Guber 2023: I will address poverty alleviation when I become governor of A'Ibom- James Iniama

 Mr James Iniama, Governorship aspirant 2023

By Theresa Donatus, Uyo

A frontline governorship aspirant of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom state, Mr. James Iniama has said that he will fight against poverty which is one of the 17 pillars of development goals in the state when he becomes the next governor.

Responding to questions which of the projects he feels Akwa Ibom needed most out of the 17sustainable development goals by the united nations at the Victor Int Airport recently, the gubernatorial aspirant  disclosed that his development planning will center on remodelling that rural communities and laying policies that supports livelihood.

The seasoned estate surveyor and valuer said that he will make poorest of the poor to have access to finances by establishing micro finance institutions then strengthening our corporate society to ensure that people have access to finances to do their informal and small scale businesses.

"As a governorship aspirant under PDP, i will love to address the issues of poverty  reduction or poverty alleviation as one of the 17pilllars of the development goals. Because I believe the sustainable development goals are all important, some are considered as major concern, one is the level of poverty in the state, I stand with the youths, our elders, father's and mother's and motherless of the land because I feel with them what they are going through. 

"We will have to lay out policies that will support the livelihood of the people, lift them out of the extremely lowest economic point and given them a sustainable living conditions, we will make people to have access to finances by establishment of micro finance institutions then strengthening our corporate society. I will ensure that people have access to finances to do their informal and small scale businesses

"I also think about our rural communities, because emphasis on development and planning has been concerntrated in the states capitals, no one thinks about the rural communities. I am thinking how to develop the rural communities, to make life easier and liveable for those In the Rural communities bringing those things found in the urban centers to our rural communities, to make life liveable for Akwa Ibom is a small place, very soon we may have a one city state, by reaching out to those abandoned areas in the state. The governorship aspirant added

Responding on how he will fight poverty without nepotism factor he said he grew up in the rural community adding that since he understands what the people are passing through, he will ensure equal access to opportunities base on their competencies.

 He however urge to people to ensure they vote a man of their interest, peace, truth and shun fraudulent arts of collecting 5000 naira to vote a wrong candidate.

"I come from the self social class, I grew up in a rural community, in a farm, so I understand what it is because I have gone through all manners of social injustices I have been discriminated against so I believe that if God permits and I become the next governor of this state, I will ensure we have a garlitarian society where people will have equal access to opportunity on their competencies, we will develop our skills.

"Ensure you get your delegates, a man who has your interest at heart. I urge you to tighten up your stomach, snub the 1000 naira a politician will give you and vote right, vote your conscience because if you collect even 5000 naira to vote for a wrong candidate, poverty will increase in the land, I want you all to return home and educate your communities to vote truth, vote someone that will elevate poverty from the rural areas. Iniama added

On threats by the national commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Festus Okoye that the 2023 general elections in Nigeria might be postponed if the President Muhammadu Bihari fails to assent to the reworked Electoral Act Amendment Bill by last Tuesday, February, 22nd, at the Victor Attah international Airport, while returning to the state from Abuja.

Recall, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, had said it may be forced to postpone the 2023 elections if President Muhammadu Buhari fails to assent to the reworked Electoral Act Amendment Bill by Tuesday, February, 22nd.

INEC national commissioner and chairman of Voter Education Committee, Festus Okoye, whose threats which was reported on the national media, said there were some fundamental timelines in the new electoral bill that will fundamentally affect the electoral legal framework if further delayed.

He expressed optimism that the necessary adjustments would be done to ensure that general elections are held and creditably in 2023.

"I must say that I’m not afraid because is has not been experienced in the country before; that it was time and election could not be held for any reason. I’m only optimistic and pray fervently that election that would enable the country to transit into a new government will be held. I am confident that they would be elections in 2023.” He expressed.

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Ibom Heritage to launch Ibibio Nation-History and culture book in A'Ibom

 

By Theresa Donatus, Uyo

The Director of Ibom Heritage, Mr Ottoabasi Abasiekong has tasked Nigeria to intentionally reference history and learn from it,  if the nation truly desire to grow past her social cohesion challenges.

Abasiekong made the assertion at the media briefing ahead of the launch of a book "Ibibio Nation-History and Culture" on  Friday at E-library, Uyo, Akwa Ibom state. 

Abasiekong  who was represented by Asteriod Bassey said the book, written by Oto-Obong Aniefiok Uwah would enshrine a sense of identity and nationhood in the minds of Ibibio sons and daughters.

He announced  March 25, ,2023 and Ibom Icon Hotel as date and  venue for the launch of the book which he said will enrich the repository of knowledge of the subject matter- Ibibio history and culture.

" It is said that forgetting history is a recipe for repeating it. The Nigeria nations will move past it social cohesion challenges on when it intentionally references history and learned from it.

"Today marks the beginning of a journey back in time as we hope to use the book, Ibibio Nation: History and Culture to deeply enshrine a sense of identity and nationhood in the minds of every Ibibio son and daughter and to enlighten Nigerians that propagating a prosperous future is rooted in the culture of self-knowledge and preservation"  he said 

 The Heritage Director explained that the book is divided into two sections with ten chapters adding that it is written in a language that attempts to satisfy the "yearnings of many proper Ibibio men and women and every Ibom son and daughter to have the diacritics of proper Ibibio words to aid the correct reading and understanding of the language"

He said the chapter one of the book attempts to expand the relationship of the Ibibio with her neighbours, the Aro and also the historical connection between the Ibibio and the Efik. 

In his words "Contemporary topics of the last one hundred years of Ibibio history that are relevant to today such as Resource Control, Women’s War of 1929, Civil War etc. are dealt with in detail as it relates to the involvement of key Ibibio men and women. 

"The identity of the Ibibio man and woman in forms of name identity, ancestral worship, invasion of Christianity, taboos and totems etc. are also detailed".

Also discussed in the book include Kingship and requirements for the traditional institution, marriage and inheritance within the Ibibio cultural context, “killing of twins”, importance of masquerades as social crusaders and the police of old was told in detail.

The organizers of the launch therefore expressed optimism that the book will add to the resource materials available to students in tertiary institutions and aid other levers of society to properly situate the Ibibio story and its relevance to nation building.

Guber 2023:PDP statutory delegates endorse Onofiok Luke for governor

 

Barr Onofiok Luke Governorship aspirant 2023

By Theresa Donatus, Uyo

Former elected officers of the People Democratic Party  (PDP) in  Akwa Ibom state came out to publicly  to endorse the former speaker of the state House of Assembly, Mr Onofiok Luke, for governorship in 2023.

Coming on the platform of Great Supporters of Onofiok Luke, the party men and women numbering more than 250 said they have resolved to support  Onofiok Luke for the governorship in 2023 irrespective of the antics of the state government to unprecedentedly endorse one aspirant.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Mr. Abraham Joshua Udoekong, disclosed that they have seen in Onofiok Luke, the capacity, character, love for the people, ideas and passion to drive economic and social development of the State, as such they have decided to come forward and endorse him for the general good of Akwa Ibom people. 

Udoekong added that they gave themselves a mandate to scout for and mobilise committed delegates for Onofiok Luke, who currently is the chairman of the House of Representatives 

"We are taking this bold step for the general good of our state. We started  mobilising ourselves for the Onofiok Luke's governorship project in 2020; today we have mobilised delegates to come here and endorse Onofiok Luke. We believe in him, we will vote for him."

Udoekong said they were not perturbed by recent political happenings in the state, insisting that their resolution to support Onofiok Luke at the party primary was absolute. 

Other members of the group who spoke at the meeting said it was time members of the PDP took their destiny in their hands by voting their conscience and not persons chosen for them.

On his part, the Director of Operations, Amazing Grace campaign organisation, Mr. Victor Brownson, thanked the delegates for coming out to publicly endorse Barr. Onofiok Luke. 

"There was a time we were looking for delegates; now delegates have seen the truth; they are now coming for Onofiok Luke." Brownson  said and reassured them that Barr. Luke would not betray the confidence reposed in him by the group and Akwa Ibom people.

Receiving the PDP delegates on behalf of Mr Luke and the Amazing Grace campaign organisation, Mr Imo Udo, lauded them for bold action they had taken.

"I thank you for adopting Barr. Onofiok Luke as your sole candidate for the governorship in 2023. Onofiok Luke is one man who is associated with good works and I believe that is why you want him to be governor of Akwa Ibom State. We need a good man on the saddle of governorship and Onofiok Luke has demonstrated in words and actions that he is a good man."

Udo urged the group to carry on their mobilisation peacefully. "Our sole focus  is to make Onofiok Luke the governor in 2023", he said.

Meanwhile, another group, Onofiok Luke Support Network led by Mr. Edemekong Edemekong,  was also on hand to endorse  Onofiok Luke for the 2023 governorship election.

The group said; "We have seen the divine oil of anointing on Onofiok Luke's forehead. Therefore, we have endorsed Onofiok Luke as our sole candidate for governorship."

Chapter coordinators of the group who spoke at the event Mr. Sylvanus Effiong, Mr. Abia Monday, Mr. Eyo Thompson Udo and Mr. Inyene Usungurua, commended  Luke for keeping faith with Akwa Ibom people who earnestly need him to be their governor in 2023. 

Employment scandal: Applicants chides A'Ibom govt over secret employment in civil service

 

Theresa Donatus, Uyo

Unemployed Akwa Ibom people have  recently said that the employment of 1000 primary school teachers and 1000 secondary teachers was a far cry from any attempt to fill the vacuum created by retirement and bereavement in the past seven years. 

Despite not declaring open employment into the core civil service for over seven years now, investigations have revealed that the state government is secretly recruiting employees.

Akwa Ibom people have therefore decried daily appearances of fresh persons recruited into the various ministries of government without due process.

Findings revealed that employees have been resuming in various ministries, departments and agencies in the state without undergoing the any formal employment process.

Though the government through the Head of the State Civil Service, Mr. Effiong Essien has denied the development, applicants have come out to accuse the government of insincerity and double standards.

Many of the commissioners and permanent secretaries have  feigned ignorance about the recruitment exercise saying they were not privy to any notice or declaration of vacancies.

However, findings reveal that some top government officials and politicians use their connection to secure employment for their cronies while some applicants pay huge amount of money as bribe to some corrupt government officials to secure employment.

The officials, according to applicants who have parted with huge amounts of money to gain employment, receive between N200, 000 to N300,000 as bribe.

One of the applicants, Mrs Enobong Akpaah disclosed that she paid N250,000 to a top government official to secure a job but has not gotten the job.

Mr Paul Ekpene also an applicant said he  paid N200,000 to balance N50,000 on resumption of work as a civil servant since May 2021 but up till now, some of the people who paid same time with him have resumed work and he was asked to exercise patient.

"We are many who have paid money to get civil service job. I paid since April last year. Others who paid have resumed work. I am yet to get my employment letter", she said.

"A top politician asked me to pay N250,000, I paid N200,000 to balance 50000 when I get the job, since May 2021, up till today, If I call him, he will not pick my call but reply to exercise patient". Ekpene added

The investigation further revealed that the new employees are said to have been employed through the connection of top politicians close to the government adding that the approval for employment is usually signed with special biros in distinctive colour.

"We have seen new employees coming for documentation in our office almost daily. They are required to report for documentation as part of the requirements for eligibility for payroll," a source close to Head of Civil Service told our reporter.

It  was further gathered that the secret employment is not restricted to the state Civil service but it was also being carried out in the local government service commission and even federal agencies in the state.

Another source told our correspondent that "an employee recently came to be registered in our organisation as a professional member and we found out that the person has just been employed by the University."

Both the Head of Civil Service, Mr Effiong Essien and  chairman,  civil service commission have denied the ongoing secret employment admitting however that those being employed were selected  from the data bank of those who had earlier responded to its advertised vacancies.

Addressing the press recently, Comrade Ini Ememobong also denied that the state government was recruiting but did not make any reference to new employees that had reported at the ministry of information and Strategy.

Emmanuel declares his appointees incompetent, relieves one

 

Akparawa Ephraim Inyang-eyen former Chief of Staff to Governor Udom Emmanuel, Akwa Ibom state

By Theresa Donatus, Uyo

Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom has declared all his appointees incompetent and thereby sacked his Chief of Staff, Akparawa Ephraim Inyang-eyen.

Our Correspondent gathered that Inyang-eyen's relieved sanction was contained in a letter signed by the Secretary of the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem entitled “Appreciation of Your Service letter issued on 22 February, 2022". 

The letter addressed to Ephraim Inyang announced that he has been relieved of his appointment as the Governor’s Chief of Staff, with a directive that he should handover all property of government in his possession to the SSG. 

“On behalf of His Excellency, the Governor, government and the good people of Akwa Ibom State, I write to convey to you His Excellency, the Governor’s profound appreciation of the worthy contributions you made to the development of our dear state while you served as Chief of Staff to the Governor. 

“However, given the urgent need to match skill set and competencies to the task of maintaining the momentum of economic development in peace, your services are no longer required and you are hereby relieved  of your position, as Chief of Staff (CoS) to His Excellency, the Governor with immediate effect. You are therefore directed to handover all property of government in your possession, to the Secretary to the State Government.

“Please, accept the assurances of His Excellency, the Governor’s goodwill and highest regards as you proceed to other endeavors”, the letter stated 

Recalled that the Chief of Staff's security aids were withdrawn by the state governor on Sunday, a day after the videos of the Chief of Staff’s consultations for the Eket Senatorial District seat in the National Assembly surfaced online. 

Our Correspondent, according to the video said, during one of the consultative visits, the Chief of staff was put in the dock by the Royal Fathers, to respond to the allegations against him that he took money meant for roads construction and kept to run election.

Inyang according to the video responded to the royal Fathers: "My fathers, because you have asked and insisted I provide an answer to your question which is like a summon, now let me reply:

"Commissioner doesn't pay for road construction, commissioner processes documents for road construction and the Governor approves it.

"Every contractor in Akwa Ibom is paid by the accountant General, directly to the account of the contractor. No commissioner for works has access to that money. Roads have been abandoned, and falsehood spread that Ephraim Inyang ate the money and that is a lie.

"I'm demanding the elders to petition me to EFCC if I am found wanting, they should do to me what they want because 1 kobo of that money is not with me. That money is with the contractor and the contractor must account for it." He added

When the video surfaced online, Ephraim Inyang’s comment didn’t go down well with the government of the day. 

First, a section of youths led by Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Matters, Comrade Iwaudofia gathered and made a video, threatening fire and brimstone if Ephraim does not retract his statement which they felt is an insult to the governor. 

Iwaudofia stated that “he will march six million youths to occupy Ephraim Inyang’s house until he recants and apologizes to the governor”. 

This is the second time in one month that the police details of the chief of staff have been withdrawn. 3 of the blue-beret wearing police officers were withdrawn from Ephraim back to Government House few weeks ago. 

It was learnt that they returned to their duty post same day on the orders of the IGP who was told of the development by the Chief of Staff. 

Ephraim’s security aides were attached to him when he was appointed as Commissioner for Works about 7 years ago. They were still attached to him when he was appointed as Chief of Staff to the governor. 

Ephraim’s ordeal might be connected to his support for the governorship ambition of Senator Bassey Albert Akpan who is not the governor’s preferred choice for his succession agenda. Whereas, the governor has endorsed the aspiration of Commissioner for Lands, Pastor Umo Eno.

In his response, Akparawa Ephraim Inyang-eyen replied through a statement he signed titled:" Message of Appreciation", the Chief of Staff to Governor Udom Emmanuel appreciated the state governor and the entire people of the state for the opportunity given to him to serve. He also expressed his continous loyalty to the state governor stating that he will continue to support his completion agenda and the state at large.

The appreciation message reads in parts:

"I wish to sincerely thank His Excellency, Governor Udom Emmanuel for the opportunity he gave me to serve as Commissioner for Works and most recently as his Chief of Staff. 

"I am grateful to him for having found me worthy to hold the two positions in his administration. And I am pleased I made a positive impact while I served.

"Let me also thank colleagues whom I served with in the State Executive Council and by extension the larger Exco for their support and encouragement during my time as both Commissioner for Works and Chief of Staff. 

"I equally thank the good people of Akwa Ibom State for availing me the opportunity to have served them in the two capacities so mentioned. I'm deeply grateful. 

"Let me restate my loyalty to His Excellency, Governor Udom Emmanuel and my unflinching support for his completion agenda. 

"I wish to state emphatically that I'll continue to work for the betterment of our dear state wherever I find myself in future. 

"My love for the state and our people remains unquenchable. 

Once again, thank you all." The message stated

Pics: Akparawa Ephraim Inyang-eyen, former Chief of Staff to Governor Udom Emmanuel

THE EARCOM TEMPLATE: REBUILDING SOCIETY OF VALUES

 

Dorothy Thompson PhD, The Executive Chairman, Ethical and Attitudinal Re-orientation Commission, EARCOM, Akwa Ibom State.

Template by Dorothy Thompson PhD, 

These are really very disturbing times as our society is facing a massive debacle with the near total collapse or breakdown of moral fibre and ethical values. Despicable and hitherto frowned acts regarded as taboo have suddenly become the norm and seem acceptable as the new way of life. We seem to be losing it as the society is Inundated daily with actions that are not only absurd but abominable.

Social vices amongst the youths such absenteeism and lateness to school, disregard to constituted authority in schools, indecent and salacious dressing, pregnancy by young girls outside wedlock; increased penchant for dubious wealth and get rich quick schemes with the attendant increase in rituals for money making; armed robbery; kidnapping; stealing is now very rampant. Rape has become a recurring problem; incest is on the increase with some parents not only defiling their wards but also putting them in a family way; divorces are rampant as the structure of families have severely been threatened. Cultism is so rife in even primary schools that it is regarded as a thing of pride to be a cultist.

There has also been an upsurge in non-ethical practices in everyday life. Bribery and corruption have rendered the society incapacitated with the attendant negative effects on development. Nepotism is the order of the day as excellence is being sacrificed on the altar of expediency. Political thuggery, snatching of ballot boxes, vote buying and rigging have cast a shadow on the electoral processes of the Country. The realization of the dangers that the vices if left to go unabated have on the society prompted government to address the issues through value and attitudinal re-orientation of the citizenry. 

Values are imbibed from our families and they stem from our social and cultural values. It needs be emphasised that the importance of values and attitudes cannot be overemphasized as they assist the society to grow and develop. They help create the future that the society desires to experience. As individuals, we join efforts with government and organization in making myriad of decisions every day.

 The decisions made are a reflection of our values and beliefs, and they are always directed towards a specific purpose which is the satisfaction of our individual or collective wellbeing. When the values are not right, the society gets to bear the brunt of such misadventures.

It also needs to be appreciated that at times new life experiences may change values previously held. Individual values include enthusiasm, creativity, humility and personal fulfillment and they help reflect how we live our life and what we consider important for our own self-interests. Though the current scenario in today's world gives the impression that society doesn't practice many values because of the rise in discrimination, abuse of power, greed, hatred and all manner of anti-social vices staring us in the face; it is important to note that these values help us preserve the society, brings us together as one, gives us a sense of identity, promotes law and order prevents child delinquency as well as making people responsible. The special purpose vehicle to drive this all-important process in Akwa Ibom State is Ethical and Attitudinal Reorientation Commission (EARCOM).

Created in 2000, EARCOM has the mandate to re-create people with well-articulated and practical ethical values that sustain the socio-economic and political base of the State. The aim is to re-engineer the entire citizenry for greater responsibility and better society, restore ethical and moral sensibilities, propagate need to eschew all vices in public life including corruption, electoral and all forms of malpractices, mobilize people for positive participation in nation building, ensure and uphold leadership by example, restore and sustain discipline in public and private life as well as propagate and promote the spirit of labour, honesty and commitment. 

The current board made up of dedicated, hardworking and patriotic members has in the past years recorded tremendous strides geared towards delivering on her charter that provides the mandate through timely and effective value and attitude reorientation of the State. Through the magnanimity of His Excellency the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, EARCOM has been able to engage the citizenry to deliver on her mandate, ensure value re-orientation.

We have, through deliberate plans, initiatives and actions made the Dakkada philosophy as enunciated by Governor Udom Emmanuel the pivot of our advocacy.  The people of the State are constantly encouraged to adopt the Dakkada philosophy as a way of life, principle and belief system. The people have been made to bring into their consciousness that the Dakkada creed is a call to unity and determination; a clarion call to encourage indigenes of Akwa Ibom State to believe in themselves and take their destinies in their hands in order to realize their full potentials. There couldn't have been a better time to instill a sense of patriotism and self inputs in a people as it is our belief that this would be the main force that would ultimately galvanise as well as provide the much-needed support for His Excellency's completion agenda.

At EARCOM, we believe that the Dakkada creed is a stimulus for the actualization of the governor’s agenda both the 5-point of job creation, poverty alleviation, wealth creation, economic and political inclusion as well as infrastructural consolidation, expansion, the Completion agenda and of course the succession plan which is on course. It is because of this that we encourage the people not to see the Dakkada creed as a mere Government policy but a philosophy that people could buy into and make it a part of their sub-consciousness. 

Attitudinal change is pivotal to experiencing growth and development especially in an underdeveloped economy as Nigeria's. In order to assist us in driving this message home, we have produced thematic songs, jingles and other publicity materials in different languages for ease of understanding. These messages are strategically placed in the media space through our website, advertisements in newspapers and radios, workshops, road shows, symposia, advocacy visits to primary, secondary schools, as well as tertiary institutions, markets, churches hospitals, Government offices, Nigerian Correctional Centres, motor parks, road transport unions, but to mention a few.

EARCOM has been at the forefront in the fight against cultism, rape, child theft and abuse and other social vices such as lateness and absenteeism to school, prostitution, homosexuality, exam malpractices and peer pressure amongst others. Every sector of our society is affected as the primary schools and secondary schools are not spared. An initiative wasn't implemented through schools in the 10 Federal Constituencies off Akwa Ibom State with the sole aim of reorientation and redirection of the moral compass of our children and future leaders by taking advocacy visits to the grassroots. EARCOM championed the campaign, Academic Not Vices with the sole aim of discouraging students from engaging in anti-social behaviour. 

Prior to the 2019 general elections, EARCOM in collaboration with Knowledge First International Academy of Houston Texas organized a conference for peaceful elections in Akwa Ibom State. It had in attendance security agencies political parties and their agents; youths drawn from the 31 LGAs of the State.  The aim was to discourage election violence, destruction and rigging, vote buying that takes place during, before and after the election. The advocacy was the first of its kind in the State.

The conference got a commitment from all participants on the need for political parties to play the game according to laid down rules, caution their members against destroying bill boards and campaign materials of opponents and engage members of other political parties in public brawls. Acts such as thuggery, ballot box snatching, rigging, and other ways of manipulating the outcome of elections were highlighted and frowned at. This is because of our belief that a society of value is one in which the citizens have a sense of belonging, have the right to exercise their franchise of voting and being voted for.

Health is wealth and the dangers the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic posed on the State and the Country was very much appreciated by EARCOM. Acting on our mandate demands, sensitization campaigns were effectively mounted on the media space in order to keep the people informed and apprised of Government directives and what the disease was and what was expected of the citizens. We produced and distributed face masks and hand sanitizers to stakeholders in the State. 

In the aftermath of the EndSars Crisis, EARCOM organized a moral rebirth programme to sensitize the youths on the need to be patriotic and responsible. We partnered youths of Afaha Ube in Uyo and partnered with the security agencies to fish out those who looted shops and properties of citizens during the crisis. The result was massive and positive as recoveries were made in conjunction with the security agencies.

At EARCOM the philosophy of catching them young is paramount. Another first in Akwa Ibom State was recorded with the Children Prayer Network where select school children from across the State regularly gather to pray for the well being of the State. The main aim of the programme includes advocacies for moral rebirth and rectitude, Value Reorientation, Social Re-engineering and Attitudinal Reorientation.  We believe that our world is more spiritual than physical and the foundation of our lives is God and as such the need for our children should be better off starting on that unfailing foundation of godliness which is the greatest gain. 

The 2023 elections to the various political offices are around the corner and the season for electioneering and elections would soon be here.  EARCOM wish to re-echo and re-emphasize the need for players to remain peaceful while going about their activities. The state has been largely peaceful owing to the peaceful demeanour of Governor Udom Emmanuel and his government. The Maintain Peace Movement has also come handy to help maintain, sustain and drive the message of peace knowing that development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace. We encourage all political actors to go about their electoral activities devoid of rancour, all the shenanigans that go with it and focus on issue-based campaigns. 

We would partner with relevant stakeholders and embark on voter sensitization of the citizens on the need to make their votes count by encouraging them to take part in the coming electoral process, campaign and vote for candidate of their choice without fear or hindrance. This is because we always advocate that a society of value is one in which citizens have a positive mental attitude towards government business and activities; support government to succeed and ensure they carry out their basic civic responsibilities. 

Finally, it is important for citizens to take seriously the ideals of the Dakkada philosophy; rise up to the faith of greatness and be counted as those who have surmounted all challenges to chart a new course for themselves and society. We take infotainment very seriously. We have developed the Dakkada theme song which we shall in no distant future make available to all and sundry as we believe it would assist in further reinforcing our consciousness as a people. All citizens of the state must rise up and support the completion agenda of Governor Udom Emmanuel. We have no other state than this one. We must do everything to protect Akwa Ibom State. 

Let the words of Albert Einstein sink in you - Try not to become a man of success. Rather become a man of value. For a highly developed value system is like a compass. It serves as a guide to point you in the right direction when you are lost. Together, let us make Akwa Ibom State, a society of value. 

The Woman with the Golden Boy

 

Hon Pastor Umo Eno, Governorship aspirant 2023 with the wife

Written By Osondu Ahirika 

Gold is costly. The most precious element known to man.

In James Bond's movie titled, The Man with the Golden Gun, we realize this fact that in whatever form, gold is highly priced.

The assassin Francisco Scaramanga (played by Christopher Lee), owns the Golden Gun. He charges one million dollar per shot.

That movie came to my mind when Mrs Patience Umo Eno spurned those who try to body shame her husband with the Albino tag.

The date was Sunday February 20. Her 55th birthday. Of which she has spent 35 years with her soul mate Pastor Umo Eno and still counting as wife.

On September 26, 2021, they held a grand Thanksgiving Service to celebrate God's faithfulness in their lives.

Theirs  is indeed an amazing story of love, fighting side by side and winning together.

When Pastor Mrs Patience Umo Eno spoke of the misguided discrimination directed at her husband on account of his skin colour,  hearts melted and not a few shed tears in the crowded audititorium of All Nations Christian Church. 

“My husband is very special and unique, 

They call him albino but I say he’s my golden boy.

Let me tell you something, my husband’s color especially his hair color is what some ladies are paying money to have”.

A proud wife. A virtuous woman. she revealed in one breath to the world the secret of her husband’s strength.

At once, she demonstrated the steel of genuine courage, endurance, forbearance and nobility of spirit every woman as Helper of the man needs.

She comes clear as a person of abiding faith in God and absolute love for her husband.  She is battle-ready for the task ahead if given the chance to become the next First Lady of Akwa Ibom State. 

Her heroics in defending her husband with the most penetrating metaphor of eulogizing him as her Golden Boy was a touch of divine wisdom. 

She defeated the trolls and taunts. Most assuredly she won hearts.

Pastor Patience Umo Eno has introduced herself to the world with that grand entry. It is safely the biggest speech of her life.

Her valued interaction,  counsel, encouragement and prayers will remain Pastor Umo Eno's threshold bearing vital gifts for the uncharted challenges ahead.

Let me retire to my wife. I am also her Golden Boy, even if I say so myself- like Michael Bush would say.

Group eulogise cleric for providing wheelchairs, clutches and cash empowerment in A'Ibom.

 

Apostle Dr Elijah Jack, General overseer of His Divine Redeemed World Ministry, Mkpok, Onna Local govt area oA'Ibom

By Theresa Donatus, Uyo

Persons living with disabilities group under the aegis of Joint Association of People Living with Disabilities, Onna chapter have applauded Apostle Elijah Jack, General Overseer of His Divine Redeemed World Ministry, Mkpok, for providing Wheelchairs, Clutches, food items and cash empowerment to non denominational christians and muslims living in 42 villages of Onna LG, Akwa Ibom State.

Speaking to the newsmen at the church premises, Mkpok, Onna Local government area of the state, the chairman of the group, Mr. Anthony Ufot Joe expressed gratitude to Apostle Jack for his kind guesture, giving walking aids, foodstuffs and cash empowerment to the born different.

The appreciation came on the heels of the unusual gesture of the cleric on 30th Jan who donated gifts and cash worth 1.5 millions naira to physically challenged persons in the council area.

Joe recalled that he casually mentioned to Apostle Jack, to extend a hand of fellowship to his members and never knew it could come within a short time and in such a big way.

"My name is Anthony Ufot Joe, chairman of Joined Association of people living with Disabilities, Onna Local Govt Area chapter, 

"I was the one who met Apostle Dr Elijah Jack and pleaded with him to show some love to the people who were born different in his community and he accepted, I forgot about it thinking he will forget about us as other pastors and politicians in Onna have done to us.

"But on January 30th, Apostle showered us with Clutches, wheelchairs, raw food items and cash empowerment. Truly it was more than expected, we have never seen this kind of love before, that is why we have come to tell him thank you.

"All of us would have come but I selected few of my members to come along with my president to thank Apostle for entering the 42 villages in Onna to fetch all persons with disabilities and less privileged to bless us in his capacity, he gave us wheelchairs, clutches, raw food items and cash empowerment.

"We pray that God will bless him more abundantly untill he is able to reach out to people all over the world we are grateful, that is why we have come to say thank you" Joe narreted.

President of the group, Mr. Joshua Jacobson Akpan from Ntan Ide Ekpe, expressed heartfelt appreciation and pleaded that seed capitals be given to those who want to trade on commodities while those who are able to work with their hands be sponsored to learn trades; such as tailoring, hair dressing, embroidery etc. to be self reliance and end begging.

"I like what the man of God did for us the previous month and that is why we say a big thank you to him, May God bless and increase the man of God a thousand times in Jesus name amen.

"Some of us were unable to afford one meal a day, but knowing the man of God is a blessing to the disabled persons in Onna, we no more lack food to eat, we now use our clutches and wheelchairs to walk, no more dragging our bodies on the ground and dirty our bodies. We will one day move to our governor to give us our workshop because we are not beggers but physically challenged.

"Most of us have skills that if we are trained, we can also train others so that we will stop begging

 We should be trained in soap making, hair dressing, oil palm production, tailoring and embroidery, personally I will love to learn embroidering." The group president appealed.

Responding to the encomiums poured on him, Apostle Jack likened the gesture of the group to the one lapper that return to give thanks to Jesus Christ after being made whole by His ministry. He however pledged to do more and to see them thenceforth, as his responsibility.

"I must say thank you very much for coming around to tell God thank you, I remember in the Bible story about the ten leper, out of the ten that our Lord Jesus Christ healed, one of them returned to say thank you.

"For this very show of your gratitude, I want you all to understand that this serves as an encouragement to me and I also know that once in a while I know I have people to care about, you are my responsibility from today, I am very excited and comfortable that you came around.

"Looking into humanity is my main responsibility and God, I want you to understand that as God gives me the grace, I will continue doing this empowerment without biasas God gives me the enablement.

"I also want to Advice you not to look at your condition, rise up and work, you can achieve whatever you wish, and work consistently towards your goal, as God blessed me, the next phase of empowerment will be training on skills, any skill you desire to learn, indicate interest and you will be thought.

"You will discover that being disabled is not the end of your lives, there's an ability in each and every one of you, you only need to discover it. God has a purpose for creating you, so that purpose must come to manifest.

"God uses situations that people grade as nothing or lost hope to glorify himself. I want you to know that in this life, you will be called and address as who God want you to be in Jesus mighty name Amen. God bless you all for coming around." The G.O. prayed.

Speaking to the newsmen at the church premises, Mkpok, Onna Local government area of the state, the chairman of the group, Mr. Anthony Ufot Joe expressed gratitude to Apostle Jack for his kind guesture, giving walking aids, foodstuffs and cash empowerment to the born different.

The appreciation came on the heels of the unusual gesture of the cleric on 30th Jan who donated gifts and cash worth 1.5 millions naira to physically challenged persons in the council area.

Joe recalled that he casually mentioned to Apostle Jack, to extend a hand of fellowship to his members and never knew it could come within a short time and in such a big way.

"My name is Anthony Ufot Joe, chairman of Joined Association of people living with Disabilities, Onna Local Govt Area chapter, 

"I was the one who met Apostle Dr Elijah Jack and pleaded with him to show some love to the people who were born different in his community and he accepted, I forgot about it thinking he will forget about us as other pastors and politicians in Onna have done to us.

"But on January 30th, Apostle showered us with Clutches, wheelchairs, raw food items and cash empowerment. Truly it was more than expected, we have never seen this kind of love before, that is why we have come to tell him thank you.

"All of us would have come but I selected few of my members to come along with my president to thank Apostle for entering the 42 villages in Onna to fetch all persons with disabilities and less privileged to bless us in his capacity, he gave us wheelchairs, clutches, raw food items and cash empowerment.

"We pray that God will bless him more abundantly untill he is able to reach out to people all over the world we are grateful, that is why we have come to say thank you" Joe narreted.

President of the group, Mr. Joshua Jacobson Akpan from Ntan Ide Ekpe, expressed heartfelt appreciation and pleaded that seed capitals be given to those who want to trade on commodities while those who are able to work with their hands be sponsored to learn trades; such as tailoring, hair dressing, embroidery etc. to be self reliance and end begging.

"I like what the man of God did for us the previous month and that is why we say a big thank you to him, May God bless and increase the man of God a thousand times in Jesus name amen.

"Some of us were unable to afford one meal a day, but knowing the man of God is a blessing to the disabled persons in Onna, we no more lack food to eat, we now use our clutches and wheelchairs to walk, no more dragging our bodies on the ground and dirty our bodies. We will one day move to our governor to give us our workshop because we are not beggers but physically challenged.

"Most of us have skills that if we are trained, we can also train others so that we will stop begging

 We should be trained in soap making, hair dressing, oil palm production, tailoring and embroidery, personally I will love to learn embroidering." The group president appealed.

Responding to the encomiums poured on him, Apostle Jack likened the gesture of the group to the one lapper that return to give thanks to Jesus Christ after being made whole by His ministry. He however pledged to do more and to see them thenceforth, as his responsibility.

"I must say thank you very much for coming around to tell God thank you, I remember in the Bible story about the ten leper, out of the ten that our Lord Jesus Christ healed, one of them returned to say thank you.

"For this very show of your gratitude, I want you all to understand that this serves as an encouragement to me and I also know that once in a while I know I have people to care about, you are my responsibility from today, I am very excited and comfortable that you came around.

"Looking into humanity is my main responsibility and God, I want you to understand that as God gives me the grace, I will continue doing this empowerment without biasas God gives me the enablement.

"I also want to Advice you not to look at your condition, rise up and work, you can achieve whatever you wish, and work consistently towards your goal, as God blessed me, the next phase of empowerment will be training on skills, any skill you desire to learn, indicate interest and you will be thought.

"You will discover that being disabled is not the end of your lives, there's an ability in each and every one of you, you only need to discover it. God has a purpose for creating you, so that purpose must come to manifest.

"God uses situations that people grade as nothing or lost hope to glorify himself. I want you to know that in this life, you will be called and address as who God want you to be in Jesus mighty name Amen. God bless you all for coming around." The G.O. prayed

Acting Chair Gives Facelift to Council Secretariats in A'Ibom

 

Ag chairman, Mkpat Enin local government Area, Hon. Lady Mercy Bassey

By Theresa Donatus, Uyo 

In less than a month into office as Acting Chairman of Mkpat Enin Local Government Council of Akwa Ibom on the mandate of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Lady Marcy Bassey has given a facelift to council secretariat.

Conducting journalist round the council which now bubbles with various construction and renovation activities  on Friday,  Hon. Bassey disclosed that she has also concluded plans to furnish offices for supervisors and Councillors who hitherto had no furnished offices to deliver their mandate to the people. Assuring that already acquired furniture was on its way to the council secretariat.

 Bassey added that her goals was to provide a serene work environment for the workforce in the area. 

It was seen that the Acting Chairman was embarking on a massive renovation of Ekong Sampson hall, a major rallying hall of the people of the council,  which had since been in a dilapidated state.

To provide a conducive environment for the traditional institution in the area, the Acting Chairman has within her few days in office relocated the Royal Fathers from a canteen to a befitting council donated to them by ExxonMobil but under lock for years now. 

New face of Mkpat Enin LG council

The Educationist who still operates from her original office as Vice Chairman of the council said her decision to use her temporary stay on the number one council office the massive turn around was in fulfilment of some of her major dreams and desires for the council area.

While thanking her team for partnering in the development of the area, the Acting Chairman who has also constructed and beautifully displayed signage at the entrance of the road leading to the council area said the achievements were from  the allocation to Mkpat Enin.

“I have been part of the system  which came in  Dec 7, 2020. I am sensitive to aesthetes. I felt these things needed to be done. some places were eyesore. so when the opportunity came, I had to strike.

"I have the best of key players with over 70 percent being women. they are always available. Women can truly work as a team. i have to give it up to the women so that posterity would open more doors for us women. 

"When you have a plan, your drive is regulated. Its all about determination and planning.  I'm an educationist, and the quality of a teacher must  come  into play. A teacher should be a good leader, a good follower and a fast learner". 

Listing  some of the areas touched during the ongoing renovation exercise she said: "Ekong Sampson unity Hall plays a major role in the lives of Mkpat Enin people. The Hall was an eyesore before now,  we are working round the clock to turn it around, to give the people a decent place to hold meetings.

“For the entrance,  we  needed to replace it with the colour of Mkpat Enin. The signage, we needed to use that to reintroduce the secretariat. security post, to control influx of persons. Generator House was completely dilapidated, and repairs of the power house is to ensure the council is powered beyond the Chairman's office. 

‘The Traditional Rulers Council is ExxonMobil's project but was not completed, the royal fathers had no place to stay. so we negotiated for the keys and did electricals and few other finishing works.

"The main administrative block is more like a living room, work had started so we needed to complete it. walking into a serene council secretariat gives me peace of mind.  We have  just ordered furniture for nine supervisors  and 30  councillors

 

Bassey who pledged to further expand the renovation works depending on the availability of resources, also used the occasion to assure Mkpat Enin Children of a befitting stadium to celebrate Children's day come May 27.

Guber 2023:PDP Group says Intimidation by A'Ibom govt is Threat to Public Peace, Unconstitutional

 

Members Akwa Ubok Abasi campaign Organization

By Theresa Donatus, Uyo

Members of the Peoples Democratic Party under the auspices of Akwa Ubok Abasi campaign organization have raised alarm over alleged intimidation of some of its members by the Akwa Ibom state Government and other officials of PDP.

The embattled members have reported instances where their allies, mostly statutory delegates  have been summoned and directed against freely associating with those loyal to Sen Bassey Albert Akpan 

In a press conference addressed by chairman of the group, Arch Bishop Andrew Uwanta,  in Uyo on Thursday,  the group disclosed that its members have been threatened with sanctions such as delisting and suspension from participating in voting at party primary if they fail to cut off such ties.

The campaign organisation said such steps and threats were infringement on the fundamental rights of members and against the constitution of the party.

The organisation also declared the recent endorsement of  Governor Emmanuel’s preferred successor by the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly as illegal, unconstitutional and a move  to arm-twist Akwa Ibom people.

“The recent and ugly activities of some Akwa Ibom State government and party officials, individually and as a group, calling meetings as well as reaching out to some party members mostly statutory delegates to direct them against freely associating with other leaders/members of the party and also threatening and intimidating them with violent and illegal sanctions such as delisting, suspension and prevention from participating in voting at Party Primary elections of which they are legitimate delegates is unfortunate, irrational, unconstitutional, null and void.

“This has been the scenario across the state in recent times and cuts a picture of systemic and strategic plan to victimize, undermind and infringe on the inalienable rights of these members of the party as provided for by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Peoples Democratic  Party (PDP).

“In as much as this action negates the tenets of democracy and fundamental rights, it is an abuse of office and threat to public peace, in contravention of the oath  of office taken by these government and Party Officials.”

“That I shall not allow my personal interest to influence my official decision; that in all circumstances I shall do right to all members of the party and to all manner of people, according to law without fear or favour, affection or ill-will.

“These unwholesome and illegal actions are seriously viewed as a calculated attempt to polarized the party with the potential of negatively affecting the long earned success of the party in the state  and it is hereby condemned.”

“We hereby encourage our party members/delegates to ignore their empty threats and intimidations and continue in their lawful and loyal activities to promote an egalitarian society founded on freedom, equality and justice.”    

We insist that in line with the appropriate provisions of our party, the leadership of the party should ensure a level-playing field for all the delegates to exercise their free choices by supporting whoever they want without intimidation. Nigeria is running a democracy and not a theocracy (a system of government in which priests rule in the name of God), monarchy or dictatorship – where one man’s choice or decision must be obeyed by all without question.”

“We also demand that primary election, as stipulated by our party  constitution, be conducted in a free, fair and credible manner, where all the aspirants will subject themselves to the voting choices of the delegates and test their popularities. This will  truly ensure that our party retains its enviable hold on our dear state in the general election.”

“May we strongly advise the perpetrators of this ignoble and illegal acts of intimidation to retrace their steps to avoid appropriate sanctions in line with the provisions of (section 59 (1)) of our Party Constitution; “Any member of the party who commits any of the offences listed in section 58 (1) of this constitution shall be liable to any or a combination of the following penalties”, he said 

Fielding questions from journalist, Uwanta regretted Governor Udom Emmanuel’s haste in naming a successor before the primaries, declaring the decision both unconstitutional and a wrong strategy to  shut others off the race.

SENATE 2023: EKONG SAMPSON CONSULTS ETIM OKPOYO

 

During consultation visit at former deputy Governor, His Excellency Amb Etim Okpoyo's resident

By Fresh gist

   ...former Deputy Governor lauds Ekong Sampson's qualities, backs Senate rotation to Ikot Abasi Federal Constituency

The former Commissioner for Environment and Petroleum Resources, Akwa Ibom State, Rt Hon.(Barr.) Ekong Sampson earlier today continued his Senatorial consultation at the residence of former Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency (Amb.) Etim Okpoyo in Uyo.

Ambassador Okpoyo was Deputy Governor during the Obong Akpan Isemin administration before going on to serve as Nigeria's Ambassador to Italy and Albania. He is a highly respected statesman and an Oro Chieftain.

Rt Hon Barr Ekong Sampson presenting one of his books on legislation to the former governor, his Excellency Amb Etim Okpoyo

During the consultation, Barr. Sampson, a two-term Member of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly said he was in the former Deputy Governor's house to respectfully inform him of his aspiration to represent Eket Senatorial District in the Nigerian Senate come 2023.

Dr Sampson said that having started his active political career serving as a Chief Legislative Assistant to Senator Udoma Udo Udoma, the Chairman of Senate Committee on Appropriations as at then, before going on to hold other key executive and legislative positions in the state, he was well placed to offer Eket Senatorial District a good representation at the nation's Red Chamber.

Barr. Sampson, who holds a Ph.D in Law spoke passionately about his blueprints to unify Eket Senatorial District and build bridges that will ensure proper maximization of the district's rich natural and human resources base.

He promised, if elected, to work with the stakeholders and opinion leaders of the district to ensure that Eket Senatorial District is given its pride of place in the country. He rounded up his speech by gifting a copy of his book, 'Parliamentarianism in Nigeria: An odyssey in the Nigeria Delta' to the former Deputy Governor.

Also speaking, Rt Hon.(Barr) Jack Udota, Dr Sampson's former senior colleague in the State House of Assembly described Barr. Sampson in glowing terms, saying he was one of the very best during their time together in the House. 

  'Dr Sampson is rich in depth and legislative experience and has all it takes to be a good Senator for Eket Senatorial District', the former Eket Lawmaker extolled. 

In his response, the former Deputy Governor, Amb. Etim Okpoyo welcomed Barr. Sampson's Senate ambition, describing him as 'a very good Senate material'. He said that having known of Dr Sampson's antecedent, he has his backing, pledging that he won't 'let him down'.

In his words, " it is turn for ikot Abasi federal constituency so i will support you wholeheartedly, if I wasn't sure, I will simply to you that I will think about it. Zoning has kept Eket Senatorial District together, in peace and equity. 

"So many people have said something good about you, it's your past that has earned you this respect, so when you become the next Senator, please don't let us down, ensure that carry the whole constituency along." He said

Amb. Okpoyo further hailed the zoning of the Senate 2023 seat to Ikot Abasi Federal Constituency, which according to him has ensured peace and equity in the Senatorial District.

On Dr Sampson's entourage included a former PDP State Officer, Barr. Ita Okpoyo, former two-term PDP Chapter Chairman of Eastern Obolo, Hon. Sampson Unyewaji, prominent Oro chieftain, Barr. Bassey Willie, Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Mkpat Enin, Hon. Nkereuwem James, among others.