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.

Actress Regina Daniel and husband welcomes second son on the birthday of their first son

 

“It’s a double blessing ” – Ned Nwoko Reacts As Regina Daniels Give Birth To Second Son On Their First Son’s Birthday

 According to Mr Nwoko, Regina  and the baby are doing well. 

 

A'Ibom: USAID S2S Preaches Peaceful Coexistence, train Women, Religious leaders on conflict mitigation

 

4th-Right: Secretary to state government, Dr Emmanuel Ekuwem and the state team lead, State2state activities, A'Ibom state Mr Borve Paago- Imabel in a group photograph with participants

By Freshgist

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) State2state project has recently organised a three days training on conflict mitigation for Religious and women leaders in Akwa Ibom state.

The training which was held at Havillah Hotels and Tower, Uyo, was intensive and mind engaging, aimed at peaceful coexistence, using gender and social inclusion as a working tool to mitigate conflicts in the state.

The state team lead,  State accountability, transparency and effective state2state Activity for Akwa Ibom state, Mr Borve Paago- Imabel, in his opening remark disclosed that the activity was designed to create synergy and multi stakeholders' response to addressing conflicts in the States where State2State works across Nigeria.

 The Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem delivering his speech at the just concluded conflict mitigation training by USAID State2State activity.

Imabel added that the State2State conducted the Conflict Assessment Framework in Akwa Ibom State to empirically determine the nature of conflicts in the state in June 2021. The study, he said helped to determine the approach to conflict mitigation activities planned for the state. 

The state team lead said, "The conflict Mitigation Training for Religious and women leaders in Akwa Ibom State is therefore one in a series of conflict mitigation and management trainings provided to critical stakeholders in the state.

"The inclusion of women serves to reinforce the strategic role of mothers in the society. It is accepted that if you train a woman, you are training a nation. It is our hope to build a resource pool for conflict mitigation in the state towards the emergence of state conflict management framework in Akwa Ibom State."

Some participants displaying their certificate of participation after the training.

He explained that their major focus is on the implementation of actions developed at the end of the process to reengineer the oversight functions and deepen engagement with various state institutions for the benefit of the State.

"Prior to now, our conflict mitigation training has been delivered to Youths, political parties, CSOs and citizens groups, Akwa Ibom State Council of Traditional Rulers, the media and also government institutions. State2State is USAID's flagship governance activity in Nigeria running from 2022-2025," he added.

Presentation of certificate of participation

He maintained that the purpose of the S2S activities was to increase the accountability, transparency and effectiveness in targeted states and Local Government (LGAs) in Nigeria, also to increase efficiency of Sub National Government Operations: strengthening governance systems with a focus on public financial  management (PFM) and procurement, as well as monitoring and evaluation.

Freshgist Editor, Comrade Mrs Theresa Donatus receiving her certificate of participation

Imabel also thanked the state Governor, HE Udom Emmanuel and the State Executive Council for the continued support to the activity in the State as well as the Secretary to State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem for participating in the activity to open the workshop and to the Donor and Multilateral Relations Department for their partnership.

"The state2state team is grateful to the state governor, Mr udom Emanuel for their continuous support in the state2state activities, showing commitment to the reform activities of the USAID funded activity, the State Governor HE Udom Emmanuel approved the provision of office space and the composition of the State Transformation Committee headed by the Commissioner for Finance Dr. Linus Nkan which was inaugurated by the Secretary to the State Government Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem On June 21 2021."

He listed some key achievements recorded since inception in 2021 to include: Conduct of the state Public Finance Management Assessment which allowed state institutions to undergo a process of self-assessment, scoring and rating; Development of State Budget Calendar; Standard Operations Manual for MDAs; Develophent of the Medium -Term Expenditure Framework for the 2022-2024 Fiscal Years and Full migration of the 2022 state budget to the National Charts of Accounts template with support from the Nigeria Governor's Forum and delivery of services in the key sectors of basic education, primary health care and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH).

One of the facilitators, Mr Cosmos Dinee, Conflict specialist,  State2State

Mr Imabel also informed the public that State2State has concluded plans for the development of the state Medium Sector Strategy as wells as Monitoring and Evaluation Framework with the Ministry of Economic Development.

In his words, "This workshop offers us a unique opportunity and platform for exchange of ideas to build more resilient and strong society as well as state institutions competing to meet best standards to foster the development of our state. Therefore, Interfacing with and building the skills of key religious leaders in conflict mitigation is a strategy to support social cohesion, stability and security as given the peculiar calling and mandate of faith based organizations.

"I also  thank the State Transformation Committee under the chairmanship of the state Commissioner of Finance Dr. Linus Nkan whose pivotal support has resulted in the many successes of the project in Akwa Ibom State. As we mark a year of the STC today, we pray for more achievements together," he submitted.

Barr Emaediong Akpan, GESI specialist, preaching gender and Social Inclusion to participants

Also speaking, The Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem  also charged the religious and women leaders to be guarded in their utterances because people are listening to them otherwise they can set the country ablaze by the way they speak.

The state scribe also tasked the religious and women leaders on quality representative adding that "Our words matter, as opinion moulders and influencers. The women who are the custodians and by nature very patience and detailed have lots of people they come across everyday from home, school, church, farm etc for them to counsel or meet as a group. 

"It is a serious responsibility in Akwa Ibom State politics, church and all, let peace lead. Cross check, verify and do not just swallow whatever anybody tells you. When you verify, you will be so shocked that you were told only 10percent of what happened."he added

Describing the state as the most peaceful state in Nigeria, Ekuwem maintain that peace is the greatest bone as it settles all, added that peace is an important and necessary instrument both in the Christian and Muslim religions. He listed some beatitudes in the scriptures as blessing to Christian life hinting that Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called children of God.

Ekuwem described women as partners, noting that one conflict usually identified is domestic violence and charged men to respect women.

According to him, "A sound man does not look at a woman with disrespect or disdain, do not do that. A complete man does not disrespect womanhood or think he holds monopoly of knowledge." 

He reminded women that they can make it as God has blessed all equally no matter the gender. "There is no area of subject the women have not excelled. Counsel your sons and daughters to dialogue and exchange ideas as two good heads are better than one which is the first port of call. We can all excel. Peace is what is used to address conflict. 

On his part, the state Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) and Christian Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (CPFN) General Secretary, Rev Isang Eyoumoh  thanked God for the grace as well as USAID for the training to discuss and interact as regards conflict mitigation. 

He also thanked the state government for accommodating them to encourage their Programmes and activities. "Conflict is as old as man and not a new thing to Nigeria or Akwa Ibom State, "If your brother acts wrongly towards you, go and point out his fault to him when only you and he are there. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother." Matthew 18:15-18. He charged all to embrace peace.

Moreover, Mrs Idongesit Okoko, President, National Council For Women Societies, Akwa Ibom State Chapter thanked the governor for being proactive even before the electioneering period by putting in place the Maintain Peace Movement to avoid conflict and prayed God for the technical know-how to ensure peace wherever they are while supporting one another.

In a thank you interaction at the end of the training, Hon Mrs Aniedi Inyang, Ex Officio1 representing the good people of Nsit Ibom local government at the People's democratic party (PDP) Akwa Ibom state council, thanked the USAID S2S activity for coming up with such an intensive training, added that the knowledge gathered will be used to train others in their organisations, communities and where ever one finds his/ her self.

Inyang also charged USAID to increase numbers of training days in their subsequent trainings, especially those topics with larger scope of studies as the just concluded training in order to help the organisers in time management and the participants to learn everything with understanding.

"The training was so unique, very embracing and elaborate, and i so much enjoyed it, and the knowledge I have gathered is going to help me in mitigating conflicts in my party if any, and also as a national secretary of Qua Ibo church Nigeria, it will help me in dealing with conflict amongst women and organisation in the church.

"I appreciate all the facilitators of the training, they did excellent work and the knowledge impacted on us will go a long way, streamlining violence within our communities and in any environment we find our selves because personally I'm going to use the knowledge to train other people, other leaders under me who will in turn train other members of the public.

I also want to suggest that USAID state 2state activities can increase  their training days to five days, since the scope of the training is very wide , so that we will be able to learn everything and time will be well managed 

"I want to encourage them that they should continue with this  sensitization and training because participants will also use the idea to train people in our offices, churches and local communities and if this is done, most conflicts will not take place, thank you." She added

Topical issues handled during the sessions were; Political Stability; Economy, Champions and Spoilers of Reforms,Gender and Social Inclusion (GESI), Status of Civil Society in Advocacy and Accountability, Inclusion of Women and Vulnerable Persons, Conflict Trends ( Type, Location, Nature and Actors) and Conflict Mitigation as well as other issues.

Hoodlums invade A' Ibom community, destroy properties worth N85m

 

By fresh gist

The people of Ikot Obio Offong in Ibesikpo Asutan local government area of AKwa Ibom state are living in fear of their neighbours  from Ikot Ekwere village  who allegedly attacked them over protracted land dispute . 

Speaking to newsmen on Sunday at the palace of the Village Head of Ikot Obio Offong , one of the family heads chief Sunday Etim Nyong said on 27th April , 2022 at about 11-12pm , some youths  from Ikot Ekwere village  numbering over 200 invaded the village chanting war songs with several gunshots .

Continuing, Chief Nyong said the hoodlums were also chanting slogans of different cult groups such as "lion!" , "bargo" challenging the people of Ikot Obio Offong to come out for a fight . 

He said the youths suspected to have come from Ikot Ekwere village entered the village  from the first house  invading different compounds breaking  house window glasses , burnt down houses and motor cars parked in the compound while one house was burnt down . 

" They looted some household properties such as TV sets , stole money in many houses , rape women and burnt down one house completely while we escaped into the bush 

" They also burnt down one Toyota Camry car belonging to the son of the village head Christopher Ephraim and wounded many people in the compound . 

Nyong noted that over 20 houses were burnt down while domestic animals, money and other belongings were carted away . 

He explained that what surprised the people was that after reporting the matter to police at Ibesikpo Asutan police division who later came for inspection, the hoodlums reinforced and return for another attack in broad daylight  the following day . 

The family head stated that the police from the state headquarters also reinforced in about five Hilux vehicles to rescue residents of Ikot Obio Offong . 

" This time property worth over N85m was destroyed and another house belonging to one Aniebiet Edet Eyo was razed down . 

" One of the suspects identified as Innocent Essien from Ikot Ekwere shot a policeman in the rescue team during the cross fire between the hoodlums and the police" 

" The suspect is now in Ikot Ekpene Correctional Centre awaiting trial . I believe he must have mentioned members of their gang who are now at large " 

He accused the village head of Ikot Ekwere and former Head of Service in AKwa Ibom Obong Akpa Inyang of masterminding the attack as he was found at the police station making effort to bail one of the suspects now in prison . 

He said while the matter was in the police , the Paramount Ruler of Ibesikpo Asutan local government area Nsobom Nsidibe Ekong issued native injunction (ayei) to stopped further hostilities . 

He said the peace deal failed as the people of Ikot Ekwere have issued fresh notice of attack against Ikot Obio Offong people . 

" As we speak now , they can strike anytime and kill people this time . we are not safe. " he said 

He therefore urged the state government to call the village council of Ikot Ekwere to order to avoid impending bloodshed . 

Contacted , the Police Public Relations for AKwa Ibom SP Odiko Mcdon said the crisis in the affected communities is being investigated . 

" Investigation is ongoing clampdown on those who escaped while others arrested have been charged to court " he said 

One of the houses burnt down during attack on Ikot Obio Offong village in Ibesikpo Asutan local government area , AKwa Ibom state recently 

Commissioner tasks NAWoJ on investigative journalism, truth

 

The Honourable Commissioner for Education, Mrs 

Idongesit Etiebiet, Akwa Ibom state.

By Freshgist

 

The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Idongesit Etiebet has charged female journalists in the state under the aegis of Nigeria Association Of Women Journalists (NAWoJ), to engage more in investigative reporting so as to stand out among their male counterparts.

The Commissioner also urged them to ensure they are fair, balanced and truthful in their reports so as to project the state in progressively.

Etiebet gave the advice on Wednesday when the leadership of NAWOJ led by Comrade Nsikak Okon paid a courtesy call on her ahead of the activities marking their 100 days in office

According to the Commissioner,  "the female journalists should show their male counterparts how to be fair in doing investigative journalism, how not to report what you are not sure of and avoid character assassination  as  we  see on social media.

"Your reports can make or mar the society. If you want to mar the society, it is to report half truth or complete lack of truth. As women, you should do better and you are expected to do like three times better than men to be seen. It is disheartening to see group of people reporting lies as if they are truths, as women let us stand out from that position."

Etiebiet added that Akwa Ibom has been adjudged as the second best in Foreign Direct Investment and urged NAWoJ to maintain the status quo by reporting positively about the state so that prospective investors will not be scared away.

Reacting to the line up programmes of NAWoJ which included boy child advocacy among others, the commissioner disclosed that the state government  is beaming its focus on the improvement and Advancement of the Boy Child whom she said have been neglected for some time adding that analysis carried out in schools showed that the girl child who receives more attention is doing better in academics than the boy child. 

Speaking earlier, the Chairman, NAWOJ, Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Okon reeled out the activities to mark the Executive's 100 days in Office to include advocacy for the Boy Child, visits to schools in the three senatorial district to speak to the boy child, visit to the Village heads to sensitize the people on the essence of parents to take good care of their boy child, a one day training for women Journalists on gender based reporting and a thanksgiving service for a successful elections

Comrade Okon solicited the support and partnership of the Commissioner and the Ministry for the line up of events.

APC chieftain flays Igini over stance on guber candidate in A'Ibom

 

                      Prof Chris Ekong

 

By freshgist

One of the front line gubernatorial aspirant Under the platform of APC in Akwa Ibom state, Prof Chris Ekong, has challenged the state Resident Electoral Commissioner, Barr Mike Igini, over claims that the party has no governorship candidate in the state.

He described such claims as a fairytale and ridiculous.

Speaking with our Correspondent in Uyo yesterday, Ekong disclosed that whatever sentiments expressed by Igini were his personal and not the position of INEC adding that the guber primary that produced Mr Akan Udofia as candidate was sanctioned by the national leadership of the APC.

"I am very happy they are saying that APC might not have a guber candidate. The 'might' in their statement tells you explicitely that they are merely insinuating, but I want to tell you that APC has a guber candidate. Primaries were well conducted and the person who won was Akan Udofia. 

"Don't forget I was part of the primaries as an aspirant. I know some of the aspirants wants to be talked to while some wants to play the spoilers' role.

"It is even unfortunate that one of us who was the National Secretary of the party and supretendend over elections to elect people to fill the leadership structure of the party could not have even an ex officio member in the leadership of the party in the State, from the ward to state chapter levels of the party. And if that has happened and he wants to stoke fire, he can go ahead. These are the things they have been doing and profiting from.

" But coming round to say we don't have a governorship candidate is a fairytale and amusing and who are they using to garnish their story, they are using Igini." The former state Youth and Sports Commissioner said.

He expressed regret that Igini has allowed his personal issues with some politicians in the state to override his official assignment.

"You see, Igini works for INEC and he is not the chairman of INEC and he is not INEC and he is privy to the fact that APC National Caretaker Committee, represented by Buni and Udoedeghe went to Court and were defeated at the lower court. They went to Appeal Court but later used their hands to withdraw the case, saying and affirming  that they recognize Ntukekpo as the State  Chairman of APC in Akwa Ibom State.

"The national leadership of APC wrote to Mr. Ntukekpo to inform INEC in the State to come and monitor the APC governorship primaries in the State, and Igini sat here and said no, Ntukekpo can never be even when INEC was part of the Court process. I think something is wrong somewhere. This is suggestive of growing insinuations on ground that Mr. Igini is a 'factional leader  or Chairman of INEC'.

"What I want to tell Akwa Ibom people is to forget that negative propaganda. Akwa Ibom APC has a governorship candidate and he is Akan Udofia and by next week he will be given the flag and when he collects the flag we will bring it here." Ekong said.

He maintained that the party is no longer factionalized  after the exit of the group that perpetuated crisis adding that unity and reconciliation remained key to the party winning the governorship election which has eluded it since 2011.

"For now there is no faction in the APC in the state. Members can have issues which happen in every party especially after primaries of this nature. But there is always room for reconciliation. The person that wanted to create factions have moved to NNPP and he is happy there.

"So my message to all APC faithfuls is that there is no time as beautiful as now for us to take power. We have been trying since 2011 and this is our time. 

"For people that read the Bible, when Jonah was in the boat, people in the boat experienced turbulence and the boat could not sail freely and when they decided to put Jonah out of the boat some of them pitied him that he will die but they still had to.put him out of the boat and immediately that happened the boat returned to its peace and everybody was happy.

"This is what has happened to APC in Akwa Ibom. We are back to our point and position of peace and the turbulence is over, it is now for our members to come, let us hold our hands together and work our party to victory in Akwa Ibom." Ekong concluded.

In the meantime, another chieftain of the party, Barr. Victor Iyanam      has called on the leader of the party in the state, Senator Godswill Akpabio's to expediate action aimed at uniting that party and reconciling aggrieved members inorder to reposition the APC to win next year's governorship election in the state.

Iyanam, a former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Akwa Ibom said such move would save the party from further disintegration and strengthen it to effectively challenge the PDP in next year's gubernatorial election in the state.

"We are lucky to have a former Governor and minister in the person of Senator Godswill Akpabio and so I am calling on him to convene a caucus meeting so we can contribute our ideas towards uniting the party. He should talk to people in a way that will boost their confidence and create cohesion within the party so that we can move forward.

"We should be celebrating that we have someone like him to counter what the PDP is doing but unfortunately I don't know if it is the former minister we should blame or the people hanging around him that are causing the disintegration of party leaders. It is very sad that all of us have invested so much in the party since 2014 and some people are coming to spoil it for everybody." He said.

2023: Ekpo Wins APC Senate slot in A'ibom.

 

By Theresa Donatus, Uyo

A former  House of Representatives member, Rt Hon Ekperikpe Luke Ekpo yesterday emerged the All Progressives Congress candidate for Akwa ibom North west senatorial district.

Hon Ekperikpe Ekpo who scored a total of  427 votes, to beat his closet rival DIG Udom Ekpoudom who scored 12 votes, and Joseph Akpan, polled 5 votes in a keenly contested election held in ikot ekpene township stadium on Saturday.

The senate primaries Committee Chairman  appointed by APC  National executives  Barr. Eugene Okolocha led three other members to oversee the smooth conduct of the exercise. 

 Hon Aboh Uduyok who was appointed as Returning Officer for the election announced Ekperkpe Ekpo  as the winner at the end of the rancour free election.

Speaking with Journalists after the election, Hon. Ekpo expressed deep gratitude to Almighty God for the smooth conduct of the exercise.

He urge his supporters and APC faithful  to return to the drawing board and restrategise for the general election stressing that APC will sweep all available positions in 2023 and provide dependable leadership at all levels of governance.

He called on the contestants to support and  synergise with him to change the narratives for the growth progress and prosperity of ikot ekpene senatorial district before and  after the general election.

Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo who is  a renowned grassroot politician and former Chairman of Ika local government area of Akwa ibom state is also the Director general of Akwa ibom Democratic Forum.