter.com/mrudomemmanuel
www.youtube.com/akwaibomstategovt

#AkwaIbomisPDP

ETINAN; Celebration Engulfs Urban V as Women Endorse Idongesit Lawson.

... reprimand critics, haters and blackmailers

Twenty-four hours after male constituents of Urban V, Etinan endorsed the second term ambition of their incumbent representative in Etinan Legislative Council, their women counterparts have in a tornado style, defied the downpour today, to pay tribute and solidarity to their leader Hon. (Mrs) Idongesit Kenneth Lawson.

The exercise which was a conglomeration of women leaders, female youths, market women and female students from the Six villages in Urban V had them extol the nice and motherly attributes of Mrs Lawson, describing her as caring mother, loving daughter, compassionate sister and one who has been prompt to the yearnings and plights of not just the women but the entire indigenes of the Ward.

Mrs. Ini Nsima Ukpong who conveyed the goodwill of Afaha Iman women, thanked the lawmaker for her love and contributions to the women society, noting that since the creation of Urban V in Etinan no representative have brought them care, love and development like Hon. Idongesit Lawson.

Imo Sambo Essien on behalf of Ikot Udobia women who described Hon. Lawson as one of the best gifts to the Ward encouraged her to be strong and bold in Christ, describing as ephemeral the situation that surrounds her second term ambition and prayed God to strengthen her with more wisdom and good health to continue her good work of attracting dividends of good governance to her people.

Mrs Ubong Etuk from Ishiet Erong in her homily, appreciated Hon Lawson for her accessibility and concern toward her people and thanked the women for their courage and readiness to partner one another to return Hon Lawson for a second term in office.

She further hinted that since Hon Lawson assumed position of leadership in the Ward, empowerment, unity, love and unprecedented growth and development have defined their existence, and warned rumour mongers, blackmailers and 'women-molesters' to desist forthwith from peddling lies and insulting their leader thereby embarrassing the Ward or be prepared to host and withstand the women who have resolved to go NAKED in a daylight in an effort to ensure that a credible, honest and people oriented leader, Hon Idongesit Kenneth Lawson is returned for a second term.

Honourable Idongesit Lawson thanked the women for honouring and trusting her and promised to tripple her effort when voted in.

Highpoint include prayer for her success at the polls, endorsement as sole candidate and presentation of gift.

#Urban5
#Continuity
#IdongesitLawson

Mfon Emah Consults Dennis Akpan, Okon Emah, Andem Ndem, Ors

....receives blessings from Ward leaders

A front line Councillorship aspirant in the forthcoming Local Government Elections in Urban One, Etinan, Hon Mfon Ubong Emah has sought the consent, advice and blessings of political leaders, stakeholders and eggheads in the Ward.

Hon Emah, today, consulted the Member, representing Etinan State Constituency in Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Barr Aniefiok Dennis Akpan, Dr. Okon Emah, Barr Andem Ndem and Pastor Ntiense Emah.

The Director of Mfonabasi2020 Campaign Organization, Hon Uwem Eshiet during the exercise applauded the respective leaders for accepting them and promised that Hon. Emah will bring his wealth of experience to bear in handling the affairs of Urban One, Etinan through their support and advice.

The Director further solicited the support of the Ward leaders/stakeholders in whatever capacity possible toward ensuring that a credible, trusted and result oriented personality is made to have the flag of the party (PDP) in Urban One for the upcoming local government elections.

Receiving Hon Emah, Barr Aniefiok Dennis Akpan, who represents Etinan in Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly thanked Hon. Uwem Eshiet and his team for honouring him and equally acknowledged their efforts and sincerities in presenting a character like Mfon whom he posited is not only intelligent, qualified, but sellable.

His words... "As much as I am aware, it is the turn of Etinan village to produce the next Councillor for Urban One, and as one who has a good knowledge of your background, your resilience and can attest to your meekness and humility, I have no doubt that you will deliver.

"However, as a stakeholder/adviser in this Ward, I want to plead that considering the high cost of the entire process, anyone who is not qualified, prepared and sure of himself should not gamble"

The lawmaker urged the aspirant to be focused, eschew campaign of calumny and bitterness during and after the exercise.

Dr. Okon Emah on his part thanked Mfon Emah for bracing the odds and presenting himself to serve his people and charged him to make the Ward prou when voted in.

Barr. Andem Ndem who had a swell time with the team advised them to be peace-loving and to extend hands of fellowship to all irrespective of their affiliations and promised his unalloyed support.

Also on hand to lend support and prayers was Pastor Ntiense Emah, who admonished the team to make God first in all they do as Him alone gives power and prayed God to bless them.

LG Election: Male Constituents Endorse Hon. Idongesit Kenneth Lawson for Second Term

... As community youth leaders pour encomium


The Councillor representing Urban 5 in Etinan Legislative Council, Hon. (Mrs) Idongesit Kenneth Lawson has been endorsed today by her male constituents for a second term.

The constituents from the six villages of Urban 5 who ambushed Mrs Lawson in the early hours of today in her residence at Ishiet Erong, thanked her for her contributions in repositioning the Ward for development.

The leaders of the respective villages poured encomium on Mrs Lawson, describing her as a woman of substance with great intellect who has done them well in her first outing and resolved to reciprocate her nobles gestures by returning her to the local government legislature.

Mr Idongesit Essien who spoke on behalf of Ikot Udobia village conveyed the goodwill of the Elders Council, the women and the youth structure on the lawmaker, acknowledging her efforts in human development, care for women and the elderly and for placing Urban 5 in particular and Etinan LG in general on the global scene through her people oriented representation.

On his part, Mr. Mbuotidem Akpan who took the turn for Afaha Akpan Ekpo, excitedly extolled the humane virtues of Hon Lawson and encouraged her not to be deterred by ill comments of a few elements of distraction and confusion and prayed God to bless her.

Obong Atiti Okon of Afaha Iman, Mr. Sunday Jacob Ossong of Ikot Akata, and Hon. Godwin Jonah of Ikot Ikpohu villages also thanked the Honourable for her effort thus far, and encouraged her not to waver in her efforts to reposition Urban 5.

Mr. Aniefiok Ben Umoh who spoke for Ishiet Erong village appreciated the lawmaker for not disappointing the Ward and for always making herself accessible and responsive to the plight of her people.

Hon. (Mrs) Idongesit Lawson thanked the people for honouring her and for their love over the years and encouraged them to continue to support the leader of the Party (PDP) in the State, HE, Mr. Udom Emmanuel to continue his good work of industrialising our state and attracting foreign direct investment which she opined as a panacea for job multiplication and socioeconomic development.

Highpoint of the event include; endorsement of Mrs Idongesit Lawson as their sole candidate, chanting of victory songs in her honour and prayers for her success at the polls.

A'Ibom Council Polls: Excitement Trails Urban 1, as Mfon Emmah Consults Ward Exco

... Promises better deal as exco okays ambition

Excitement on the faces of faithfuls of the People's Democratic Party, Urban One, Etinan, rose to the zenith today as a front line aspirant Hon. Mfon Ubong Emmah intimated Party Executive of his intention to represent them in Etinan Legislative Council in the upcoming local government elections.

The team, led by its Chairman and the immediate past PDP Ward Chairman of Urban One, Etinan, Hon. Uwem Eshiet extolled the good virtues and moral upbringing of its principal, Hon. Emmah, describing him as faithful son who has shown capacity and diligence in every endeavour.

The Chairman further solicited the assistance and understanding of the party to ensuring that a credible, intelligent and diligent aspirant is supported to represent the ward in the next election.

Hon. Mfon Ubong Emmah who promised to do his best within his capacity if given the mandate, urged the party to consider precedence and antecedence of every aspirant before arriving at their resolutions.

The PDP Ward Chairman, Urban One, Hon. Ekerette Ekpo thanked Hon. Mfon Emmah for being the first to sought the support of the Ward Executive, described him as a true son of his father, and tendered blessings upon him..

The Ward chairman admonished the entire team to consult widely and eschew violent behaviours while doing so and promised unalloyed support of the entire executive to the aspiration of Hon. Mfon Emmah.

Special Assistant to Akwa Ibom Governor on New Media, Mr Aniekeme Finbarr dedicates new baby, Ese-Abasi.

The event took place in the office of the senior pastor of Full Life International Church, Rev. Ntia. I. Ntia in Uyo.

To God alone be the glory!

COVID-19: Obio Offot Community Gets Succour.

The People of Obio Offot Village, Uyo Local Government have taken delivery of foodstuffs from a socioeconomic group, 'Ndito Obio Offot Ke USA'. Foodstuffs donated to them were 43 bags of 50kg long grain Rice and 22 bags of 100kg garri.

The foodstuffs according to the Coordinator of the group, Obonganwan Becky Ekaette Austin Uko is meant to assuage the economic hardship received by her kinsmen as result of the lockdown in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria as a measure to curtail the spread of the ravaging coronavirus pandemic.

The lockdown, Obonganwan Becky noted, has had a resultant negative economic implications on her kinsmen, and solicited that the gesture reaches every indigene and household of the five units; Nnung. Efa, Nnung Akpan, Nnung Oyo, Nnung Mkpe and Atai Obio, in Obio Offot Village, Uyo Local Government Area.

A 5-man team made up of Mr. Mfon Paulinus Effiong, Mr. Peter Umana, Mr. Ubong Effiong Uko, Mr. George Umoh Austin and Comrade Ini-obong Uko which was earlier commissioned for the purposes of even distribution and peaceful supervision of the distribution process had long taken delivery of the items and successfully redistributed them to the indigenes of the community.

Speaking during the distribution, the team leader, Mr. Mfon Effiong thanked the donors , all of Ndito Obio Offot Ke USA for their kind gestures and urged the beneficiaries to reciprocate by way of prayers and ensure they make proper use of the items.

He encouraged them to continue to stick to preventive health measures put up by government, as doing so, would help lessen the spread of the virus.

Heads of the respective units(Mbong efaak) in Obio Offot Village, thanked the group in USA for remembering them in a time like this. One of them, Chief Effiong Vincent Udosen, of Nnung Akpan unit appreciated Obongawan Becky Austin Uko and all of Ndito Obio Offot in the United States for their thoughtfulness and commitment to the welfare and existence of their roots and prayed God to bless and replenish them in every facet of their endeavours.

COVID-19: Obio Offot Community Gets Succour.

The People of Obio Offot Village, Uyo Local Government have taken delivery of foodstuffs from a socioeconomic group, 'Ndito Obio Offot Ke USA'. Foodstuffs donated to them were 43 bags of 50kg long grain Rice and 22 bags of 100kg garri.

The foodstuffs according to the Coordinator of the group, Obonganwan Becky Ekaette Austin Uko is meant to assuage the economic hardship received by her kinsmen as result of the lockdown in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria as a measure to curtail the spread of the ravaging coronavirus pandemic.

The lockdown, Obonganwan Becky noted, has had a resultant negative economic implications on her kinsmen, and solicited that the gesture reaches every indigene and household of the five units; Nnung. Efa, Nnung Akpan, Nnung Oyo, Nnung Mkpe and Atai Obio, in Obio Offot Village, Uyo Local Government Area.

A 5-man team made up of Mr. Mfon Paulinus Effiong, Mr. Peter Umana, Mr. Ubong Effiong Uko, Mr. George Umoh Austin and Comrade Ini-obong Uko which was earlier commissioned for the purposes of even distribution and peaceful supervision of the distribution process had long taken delivery of the items and successfully redistributed them to the indigenes of the community.

Speaking during the distribution, the team leader, Mr. Mfon Effiong thanked the donors , all of Ndito Obio Offot Ke USA for their kind gestures and urged the beneficiaries to reciprocate by way of prayers and ensure they make proper use of the items.

He encouraged them to continue to stick to preventive health measures put up by government, as doing so, would help lessen the spread of the virus.

Heads of the respective units(Mbong efaak) in Obio Offot Village, thanked the group in USA for remembering them in a time like this. One of them, Chief Effiong Vincent Udosen, of Nnung Akpan unit appreciated Obongawan Becky Austin Uko and all of Ndito Obio Offot in the United States for their thoughtfulness and commitment to the welfare and existence of their roots and prayed God to bless and replenish them in every facet of their endeavours.

Akwa Ibom Councillor Shows Love

Today, Hon. Mrs. Idongesit Kenneth Lawson, Councillor representing Etinan Urban Ward 5 in Etinan Legislative Council and Founder of "Beautiful Hearts Association" donated new uniforms to members of the association.

Beautiful Heart Association is a support-based group whose numerical strength surpasses hundreds of people in the area.

In line with the fight against Covid-19 Pandemic, she also donated free face masks to cushion the global effects caused by the world dreaded disease, Corona virus.

Again, in her magnanimous way of showing love through her timely empowerment to her constituents, the Lawmaker also donated a sewing machine to a physically challenged person, Ms. Evelyn Joe Udoka.

This has brought to a total of ten sewing machines and one industrial machine
Hon. Idongesit Lawson has donated to her constituents in less than three years as a Councillor.

Idongesit Kenneth Lawson � �

#LeadTheLegislature
#HoldYourCouncillor

Hon. Cletus Ekpo: the man that saw tomorrow.

Friends,

It is commonplace for we human beings to sometimes take certain things for granted. It is until something happens that we will now remember that particular thing and really get to appreciate it.

What am I saying? Are you aware that the Crux of the matter as regards the problem in Nsit Atai and Uyo LGAs has to do with welfare of principal officers most especially issuance of official vehicles to principal officers of the council?

It pleases me to note that while other Local Government areas are today bickering over the issue of vehicles my own Local Government Chairman has long foreseen the future and had since 2018 issued vehicles to his Vice Chairman, Secretary of Council, and Leader of Council.

It may not have been a convenient thing for him to do as at then but you see, leadership is sacrificial and as one who is passionate about service he just had to do it. Again, we may not have really seen the value of what he did as at then but looking back now you will no doubt appreciate the gesture.

Dear Hon. Cletus Ekpo, please take a bow sir. You are doing well.

(C) Ubon Marcus

SUSPENSION OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT CHAIRMEN: FACTS AND THE LAW.

On the 29th day of May 2020, the House in its sittings received two (2) reports. One from the Chairman, House Committee on Judiciary, Justice, Human Rights and Public Petitions on alleged misconduct against the Chairperson of Nsit Atai Local Government. In its observations/findings, the committee stated among other things that there was inherent inefficiency in the disbursement or administration of Local Government funds and refusal by the Chairperson to comply with the directives of the aforementioned committee to wit: payment of benefits and entitlements to Councillors and Vice Chairman as directed by the House and the Executive, she was accordingly suspended from office to enable the Adhoc Committee set up by the House carry out unfettered investigation.

A second report presented by the Chairman of House Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs on allegations of Gross Misconduct against the Chairman of Uyo Local Government Council. The Committee Chairman reported to the House that the Chairman of Uyo failed, neglected and refused to appear before the Committee to answer to the allegations levelled against him. Furthermore, that the Chairman refused to comply with the clear directive of the House Committee on Local Government, the Commissioner of Local Government & Chieftaincy Affairs and the Governor, that there were serious allegations bothering on the mismanagement of finances of Uyo Local Government Area.

The Committee asked for extension of time to complete its investigation and prayed that the Chairman be suspended to enable the Committee carry out unfettered investigation accordingly. The recommendations of the said Committees were adopted unanimously by the House.

Expectedly, predictable mixed reactions from the public as to the legality of the action carried out by the House, we saw exhibition of trademark grandstanding, undiluted ignorance, and abuses. Ordinarily, we would not have dissipated energy in joining issues on matters that do not deserve rejoinder.

However, this matter is legalistic and a bit technical and it will be potentially dangerous to allow the reading public to be misled, we feel duty bound to make some clarity.

1. Questions are raised as to the constitutional powers of the House to remove (we did not remove) the Chairman and that it is the duty of the Councillors to do so, that the House does not have the Constitutional duty to oversee the Local Government Council.

S.128 Subsection 1(a) of the 1999 constitution (as amended) provides that a House of Assembly shall have powers to direct or cause to be directed an inquiry or investigation into - (a) any matter or thing with respect to which it has power to make laws.

For answer, may I refer us to the enactment provision of the Local Government Administration Law 2017, it states “BE IT ENACTED by the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly as follows:

Who makes the above law?
Is it the Local Government? Is it the National Assembly? NO.
It is the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly.

For the purpose of such investigation, S. 129 of the 1999 constitution (as amended) provides for how it will be carried out – by committee to be appointed in accordance with S. 103 of the 1999 constitution (as amended).

Further question therefore will be does, the House have powers to make laws for the Local Government?

Let us go into few relevant sections of the law that clothes the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly with constitutional rights and duties, to disabuse the public perception of the House and action taken by it.

In the Akwa Ibom Local Government Administration Law, S. 28 Subsection 1(d) creates powers to impeach a Local Government Chairman or Vice and accordingly, in S. 44 (1- 14) outlined the steps to be taken, these duties they share with the House of Assembly.

S. 44 (1 – 4) provides for a notice of allegation of gross misconduct against the Chairman or Vice Chairman to be presented by the Legislative House and the House of Assembly in writing signed by not less than 2/3 (two-third) of the members, and a reply to the allegations served on legislative council and members of the House.

Note that the constitutional right of removing the Chairman or Vice Chairman now falls directly on the House of Assembly, undoubtedly, subsection 13 provides for the House to adopt the report of the panel by 2/3 majority and “the holder of the office stands removed from the date of the adoption of the report by the House of Assembly.

Another nexus between the House and the Local Government is
S. 7 Subsection 6(b) of the 1999 constitution (as amended), gives the House of Assembly of a State the power to make provisions for statutory allocation of public revenue to local government councils within the State.

S. 65(2) of the Local Government Administration Law that states that; “The State Joint Local Government Account Allocation Committee shall furnish the State House of Assembly with details of allocation accruing to each Local Government on a monthly basis”.

S. 70(2) “That the amount standing to the credit of Local Government Areas shall be distributed among Local Government Areas of the State in such a manner as may be prescribed by the House of Assembly of the State”.

S. 72(2) provides that; “The Auditor General of the Local Government shall, within six(6) months from the end of each financial year, submit his report to the House of Assembly”.

Am taking the pains in citing all these sections of extant laws to show that the House of Assembly is not meddlesome or overly interfering in the affairs of the local government without the clear provisions of the extant laws.

Most importantly, the House has the statutory powers under S. 81(1) of the Local Government Administration Law 2017 to resolve intractable crisis (as in these local government) in Local government Areas: “Where the peaceful functioning of a Local Government or its Council is hindered by protracted crisis, the State House of Assembly may, by a resolution passed by a simple majority of all its members, impose such restrictive measures in the Local Government Area or its Council as the House may deem fit”.

From the foregoing provision, one is not in doubt that the restrictive measures of suspension not removal as contemplated by Section 44 of the Local Government Administration Law 2017 is in order and legal.

What is the difference between suspension and removal?

Suspension - simply defined is a temporary barring from office for a while. Other words like “adjournment”, “Pause”, “halt”, “Interlude”, “lacuna”, “deferral” you name it can be used.
Whereas
Removal – is an act of dismissal from an office or position. Other words like “Sacking”, “Ousting”, “Firing”, “Eviction” you name it can be used.

Implication of Supreme Court decision on Ekiti Local Government councils.

A momentous decision was given in a landmark case between ALGON Ekiti State and the government of Ekiti State when the duly elected Local Government Council were dissolved by Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State. The supreme court in that case which had to do with the dissolution of council held that no State in the country has the power to dissolve Local Government Area Councils in their state and replace them with caretaker committees appointed by them and described such action as “Executive lawlessness”.

Is this the scenario here?
The answer is NO, the two LGAs are still intact and not dissolved.

Culled from: Interview conducted on June 1st 2020 on Planet 101.1FM’s People’s Parliament with the Chairman, House Committee on Information, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly. Hon. (Barr) Aniefiok Dennis.

Your Excellency,
Mr Udom Emmanuel,
Executive Governor,
Akwa Ibom State

GOODWILL MESSAGE

On Wednesday 29th May, 2019 at the Uyo Township Stadium on the occasion of your inauguration for a second term in office as Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, you swore to defend the interest as well as upgrade upon the living standard of Akwa Ibom People, at home and in elsewhere.

Your Excellency, one year after that oath taking, the people of our dear state can beat their chest in authentication to the numerous developmental strides and well thought out policies you have brought to bear on the course of governance.

Irrespective of the post election toils that emanated from the litigations in the Tribunal, Appeal and Supreme Courts, all in an effort to scuttle the good wishes of Akwa Ibom people, you came out victoriously refined and readily committed to the promises you made during inauguration.

Your Excellency, the 18 visibly active industries, increase in power generation, agricultural revolution, health/road/school infrastructure, Ibom Air, security of lives and properties, and very recently, your commitment to the management and protection of your people from the ravaging Covid19 pandemic, and other unannounced efforts of your administration is a further confirmation that #OnlyGod reigns in our land.

The recent one year has been productive and eventful as well as your overall five(5) years of leadership to our dear state and nation so far.

On behalf of the leadership and the good people of Etinan Local Government Area, I join well meaning Akwa Ibomites and Nigerians to felicitate you on your landslide achievements and pray God to endow you with courage, strength and wisdom to contend the herculean of your office.

Bravo!

Signed:
Dr Cletus Ekpo
Executive Chairman,
Etinan Local Government Council
29052020