APOSTLE DR. AMB. ELIJAH JACK, DR. GODWIN UMONTUEN AND OTHER DIGNITARIES ATTEND FUNERAL OF LATE PRINCE IKPE BOB

 

By Ayara 

It was a solemn and honourable gathering as Apostle Dr. Amb. Elijah Jack, alongside Dr. Godwin Umontuen and other distinguished dignitaries, attended the funeral ceremony of the late Prince Ikpe Bob in Ikot Eko Ibon, Onna Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

The funeral and thanksgiving service, held on Saturday, 28th February 2026 at QIC Group School, Ikot Eko Ibon, was conducted by The Apostolic Church, Ndon Eyo and assisted by The Apostolic Church Ikot Eko Ibon District, Ikot Nkan Area, Eket Field.

Their presence added great honour and spiritual support to the Royal Family of Bob Udoaka and the entire community. Apostle Dr. Amb. Elijah Jack offered prayers and words of comfort, encouraging the family to remain steadfast in faith and hopeful in the promise of eternal life. Dr. Godwin Umontuen and other dignitaries also stood in solidarity with the bereaved family, paying their last respects and celebrating the impactful life of the departed.

The ceremony was filled with heartfelt tributes, worship songs, and thanksgiving for a life well lived. Though Prince Ikpe Bob passed at the age of 57, his legacy of love, service, and commitment to community development will not be forgotten.

It was truly a Call to Glory , a moment of reflection, honour, and gratitude to God for a life that touched many.

May his soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.

Democracy could have averted Nigerian Civil War, says Senator Ekong Sampson at launch of Philip Effiong Jr's 'My Biafran Scar'...again, Uyo Book Club receives spotlight in Abuja

 

 

By Samuel Udoma

Senator Ekong Sampson, representing Akwa Ibom South, has said that the tragedy of the Nigerian Civil War could have been averted if democratic governance was in place in Nigeria at the time. Senator Sampson stressed that there was no sane substitute for democracy in managing national differences.

The lawmaker stated this earlier today at the public presentation of the book, My Biafran Scar, in Abuja, Nigeria. The book is written by Philip Effiong Jr, son of the late Biafran Second-in-Command, General Philip Effiong.

In his remarks at the book event, Senator Sampson maintained that the Biafran experience underscored the dangers of the absence of democratic safeguards in a multi-layered entity such as Nigeria.

According to him, the painful experience of the Biafran war could have been avoided if democratic tenets and institutions had prevailed in those nascent years of Nigeria's independence. 

The Nigerian Civil War, fought between 1967 and 1970, followed the declaration of the secessionist State of Biafra and remains one of the darkest chapters in the nation’s history. The conflict claimed millions of lives, with widespread humanitarian crisis and deep sociopolitical scars that continue to shape national discourse.

Senator Sampson noted that beyond the grief and devastation, the war leaves enduring lessons about tolerance, dialogue and the management of diversity in a plural society. He recalled a peculiar personal episode from the period, revealing how his family, then based in Enugu, was directly caught in the hostilities, with two of his elder brothers fighting on opposing sides of the conflict.

The lawmaker cautioned against interpreting the Civil War solely through its widely documented Igbo prism. He observed that many non-Igbo figures also played prominent roles during the conflict. 

Sampson cited the late Chief N.U. Akpan, an Akwa Ibomite who served as Secretary to the Government of Biafra; Colonel Victor Banjo, a Yoruba officer; and the Nobel Laureate, Wole Soyinka, who were actively engaged in efforts related to the war.

Similarly, Senator Sampson argued that significant national milestones should not be narrowly ethnicised. He referenced June 12 — now observed as Nigeria’s Democracy Day — noting that it would be erroneous to view it as solely a Yoruba affair. According to him, many non-Yorubas, including himself, have been consistent advocates of the ideals symbolised by June 12.

The Onomkpoinam Mkpat Enin also reflected on some of his scholarly engagements about the war and its legal and historical dimensions. He recounted his works and research, including 'Evergreen Memories of Sir Louis Mbanefo', 'The Path of Justice Chike Idigbe', and interviews with the late revered jurist, Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, which showed how judges sat in Biafra.

Both Sir Louis Mbanefo and Justice Chike Idigbe sat on the Bench of the Biafran Court of Appeal, with Mbanefo going on to become the Chief Justice of Biafra. Idigbe and Oputa were also Supreme Court Justices in Nigeria.

Senator Sampson used the occasion to commend Philip Effiong Jr for documenting his war perspectives in the book, describing the publication as a valuable contribution to the civil war conversation, national reflection and reconciliation.

The National Assemblyman mentioned that Uyo Book Club - a top intellectual hub, housed at Watbridge Hotels, Uyo, which he sits as patron, has held sessions on the poet, Christopher Okigbo and others, in also widening the flanks of the war discourse. Sampson subsequently invited the author to be hosted in one of the club's sessions on the book, to which he agreed.

Earlier in his welcome presentation, the author, Philip Effiong Jr, said the book captures his long-held experiences and memories of the war which his family was deeply involved in. He expressed that as a son bearing the exact name of his father who saw to the end of hostilities during the war, he has had to endure conflicting, and at times, confusing reception from segments of the erstwhile South Eastern Nigeria, due to his father's role. 

Effiong Jr added that the book was conceived to further advance the Nigerian civil war discourse, and to give it broader perspectives, especially on the role of non-Igbo minorities in the region who were also active participants and victims in the nearly three year blitz. 

Other speakers at the occasion, including Captain Hilary Onuoha (Rtd), who worked closely with General Philip Effiong, and also fought on the frontline with the late notable poet, Christopher Okigbo during the war, recalled the tragic memories of the war, noting that he wouldn't wish Nigeria to experience such again. Other speakers advocated for deepened national reconciliation through inclusion, equity, justice and access to opportunity.

 

HOW SENATOR EKONG SAMPSON SILENCES CRITICS WITH ACTION, NOT NOISE

 

By Theophilus Akpan 

In a society where performance is often measured by how loud a politician is, rather than how effective, Senator Ekong Sampson, representing Akwa Ibom South, continues to prove that quiet consistency, legislative depth, and strategic engagement deliver far more enduring results than optics and theatrics.

Just this week, the Onomkpoinam Mkpat Enin has recorded milestones across legislation, oversight, advocacy, industrial revitalisation, and youth employment - a record that sharply contrasts with the narrative peddled by naysayers who mistake populist fanfare for governance.

Defending Akwa Ibom’s Maritime Future at the National Assembly

At the National Assembly, earlier this week, during the 2026 budget defence session between the Senate Committee on Appropriations and the Senate Committee on Marine and Blue Economy, Senator Sampson once again demonstrated why effective representation requires vigilance and courage.

Raising a point of order as a member of the Appropriations Committee, he expressed deep concern over the prolonged delay in the take-off of the University of Maritime Studies, Oron. The institution, originally founded in 1977 as the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, was upgraded to a full-fledged university following an Act of Parliament assented to by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2021.

Despite this historic elevation, the university is yet to operate in line with its new legal status, an anomaly Senator Sampson described as unacceptable, given the institution’s strategic importance to Oro Nation, Akwa Ibom State, and Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy ambitions.

His position drew strong support from Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro, who warned that continued budgeting for the institution as a “mere academy” could expose the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to legal complications.

Responding, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Marine and Blue Economy, Wasiu Eshilokun, assured the Senate that the matter would be thoroughly examined and corrected in line with the law.

This intervention further cements Senator Sampson’s long-standing advocacy for the university, following his earlier engagement with Senate President Godswill Akpabio, where he led Oro stakeholders to press for full implementation of the Act.

Expanding Tertiary Education in Akwa Ibom South

Beyond maritime education, Senator Sampson’s legislative footprint continues to widen. He has sponsored a Bill establishing the Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi, now at Third Reading, and another Bill for a Federal University of Medical Sciences, Eket. Together with the University of Maritime Studies, Oron, these initiatives form a deliberate tripod of tertiary institutions across the three federal constituencies of Akwa Ibom South.

This is not symbolism; it is structured and intentional steps towards development.

Relentless Push for ALSCON Revival

Still within the same week, Senator Sampson met with the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, to press for the resolution of lingering legal disputes surrounding Aluminium Smelter Company of Nigeria, Ikot Abasi.

For over two decades, ALSCON, one of Nigeria’s most ambitious industrial projects, has been “trapped in legal quagmires”. Senator Sampson remains convinced that reviving the plant will unlock massive employment opportunities, industrial growth, and economic renewal for Akwa Ibom and the nation at large.

Turning Representation into Real Jobs

While some politicians equate empowerment with handouts and fleeting spectacles, Senator Sampson measures success by sustainable outcomes. This week, another constituent, Mr. Abia Isemin Abia, received his federal government employment letter into one of Nigeria’s leading mining agencies, facilitated through the Senator’s office.

Since 2023, the Labour Desk in Senator Sampson’s office has facilitated over 50 pensionable federal employments for indigenes of Akwa Ibom South, with more constituents currently being profiled.

This is empowerment that lasts beyond election cycles.

Redefining What Effective Representation Looks Like

Perhaps the discomfort of critics stems from one fact: Senator Ekong Sampson does not practice politics of intoxication, where constituents are gathered, given to alcoholism, and momentarily distracted from their rights. Instead, he practices politics of results, anchored on laws, institutions, and opportunities that endure.

In one week alone, his record speaks clearly:

laws defended, institutions strengthened, industries pursued, and youths empowered.

History will not remember those who made the loudest noise, but it will remember those who did the work. And by every objective measure, Senator Ekong Sampson is doing just that.

You may need to forgive Senator Ekong Sampson for not following the multitude to cajole with the future of the constituents, for not being a noisemaker, but an unrepentant voice-maker, speaking to secure the future of the generations yet unborn.

Theophilus Akpan:

Public/Political Affairs Analyst 

Writes from Ikot Abasi 

27022026

Senate calls for prioritization of Solid Minerals sector, as Joint NASS Committee meets Hon. Minister, Dele Alake, agencies on Budget performance

 

The Senate has called for greater prioritization of the solid minerals sector following a budget appraisal interface between the Joint National Assembly Committee on Solid Minerals and the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development.

The session, which took place earlier today at the National Assembly, Abuja, formed part of the 2026 budget defence of the Ministry, focusing on implementation framework, fiscal plan, revenue generation, and sectoral growth.

The Committee met earlier in the day with the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, and the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Farouk Yabo, before a session with MDAs under the ministry, including the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office, the Nigeria Geological Survey Agency, Nigerian Institute of Mining and Geosciences, Jos, and the Solid Minerals Development Fund, later.

During the interaction, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, Senator Ekong Sampson (Akwa Ibom South) harped on the need to prioritize solid minerals development in order to maximise the huge potential that the sector presents - a position also canvassed by many of the Lawmakers present at the meeting. 

Senator Sampson further urged agencies of the ministry to adopt innovative and legally grounded approaches to ramp up revenue generation for the sector and boost economic growth.

Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake in his presentation, offered insights on some of the programmes and initiatives of the Ministry. He lauded the Committee for its continuous collaboration, while assuring on conceited efforts to drive growth of the minerals sector in Nigeria.

The engagement also provided lawmakers with the opportunity to assess the ministry’s performance, clarify spending patterns, and reinforce legislative expectations for improved contribution of the solid minerals sector to national economic diversification.

Accountability: CHRAN drags NNPC/Seplat Joint Venture To Court Over EMOIMEE - Eket Chapter

 

The Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) has dragged the Board of Trustees Representative of EMOIMEE in Eket Local Government Area, Air Commodore Charles Usoh, Rtd., the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC)/Seplat Joint Venture to the Federal High Court, Uyo Judicial Division over failure to comply with its request for information pursuant to Sections 1 and 3 of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011. 

This was disclosed in a Press Release issued by the CHRAN's Secretary of Research and Documentation, Comrade Etimbuk Ekpenyong, and made available to newsmen in Uyo on Thursday, 12th February, 2026.

In suit No. FHC/UY/CS/10/2026 between the Center For Human Rights and Accountability Network, Otuekong Franklyn Isong as Applicants and Air Commodore Charles Usoh (Rtd.), The Board of Trustees, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC)/Seplat Joint Venture as Respondents, the Applicants are seeking the following reliefs: an order of the court mandating the Respondents (Air Commodore Charles Usoh (Rtd.), NNPC/SEPLAT JV, EMOIMEE) to produce the full list of projects executed by them or through their agents or subsidiaries in Eket Local Government Area and the projects’ locations; the full list of scholarship beneficiaries undertaken by the Respondents in Eket Local Government Area directly or through their agents or subsidiaries; the full list of contractors engaged by the Respondents in Eket Local Government Area with copies of their Corporate Affairs Commission Certificate; details of any other interventions carried out in Eket Local Government since inception of the Host Community Trust; and the CHRAN is also asking the Court to grant any such order(s) in which the Court may deem fit to make in the circumstance. 

The rights group through its lawyers, Chief Victor Iyanam, a former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Akwa Ibom State and Chris Ibanga, Esq., maintains that the establishment of agencies under the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021 to manage the 3 percent contribution to the Eket Host Community by its settlor, the NNPC/Seplat JV regulated by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) is a welcome development which should be managed responsibly by the Host Community Trust Fund. 

The CHRAN, an anti-corruption cum civil society organisation had in response to complaints from the people of Eket Local Government Area, in pursuant to Sections 1 and 2 of the FOI Act, 2011 written to the Respondents (NNPC/SEPLAT JV, EMOIMEE) through a letter dated 19th November, 2025, requested information on the full list of projects executed by them in Eket Local Government Area and the projects’ locations; the full list of scholarship beneficiaries undertaken by the Respondents in Eket Local Government Area directly; the full list of contractors engaged by the Respondents in Eket Local Government Area with copies of their Corporate Affairs Commission Certificate; and any other interventions carried out in Eket Local Government since inception of the Host Community Trustfund (EMOIMEE). 

The matter has been assigned to the Federal High Court 2, Uyo Judicial Division for hearing and determination. 23rd February, 2026 has been fixed for the hearing.

CHRAN Raises Alarm Over Non-Recognition of A’Ibom University of Education by JAMB

 

Director of CHRAN, Otuekong Franklin Isong (Middle) with members of the Correspondents' chapel of NUJ-Akwa Ibom State council after Editorial meeting on Monday 

The Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) has expressed concern over the alleged non-recognition of the Akwa Ibom State University of Education, Afaha Nsit, by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for the 2026/2027 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

The group made its position known during a press briefing held Tuesday at its office in Uyo, where its Director, Otuekong Franklyn Isong, assessed the state of tertiary education in Akwa Ibom under the administration of Governor Umo Eno.

Isong stated that the exclusion of the institution from JAMB’s admission process raises serious concerns about its legal and administrative status, stressing that urgent steps must be taken to address lingering structural gaps.

According to CHRAN, the upgraded University of Education currently lacks key statutory structures required for a university system, including a substantive Vice-Chancellor, principal officers, and a Governing Council. The group further alleged that the institution has no publicly available Masterplan or Academic Brief, while the law establishing the university remains unclear.

The rights organization also pointed to discrepancies in the 2026 Appropriation Law of Akwa Ibom State, noting that the budget reportedly referenced the College of Education rather than the University of Education. It argued that the ambiguity has created uncertainty over the institution’s true status and may be affecting salary payments for staff.

Faulting the current administrative arrangement, Isong criticized the use of “Acting Provost and Chief Administrator” titles, describing them as inconsistent with standard university governance structures.

“Universities are run by Vice-Chancellors, not acting provosts. If these anomalies are not urgently corrected, it could further undermine recognition by JAMB, the National Universities Commission (NUC), TETFund and other federal regulatory agencies,” he warned.

CHRAN also cautioned union leaders within the institution, particularly the leadership of the College of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU), against actions it described as capable of eroding the institution’s credibility.

The group alleged that instead of constructively engaging government and management on issues surrounding the institution’s transition, some union leaders have embarked on what it termed “malicious and destructive media campaigns” against past leadership.

While acknowledging the efforts of Governor Umo Eno toward upgrading the institution, CHRAN warned that unresolved internal disputes and administrative lapses could jeopardize the Governor’s vision for the university.

The Center called on all stakeholders, including union leaders and government officials, to work collaboratively to restore clarity, peace, and proper governance structures in the institution to ensure its full recognition by relevant regulatory bodies and secure its future as a functional university.

RAAMP Deepens Community Participation in Rural Road Maintenance, Empowers Women and PWDs in A’Ibom

Group photograph of the RMGs during a two-day practical demonstration training  Photo credits:Theresa Donatus

Efforts to institutionalize community-driven road maintenance and strengthen rural infrastructure received a boost in Akwa Ibom State as the Ministry of Agriculture, in collaboration with the Akwa Ibom State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (AKS-RAAMP) and supported by the International Labour Organization (ILO), concluded a two-day practical demonstration training for selected Road Maintenance Groups (RMGs).

The training, held February 10–11, 2026, in Uyo, focused on equipping grassroots maintenance teams with hands-on skills to manage rural road networks under a performance-based contracting model.

Declaring the course open, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. (Mrs.) Offiong Offor, described the initiative as a strategic step toward sustainability, stressing that the state is building local capacity to ensure rural roads remain functional even after the RAAMP project winds down.

According to her, RAAMP has already transformed rural communities by reducing travel time, lowering post-harvest losses, improving market access for farmers, and curbing rural-urban migration. She reaffirmed that the project aligns with Governor Umo Eno’s broader agricultural revolution agenda.

Beyond infrastructure delivery, the training highlighted inclusivity and empowerment. 

AKS-RAAMP Coordinator, Pastor Gideon Akpan, disclosed that 52 Road Maintenance Group members have been formalized to manage 100.07 kilometers of prioritized roads across the state, following condition surveys on 17 routes totaling 146.23 kilometers.

He emphasized that the initiative intentionally promotes gender balance and social inclusion, revealing that 39.22 percent of the recruits are women, while 3.08 percent are persons with disabilities (PWDs).

“This is not a male-dominated initiative. Women are actively involved in field operations, and we are harnessing the abilities of persons living with disabilities. It is about building capacity across all segments of society,” Akpan stated.

The RAAMP team also reported that eight roads covering 52.3 kilometers have been scoped for spot improvement to address erosion, potholes, and drainage failures caused by heavy rainfall in the region. Detailed project reports and Bills of Quantities have been prepared, with some already submitted for approval.

In addition to technical roadwork training, participants received guidance on team building, leadership, and project management. 

Akpan urged the RMG members to adopt clear role definitions, regular progress monitoring, and effective communication with stakeholders to ensure efficiency at project sites.

He identified challenges such as managing diverse teams, overcoming language and cultural barriers, and ensuring safety on site, while recommending regular meetings, transparent communication channels, and empowerment of team members to enhance performance.

Anohobi Joy Atuara, SRME, Akwa Ibom State, provided operational guidelines for routine maintenance, including vegetation clearing, desilting of drains and culverts, earthen drain construction, backfilling, slope trimming, cleaning of traffic signs, pavement sweeping, and minor pothole repairs.

To promote accountability and financial inclusion, bank accounts have been opened for all RMG members, with payments structured under a performance-based system.

Stakeholders say the initiative marks a shift from contractor-driven interventions to a more community-based maintenance culture, ensuring that rural roads, critical to agriculture and commerce remain motorable year-round.

With funding support from the World Bank, French Development Agency, African Development Bank, and the Akwa Ibom State Government, RAAMP continues to position rural infrastructure as a foundation for food security, job creation, and inclusive economic growth in the state.

A’Ibom invites Foreign Investors for Ibom Deep Seaport at Niger Delta Blue Economy Summit

 

Photograph of the panelist taken by Ekemini Ekponyoh 

The Akwa Ibom State Government has declared its readiness to partner with foreign investors for the realization of the Ibom Deep Seaport project, stressing that Nigeria cannot execute the multi-billion dollar project alone without international collaboration.

Governor Umo Eno made this known at the opening of a three-day Niger Delta Blue Economy Summit themed, “Harnessing Blue Economy Potentials for Sustainable Development in the Niger Delta.” 

The Governor, who was represented by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Uko Udom, SAN, noted that while all necessary regulations, certifications, and approvals for the Ibom Deep Seaport have been secured, inadequate foreign investment has slowed down its speedy realization.

“We will work very hard to ensure it happens. It’s an investment that can only happen if we attract foreign investment in the course of building a Deep Seaport. Not only Nigeria as a nation can do it alone. We are still working to attract investment in that regard and I’m sure it will work out,” he stated.

Governor Eno further revealed that access roads to the proposed seaport are already under construction. He added that the state government is embarking on multi-billion naira marine infrastructure projects aimed at revitalizing maritime transportation, stimulating commercial activities along the maritime corridor, and generating both direct and indirect employment opportunities within the maritime ecosystem.

Also speaking at the summit, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, described the event as strategic and timely, emphasizing that the blue economy is central to Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda. Represented by Rear Admiral Sunday Atakpa, the Naval Chief reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to safeguarding critical maritime infrastructure, protecting marine resources, and combating maritime crimes such as oil theft, piracy, illegal bunkering, and other criminal activities that hinder development in the Niger Delta.

In her remarks, maritime law expert, Boma Alabi (SAN), challenged regulatory authorities operating within the maritime corridor to move beyond revenue collection and invest back into the sector through effective service delivery.

“It breaks my heart that regulators in the blue economy do not understand their roles. They only collect revenue without reinvesting by providing services. We need them to do what they are paid for, for the economy to succeed,” she said.

The Convener of the summit, Kingdom Blessing, outlined the vast untapped potentials within the maritime corridor, expressing optimism that the Niger Delta could witness significant transformation if these opportunities are properly harnessed.

 He urged the Akwa Ibom State Government to ensure the Ibom Deep Seaport project becomes a reality, noting that its benefits would be far-reaching.

Earlier in his welcome address, Co-Convener of the summit, Dr. Uche Igwe, stressed the need to curb the exploitation and encroachment of maritime corridors, which he said often negatively impact local communities.

 He explained that the blue economy represents a shift from old extractive models to more sustainable and refined approaches capable of boosting economic growth and creating jobs across the Niger Delta.

Dr. Igwe expressed hope that the summit would produce actionable outcomes capable of strengthening security in the maritime sector and attracting much-needed investments into the blue economy.

In his goodwill message at the summit, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas described the summit as strategic and timely as the blue economy was necessary in the nation's pursuit for a diversified economy.

Abbas, represented by Rear Admiral Sunday Atakpa at the summit explained that the sustainable development of the Niger Delta was connected to the effective governance and security of nigeria's maritime domain, added that the Nigerian Navy established the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria in June 2024 to drive the knowledge base for blue economy in Nigeria.

He maintained that Navy would continue to safeguard critical maritime infrastructure, protect marine resources and suppress illegal activities and other maritime crimes that undermine development in the south south region, as well as support collaborative efforts targeted at long-term stability, investor confidence and inclusive growth in the Niger Delta.

"Nigeria has vantage geographical position in the resource-rich gulf of guinea, the stores upon the country are blue economy endowments. Interestingly these endowments aside from Lagos and small portion of ogun state are domiciled in the Niger Delta.

"To sustainably enhance these resources which offers huge potentials for national development a secure stable and well-regulated maritime environment is required.

"It is in recognition of this trite truth that the niger navy places maritime security at the center of national efforts to unlock nigeria's blue economy opportunities through sustained presence at sea, enhanced maritime domain awareness robust interagency collaboration and partnerships with regional and international stakeholders.

"The Nigerian Navy remains committed to safeguarding critical maritime infrastructure, protecting marine resources and suppressing illegal activities such as food oil theft, piracy, illegal bunkering and other maritime crimes that undermine development in the region". He added

AKHA PUBLIC HEARING: CHRAN REJECTS THE OBNOXIOUS & MONSTROUS AKWA IBOM TAXES AND LEVIES BILL (PROPERTY TAX BILL)

 

An Overview of the Akwa Ibom State Taxes and Levies Bill, 2025:

The Bill has 46 Sections and 1 Schedule. The Bill is divided into 4 functional Parts. Part I makes provision for the Harmonised Taxes And Levies and the Objectives of the Bill. Part II makes provision for Property Tax. Part III makes provision for Taxes on Lottery, Betting, Casino And Other Gaming Activities. Part IV makes provision for Miscellaneous Provisions. The Bill seeks to harmonise various taxes and levies in Akwa Ibom state. 

The Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) has critically analysed the Bill and makes the following submissions:

1. In sections 16 and 19 of the Bill, the CHRAN notes that the Bill seeks to make tenancy life become a life of hardship and misery as any tax(es) imposed on Real Property owners and landlords will be transferred to the tenants in the state. 

2. In section 21(2) of the Bill, the Center notes that the Bill seeks to promote absentee landlords by transferring the liability of the landlords to the occupier(s) of the property without even masking to be anti-people. 

3. The CHRAN observes that the Bill does not distinguish between houses in the urban cities and houses in the rural communities. Even houses occupied by the poorest of the poor in the society including occupants of mud houses will be taxed in line with sections 16 and 19 of the Bill. This completely negates the campaign mantra of the ARISE Agenda which portrays the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno to be a friend and a lover of the poor in the society. 

4. The Center observes that the Items so listed in the Schedule to the Bill have strangulating characteristics that will shutdown private sector economy in Akwa Ibom State. The Center notes that the Bill does not allow citizens the ambiance to manoeuvre. The Bill is very strict and only interested in collecting revenue for the governments without any ambiance for reliefs in favour of the citizens.

5. The CHRAN notes that Akwa Ibom State is a civil service state with little or no functional state-owned industries and factories. The private sector in Akwa Ibom State hardly survives due to epileptic electricity power supply, lack of water supply from Akwa Ibom Water Company and lack of other supporting public infrastructural amenities to create enabling environment for private businesses to thrive in the state. Few surviving private businesses in Akwa Ibom state have resorted to alternative source of energy such as generating sets powered at higher cost of fuel and diesel.

6. The CHRAN observes that certain terms invented by the Bill are dangerously calculated to emasculate Akwa Ibom citizens and create dubious ambiguity. For instance, the word “ENFORCEMENT” as used in the   context of section 28(2) of the Bill is capable of many dubious interpretations including meaning seizures of people’s property. To further doubt the motive of the word “ENFORCEMENT” used in section 28(2) of the Bill, there is no definition of the word “ENFORCEMENT” in the Interpretation section (section 30) of the Bill.

7. The Center notes, giving that the word ENFORCEMENT is deployed under section 28 of the Bill that deals with default in payment, it could only have been invented to cause destruction of lives of the poor in the Akwa Ibom state. The CHRAN notes that section 28(1) of the Bill stipulating Default in Payment to the extent that “where a person who has received a Property Tax Demand Notice fails to pay the amount within the period specified in the notice, the Charge payable will be increased by the following percentage: between 45 and 75 days - 25%; between 76 and 105 days - 50% and between 106 and 135 days - 100%.” In effect, if one’s assessment is N100,000.00 and one default in payment, when it is 135 days, one will now pay N200,000.00 and if payment is not made after 135 days, the property on which the Property Tax is payable shall be liable to ENFORCEMENT under the provisions of this Part of the Bill by the Akwa Ibom Internal Revenue Service or its appointed agents until all outstanding taxes, penalties and administrative charges are paid. 

8. The CHRAN observes that the Bill is in violation of Section 43 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 ( as amended) which guarantees every citizen of Nigeria the right to acquire and own immovable property anywhere in Nigeria, as well as Article 14 of African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights 1981 (Banjul Charter); and Article 17 of Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) 1948 which Nigeria is a signatory to. The CHRAN notes that in other climes, citizens’ right to ownership of property is recognised and protected under several human rights instruments.

Conclusion:

The Center states that there are no better definitions of the words draconian, anti-people, oppressive, monstrous and obnoxious than the provisions of this Bill which seeks to punish poverty and further impoverish the already deprived citizens of Akwa Ibom State. 

The CHRAN rejects the Bill in its entirety and calls on the members of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly that prides itself as the people’s assembly, to rise in support of the citizens, include their names in the annals of history by standing down further consideration of the Bill. The CHRAN recalls that a similar Bill was presented to the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly in 2016, and was outrightly rejected by the people of the state. 

The Center appreciates the Speaker, the Leadership and Members of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly for the invitation to this Public Hearing.

BEING A PRESENTATION BY THE DIRECTOR OF CENTER FOR HUMAN RIGHTS & ACCOUNTABILITY NETWORK (CHRAN), OTUEKONG FRANKLYN ISONG, AT THE PUBLIC HEARING ON “A BILL FOR A LAW TO HARMONIZE AND CONSOLIDATE THE LEGAL FRAMEWORKS RELATING TO TAXES IN AKWA IBOM STATE AND FOR OTHER MATTERS CONNECTED THEREWITH,” HELD AT LUTON PARK HOTELS, OFF UDO UDOMA AVENUE, UYO, AKWA IBOM STATE, ON WEDNESDAY, 4TH FEBRUARY, 2026.

Bishop John Ayah lays Foundation for New Catholic Church Building Project Sponsored by Senator Ekong Sampson

 

His Lordship, Most Rev. Dr. John Ayah, the Catholic Bishop of Uyo Diocese, yesterday, laid the foundation stone to flag off the construction of a new Catholic Church building project sponsored by the Senator representing Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District, Distinguished Senator Ekong Sampson. 

The foundation-laying ceremony, which attracted a large turnout of parishioners and community members, marked a significant milestone in the expansion of Catholic Church infrastructure in Ikot Unya village, Mkpat Enin Local Government Areas.

Performing the solemn rites, Bishop Ayah, who was accompanied by his Secretary at the Bishop’s Court, Rev. Fr. Daniel Asukwo, offered prayers for the successful completion of the project and for the continued growth of the Catholic faith in the area. 

The Bishop commended Senator Ekong Sampson for what he described as a remarkable gesture of faith and commitment to the work of God, noting that the project will not only strengthen worship but also serve as a training centre to develop morals among young people and families.

Senator Ekong Sampson, who was represented at the event by Hon. Nkereuwem James, remarked that the church project was his humble way of giving back to God, the Church, and the people. In his goodwill message, the Senator reaffirmed his belief in the power of faith and the vital role religious institutions play in building a morally upright and peaceful society.

The Lawmaker urged the Church to continue offering prayers for leaders at all levels and for the unity and progress of Nigeria, while reiterating his commitment to promoting spiritual development and strengthening social values across the constituency.

Beyond the church project, Senator Sampson’s developmental footprints in Ikot Unya and its environs remain evident in several ongoing and completed interventions. These include the ongoing construction of the Ikot Unya–Nung Ukim–Ikot Ekpe road project, as well as the construction of a CBT/ICT Centre in Excellent College, he established in 2004, and made tuition-free for several years before it was handed over to the Akwa Ibom State Government. 

It was further disclosed that three additional road projects facilitated by Senator Sampson will soon be flagged off soon, while a Police Post has also been approved for Ikot Unya to enhance security and protect critical infrastructure in the area, including the reactivation of electricity transformer, installation of solar-powered street lights, and the provision of portable water.

The historic ceremony was graced by eminent personalities including Hon. Friday Afia, former Secretary of Mkpat Enin Local Government Council; SUPOL Sylvester Dominic, Chairman of the Parish Pastoral Council; Mr. Sylvester Obot, Chairman of the Project Committee; and Catechist Basil Akpan, among others.

The event ended on a note of thanksgiving as parishioners expressed gratitude for Senator Sampson’s continued support and prayed for God’s blessings and guidance upon him in his service to the people of Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District.

Usen Johnson Emerges NANS PRO, Hails Senator Ekong Sampson for Support

 

By Bassey Eduno 

In a keenly contested election held on February 4, 2026, at the IJAW House, Bayelsa State, Comrade Usen Johnson defeated Comrade Inibehe Victor to emerge as the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Zone B (South-South).

The Mkpat Enin-born student leader expressed deep gratitude to the Onomkpoinam Mkpat Enin, Senator Ekong Sampson, for his overwhelming support. He described the Senator, who represents Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District, as a beacon of inspiration and a pillar of support, noting that his backing was instrumental to his electoral victory as NANS Public Relations Officer.

With the victory, Comrade Usen Johnson is returning to a familiar terrain of leadership and student activism, having previously distinguished himself in several strategic positions across various institutions. He has served as the Worldwide President of the National Association of Akwa Ibom State Students (NAAKISS), Director of Education Monitoring in the National Executive Committee of NANS, President of the Philosophy Department at Abia State University, and Secretary General of the Students’ Union Government at Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic, Port Harcourt.

The mouthpiece, image maker, and newly elected Public Relations Officer of Nigerian students in the South-South region is currently pursuing his second degree in Law at the prestigious Faculty of Law, University of Uyo. He also holds a Diploma in Law and a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy.

Already, Comrade Johnson has expressed readiness to uphold the ideals and core values of NANS through effective public engagement, responsible communication, and strategic advocacy aimed at projecting the association’s image positively across the region and beyond.

He dedicated his electoral victory to the myriad of Aluta Conscious Comrades, pledging to operate an open-door policy, strengthen the communication architecture of NANS Zone B, and ensure that the voices of Nigerian students remain loud, clear, and respected in national discourse.

With his wealth of experience, academic background, and passion for student advocacy, many observers believe that Comrade Usen Johnson’s tenure as PRO will usher in a new era of strategic communication, stronger unity, and renewed visibility for NANS Zone B, as the association continues to champion the rights and welfare of Nigerian students.