A'Ibom Governor- Elect, Eno, Receives Certificate of Return from INEC

 

Pastor Umo Eno receiving his certificate of return as Governor-elect, Akwa Ibom state 

By Freshgist 

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Akwa Ibom State, on Thursday, issued Certificate of Return to the Governor-Elect, Pastor Umo Eno.

The event which took place at the state office of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Udo udoma avenue, Uyo, also witnessed the presentation of Certificates of Return to 25 newly-elected House of Assembly members by the National Commissioner, Mrs May Agbamuche-Mbu.

The event which had thousands of supporters, party faithfuls, family members, friends, and well wishers in attendance was filled Joy and jubilation as the seasoned businessman cum entrepreneur and his Deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi were presented their certificates of return by INEC National Commissioner, Mrs May Agbamuche-Mbu.

Eno who emerged winner of the governorship election held on March 18.

Our correspondent gathered that Etim Ekpo/Ika State constituency was left unannounced as elections in the area were declared inconclusive. As such, 25 house members-elect out of 26 received their certificates of return from INEC.

Before the presentations, Mrs Mbu thanked all stakeholders for the role they played for the successful conduct of the just concluded election.

She added that the electoral act, mandates the Commission to issue certificates of return to winners of the election within 14 days from the day the results were announced.

She said, “Let me appreciate our critical stakeholders for their unwavering support throughout the 2023 general elections in Akwa Ibom.

“I wish to commend the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr Cyril Omorogbe, the management staff of the commission, members of the press and observers for their commitment and participation in the just concluded general elections.”

The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Akwa Ibom, Cyril Omorogbe, reassured all stakeholders in the electioneering process that INEC was poised at building on the high level of credibility it has achieved.

He urged them to use the renewed mandates given to them to serve the people diligently and truthfully.

In his remarks, the governor-elect, Eno promised to be magnanimous in victory and called for everyone to join hands to build the state.

“Let me again use this opportunity to invite my brothers who, also, aspired and contested for the same position that it has pleased God to entrust me with today, to join me in this great journey of deepening the continued peace and progress of our dear State.

“As I said in my acceptance speech, we all ran a good race, but in any contest, a winner must emerge and it has pleased God to make me the winner.”

Also speaking the Senator-elect for Eket senatorial district, Rt Hon Ekong Sampson PhD described Umo Eno's Victory as Signposts Roadmap to Strong Economy and Security urging all the National Assembly-elect to unite in oder to save our nation, Nigeria.

Sampson maintained that Pastor Umo Eno possessed the midas touch to build on the solid foundation laid by the Udom administration especially in deepening the economy and strengthening peace and security in the State, added that he has shown over the years through his antecedents that he was the man to take Akwa Ibom State to the next level.

He urged the incoming National Assembly to unite to save Nigeria added that the nation was facing its trying periods witnessed by economic downturns, growing polarization, insecurity, among other challenges etc. 

The Senator-elect expressed his eagerness to get started in the Red Chambers and work with like-minds to better the country.

Guber 2023: INEC Declares Umo Eno winner of poll in Akwa Ibom

 

By Freshgist 

The gubernatorial candidate of the People's Democratic Party in Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Bassy Eno has won the poll with total vote of 354,348 beating other 17 political parties in the state.

 

In the results announced by the State Collation Officer, Professor Emmanuel Adigio Vice Chancellor, Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, Delta State Young Progressive Party came a distant second with 136,262 votes, while

the All Progressive Congress came in third position polling total votes of 129,602.

PDP takes the leads in 29 Local Government Areas, while Young Progressives Party (YPP), Senator Bassey Albert  won the remaining 2 LGAs making it 31 LGAs of the state. 

Ambassador Kelvin Umoh YPP agent equally rejected the outcome stating that INEC did not follow due process in the conduct of the polls,

"I take the floor to vehemently register or displeasure of the result and also point out to the public that all our prediction prior to this election has seen the light of the day, from what Inec promise us that election will be transmitted in real time, as at this time that the results have been announced and winner to be declared, some of the result have not been uploaded, therefore I will not append my signature on this piece of paper, for the blood of people that were shed in Ibiono Ibom, and there where wild distruction of material in YPP stronghold, and voters were refused access to vote, again let me say this, some of the election were conducted in people houses in Ini and Uyo, Itu LGA. 

"The stake holders of the ruling party mobilized people to vote in the houses, the result so presented and about to be announce violet and negets what our unit agent have transmitted to situation room. And so therefore it will be direct injustice for me to sign the result sheet."  Umoh said.

APC agent, Mr Ekperikpe Ekpo also called for cancelation of the result adding that it was faculty and therefore he will not be a signatory to it.

"Election is all about representing the people, are we sure that way we are doing today is d results of the reflection and will of people across Akwa ibom state, or we are just doing the rituals of the normal election coalition, there was massive distraction of election material,

 "And d results have been collecting and recorded, I hereby call for canceletion of results, I'm not a party to the signatory, APC".

A break down of the results are as fo)ow:

A – 437

AA- 181

AAC – 393

ADC- 1685

ADP- 642

APC- 129, 602

APGA- 311

APM- 381

APP- 121

BP- 141

LP- 4746

NNPP- 12509

NRM- 861

PDP- 354,348

PRP- 288

SDP- 442

YPP- 136,262

ZLP- 728

Total valid votes: 644, 080

Rejected votes: 12342

Total votes cast:656,422

Accredited votes: 657,959

Total numbers of registered voters: 2357418

Reporter's Diary gathered that election was also declared free fair and transparent in the state by Prof Emmanuel Adigio, the INEC returning officer, Akwa ibom state.

Guber2023: Accord Party seeks cancellation of results in A/Ibom

 

Engr Emem Coffie, governorship candidate for Accord Party AP, Akwa ibom state 

By Freshgist 

The Accord Party AP,  has rejected the results of the governorship/Assembly elections which held in Akwa Ibom state on Saturday, 18th March 2023.

 

The State Returning Officer of Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC) and Vice Chancellor of Maritime University, Okerenkoko, Delta State, Professor Emmanuel Adigio   had declared the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Pastor Umo Eno as winner of the governor poll after generating a total of 356,346 votes to defeat his opponents.

In a press conference in uyo on Monday, the gubernatorial candidate for Accord Party in the State, Engr. Emem Coffie called for the cancellation of the results of the election, alleging that the exercise was marked by fraudulent and violence across the state. 

He also alleged that the election was rigged and many people were killed in the process by the agent of PDP in the state.

Coffie maintained that there was need for INEC to re-organize a fresh election in the state, explaining that the violence emanated by Agents of PDP Made many members of Accord Party to return home leaving the agents to manipulate their results.

According to Engr Coffie, "Compliment to the good people of Akwa ibom state and members of Accord Party, i want to congratulate you for maintaining peace and order after election on the 18th March, 2023 .

"We are aware that the election was marked with thugery, wild state violence, massive vote buying (#10000per voter) by the agent of people democratic party (PDP), voters intimidation, and falsification of results at the unit, but irrespective of this, I still call on the members of Accord Party and my followers to maintain peace and order 

I believe that we as civilians will do all that we can , and will not carry out actions that will mar our country Nigeria  or make us seem living in the banana republic ."

"Subsequently, we call for cancelletion of results by INEC due to the above reasons and we call for proper election to be done but for now I call on everyone to maintain peace and order .

Some person's deliberately brought down our vote for reasons best known to them, investigation is ongoing, we believe to fetch them all out."

"In ABAK for instant, we witness a particular unit where Accord party was winning , PDP people came, ceased the ballot and thumpprinted on it turning all our votes to voil vote forcefully. But since we warn our members not to involve themselves in violence, so the level of violent that would have been established aborted."

On the question if there were security operatives in the unit, he responded that there were no security operatives sent to his unit in Abak.

A'Ibom guber: CP tasks candidates against violence

 

 Commissioner of Police OLATOYE DURUNSIMI

Akwa Ibom state

By Freshgist 

Akwa Ibom state Commissioner of Police Olatoye Durunsimi has warned governorship and House of Assembly candidates participating in the coming election to eschew violence  and  thuggery during elections in the state. 

Addressing candidates of political parties at the state police headquarters, Ikot Akpan Abia, Uyo on Tuesday during signing of Peace Accord for smooth conduct of the poll, the Commissioner of Police maintained that there will be zero tolerance to thuggery and other forms of electoral violence in the state throughout the elections. 

"In the last election , the  command is  aware of thugs who camouflaged as fake soldiers and policemen during  Presidential and National Assembly elections in the state . Some of them were arrested at  various locations in the state. 

" Investigations is ongoing for those who are still in our custody while others have  been charged to court . 

" But this time, it is zero tolerance to thuggery and all forms of crimes during the election . Our men are on ground to prevent breakdown of law and order during the election."

The Commissioner also explained that the problem of thuggery emanates  from overzealous supporters who normally commit electoral crimes which their principals never authorized them. 

He therefore advised the candidates to talk to their supporters to keep to the  provisions of the peace deal in order to achieve a peaceful elections in the state. 

Candidates who signed the Peace Accord deal include Pastor Umo Eno of Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) , Senator John James Akpan Udoedeghe of New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNDP) , senator Bassey Albert of Young Progressives Peoples Party (YPP) and governoship  candidate of African Alliance Congress( AAC) Mr Iboro Otu. 

Others include governoship candidate of Accord Party ,Emem Koffi , Akanimo Udofia for All Progressives Congress( APC) Akanimo Ekpenyong for Booth Party , Uduakobong Peter , Labour Party ( LP) Ita Ekpe for All Progressives Crand Alliance (APGA,) among others . 

The Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state urged the candidates to educate  their supporters in the need for peace during the election as only one winner will emerged at the end . 

The Resident Electoral Commisioner who was represented by Administrative Officer of the commission said the Electoral Umpire was ready to conduct free and credible election in the state . 

" We are dedicated to our service in the state. We will ensure that materials arrived polling units on time . " 

All the candidates who responded appealed to police and other security agencies remain impartial throughout conduct of the poll in the state adding that anything contrary can stoke violence at the polling unit. 

They maintained that the peace initiative will be sustained by fairness of security agencies during and after the election. Appealing to security agencies to check conducts of candidates and their supporters to forestall breakdown of order during the election . 

Right group raises alarm over plots to import fake security , thugs in A'Ibom

By Freshgist 

A human right group under the aegis of Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN), Akwa Ibom chapter, has raised the alarm over an alleged plot by some politicians to import fake security operatives as well as  thugs  from neighboring states into Akwa Ibom state to unleash violence during the gubernatorial and State House of Assembly elections in the state.

This was disclosed to newsmen in Uyo, yesterday during a press conference by Akwa Ibom State director of CHRAN, Otuekong Franklyn Isong. Urging the police and other security agencies to team up security in the state, especially in riverine areas before, during and after the elections to forestall a security crisis.

 “worrisome to us is the fact that our intelligence network revealed that some politicians in Akwa Ibom State are perfecting plots to import thugs as well as real or fake security personnel from neighbouring states, particularly Rivers, Abia and Bayelsa States with the intention to subvert the vote and wishes of the Akwa Ibom people during the Governorship and State House of Assembly elections.

"We urge the security agencies in the state to pay serious attention to our riverine bordering communities before, during and after the elections.

“The political parties and the elites in particular should see elections as processes to elect leaders by the people and not warfare.” He stated

Isong also commended the state government for providing adequate security during the February 25 polls.

He cautioned politicians against causing security threats during the elections, reminding them that politics should not be approached with a do or die spirit.

Guber 2023: NUT Decry Non-payment Of Entitlements By A'Ibom Gov't, endorses OBA

 

By Freshgist 

The Nigerian Union of Teachers in Akwa Ibom State, have endorsed  the Governorship Candidate of the Young Progressives Party (YPP), Senator (Obong) Bassey Albert Akpan (OBA) CON, as the next governor of the state, urging him to pay attention to the welfare of workers once he comes on board.

Speaking in uyo, Akwa ibom state capital yesterday, the leadership of Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) state wing in a meeting held with Senator Albert at the Teachers House, 14B IBB Way, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State on Wednesday, March 8, 2023 lamented non payment of entitlements and poor working environment.

Setting the tone for the meeting, a veteran labour leader, who doubled as State Chairman of NUT and NLC, Comrade (Elder) Etim Ukpong acknowledged OBA as one whose tenure as the Commissioner of Finance in Akwa Ibom State had availed him with first-hand information on the salaries and welfare packages of Teachers in the State.

“Your coming here is apt. We have long awaited this opportunity to interact with you. We are convinced that with your wealth of experience, your quest to serve as Governor of this state is to see that all those wrongs mated on teachers are corrected. This is the reason we have all resolved to vote for you on Saturday, March 18, 2023,” he stated.

Presenting his address, the Senator Bassey Albert,  representing Akwa Ibom North East Senatorial District, thanked them for their prayers for him and his family during his incarceration and reiterated his commitment to improving teachers‘ conditions of service.

“As Teachers, it is time for you to step into a very strong and convincing partnership with someone that you are convinced to support based on his antecedents; someone who can ameliorate the plights of teachers. You must be given your rightful place and that is why in our policy on education, we see education as being pivotal to our development and therefore can not be ignored," he said.

While speaking on the role of teachers in the society, OBA posited that the welfare of teachers should be addressed by any administration as it is critical to the growth and development of the society.

“I believe that there’s no cause worth fighting for than the collective cause of a people. I don’t need to be told on the plight of teachers in Akwa Ibom State. I have been with you for many years and I know the conditions of service. I also know the state of dilapidated infrastructures across the 31 Local Government Areas. 

"I believe that your welfare is very important and we intend to address it as soon as we are sworn into office by the grace of God on May 29, 2023,” he expressed.

Responding, the State Chairman of NUT, Comrade Edet O. A. Emenyi thanked OBA for making out time to meet with teachers in the state despite his busy schedule, especially during this electioneering period. 

Emenyi however regretted hosting the YPP Gubernatorial Candidate in the severely dilapidated auditorium of the Teachers House. 

“We thank you for coming to speak with us. Let me use this opportunity to inundate you with our numerous problems which have become a pandemic. The teachers in Akwa Ibom are faced with numerous problems ranging from non-payment of a 7.5% pension reduction to non-payment of promotion arrears from 2011 - 2017. Permit me to also mention here that when you eventually assume office as Governor, you will be inheriting Leave-Grant arrears of 6 years,” he stated. 

Presenting a document highlighting the numerous challenges facing the teachers in the state, Comrade Emenyi described as being handicapped by non-payment of their incentives and accused the Udom Emmanuel-led administration of inducing some political bottlenecks to indirectly deny teachers due for promotion the opportunity to benefit from the process. 

He questioned the rationale for introducing an examination meant for senior management staff of the core civil service for teachers‘ promotion, the reason why no teacher has been promoted to a Permanent Secretary in recent times, and the dichotomy between the primary and secondary sectors, which has seen secondary school teachers promoted to Level 17 while the primary school teachers are terminated at Level 16. 

The NUT State Secretary, Dr. Sam Umo Inyang, who delivered the vote thanks affirmed OBA’s capacity and capability to govern Akwa Ibom State saying no good politician can ignore the population of over 20,000 teachers across the state and their influence in their families and the society at large.

He urged OBA to remain focused on protecting and defending the mandate of people as will be given on Saturday, March 18, 2023.

A'Ibom SWAN: Emmanuel Akpan, Others Get 2nd Term Mandate

 

By Freshgist 

The Akwa Ibom State Chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) have installed new executive council to run another tenure of three years service.

The sitting chairman, Comrade  Emmanuel Akpan alongside four others members of the former Exco who include Comrades Anthony Effiong as Vice Chairman, Theophilus Udo as Secretary, James Akpan as Assistant Secretary and Patrick Titus as Treasurer.

were reelected haven't returned unopposed.

The election which took place on Wednesday at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre, Information Drive, Uyo, was supervised by the National President of SWAN, Honour Sirawo, who was represented by the  South-South Vice President, Otuekong Bonny Nyong.

Reacting on behalf of the new executive, Comrade Emmanuel Akpan thanked members of the Association for finding him and his executive worthy of reelection, while promising that they would do more to make Akwa Ibom SWAN great.

"First of all, I thank God for another opportunity to serve as Chairman of SWAN, Akwa Ibom State Chapter.

"I am grateful to members for reelecting me for another term, unopposed. I promise that I and my exco will do more than we did during our first tenure. Welfare of our members will remain a priority."

Akpan also applauded the Electoral Committee (SWANECO) led by former South-South Vice President of SWAN, Justice Udousoro for conducting a peaceful and transparent election.

Emmanuel Akpan's first term witnessed strong synergy with 30 sports associations while members also enjoyed robust welfare packages among other incentives, all tailoring at improved reportage of sporting activities in the state.

Goodwill messages were given by various personalities present. All

congratulated Emmanuel Akpan and his executive on their reelection, and urged them to do more in their second term which runs till 2026.

They include, former SWAN Chairman - Professor Uwem Akpan, NUJ Chairman - Comrade Amos Etuk, South-South Vice President of SWAN and representative of the National President, Otuekong Bonny Nyong, former SWAN Chairman, Uwem Ekoh,  board member of the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation, Mr. Lawrence Iquaibom, Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Football Association, Samuel Umoh, Chairman of the Federated Chapel of the NUJ, Nsibiet John 

The new executive who took Oaths of Office and Allegiance and were issued Certificates of Return later treated members with a love feast.

A'Ibom SWAN: Emmanuel Akpan, Others Get 2nd Term Mandate

By Theresa Donatus, Uyo

The Akwa Ibom State Chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) have installed new executive council to run another tenure of three years service.

The sitting chairman, Comrade  Emmanuel Akpan alongside four others members of the former Exco who include Comrades Anthony Effiong as Vice Chairman, Theophilus Udo as Secretary, James Akpan as Assistant Secretary and Patrick Titus as Treasurer.

were reelected haven't returned unopposed.

The election which took place on Wednesday at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre, Information Drive, Uyo, was supervised by the National President of SWAN, Honour Sirawo, who was represented by the  South-South Vice President, Otuekong Bonny Nyong.

Reacting on behalf of the new executive, Comrade Emmanuel Akpan thanked members of the Association for finding him and his executive worthy of reelection, while promising that they would do more to make Akwa Ibom SWAN great.

"First of all, I thank God for another opportunity to serve as Chairman of SWAN, Akwa Ibom State Chapter.

"I am grateful to members for reelecting me for another term, unopposed. I promise that I and my exco will do more than we did during our first tenure. Welfare of our members will remain a priority."

Akpan also applauded the Electoral Committee (SWANECO) led by former South-South Vice President of SWAN, Justice Udousoro for conducting a peaceful and transparent election.

Emmanuel Akpan's first term witnessed strong synergy with 30 sports associations while members also enjoyed robust welfare packages among other incentives, all tailoring at improved reportage of sporting activities in the state.

Goodwill messages were given by various personalities present. All

congratulated Emmanuel Akpan and his executive on their reelection, and urged them to do more in their second term which runs till 2026.

They include, former SWAN Chairman - Professor Uwem Akpan, NUJ Chairman - Comrade Amos Etuk, South-South Vice President of SWAN and representative of the National President, Otuekong Bonny Nyong, former SWAN Chairman, Uwem Ekoh,  board member of the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation, Mr. Lawrence Iquaibom, Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Football Association, Samuel Umoh, Chairman of the Federated Chapel of the NUJ, Nsibiet John 

The new executive who took Oaths of Office and Allegiance and were issued Certificates of Return later treated members with a love feast.

A'Ibom SWAN: Emmanuel Akpan, Others Get 2nd Term Mandate

By Theresa Donatus, Uyo

The Akwa Ibom State Chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) have installed new executive council to run another tenure of three years service.

The sitting chairman, Comrade  Emmanuel Akpan alongside four others members of the former Exco who include Comrades Anthony Effiong as Vice Chairman, Theophilus Udo as Secretary, James Akpan as Assistant Secretary and Patrick Titus as Treasurer.

were reelected haven't returned unopposed.

The election which took place on Wednesday at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre, Information Drive, Uyo, was supervised by the National President of SWAN, Honour Sirawo, who was represented by the  South-South Vice President, Otuekong Bonny Nyong.

Reacting on behalf of the new executive, Comrade Emmanuel Akpan thanked members of the Association for finding him and his executive worthy of reelection, while promising that they would do more to make Akwa Ibom SWAN great.

"First of all, I thank God for another opportunity to serve as Chairman of SWAN, Akwa Ibom State Chapter.

"I am grateful to members for reelecting me for another term, unopposed. I promise that I and my exco will do more than we did during our first tenure. Welfare of our members will remain a priority."

Akpan also applauded the Electoral Committee (SWANECO) led by former South-South Vice President of SWAN, Justice Udousoro for conducting a peaceful and transparent election.

Emmanuel Akpan's first term witnessed strong synergy with 30 sports associations while members also enjoyed robust welfare packages among other incentives, all tailoring at improved reportage of sporting activities in the state.

Goodwill messages were given by various personalities present. All

congratulated Emmanuel Akpan and his executive on their reelection, and urged them to do more in their second term which runs till 2026.

They include, former SWAN Chairman - Professor Uwem Akpan, NUJ Chairman - Comrade Amos Etuk, South-South Vice President of SWAN and representative of the National President, Otuekong Bonny Nyong, former SWAN Chairman, Uwem Ekoh,  board member of the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation, Mr. Lawrence Iquaibom, Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Football Association, Samuel Umoh, Chairman of the Federated Chapel of the NUJ, Nsibiet John 

The new executive who took Oaths of Office and Allegiance and were issued Certificates of Return later treated members with a love feast.

Just in: Ekong wins senate

Distinguished Senator Ekong Sampson PhD

Dr. Ekong Sampson has been announced as Senator-elect for Akwa Ibom South and winner of yesterday's National Assembly election in Eket Senatorial District. The Onomkpoinam Mkpat Enin won with a very wide margin.

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#DistinguishedSenatorEkongSampson

Fuel, Naira Scarcity: CHRAN Urges A'Ibom Govt To Give Palliatives

 

By Freshgist

A human rights group, under the aegis of Center For Human Rights & Accountability Network (CHRAN) has called on the Akwa ibom state government to give palliatives to the citizenry particularly, the vulnerable, in the face of scarcity of fuel and Naira currency in the State.

In a press statement signed by the State Director of CHRAN, Otuekong Franklyn Isong, on Sunday, 19th February, 2023, and made available to newsmen in Uyo, the group noted that the call has become neccessary in order to cushion the biting effects of hardship in the State.

The pro-democracy group asserted that it was making the call knowing that the "security and welfare of the citizens are the primary purpose of government," according to Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).

The advocacy group urged the President, Mr. Muhammadu Buhari and the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele to obey the Supreme Court order by allowing the circulation of the old and new Naira notes in the country as ordered by the court. 

The rights group maintained that the Presidential Broadcast on the redesigned Naira notes was a breached of Section 235 of the 1999 Constitution, which makes the Supreme Court of Nigeria the final authority in legal pronouncements in Nigeria.

The group further stated that under Section 287(1) of the 1999 Constitution, the President is statutorily required to obey, enforce and give effect to the decision of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, calling on the President to comply with the apex court order.

ESD 2023: Group Endorses Ekong Sampson for Senate

 

By freshgist

A non governmental organisation under the aegis of Amana group of companies has endorsed Dr Ekong Sampson as sole candidate for  Senate, Eket Senatorial District, Akwa Ibom state.

The endorsement took place  in uyo over the weekend by the chairman of the Amana groups of companies, Engr. Sir EDET Amana, who declared total support for Dr Ekong Sampson as candidate for Senate, Eket Senatorial District, Akwa Ibom South come February 25, 2023 national assembly election. 

Sir Amana,a renowned engineer and one time presidential aspirant under the platform of the defunct All People Party who threw his weight behind Dr Ekong Sampson said that the candidate is eminently favoured by the zoning arrangement upheld in the region for the Eket Senate seat.

According to Amana, "Go and tell everybody that I am supporting Ekong Sampson for Senate and I'm so proud of saying this publicly today because from experience he remains the best for the job and zoning favours him. 

Dr. Ekong Sampson, former two term member of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, has continued to enjoy waves of support across the high, mighty and the grassroots base in Eket Senatorial District for his senate bid. 

Sampson goes into the Snate race with a rich background, having served as Chief Legislative Aide to Senator Udoma Udoma in the 2000s. He then went on to be Chairman of Council, Mkpat Enin and later Honourable Commissioner for a number of years across various ministries in the Akwa Ibom State Government.

ISD 2023: I'm Not Fronting For Akpabio - YPP Candidate

 

                      Rt Hon Emmanuel Ekon

By Freshgist 

Ahead of February 25th, 2023 Senatorial election, the Akwa Ibom North-West (Ikot Ekpene) Senatorial District leading contender on the platform of the Young Progressives Party (YPP), Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Ekon, has cleared the air on the controversy making the rounds that he was fronting for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

In an interview with our correspondent in uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital, the former House of Representatives member for Abak Federal Constituency, dismissed the rumour as "a deliberately orchestrated propaganda by mischief makers with evil intent to break the ranks of my teeming supporters across the 10 Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom North-West."

Ekon, a former two - term member and Chairman of the Local Content Committee in the 9th National Assembly, noted that "the major aim of the purveyors of such infantile and baseless falsehood are my competitiors who are afraid of my towering popularlty amongst the electorates, who are willing and ready to join hands with me address decades of discrimination and injustice against the people of Abak Federal Constituency, who had never produced a Senator in the last 60 years."

Urging his teeming supporters to "disregard the cheap lies intended to again rob the Abak Federal Constituency of its long and overdue right in 2023", Ekon recalled that the slot had over the years been rotated only between the Ikot Ekpene, Ukanafun/Oruk and Ikot/Ini Federal Constituencies, leaving the zone he described as Abak--3, comprising of Abak, Etim Ekpo and Ika, to wallow in wanton underdevelopment, infrastructural decay and joblessness amongst the youths.

He said: "I, and Godswill Akpabio, we don't belong in the same political party. Godswill is a member of APC,from Essien Udim LGA in Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency.  By the grace of God, I am a candidate of the YPP, from Etim in Abak Federal Constituency. My major mission is to return to the Red Chamber in order to address these injustice meted on the zone for several years.

"I thank God for Chief Don Etiebet, he is a Board of Trustees (BoT) member of the APC, from Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency. He pointedly told Akpabio to leave this contest for only contenders from Abak--3, for the sake justice, equity and fair play, yet he (Godswill) remains adamant, even when it was obvious that the former Deputy Inspector General of (DIG) Udom Ekpoudom, my kinsman from Etim Ekpo LGA, was on the verge of getting the ticket.

"I am urging stakeholders, elders, leaders and youths including all eligible voters from the zone to rise up against this bare-face impunity and injustice against a people who had over the years chosen the path of honour to wait for these number of years. Therefore, we must take the battle in our hands to correct this anomaly with our Permanent Voter's Cards (PVCS).

"So, I am appealing to everyone desirous of this all important change to be armed with their PVCs to effect this necessary change peacefully, so that empowerment, jobs and infrastructural development can also locate the people in other areas. Godswill surrendered the slot in 2019 to outgoing Senator Chris Ekpenyong, his kinsman from the same Federal Constituency. Now, he is angling for the same seat again, it's to stop this unhealthy cycle for equity and fair play.

"I have been there for eight years in the Green Chamber and the records are there. As the Chairman of the Local Content Committee for four years (2015 -2019), beneficiaries of oil industry job and training, scholarships, skills  acquisition, empowerment and infrastructural development are there for people to see courtesy of my effective representation.

"Then the latitude of my representation was small, this time around, going to the Red Chamber with your support, I promise to bring a new narrative of development as a ranking member with larger latitude. I understand the essential needs of the people as we campaign across wards and villages of the Senatorial District.

"Let there be fresh air in Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District, the the young ones embrace a new paradigm shift from the old order. I understand people are being paid N10,000 for their PVCs, I want to implore you, If they come to you, collect the money, it's your own, but don't trade your conscience because if you do, you have sold your for eight years."

FUEL HIKE: Rights group tasks Emmanuel, DSS, ors to intervene in A’Ibom

 

Otuekong Franklin Isong, Akwa Ibom state Director of Centre for Human Rights and Accountability Network

By Fresh gist

A rights group under the aegis of Centre for Human Rights and Accountability Network, has urged the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, the Department of State Services, the Department of Petroleum Resources and other relevant agencies to wade into the hike in price and adulteration of petroleum products in Akwa Ibom State.

The CHRAN state Director, Otuekong Franklin Isong,  disclosed this while unveiling the state executives of the organisation at Watbridge Hotel and Suites in Uyo on Friday,  added that apart from the hike in pump price of fuel, his office had received reports of many fuel stations selling adulterated petrol which has resulted in damage of fuel pumps and engines of many vehicles in Akwa Ibom State, urged the DSS to extend the ultimatum it gave to marketers in Abuja to revert to government approved pump price to Akwa Ibom State and ensure that the ultimatum is complied with by petroleum marketers in the state.

He expressed sadness over the agencies inability to do their work perfectly, as they keep remaining silent over the sufferings of Akwa Ibom people, as marketers have pegged the price of fuel at N300 even with adjusted meters.

Cross section of CHRAN Excos, Akwa Ibom state

The CHRAN director urged the DPR to do more in the area of monitoring the filling stations to ensure that they are not dispensing in adjusted meter or adulterated products.

 he also called on the Special Assistant to the Governor on Petroleum Matters, Mr. Victor Etefia, to “live up to his responsibilities”, ensuring that marketers comply with the government prescribed price, even as he wondered why no filling station had been sealed off or sanctioned for flouting government’s directive.

His words, “Where did we get this fuel price increase from? why are we buying a litre of fuel in Akwa Ibom at N300 and above? I cannot understand where this is coming from. The pumps in most areas are adjusted and the fuel itself adulterated and nobody is doing anything about it.

“CHRAN is using this medium to call on the SSA to the Governor on Petroleum Monitoring, Mr Victor Etefia, to rise to the occasion and address the people of the state on the matter. Let’s know why we are getting fuel at N300 and above per litre, what is the cause of it? Let’s know why the pumps are adjusted, we want to know why we are getting adulterated fuel in Akwa Ibom?

“Recall that in the days of former SSAs, they used to monitor filling stations to know what is happening there and any erring station would be sealed off. We are also calling on DPR a subsidiary of NNPC whose duty it is to check the malpractices of petrol stations to come to Akwa Ibom State to see what is happening here.

“We are calling on the DSS that issued ultimatum to marketers in Abuja that they should revert to the official pump price because this particular increase, is economic sabotage. We are asking the DSS in Akwa Ibom why they have not gone to check the pump price in the state? We are suffering, we are calling on the state government, the SSA to Governor on Petroleum Matters, the DPR, and the DSS to intervene as the suffering is untoward.”

Speaking on the lined up of activities of the newly inaugurated executive of the organisation, Isong said the group would organise a town hall forum for all the governorship candidates in Akwa Ibom State, where each candidate would speak about his blueprint and how he intends to implement it, if elected as governor of the state.

He also hinted that CHRAN would monitor and track all projects executed at the local government levels  by the 31 council chairmen before their exit in order to know how the local communities were faring and draw the government’s attention were necessary.

“We are going further to look at the local government and see how the communities are faring so also we will be doing with the House members. You can’t stay at the comfort of your home to know what the government is doing, rather we have to go to the field. So CHRAN is going to give a good balancing to government because the state governor cannot be everywhere at the same time, all we need in the state is good governance.

“We want the candidates during our town hall forum to speak on their manifesto and explain how they will implement the programmes and manifestoes,” he said.

CLO Chairman resigns, assumes CHRAN State Director in A'Ibom

  

BY freshgist

The Chairman of the Civil Liberties Organisation, Akwa Ibom State chapter,  Otuekong Franklyn Isong has resigned from office.

The resignation came immidiately after he was appointed as the State Director, Center For Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) Akwa Ibom Council.

Isong who resigned while serving his second tenure as the CLO chairman disclosed this in a press conference in Uyo on Friday following the approval of his resignation at the CLO's Congress held on Thursday, January 5, 2023.

Otuekong Isong said it was neccessary for him to leave to avoid conflict of interest and to give undivided attention to his new office as both offices perform similar functions.

He, however, promised to work with the new Executive of the CLO for the betterment of the people and urged them not to hesitate to seek his advice when the need arises even as he thanked CLO members and the public for the support given his leadership in all his advocacies as the CLO chairman.

His words, "I thank members of the press and the public for supporting the advocacies we had carried out for the past years I was the Chairman of CLO.

"I started as the  Publicity & Campaign Secretary of the CLO and then the Vice Chairman after that I became the Acting Chairman before I became the Chairman. I had traversed all the levels of leadership in the State and I have paid my dues in CLO.

"As they said,  'whatever has a begining must have an ending', in 2023, I got a new appointment as the State Director, Center For Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) and that will automatically conflict with my activities in CLO.

 "So two days ago, I resigned in our state Congress and I told my members that we will still rub minds together, that I'm still a member of CLO but, cannot function as the state chairman anymore."

Isong also highlighted some of his achievements as the chairman of CLO which included more of advocacies for good governance in the country and in Akwa Ibom State; holding public office holders accountable, and making inputs in public hearings organised by the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly on Bills.

Birthday anniversary

 

Ghanaian actor JOHN DUMELO celebrates 72 years  birthday🎂🎂🎂 of his Lovely mother ANTOINETTE Amah DUMELO🌹🥀🎊

Christmas: Udom urges politicians to shun violent

 

Governor of Akwa Ibom state, His Excellency, Mr Udom G. Emmanuel making his broadcast speech on 25th Dec, 2022

By Theresa Don, Uyo

Akwa Ibom state governor, His excellency, Mr Udom Emmanuel has called on the political class, leaders  and stakeholders to shun violent and conduct themselves during the transition period with utmost decency and circumspection.

In his Christmas broadcast yesterday in Uyo, Gov. Emmanuel  cautioned politicians not to burn down the homes they had built, and ignite violence through the words of their mouth.

According to him: “I call on our political class and stakeholders to conduct themselves during this period of transition with utmost decency and circumspection. Leadership demands of us a certain display of wisdom and tact.

"Leaders, don’t burn down the homes they had built, leaders don’t ignite violence through the words of their mouth. Leaders don’t engage in peddling falsehood and misinformation, neither do they deploy violence as a means of getting elected into political offices.

"Leaders do not attack and insult the very institution and the symbol they aspire to represent. Leaders should and must understand that the cords of our unity, of brotherhood and of our common patrimony remain enduring and rock-solid, and that political foes you know today may be allies tomorrow.

“As we get ready to elect our new set of leaders, I urge our people to know that, that same God who granted us a State, 35 years ago, with dusty streets and thatched roofed houses sandwiched between a number of concrete structures, a State where the aspiration of some of our people was to go to Lagos and elsewhere and be domestic workers and gatekeepers, has done Supreme things in our lives”

"The Governor who noted that the 2022 Christmas broadcast is the last he would present as a governor, thanked Akwa Ibom people for their kind prayers, support, constructive criticism, and for the love they have shown him, since they gave him the mandate to lead them, in 2015.

He advised them to leverage on the achievements recorded by his administration especially in the Aviation, Education, Healthcare, infrastructure and Security sectors.

"Today, I can raise my hands to the Heavens and say to the Almighty God, thank you for what you have done for us. Today, in aviation industry, Akwa Ibom State leads the nation with Ibom Air.

“Over a thousand jobs have been created for our people through Ibom Air and our coordinated aviation development- the Maintenance, Repairs and Overhaul (MRO) the smartest international Terminal in the nation are testaments to vision and creativity.

“We must protect these achievements, leverage on them and continue the building blocks rather than destroy them. We give God Almighty the glory for His love, guidance, protection, grace and blessings to us as individuals and to our dear State in the year that is about to come to an end.

“We definitely have a lot to thank Him for. This speech is not one for our scorecard. Our scorecard is nationally known and locally appreciated. And this scorecard, is the reason why there must be continuity so we don’t turn back the clock of development and growth of our State.

“This season is one of love, of giving and of hope. Let us offer a hand to lift up those who may be at the lowest rungs of life’s ladder, let us give them a reason to be cheerful and hopeful .

"If you have been blessed, please reach out to your kindred in need and show love as the season of the birth of our Saviour demonstrates.

“As I get ready to brace the tape, I do so, with a heart of gratitude to you my dear people, a grateful heart to the One who made all these possible through His only Begotten Son, our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, whose Birth, we are today celebrating”, the governor added.

ESD 2023: Group, Mkpat Enin people drums support for Ekong Sampson, chides former works boss for allege interference

 

By  freshgist

A political group under the aegis of MKPAT ENIN UNITY NETWORK , and representatives of Mkpat Enin people have declared their total support for the former commissioner for environment and mineral resources, Rt. Hon. Barr Ekong Sampson PhD, People Democratic Party candidate for Akwa Ibom South (Eket) senatorial district.

The group also chided governor Emmanuel's former aid, Akparawa ephraim inyang-eyen for what they described as  "malaria-induced dream of endorsement for senate by mkpat enin stake holders, added that such endorsement was dead on arrival as Mkpat Enin people have come out in numbers to openly reject the former Works Commissioner over his 'call to lawlessness ambition'.

In a Press Release signed by the National Coordinator of Mkpat Enin Unity Network, Dr Akpabio Akpabio, Chapter Coordinator, Hon. Joe Akpan, General Secretary, Barr. Ebeute Ebeute and Director Public Affairs, Hon. Mbat Udoinyang, the group frowned at Mr Inyang-eyen's desperation for power, noted that the Senate seat in Eket Senatorial District has been zoned to Ikot Abasi Federal Constituency and Mkpat Enin Local Government Area in particular.

The statement read in parts:

"Ephraim Inyang is insulting Mkpat Enin people and indeed, Akwa Ibom South people by struggling the Senate seat with Mkpat Enin out of his sheer greed and sense of ingratitude. Mkpat Enin is the vote basket of PDP and has for decades, put in so much for the Akwa Ibom Project. We do not deserve this kind of insult from the likes of Ephraim Inyang and his sponsored clowns. Indeed, Ephraim is acting like a conscienceless ingrate, lawless opportunist and power desperado by attacking the well-established Senate zoning arrangement in Akwa Ibom South.

" Ephraim Inyang-eyen is from Onna Local Government Area in Eket Federal Constituency who had already taken their turns in the Senate. Ephraim Inyang-eyen was in the meetings that the decision was taken that after all the three federal constituencies in Akwa Ibom South had taken their turns in the Senate, the baton should return to Ikot Abasi Federal Constituency where it began.

 

"Mkpat Enin people are solidly behind the candidacy of Barr. Ekong Sampson, noting that it was appropriate for the rotation of the Senate seat which started from Ikot Abasi Federal Constituency and later moved to Eket and then to Oron Federal constituencies, to come back to Ikot Abasi Federal constituency – specifically to Mkpat Enin. Even other political parties have brought out their senatorial candidates from Mkpat Enin out of the zoning arrangement. But Ephraim Inyang will not hear of this, typical of a lawless behavior.

"Mkpat Enin people wonder what Mr. Inyang-eyen would be remembered for, when he adamantly said that some major roads in Mkpat Enin have no economic value and refused to push for their construction in the area during his tenure as Commissioner for Works. No indigene of Mkpat Enin can point to any meaningful empowerment from him.

"Mkpat Enin local government area has a mature political culture and knows how to appreciate leaders unlike Ephraim Inyang-eyen whose lifestyle is characterized by a sense of ingratitude exemplified in his rudeness and insult which he has constantly meted out to the State Governor, His Excellency, Mr. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel, a man who gave him a life-turning podium to climb and stand on. And we ask, like others, why is Ephraim Inyang telling lies and trying to incite the public against Governor Udom Emmanuel, who helped him? Is this not the same way Ephraim Inyang wants to payback Akwa Ibom South people, given the fact that an ingrate has no conscience and can easily bite the finger that fed him?" the statement questioned, rhetorically.

"People who are supporting Dr. Ekong Sampson and Mkpat Enin are people with conscience and respect for law and order. They respect the benefits of zoning. They also appreciate that Ekong Sampson worked in the Senate before he became Local Government Chairman, House of Assembly Member and Commissioner. These people respect Mkpat Enin as a Local Government Area. They respect zoning, experience, capacity and character which favour Ekong Sampson for Senate.

"No amount of blackmail, sponsored twisted propaganda, attempts to divert and curry public sympathy and sheer lawlessness, can make Ephraim Inyang usurp the turn of Mkpat Enin for Senate. For purpose of emphasis, Mkpat Enin stands like the rock of Gibraltar behind Gov. Udom Emmanuel and will support him to the end of his administration and to produce his successor, Pastor Umo Eno who is proudly married to our great daughter, Pastor (Mrs) Umo Eno. Enough is enough.

Mkpat Enin people re-echoed their unwavering support for Governor Udom Emmanuel and Completion Agenda and Succession Plan, saying they were going to vote for their proud in-law, Pastor Umo Eno and all the PDP candidates.

The statement reaffirmed the position of Mkpat Enin people and that of the entire Akwa Ibom South, saying they were solidly behind the candidacy of Dr. Ekong Sampson.

2023 Election: A'Ibom govt, USAID S2S activities lists modalities to curb, mitigates conflicts.

 By Freshgist

The State2state Team Lead (STL), Akwa Ibom state, Mr. Borve Paago-Imabel, presenting his welcome address

Ahead of the 2023 general election, The Akwa Ibom state government in partnership with United States Agency for International Development ( USAID)- State Accountability, Transparency and Effectiveness, (State2State) Activity have recently listed some modalities on how to prevent and mitigeate conflicts.

 During  a 2 Day quarterly dialogue on conflict prevention and mitigation, Rosemohr hotel, Uyo, the State capital, the State2state Team Lead (STL) Mr. Borve Paago-Imabel in his opening remark disclosed that  while working to increase responsiveness of citizen priorities, S2S activities also have the mandate to improve stakeholders capacity to manage societal conflict through prevention, mitigation and reconciliation.

He posited that the aim of  the dialogue was designed to facilitate inclusive and responsive multi-stakeholder analysis of identified hot spots of electoral violence in Akwa Ibom state, and identify likely impact of electoral violence on political and socio-economic peace and stability.

Paago-Imabel said its partnership with the stakeholders was to design an electoral violence prevention strategy including action plan to prevent and mitigate the impact of electoral violence in the state and follow up action plans.

Director of Centre for Alternative Dispute Resolution, Very Fr. John O. Ebebe during his paper presentation.

In his keynote address, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Ini Ememobong lauded USAID, State2State Activity  for what he described as a timely response dialogue against the 2023 general election.

Ememobong who was represented by a Director of his Ministry, Mrs. Grace Akpan, advocated for the use of emotional intelligence, the principle of the 4-way test, in addition to creating an Early Warning System (EWS) during electioneering.

According to him, “This EWS can either be an independent agency or a unit in INEC, which monitors the political space and identifies triggers of conflict and issues public warnings to and sanctions against the culprits. This will serve as a discalation technique that prevents full blown conflict. This agency or unit must be manned by people of impeccable character who are knowledgeable in conflict dynamics.”

He added that general elections must be taken very seriously, since every other development within a democracy is rooted in elections. 

In his words, “When democracy shakes, no sectoral foundation can be stable- which is why political scientists postulate that the worst democracy is better than the best dictatorship. 

“The ballot is the source of authority of our elected officials and therefore must be undertaken without fear and coercion. Pre and post election conflict must be consciously prevented by everyone concerned with the entire process. The players must adopt FairPlay as a principle while the umpire must make transparency their foundation, navies conflict in election sprouts when there is a suspicion of unfair play-field or attempts at rigging.

Ememobong also disclosed the use of Rotary four way-test as modality to a good communication strategy to prevent and mitigate conflict during campaigns for general elections.

He urged politicians to be more carefully with their utterances, avoiding in total the use of hate- speeches

"Conflict can be avoided if we apply the communication techniques  to our realities, eg, if politicians during their campaigns use their anger to scold as a yard stick to measure provocative speeches, they will be more carefully with their utterances , that if what they intended to say about another candidate was said to them, they will be anger enough to react. If they also use the Rotory four wheel test to asked themselves questions like; "what I'm about to say, Is it the truth?, is it fair to all?, will it build goodwill and better friendship to all? Will it be beneficial to all concern?

"Then their communication will not be based on personal attacks, I have chosen to dwell on communications because of it's numerous ability to cause conflagration  in unimaginable proportion and can also be  used resolve conflicts.

"So if we get our communication right, then conflicts will be prevented.

"Let me thank USAID, S2S activities for organizing this event at this critical time, I must say that this dialogue is timely.

In his speech,  the Head of Operations, Independent National Electoral Commission INEC, Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Vincent commended State2State for the dialogue noting that outcome of the dialogue will enhance their work.

He added “Election violence is peculiar to democracy even in advanced societies. However, the more we practice democracy, the better we are. What causes electoral violence is that our politicians have not found their root of convergence which is public interest.

” We are glad that there is a new sheriff in town, Biometric Voter Accreditation System ( BVAS). It makes the polling unit the centre of the universe. Power has returned to the street and politicians have been handicapped.

The event also had a presentation from the Director of Centre for Alternative Dispute Resolution, Very Fr. John O. Ebebe on “Contextual Understanding of the Conflict Environment. (Inclusive Multi-Stakeholder Identification and Mapping of Electoral Violence Hot Spots)

Other dignitaries who graced the events were officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), youth leaders, Persons Living with disability, Religious leaders, Government officials, Civil Society Organisations, the Media among other stakeholders put heads together to fashion out possible cause of election conflicts in Akwa Ibom State and how to prevent or mitigate it.

Ibom Air: Gov Obaseki Commissions Two New Airbuses

 

Two air busses added to Ibom air Fleets

By Freshgist

The Executive governor  of  Edo State, HE Godwin Obaseki has commissioned two Airbus A320-200  recently acquired by the Akwa Ibom State Government into the fleet of Ibom Air. 

Performing the Inauguration at Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo on Tuesday, Obaseki declared Akwa Ibom as flagship state in the country for its effort to invest and expand in a sector he said Nigeria as biggest country in Africa could not successfully run.

He commended Governor Udom Emmanuel for his significant strides in the aviation sector. 

"Even Nigeria as biggest country in Africa cannot run an Aviation sector successfully. Ibom Air is always fully booked. Let me thank you on behalf of Nigerians. Don't be deterred by insult, focus on your goal". He advised

Delivering the aircrafts to Ibom Air, Governor Udom Emmanuel said the addition was In  response to the demands of the season.

Emmanuel said as responsible administration, he has committed huge resources to the development of the aviation sector in the state. 

He said he had committed more funds than  received from the federal government to the development of the state, even as he was at the verge of commissioning a world class Terminal Building and a Maintainance, Repair and Overhaul facility at the airport. 

"We did not come to give excuses, we came to do governance. Look at what we have done in the aviation sector, if it is not more than what we have collected, then you can challenge me anywhere. 

"Our terminal building there is world class in Africa, our MRO is world class . If  you find one today in the entire Gulf of Guinea, tell me I will break down this one and construct another. This MRO can take 24/47 800 series.  Would service eight of the CRJs that we are flying at the same time. This is the only MRO in this part of the world. People are coming, asking us to lease this MRO. 

 "I invest in areas we can have return on our investment. Airbus is on us to come and use our MRO for all their regional flights. We are going to open up this place from January next year for commercial activities and we are going to earn in dollars, not Naira". He said 

In his welcome remarks, the Managing Director / Chief Executive Officer, Ibom Airlines Limited, Captain Mfon Udom announced plans to commence regional flight from 2023. 

He said the new addition to the fleet of Ibom Air would not only expand it carrying capacity but would also boost employment opportunity by 40per cent. 

In a release earlier, the Chief Operating Officer, Mr George Uries had earlier hinted

"With this new capacity coming on board, we are delighted to inform our passengers that we have increased our offerings, providing more frequencies for their convenience. 

"The Uyo-Lagos and Uyo-Abuja route now have three frequencies every weekday, while our passengers between Lagos and Abuja will have seven frequencies to choose from both ways, every weekday”.  

The two Airbus A320-200 aircrafts were said to have been procured from GetJet Airlines UAB (operating as GETJET), a European aircraft leasing company, on a one year wet-lease agreement. The new addition brings the fleet to  seven Aircrafts; five (5) Bombardier CRJ 900 and two (2) Airbus A320-300, covering seven (7) destinations.