Gov Emmanuel tasks Royal fathers, LG Chairmen over boundary crises

 

HE UDOM G. EMMANUEL, EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR, AKWA IBOM STATE

By Freshgist

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, has cautioned traditional rulers and council's chairmen  on needs to operate within the ambience of the law and permissible boundaries of their offices while discharging their duties.

The state governor gave the caution during the Swearing-in/Presentation of Staff of Office ceremony to the Paramount Ruler of Ini Local Government Area, His Royal Majesty, Edidem Udoette Edon and certification of nine newly recognized clan heads on sunday, at the Traditional Rulers Council Chambers in Uyo.

While commending  the contributions and support of the traditional institution to the success of his administration, He congratulated the newly sworn-in royal fathers and tasked them to be guided by their oath of office in carrying out their functions. He particularly passed a vote of confidence on the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Frank Archibong, for always delivering on the mandate of his office without fail.

On issues of interventions in land disputes, the governor stressed that the ownership of every land within the state, by law, resides with the governor and cautioned Chairmen of Local Government Councils, Paramount Rulers and other traditional rulers against making pronouncements that should not be made by any other outside the office of the governor or use the privilege of the their office to cause disharmony among communities in the state.

In his words, "every single piece of land in the state is entrusted in the governor, not in the Paramount Ruler. No Paramount Ruler has any right to make pronunciations about boundaries except the state governor. So please let no Paramount Ruler cause confusion. ...please, let nobody disturb the peace of this state because of selfish interest. Let's continue to love in peace and harmony. If you have any issue, let the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs know and from there, I'll know immediately and then the Attorney General will come in and we take it through the right law. Please don't go and make any pronunciations that are not allowed".

 "I also want to caution, no Local Government Chairman has the right to delineate the boundary of any Local Government Area or any state. If you do that, it means you are not fit to hold that office and I'm sure the law would take it's course" the governor added.

The Akwa Ibom Chief Executive also used the occasion to sue for synergy between to local government and the traditional institutions, while admonishing traditional rulers from village heads upwards to accord due respect to those higher in hierarchy.

According to him, the Local Government Chairmen are the closest to the traditional institution and should do everything possible to accord the traditional institution due regard and recognition as stipulated by the law and help bridge the gap between them and the state government.

Earlier in his speech, the Commissioner for Local Government & Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Frank Archibong, lauded the  the royal fathers for celebrating with Governor Emmanuel, the new frontiers of economic development, peace, unity and prosperity of  the state in the last 35 years.

The Commissioner expressed appreciation to the governor for giving the traditional fathers their pride of place and assured that the traditional rulers will continue to play the role of maintaining peace in their various domains.

According to him, 

"This, being the last state creation anniversary to be celebrated with Governor Udom Emmanuel, is a mix feeling of the traditional institution having to miss an administration that has demonstrated genuine commitment to redefining the status and boosting the image of the traditional institution in words and deeds".

In his remarks, the President General, Akwa Ibom State Traditional Rulers Council, His Eminence Ntenyin (Dr.) Solomon Etuk, the Oku Ibom Ibibio, commended Governor Udom Emmanuel for supporting and recognizing the traditional stool to carry out the responsibility of upholding peace in the state, and urged Akwa Ibom people to support the governor to succeed.

Highpoints of the event were the administration of oath of allegiance and oath office on the new Paramount Ruler, followed by presentation of Certificate of Recognition, Staff of Office and a brand new Toyota Prado SUV as official car.

The Clan Heads elect who were presented with Certificates of Recognition of their Royal Highness were: Etebom Usen Okon Udo, Clan Head-elect of Abak Clan, Abak LGA, Etebom Isidore Jacob Udoinyang, of Nto Edino Clan, Obot Akara LGA, Etebom Ikpe George Okon of Ikono Clan, Uyo LGA, Etebom Ime Okarafor Abara, Clan Head-elect of Southern Ukanafun Clan, Ukanafun LGA, Etebom Etim Akpan Udoekong, Ikpe Annang Clan, Essien Udim LGA, Etebom Monday Solomon Udo, Clan Head-elect of Ikpe Clan, Ini LGA, Etebom Okon Udo Ekpo, Ikono Clan, Ikono LGA, Etebom Xavier Okon Usung, Ibighi Clan, Okobo LGA and Etebom Offong Oyokunyi Okon Idiokune of Ubodung Clan, Udung Uko LGA.

Happy 35th anniversary to Akwa Ibom state-JAMES INIAMA -FNIVS

 

FEYReP @ 7: A'Ibom First lady Doles Out Cash, Starter Packs to Over 400 female youths.

By Freshgist

The Akwa Ibom State First lady, Dr Martha Udom Emmanuel has doled out certificates of completion and starter packs to over 400 female youths in the state to mark FEYReP at seven. 

According to Mrs Emmanuel, the gesture was in line with one of the objectives of her pet project;  Family Empowerment and Youth Reorientation Path Initiative (FEYReP), Which is to empower women to provide economic and emotional support to their families. 

Speaking at the seventh anniversary celebration of FEYReP in Ibom Hall, Uyo, Mrs Emmanuel said the beneficiaries were drawn from the thirty one local government Areas of the State on  completion of  their training on different vocations ranging from; tailoring, hair dressing, barbing and cobbling.

She listed items to be distributed to include sewing machines, hair dryers, cobbling machine, cash and other items needed to start the journey to entrepreneurship.

While warning beneficiaries against selling off the items, Akwa Ibom First Lady said her goal is to ensure that women, especially wives and mothers are gainfully engaged to add value to their respective families. " No woman should remain a housewife, so that you can support your husbands". She said

In line with other objectives of FEYReP which include to; create a platform to showcase successful families, advocate for the prevention of teenage pregnancy and education of the girl-child and to  create a platform for promoting moral values and economic excellence in the youths, Dr Emmanuel said she has devoted the past seven years to service to humanity in line with sustainable development goals. 

She enumerated programmes and achievements she has so far executed to include; girls uphold your dignity, bright future for responsible boys, shelter of hope, follow your star, fight against gender based violence, pregnacare and various kinds of medical interventions amongst others. 

In her words "We have carefully tailored our works round the 16 sustainable development goals of the United Nations which are well captured in the following areas: 

"GIRLS UPHOLD YOUR DIGNITY CAMPAIGN

FEYReP implemented the Girls uphold your dignity campaign which took enlightenment messages on HIV and AIDS, VVF, teenage pregnancy, rape and the rights of the girl child to secondary schools across the state.

"BRIGHT FUTURE FOR RESPONSIBLE BOYS

The advocacy also gave birth to a program tagged “Bright Future for Responsible Boys”. Noticing that the boy child appears neglected, left dangling on the cliff of social ruins, consumed by drug abuse/ addiction, cultism, rape, promiscuity and other vices, FEYReP stemmed the tide by educating the boys on sexual orientation and need for financial independence. The innovative approach has rescued our young boys from the clutches of abandonment and neglect.

"FIGHT AGAINST GENDER BASED VIOLENCE:

As the Chairperson of the GBV Committee in the State, I and my team have built a State GBV Rehabilitation Centre in Uyo, and established Sexual Assault Referral Centre across the three Senatorial District with free medical care.

"SHELTER OF HOPE PROJECT: 

Through FEYReP within the period under review, we have successfully built, furnished and delivered 62 two and three units bedroom bungalows to the poor and indigent citizens of Akwa Ibom which is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and it is still counting.

"MARTHA PREGNACARE PROGRAMME:

 An outreach Programme which is geared towards reducing infant morbidity and maternal mortality in the state where over 7000 expectant mothers across the 31 Local Government Areas have received free Medicare, cash, as well as delivery kits. This exercise has been conducted in 10 phases.

The Akwa Ibom first lady also listed free surgical intervention, eye restoration scheme, deworming exercise, educational intervention, presentation of grant and scholarship to students in tertiary institutions, back to school for students and entrepreneural support for women empowerment, as some of her major achievements in the last seven years. 

She thanked her husband, Governor Udom Emmanuel whom she declared her pillar of support, donor agencies and members of her team for standing by her to drive her vision. 

Addressing the occasion, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr Udom Emmanuel applauded his wife Martha for standing in the gap for the less privileged and expressed satisfaction on the impact she has made in the past seven years."Thank you for standing by me to leave this state better than we met it". He said 

The Governor however decried high level of moral decadence in the society and harped on the need for parents, religious organizations and traditional institutions  to rise to the responsibility of training the children especially boys, as this would help curb the menace in the society.

He assured Mrs Emmanuel of his unwavering support on her ongoing fight against Gender Based Violence and expressed specifically his disappointment over sexual abuses by parents against children.

A'Ibom @35: Gov Udom declares Friday Public Holiday to Mark Anniversary

 

By Freshgist

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr  Udom Emmanuel has declared tomorrow Friday 23rd September, 2022 Work Free Day to mark the 35th anniversary of state creation. 

Consequently, government offices and other public places in the state are to observe the holiday.

The holiday was announced through a release by the state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Comrade Ini Ememobong, and made available to our Correspondent in Uyo on Thursday.

"This declaration is made in the spirit of the celebration of the 35th Anniversary of the creation of our state . 

"The Governor wishes all Citizens and residents happy celebrations". The release stated.

Rejoice Iwueze says yes to her heart desire

 Congratulations to Rejoice Iwueze of destiny kids, Rejoice AKA  "Joy Joy Joy" has  said "YES" to the love of her life❤️❤️

She wrote:

You Brighten My World In Million Ways and I’m Blessed To Call You “MINE”

I Said “YES” To Forever.

You're next to celebrate in Jesus name amen

APC Guber Candidate in A’Ibom Unveils Running Mate

 

By Freshgist 

The All Progressives Congress candidate in Akwa Ibom state, Mr Akanimo Udofia has officially unveiled and presented Mr Victor Antai as his running mate.

The APC guber flagbearer did the presentation to the Paramount Ruler of Mbo local government area, HRM Ogwong Okon Asukwo Abgang at his palace amid a mammoth crowd of supporters.

The Director General, Akan Udofia campaign organization, Mr. Don Etim, said it is in the nature of the campaign organisation to acknowledge and respect authorities.

While his running mate, Udofia said the fortunes of Akwa Ibom State will be changed and their joint ticket will serve as a union that God has blessed to usher in a new phase of development and shared prosperity for Akwa Ibom State.

Accepting, Mr Victor Antai thanked the Royal palace for accepting them. In his words, “A robust prosperity is visiting the state. I accept to be the running mate of my boss, Obong Akanimo Asuquo Udofia.

“In me you have found a friend and we shall unify and prosper the state together.” He also appreciated the entire traditional institution for their support as he emerged Udofia’s running mate.

Responding, the paramount ruler of Mbo, His Royal Majesty Ogwong Okon Asukwo Abang, called for true leadership and also showered blessings on them.

Furthermore, Udofia proceeded to the Palace of the paramount ruler of Urue Offong Oruko, and Chairman Obio Ifong Isong Oro, HRM Offong Effiong Matthew Unanaowo, to present his running mate to the council and pledge for support.

In his response, the Paramount Ruler said Akan Udofia’s decision to come to oro nation and pick a running mate is a right choice and promised to stand firm with them.

Present at the event were His Royal Highness, Okokon Ita Issonsi 1 of Okobo Kingdom, Paramount Ruler of Oron LGA, His Highness, Etim Okwong, His Royal Majesty Odiong Akan, Chief Ekeng, Chief Samuel Onobo, Chief Engineer Etim Edet Okon.

Others include Chief Effiong Okon Uye, Chief Ulo Ante Uyeh, Chief Etinyin Edet N. Ekeng, Uya Oron Village Council led by Chief Cyril Bassey, scores of village heads, party faithful and Akan Udofia Campaign organisation.

Encomium as NGO donates 50 plastic chairs, tables to government school in A'Ibom community

 

4th from left (on suit) is the Treasurer of Mkpat-Abasi group, USA, Mr Steve Ikpim, next to him is the village head of ikot Obio Ndoho, Eteidung (chief) Friday Jeremiah Akpan with members of his cabinet.

By Theresa Donatus, Uyo

A non-profit organization under the aegis of Mkpat-Abasi group, USA, have donated not less than fifty Quality plastic chairs and tables to Early Child Care(ECC1/ creche) class of the QIC Primary school ikot obio ndoho, Mkpat Enin Local government area of Akwa Ibom state.

The group which is made up of sons and daughters of ikot Abasi and Mkpat Enin Local government, residing in the  united states of America  pledges to exclusively support educational, medical and cultural projects in their communities.

Speaking with our correspondent over the weekend at Mkpat Enin Local government area of Akwa Ibom state during the project delivery, The president of the Mkpat-Abasi group, USA, Dr Joseph Akpanikot disclosed that researchers have emphasized on the importance of early childhood education as an essential building block of a child’s future success, hence, he decided to take up the project two days after he was told that children do fall from the government desk.

Newly furnished Classroom by Mkpat Abasi group, USA

Akpanikot who was represented by the Treasurer of the group Mr Steve Ikpim maintained that children of such age deserve an enabling environment to learn, so that their brain can also develop positively, added that the group will always do everything possible to ensure than the creche Section of the school is encouraged and not wiped out.

According to him; "QIC Primary school, Ikot Obio Ndoho, Mkpat Enin Local government area is the only school we have in my village, so when I came home, I decided to pay a visit to know what my group overseas can contribute to make the school better, and from my findings, I saw the dilapidated classroom block, no perimeter fence, Electrical pole on the middle of the school field, and the Cables almost touching the grass, then the Headmistress also told me, she needed desk for pupils in the creche, that those children fell from the government desk time without numbers".

"I took a lot of pictures and sent to the group and all members felt sorry for those little children, and so that is the reason we decided to fix their classroom before their resumption date.

I give Glory to God for enablement and I also thank the Headmistress of the school Mrs Korona Akpan  and the village head Eteidung Friday Jeremiah Akpan for accepting our token of love to our community.

"I'm thanking them because if they never accepted, we would not have done it. Researchers have emphasized on the importance of early childhood education as an essential building block of a child’s future success so our Children at the Early Child Care class deserve an enabling environment to learn and interact  with their age mates, and this will help their brain to develop faster. So we will try all our best to encourage those children because education is the keep to success.

 

On his part, Eteidung (Chief) Friday Jeremiah Akpan expressed gladness  over the project delivery, he applauded Mkpat-Abasi group, USA for their kind gesture and project delivery, he blessed them, asking God to replenish the source of their income.

"I thank God for his grace and wisdom of how you can develop ur community school,thank you for bringing your group for finish a class room for our Early Child Care, we the entire members of this community, we are grateful to you and your group.

"Thanks for taking a step after your father, who was a lover of education, he fought  and brought Enlightenment to ikot obio ndoho,he was also the first to bring in electricity to this our village, so I thank God for sufficiency given to your family as a whole, and the love for community services that  your family  have extended to our community.

"We pray that light of God should accompany you and all members of your family, in Jesus name Amen. There's no how our will touch one finger, that other fingers won't benefit from it, so the entire village decree that it is well with you and all members of the group, may God bless you all Mkpat-Abasi group USA, in Jesus name, Amen

"I speak with all authority that God gave to me as an elder in church and a village head that as you provide for this community sch that all difficulties in your ways are over, and the blessings of God that added no sorrows is your portion, as the name of your group "Mkpat-Abasi"  implies, God will order your feet's to greatness and we pray that before next year this time, we will celebrate greater achievement in Jesus name, amen, thank you so much, we are proud of you all ". He added

Reacting, Mrs Korona Friday Akpan, the Headmistress of QIC Primary school, Ikot Obio Ndoho lauded the group and the initiator of the idea Mr Steve Ikpim for reaching out to the school and rescuing the future of the children and generations unborn who will learn through the school, adding that God should bless the group abundantly.

Mr Akpan called on the Akwa Ibom State Government to send more qualified teachers to her school as they have only three teachers to teach two hundred and fifty pupils from ECC1through Primary six.

She also called on government and we'll wishers to help remove Electrical polls and cables from the field as it is very dangerous as pupil no more have a football field

Explaining that the polls were taken out of the roadside to the middle of the field with a promissory note from the government that immidiately after dualizing of the road is done by that it will be taken back to the roadside, and since after then nothing has been done about it.

"I have seen and recieved this great gift from Mkpat Abasi group, USA, to our Creche section(ECC1), furnishing a whole classroom with plastic chairs and tables , including two teachers table and desk, sir we are greatful, please extend our thank you to your members, our children will have a story to tell their parents at home, and they will no more fall from the government desk which was to big for them.

"I always feel sad seeing the children fell from the government desk, especially the last incident which the child suffered dislocation from the incident. So that was why I told the group about it, and not up to a week, this group furnished the children class and it now looks like what I have been seeing in television, may God almighty who knows the begining from the end, visit you all at the point of your needs, in Jesus name, Amen

"I want to use this medium to call on the government of Akwa Ibom state to send us teachers, the population of this school is two hundred and fifty pupils,  (250) with only 3 teachers including myself, the Head Mistress.

"We have written time without numbers to the ministry of Education Akwa Ibom state, but up till now, there's no response from them.

"We also call on our government, charitable organizations, lovers of education and able individual to help us renovate the three classroom block which has dilapidated because we only have 4 class room block right now for ECC 1 to primary 6, we have been managing, we are pleading, please come to our rescue. She added

PTA chairman of the school and Secretary of the village council Chief Udo Sunday Ukpong also commended the good gesture of Mkpat-Abasi group, for providing enabling learning environment for their children, asked that God should bless them abundantly.

I want to say a big thank you to Mr Steve Ikpim and his entourage, he has taken after his father, by giving aids to his community, thank you for remembering us. Thanks for wishing our children well, it's not that I, the Parent teachers association chairman (PTA) of the school didn't observe, I did, but we were all praying for a God sent to come to our aid because we don't have such money here.

We pray may God bless you abundantly and replenish your source, God bless Mkpat -Abasi group and give you the grace to do more good works in Jesus name

Family heads present were Chief Bassey George Amatie, Ekpok Etuk udo eyen uko. Chief Inyang Friday Ekanem, Ekpok Essien Udo Eka. Chief EKPO Samuel Akpan, Ekpok Ebija, and Chief Slassor Josiah Ekpo, Ekpok Nsidung Royal family while two family heads were absent.

Pic 2: the old classroom with government desks

Chinwo's Trad's and wedding Photos news!!

Pastor Blessed with his beloved wife, Mercy Chinwo, a Nigerian gospel musician during their traditional marriage ceremony Aug 2022

  Mercy Chinwo expressed her happiness and excitement as she had her traditional wedding ceremony in Rivers yesterday.

Celebrities like Banky W, Adesua, Waje, among others travelled down to celebrate with Chinwo and her husband.

The gospel star danced in beautifully, as her hubby and guests watched  amazingly.!

Photo news!

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, unveils 600 varieties of Innoson vehicles for the new State security outfit known as Community Volunteer Guards.

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  Orderly of AIG in charge of Zone 12 was klled by terrorists on Abuja road. His boss escaped with  bullet injuries. 

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Deliver Nigeria, Peter Obi Prays At Dunamis Church

 

Labor party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, on Friday night, prayed for Nigeria on his visit to Dunamis International Gospel Centre in Abuja. Holding a Nigerian flag, while on his knees, he prayed for Nigeria saying, “God we have no other country except this one, God deliver us, God heal us, God librate us, we have no nation except this one, God deliver us.”

Dunamis Church is pastored by Dr Paul Enenche.

2022: Clergy blesses over 1000 community women with wrappers to mark birth anniversary

 By Freshgist

Apostle Elijah Jack sharing wrappers to his community women

It was all moment of joy and excitement as the General Overseer of His Divine Redeemed World ministries, Mkpok, Onna local government of Akwa Ibom, Apostle Elijah Jack blessed his community women (ikot Akpatek) recently with over 1000 wrappers and cash gift as the main activities marking his birthday celebration.

The Akwa Ibom-born cleric, seized the event to empower his community women with a uniform wrapper, declared that uniformity signifies unity.

The women could not hide their feelings towards the gesture of Apostle Jack. The beneficiaries described him as an ardent giver, while other said he is ‘a man after God’s heart.’

his remarks, Apostle Elijah Jack expressed his gratitude to God for the gift of life and divine protection, adding “God is the reason we are all gathered here. I thank my wife, Mrs Deborah Jack and my lovely children and everyone that has contributed to the success of God’s work.

Leader of PDP, Oniong  east ward 1, Onna LGA, Obong Barr. Akaniyene Edem(on black face cap)  and his Counselor, Friday udo Akpan

“I am not giving because I have plenty or because I want to show off; I am only trying to give back to my community, I'm doing this because of the love I have for my community, and it is always a thing of joy to appear in a uniform, it signifies togetherness, unity love and oneness, I'm glad that you accept the token satisfactorily. We must not relent to pray for Nigeria and for a peaceful election come 2023." Together we will make it, thank you 

One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Esther Sunday Joseph, from Ekpok Akpoudo in Ikot Akpatek village expressed happiness that God has visited them, added that it's her first time receiving gift as such, prayed that God should bless the clergy and his family with more abundant love, peace happiness and prosperity.

Apostle Jack with his wife Mrs Deborah Jack cutting birthday cake

Reacting, Chief Godwin Udua Edeminang, who is the family head of Ekpok obio, in Ikot Akpatek, disclosed that the celebration was the first of it kind in the community, added that it has brought unity, love and togetherness to the land. He prayed that God should make Apostle and his family succeed in all endeavour so as to extend  help to the entire people of our dear state.

According to the family Head, "the birthday celebration of Apostle has caused the entire people of ikot Akpatek to come together and share love, he is a good man whom God has blessed, since the creation of ikot Akpatek, this is the first time in history that the son of the soil who serve God diligently,  create such awareness, as you can see, a lot of people from different homes are  gathered here to celebrate with him.

"This celebration will brings unity, togetherness, love to the community, I urge other Nigerian, especially Akwa Ibom sons and daughters to emulate this act and our communities will remain safe.

"I wish him  long live and prosperity also pray that God should bless him abundantly, to enable him to help his people, and the people of Akwa Ibom state." He added

"

COVID-19: 14 Fresh cases of hit A' Ibom

 

By Freshgist

About 14 persons have been infected with coronavirus in the resurgence of the pandemic in AKwa Ibom state. 

Addressing the  newsmen in Uyo on Thursday,  the Commissioner for Health Prof Augustine Umoh advised the residents to observed covid 19 protocols and guidelines to tackle the pandemic. 

He explained that the 14 infected persons are quarantined in their homes while contact tracing of members of their households and other associates continues. 

"As I speak, the 14 cases that we have now are on home isolation and monitoring . The process of contact tracing has recommenced for those that we could pick those that are positive for management, follow up and monitoring." 

" we have about  14 active cases in the state.So this something we have brought to the notice of all AKwa Ibom residents for them to be prepared. 

" We are not surprised . What is important now is for us to get to the former tempo that assisted us to bring the number of patients down . " 

Umoh reminded residents of the state to observed covid 19 protocols such as regular hand washing, social distancing , use of face masks and hand sanitizers.

He said the Ministry of Health has commenced another round of public enlightenment to create awareness as the mode of transmission of the disease has not changed . 

" The disease  is still transmitted through personal contact , nasal passage , air etc. 

He disclosed that the state Ministry of Health has made adequate preparations to handle the pandemic and urged residents to fortify themselves while the state has prepared laboratories for testing as well as hospitals before the disease escalates. 

" The facilities are ready, medicaments are in place while contact tracing mechanism has been reactivated. The laboratories testing have helped us to know those who are positive for isolation. 

"What we are doing now is public enlightenment to make sure that people come to terms with the fact that this is what is happening in AKwa Ibom state " he said 

He said the state government has acknowledged the pandemic during the last state Executive Council meeting and advised members if the public to abide by covid 19 guidelines.

WHAT A MESS! 💔

 

Phyna said Akwa Ibom people are known as gateman and house help and Akwa Ibom son PHARMSAVI couldn’t even uttered a word in defence rather he was even supporting her claims. 

The mumu PHARMSAVI of a boy, even said that he always hides his surname  "Akpan " so that people won't know he's from  a state of gateman and house help people.

What an insult to the entire people of Akwa Ibom State.

This is a TV show watch by millions of viewers across the world. The State ministry of information should do something about this., please.

2022: Encomium as Clergy celebrates birthday

 

The celebrant, Apostle Elijah Jack, General Overseer of His Divine Redeemed World Ministry, Mkpok, onna Local government, Akwa I on State

 

By Freshgist 

There is Jubilation in the air as Apostle Elijah Jack, the General overseer of His Divine Redeemed World Ministries, Mkpok, Onna local government Area,Akwa Ibom state Celebrates his twenty twenty two (2022) birthday on 25th July.

In a statement titled Happy Birthday To A Philanthropist &  God's General, Apostle Elijah Jack, signed by the secretary of the church, Pastor Godwin Udom and made available to newsmen in Uyo on Sunday, the church described Apostle Jack as a God sent to humanity 

added that Apostle Jack takes pleasure in rendering help to the less privilege, people living with disabilities, widows,  and youths of his community, irrespective of tribe and religion,that  he deals with them equally.

 

The statement stated in parts; "We, the church council and entire members  of His Divine Redeemed World Ministry celebrate you our amazing friend, mentor, father, pastor and spiritual leader and God sent to humanity, Apostle Elijah Jack on your 2022 birthday anniversary.

"Your new age is so amazing and meaningful because you have exuded and showcased the character and attitude of  friendliness in giving  generously to the poor, destitute, disabled persons, Orphans, widows and widowers alike. You have equally extended your magnanimity to the Muslim faithfuls in the State without discrimination, which is in accordance to your sermon  of "One God different religions". A message which is so touching and have inspired many of us in the church to always strive hard to do the will of God no matter how little we can.

 "Thank you for your constant concern over our spiritual life. You are an exemplary and visionary church leader who has dedicated his life to planting churches all over the world and winning more souls into the kingdom of God. Your messages are always supported by good Bible quotations and are clear and understandable to the congregation. 

"We pray the good Lord continue to give you victory over your enemies and they shall never succeed in their plans against you and your household, as the whole congregation will continue to follow the light you have shown to us and made us believe in.

"Live long and prosper for the glory of the Most High God, Amen.

Happy birthday our torchbearer".

Apostle Elijah Jack with his wife, Pastor Mrs Deborah Elijah Jack

Reacting, on a Phone call, Pastor Udom disclosed that he knew the celebrant for over ten years, added that he is a kind hearted and generous to every one that he meets, asked God to bless and keep them

"I've known Apostle Jack for over ten years now, we started life together and now God has blessed and elevated him as a priest, he is a good man, kind hearted and generous to every one that comes his way, we are glad of what God has done in his life, so on his birthday I wish him and his family, peace, love, happiness, and super natural blessings in Jesus mighty name Amen."

Also speaking, Pastor Ezekiel Udoaka described the Man of God as his Spiritual Father, also disclosed that apostle was a God servant whom God sent to redeemed his people from poverty, and unforseen calamity, prayed that God should bless him with more grace for kingdom services.

"Apostle is my spiritual father and I have known him for Seven precious years and I can say that he is a God servant whom God sent to redeemed his people from poverty and unforseen calamities.

"Apostle Jack is also a man of action, he has few words because he believe in action, he is a man of his words, very reliable and a voice in this part of world. As he celebrates his big day, I pray that God Empowers him more for kingdom expansion, soul winning, and give hi the grace, vision and wisdom to lead the crowd in Jesus name amen." He added

On this account, Freshgist congratulates you on your birthday anniversary  sir, we pray for more grace from God for your kingdom service, Happy birthday, Apostle Jack!

Apostle Chibuzor withdraws Aguba’s marriage gifts, transfers to ladies

 

 

The General Overseer of Omega Power Ministry (OPM), Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere, has transferred actor Kenneth Aguba’s gifts to ladies who fought viciously for his hand in marriage.

It was gathered that, after Aguba’s relocation to Port Harcourt on July 5 as a result of Chibuzor’s act of benevolence following homeless photos of the actor which went viral, the cleric offered to finance his wedding to any interested lady.

Different ladies signified interest to marry the actor, especially Ella and Anastasia who travelled to Port Harcourt to claim their ‘husband.’

The ladies fought after Aguba declared he would only marry a virgin from Israel.

Since Aguba bluntly refused to settle with any of the interested ladies, Chibuzor transferred Aguba’s gifts to the ladies, Ella and Anastasia.

He made the announcement via the Church’s Facebook platform on Tuesday, promising to sponsor the wedding of the two ladies, pay for their honeymoon in Dubai and give them business capital.

Chibuzor wrote: “I am not in Nigeria. I have been monitoring events happening and I have refused to comment.

“Now I am saying something. As Aguba has refused to marry any woman from Nigeria. I am hereby transferring the gifts to the girls.

“Any man that marries both of them, I will support their wedding and also send them and their husbands on honeymoon in Dubai.”

“But wedding must take place in Port Harcourt and marriage committee will follow them to their villages to confirm if the wedding is real or a scam. After their wedding, each of them shall be given a large sum of money to start a business.

“I have informed authorities, that they are to stay clear from OPM free estate. No more causing nuisance in OPM estate. #opmgih”, he added.

Reacting to the cleric’s announcement, Anastasia said she has reconciled with Ella, thanking the man of God for ‘tactically settling their differences’.

Sharing photos of them in a lovely embrace, she captioned the post; “Good news! I wish to announce to the general public that I and Ella Ada have reconciled, we are no longer Enemies. We have now embraced peace and love.

“All thanks to Chibuzor Gift Chinyere General Overseer Omega Power Ministry – OPM who tactical settled our differences.

“Thank you so much Daddy we are so grateful for what u av done. And we are deeply Sorry for the nuisance we created @Opm’s Free Estate on the 18th of July 2022 please sir forgive us, such will never happen again.

“Thanks to Uncle Jay Comedy who brought us (me and Ella) together for reconciliation today.

“And Also I want everyone to know that Aguba is the man after my heart and I still wish to marry him if he would accept me.”

 Feel free to share your opinion on this matter. 

Just In: Cross River Government Ban Selling of Corn Along Major Streets In Calabar

 

Cross River State government has banned hawking on major highways, especially the Murtala Mohammed Highway in Calabar. 

This was announced on Thursday July 21, via a statement released by Mr Tony Adinye, Chairman, Cross River Pollution Control Agency.

Adinye who noted that they have noticed with displeasure, the unwholesome activities of hawkers of various wares, especially corn sellers along the Murtala Mohammed Highway and major streets in the Calabar metropolis, said the hawk ban decision was taken to sanitise the metropolis of every form of environmental pollution and bring decency to the aesthetic of the state.

Hawkers and corn sellers have been instructed to relocate to interior streets on or before August 1. The state government said failure to comply would lead to arrest and severe sanctions.

Army Staff Sergeant Rapes 4-Year-Old Girl In Adamawa

 

 

A Nigerian Army Staff Sergeant, Bulama Salish from 232 Battalion, attached to 23 Brigade SP BN in the Maiha Local Government Area of Adamawa State, has been arrested for allegedly raping a four-year-old girl (name withheld).

The victim is said to be the daughter of one Mallam Abubakar who resides in the state.

According to SaharaReporters, it was disclosed in a memo on the situation report on a rape case.

The Staff Sergeant, Bulama Salish with 97NA/45/7383 is said to have been apprehended and locked up in 23 Brigade SP BN custody for further action.

The memo reads, “SPECIAL SITREP.SITREP AS AT 181800A JULY 2022. RAPE CASE,97NA/45/7383 SSGT BULAMA SALISU FRM 232BN ATTACHED TO 23BDE SP BN MAIHA, RAPED ONE (NAME WITHHELD) 4YRS OLD, DAUTHER TO ONE MALLAM ABUBAKAR….

“SNCO HAS BEEN APPREHENDED ND LOCKED UP IN 23BDE SP BN CUSTODY FR FURTHER ACTION, PLS ACK//”

A soldier, Corporal Aliyu Yakubu was dismissed from the Nigerian Army and sentenced to five years imprisonment for rape and assault by a court martial in Maiduguri in 2020.

He was tried by the Nigerian Army 7 Division Court Martial, Operation Lafiya Dole, for raping a minor (a 15-year-old girl) at an uncompleted building behind a prison yard in Bama, Borno State, on July 1, 2018.

The soldier was serving with 202 Tank Battalion in the counter-insurgency operations in the Northeast.

A'Ibom Govt begins remedial work on collapsed Eket roads

By Freshgist

The Akwa Ibom State Government has 

commenced remedial work on Mkpok road and other roads in Eket local government area threatened by heavy flood.

The government’s quick intervention was a response  to the 'Save Our Souls' message sent by residents of the area to Governor Udom Emmanuel over the collapsed Mkpok road.

Speaking on the remedial efforts to save the collapsed and threatened roads, 

the Commissioner of Environment and Solid Minerals, Mr Charles Udoh said the work has been handed over to the contractor who has commenced work.

Udoh said, "There are three roads in that location that we at working on: Mkpok road, Umana Ndon street and Isong Udonetort Street by Ediam street. Those are the three erosion sites that His Excellency has approved and work has actually started. 

"But we are focusing on Mkpok because it has collapsed. First priority was to get Mkpok fixed otherwise, economic activities will be grounded, while we are working on remedial work at others," he stated. 

A heavy rainfall accompanied by flood water had a fortnight ago destroyed the gutter along Mkpok road in Eket, leading to the collapse of the road, forcing residents to cry out for government’s intervention. 

Governor Udom Emmanuel responded to the distress call by approving an immediate intervention and permanent solution to the erosion problems in Mkpok road by directing the Ministry of Environment and Solid Minerals to immediately commence work in the area.

It was gathered that the All Weather road, Ediam, Idua, Umana Ndon and other adjoining streets in Eket were been threatened and residents are afraid that as the rains continue, more roads may collapse. 

Speaking on the collapsed road, former Chairman of Mkpok Village Council, Mr Franklin Udohuyo described the incident as unfortunate saying the failed road started showing signs of deterioration about a year ago. 

Udohuyo stated that the collapsed road has affected both businesses and mobility of people in the area, adding that it is one of the major roads accessing five villages around the area.

It was very pathetic the failed road started last year and nothing was done about it until recently when the whole thing collapsed.

"If they followed the previous report, it wouldn't have been to this level but there was negligence on the side of the state government.

"I don't know how the contractors actually handled the job, I don't know how the children at Mkpok Primary School will be going to school," he lamented. 

The former council boss revealed that the contractor commissioned by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to construct the road failed to follow the contract specification for the work, adding that the job was done without a Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

"The workers came and started bulldozing the whole thing. The road was  deeper below the curvert and there was no where flood water could have passed through it.

"Eventually when it started raining, flood couldn't find its way out and the flood water had to go under the curvert, passing under it. It has been like that until recently the road collapsed," he said.

Also speaking, Mrs Uchechi Boniface, a provision store seller along the road said she had lost so much money since the road failed on July 9. 

She described the road failure as a big challenge to her business and appealed to the state government to urgently repair the road for her business to thrive.

"I am not making big sales due to the failed road. Majority of my customers live across the other side of the road. If I made sales of N100, 000 before in two weeks, now I cannot make even up to N20, 000. I have experienced big loss because of the bad road," she said.

Boniface decried the incessant pot-hole riddened roads across Eket Local Government Area of the state, saying the bad portions of the roads poised dangers to inhabitants and road users in the affected parts of Eket and its environs.

Speaking on the issue, National Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Safety Engineers (NISafetyE), Mr Akaniyene Ekong said he had warned the  relevant government agency of the impending gully erosion disaster in many parts of Eket.

"NISafetyE saw it coming and notified the government when we went to the location. The first thing we did was to put physical signage on the road to alert passers-by, pedestrians and drivers in Eket.

"The problem started when canals were opened and the velocity of the volume of the water increase due to bad contractor.

"That actually washed off the embarkment and the solid layers would be washed off and eventually curved in," he explained.

Ekong stated that the idea of opening up waterways to prevent flooding was a good intention but then, the right measures were not put in place.

He stated that the flood has destroyed houses and property worth millions of naira but no life was lost, adding that the road had caused untold hardship to the people of Eket and it's environs.

"We can imagine the hardship pupils of the nearby school are going through because of the failed road in Mkpok axis.The road should be closed for now while remedial measures are put in place," Ekong said.

Mercy Chinwo Traditional marriage

By Freshgist

 Congratulations Mercy Chinwo 

The city of Port Harcourt in Rivers State celebrates as Nigerian gospel music icon, Mercy Chinwo’s introduction and dowry payment takes place.

Senator Bassey Albert Resigns from PDP to YPP in A’ Ibom

 

L-R The state chairman YPP, Pastor Nyeneime Andy, Followed by Member representing Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District, Senator Bassey Albert and his lovely wife Mrs Imabong Albert Akpan during official declaration event

Member representing Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District also known as Uyo senatorial district Senator Bassey Albert (popularly known as Senator OBA) has defected to Young Peoples Party (YPP) ahead of 2023 general election.

In a letter addressed to PDP Ward Chairman of Ibiono Ibom Eastern ward 1 , Ibiono Ibom local government area and made available to journalists in Uyo over the weekend, Senator Albert recalled his loyalty and commitment to PDP in the last 20 years serving the people of the state in various capacities without blemish.

The letter reads in parts: “I have been a loyal and committed member of the Official Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Nigeria for over 20 years and have through the platform of the party serve our people, state, and nation diligently without any blemish. 

” I have by the grace of God contributed positively and impact fully to the growth and development of our dear country, state, and our people in general.

“I believe as a law maker and a distinctive one at that, I must at all times advocate and pursue virtues and values that promote and sustain the effective adherence to the rule of law.

Senator Albert stated that his aspiration to serve as Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom state was not personal or selfish but rather the collective ambition of of Akwa Ibom people based on principles of Justice and equity to achieve a better and prosperous Akwa Ibom.

He maintained that the decision to defect from PDP to YPP was borne out of wider consultation with supporters, friends, stakeholders as well as well meaning believers as his aspiration can not be actualize on the PDP platform.

He said such decision will also help him to take next positive steps to meet hopes and expectations of Akwa Ibom people.

Standard Times gathered that senator Bassey Albert defection to dump PDP coincides same day with the dismissal of the case which he sued the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on the conduct of ad hoc delegate election in Abuja High court.

A facebook post recently,  by Senator OBA officially declaring his resignation from the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Nigeria reads in parts:

"Today (July 18, 2022), my wife and I officially transferred our memberships to the Young Progressive Party, YPP, having resigned my membership of Official Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Nigeria  on July 15, 2023. 

 "I joined the Young Progressives Party today with my beloved wife, Imaobong, and our membership cards were presented to us by the state chairman, Pastor Nyeneime Andy, on behalf of the party.

"On behalf of my wife, family, and supporters, I declare myself as a vessel in the hands of God to bring positive change to Akwa Ibom state.

Although some people boast about their financial war chests, they can never buy the conscience and rights of the people.

"Today, a new Akwa Ibom birth.  Akwa Ibom for you and Akwa Ibom for me.  Akwa Ibom, where there will be justice for all.

I offer myself to God, the Akwa Ibom people, and the party to use me to change Akwa Ibom State.

2023 will be about character, competence, and capacity, and I will never let Akwa Ibom people down.

 "I am joining the party with my teeming supporters to help build and improve the foundation so that it will form the next government of Akwa Ibom state."

A'Ibom debunks insinuations of substandard boat distribution to fish farmers

 

By Freshgist

Akwa Ibom State governor, HE Udom Emmanuel

Akwa Ibom State government has described as untrue insinuations that boats recently received by the state government for  fish farmers were substandard.

The boats according to the state commissioner for Agriculture, Dr Offiong Offor in an interview with Journalist in Uyo yesterday were part of items supplied by the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA for the 2020 flood disaster and has since been distributed to the affected farmers.

The commissioner explained that same size and quality of boats were also supplied  by NEMA to other states as part of the intervention without complaints from those states.

Offor who said that the state government even provided logistics for the lifting of the boats and other components for the farmers however wondered why people should describe the boats as unfit when the benefitting fish farmers did not complain about the condition of the boats.

She added that 200 fish farmers benefitted from the donation even as NEMA also supplied other components like  collapsible ponds, floats, fingerlings and feeds to ameliorate the flooding.

"It is not true that the boats are substandard. They are not substandard. If they are good in Rivers and Bayelsa, they will also be good in Akwa Ibom. 

"What they gave to Rivers and Bayelsa which have more Riverine areas was the same thing they gave to Akwa Ibom and if the farmers in those other states are using them then they shouldn't have shortchanged us.

"And the fact is that the beneficiaries did not complain not only about the boats but other components too. The state government even provided logistics for them to transport the components back to their different locations.

"So when people complain that the boats were substandard, it is not true. NEMA will not give anything that it's substandard. Governor Udom Emmanuel is a man of excellence and even if they have given substandard things, the Governor will not allow us to share it. The things were also certified by our different directorates to be good.

"Then the boats were in different sizes, some for small waters and others for larger bodies of waters and they have started using them.

But the interventions are in degrees and batches and the farmers that the size of boats supplied were useful for benefitted from them while others will be addressed and attended to in subsequent interventions." The commissioner explained.

Offor said the state government has also included fish farmers in several of the ministry's programmes and policies adding that they just like other farmers were also entitled to loan facilities from the state government owned agric bank.

She called for understanding and constructive criticism from indigenes and residents of the state on government programmes and policies.