CSO Decries Upsurge of Insecurity in Akwa Ibom

 Rights group, Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN), has decried the upsurge in insecurity in Akwa Ibom State and called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to rise to the occasion and stem the tide.

This was contained in a presentation made by the Director of the Center, Otuekong Franklyn Isong, during a Critical Stakeholders Meeting with the Deputy Inspector-General of Police,  South South, DIG Daniel Sokari-Pedro, at the Conference Hall, Akwa Ibom State Police Headquarters, Ikot Akpan Abia, on Monday, 27th May, 2024.

The CHRAN commended the State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, on efforts in tackling crime across the State since his assumption of office, elaborating that the Governor has provided patrol vehicles, gunboats and security gadgets to the security agencies in the State to boost crime fighting in Akwa Ibom. 

The CHRAN noted that the Governor has established the Ministry of Internal Security and Waterways as well as Ibom Community Watch (ICW) and appointed a Commissioner to oversee the activities of the ministry and the ICW and expressed worry over the upsurge of crime in the State.

The CHRAN lauded the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police, CP Waheed Ayilara, and officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies in the State for their efforts in tackling crimes across the State. 

The Center noted that on assumption of duty, CP Ayilara toured the 31 local government areas and held interactions with the Chairmen of the Local Government Transition Committees and the Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) to ascertain their security challenges with a view to designing strategies to combat them.

The rights group urged the security agencies in the State to redouble efforts and rely more on intelligence gathering and community policing in order to nip the menace of rising insecurity in the bud.

The CHRAN advocated for improved welfare for officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force and called for improved insurance scheme for the Nigeria Police Force.

The CHRAN also made a case for improved welfare for retired police personnel. 

The Center called for regular training and retraining of officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force, urging Government at all levels to provide sufficient modern equipment to the officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies so as to boost crime fighting and enhance security in Akwa Ibom State. 

Other stakeholders who shared their thoughts at the meeting included the Assistant Inspector-General of Police Zone 6, AIG Jonathan Towuru; Deputy Inspector-General of Police (rtd) Yemi Ogunjemilusi; the Chaiman of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Amos Etuk; the Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Akwa Ibom State Branch, Professor Emem Abraham; leaders of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC); Coordinator of the National Human Rights Commission in Akwa Ibom State, an aide to the Akwa Ibom State Governor on Youths, among others. 

The Stakeholders Meeting was hosted by the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Waheed Ayilara, who was also in attendance. 

NCCE Accreditation: CSO Lauds A'ibom Govt Over COE, seeks upgrade of college

 

By Freshgist 

A foremost civil society organisation in Nigeria, the Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN), has commended the management of the Akwa Ibom State College of Education, Afaha Nsit, Nsit Ibom Local Government Area of the State for securing the full accreditation of all Programmes of the College by the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) and Maintenance of infrastructure.

In a Goodwill Message signed by the Center's Director, Otuekong Franklyn Isong and Secretary, Barr. Christopher Ekpo, was made available to newsmen in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital. On the occasion of the 33rd NCE, 6th Degree and 1st Part-time/Sandwich Degree Programmes Matriculation Ceremony of the College, which took place on Friday, 24th May,  2024 in the College.

The Center noted that under the watch of Daniel Udo as Provost, the College has recorded numerous achievements, including the 100 percent accreditation of the NCE and Degree Programmes of the College, recruitment of new staff to replace exited staff, restoration of public power supply after years of blackout, reinvigoration and equipping of Education Technology Unit and the ICT Centre, establishment of effective portal, development of the entrepreneurial centre, establishment of transportation scheme, the running of an uninterrupted academic calendar, the achievement of peace and harmony on campus, the exhumation of over 9,000 NCE certificates that were pending since 2010, the development and use of the ICT to conduct free, fair and transparent Students Union Government elections, and the reinvigoration of sports and sporting activities.

The group noted that the degree programme of the College, run in affiliation with the Faculty of Education of the University of Uyo, is fast rising in patronage but decried that the College cannot admit beyond the quota assigned to it.

The CSO observed that the NCE quota of over 4,000 attracts only 69 students and advocated for the upgrade of the College by the State Government to the status of a University of Education, saying that if the College is upgraded, both degree and NCE programmes can be complementarily run by the institution, which will, by extension, enhance the quality of teacher education and broaden the space for higher education in Akwa Ibom State.

The Center urged the State Government to provide a masterplan for the College, perimeter fence, quality infrastructure, access and link roads within the College.

CHRAN recalled that it has, recently, paid advocacy visits to the College during which it appraised the College and recommended that it be upgraded to the status of a University of Education.

The group stated that the ceremony which was well attended by a cross-section of the intelligentsia in Akwa Ibom State and beyond was presided by the Provost of the College, Prof. Daniel G. Udo, with the Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Idongesit Etiebet, represented at the event by the Permanent Secretary, Akwa Ibom State Ministry for Education, Mrs. Rose N. Bassey.

CHRAN LAUDS GOV UMO ENO AS AK-CARES DISBURSES FUNDS TO BENEFICIARIES IN AKWA IBOM

His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno

Governor of Akwa Ibom state 

The Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) has commended the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, as AK-CARES Phase 2 Progamme disbursed funds for nano, micro and small scale projects to needy communities and entrepreneurs in order to cushion the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Center's commendation was contained in its goodwill message delivered by its Secretary, Barr. Christopher Ekpo, during the disbursement of funds to beneficiaries of Akwa Ibom State COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (AK-CARES) Progamme Phase 2. 

The event took place on Wednesday, 15th May, 2024 at Ibom Hall, Babangida Avenue, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. 

The CHRAN recalled the global Lockdown in 2020 with the attendant pains and negative impacts on individuals, families, communities and businesses, which endure to this day.

The CHRAN stated that it had been elated when the AK-CARES Progamme was brought on stream and that when concerns were raised on transparency, it drew the attention of the Commissioner for Economic Development, Mr Emem Bob, who opened up the doors for the scrutiny and verification of the programme.

According to the CHRAN's Secretary, the Center, with a team from the Ministry of Economic Development, on Wednesday, 17th April, 2024, embarked on a verification tour of some projects executed under the AK-CARES in seven (7) local government areas of Akwa Ibom State, including Okobo, Oron, Nsit Ubium, Onna, Mkpat Enin, Abak and Oruk Anam, and held interactions with some officials of the AK-CARES and some beneficiaries of the Programme, which pointed to the transparency of the AK-CARES Phase 2 programme. The CHRAN Secretary stated that the CHRAN would soon embark on a tour of all Projects executed under the AK-CARES Phase 2 across the State in order to appraise their levels of success and to document them for the purposes of accountability and transparency.

The CHRAN urged benefitting individuals and communities to utilise the funds judiciously and safeguard the projects so as to ensure enduring benefits to their families, businesses, communities and Akwa Ibom State.

The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, was represented at the occasion by the Secretary to State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, who presented cheques to the beneficiaries. 

The occasion was witnessed by a representative of the Deputy Governor, Commissioners, Permanent Secretaries and stakeholders drawn from a broad spectrum of the State. The Secretary of CHRAN, Barr. Christopher Ekpo, led members of CHRAN to observe the occasion. 

AVN urges A/Ibom govt to ban scavengers, equip State police to secure public

 

 

By Freshgist 

Support group under the aegis of The Arise Volunteers Network AVN, has called on Akwa Ibom state Governor, His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno to take immediate action to ban scrap dealers and scavengers in the state to curb criminality and promote safety environment.

The group also urged the state government to take drastic measures to equip the newly established state police to secure all public infrastructures in the state.

In a press statement signed by the AVN Director, Amb. Pastor Etop-obong Nathaniel MBA+,JP, CIEHS, ICCA, AAIMWES appealed to the residents and Citizens of the state to volunteer their time, skills, energy, and commitment to support the Arise agenda by monitoring the state public infrastructures and reporting any challenges found immediately to the security agencies.

The release reads in part;

"The Arise Volunteers Network has made an unofficial inspection of public facilities in the state and has been appalled by the wanton and malicious damage done to these facilities. We have seen firsthand the destruction of schools, hospitals, and other governmental infrastructures, which has left many without access to essential services.

"We hereby  called on citizens/ residents to emulate Governor Umo Eno's visionary Arise agenda as it presents a unique opportunity for us to unite, rise above party, religious, and ethnic divisions, and work towards a common goal: a golden Akwa Ibom State where everyone thrives.

Specifically, we have seen that:

" St. Paul's School in Ekid Itam II has been destroyed by vandals, who stole the iron doors and windows to sell as scrap metal. A mad man has also been disturbing the school during school hours, putting the students and staff at risk.

" Offot Central School has been vandalized beyond use, leaving the students without a safe and conducive learning environment.

"We urge the government to provide security for these schools and install perimeter fences to prevent further damages. We also call for the renovation and rehabilitation of these schools to ensure that our children have access to quality education before the resumption.

"Furthermore, our inspection of the Atiku Flyover revealed that all the iron railings and solar lights have been stolen, leaving the structure vulnerable and unsafe for use.

"We urge all citizens, particularly our vibrant youths, to volunteer their time, skills, energy, and commitment to support the Arise agenda. Let us channel our energies into building a state that is prosperous, peaceful, and progressive.

"Let us shun vandalism and destructive tendencies, which only hinder our progress and undermine our collective well-being.

"We appeal to the our dear governor to please take immediate action to ban scrap dealers and scavengers, whose activities pose significant criminal and public health risks to our communities. Their activities have led to the theft of critical infrastructure, leaving many without essential services. Furthermore, their activities have contributed to the spread of diseases and environmental pollution.

"Let us arise, Akwa Ibom! Let us work together to build a golden state where everyone has access to quality education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and a safe and secure environment. Join the movement today and let us create a brighter future for ourselves and generations to come!

Essu Nlap Oro Honours Senator Ekong Sampson, lauds his love for Oro Nation

 

By Samuel Udoma 

It was a glamorous outing, as Essu Nlap Oro, a renowned socio-cultural organisation in Oro nation, yesterday, decorated Senator Ekong Sampson with 'Iyara', a symbol of Essu Nlap Oro  traditional authority in honour of the Senator as an Oro friendly representative, in a ceremony held at the Shakespeare Hall, Watbridge Hotel & Suites, Uyo.

In his address, the international president of Essu Nlap Oro, Ulap (Pastor) Brightsolution Umoh expressed satisfaction over the humane disposition and peaceful nature of Senator Sampson and his Senate representation. He said the Essu Nlap Oro was pleased to be identified with the National Assembly man.

According to him, one of the corporate objectives of Essu Nlap Oro was to collaborate with government of the day for peaceful coexistence and attraction of development to Oro nation. Pastor Umoh hinted the above as one of the reasons for their visit - to cement a symbolic relationship between the organisation and the office of Akwa Ibom South Senator.

He cited focused representation in the Senate, bridge building disposition, the appointment of Oro son and community leader as Senior Legislative Aide in his office, donation of cars to his constituents, empowerment of over 700 constituents with business and educational grants - first of its kind in the district, as some of the other reasons the group deemed it fit to honour Senator Sampson.

Umoh equally highlighted others to include appointment of another Oro son as the secretary of the Senatorial Empowerment Committee, job creation at the federal and state government constituents across the district as well as facilitating the construction of a Computer-based JAMB Centre at St. Vincent Secondary School, Oti Oro in Okobo Local Government Area, among others.

In his response Senator Sampson commended Essu Nlap Oro for the honour bestowed him, describing Oro as a nation of elites. Senator Sampson, who is the Chairman, Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, stated that Oro was fully captured in his budget, starting from the installation of Street Light in Urueoffong/ Oruko, Civic Center in Udung Uko, installation Street Lights in Oron, Road Project in Mbo, as well as the already mentioned ICT Center in Okobo.

Senator Sampson assured that he will continue to facilitate more opportunities for his constituents, especially in employment, as well as well ensure that the region gained maximally as an oil producing area.

Senator Sampson thanked  Governor Umo Eno for showing that he was a lover of Oro and commended Oro leaders for displaying team spirit in their conduct. Senator Sampson in appreciation of his membership, presented the sum of 1million naira in support of the organisation.

High point of the visit was presentation of the group's full regalia and paraphernalia as well as decoration of the national legislayor with 'Iyara' - a symbol of the Essu Nlap Oro traditional authority.

AEJ's Foundation Celebrates Governor Umo Eno birthday @ 60

 

Dear Governor Pastor Umo Eno,

We are here as family to celebrate the golden occasion of your 60th birthday, we, the members of Apostle Elijah Jack's Foundation (AEJF) warmly  congratulates you on your milestone achievement. This significant occasion is a testament to your resilience, leadership, and dedication to serving the people of Akwa Ibom State.

Your Excellency, under your visionary leadership, Akwa Ibom State has experienced remarkable progress and development across various sectors. Your commitment to improving infrastructure,  good road networks, healthcare, education, and socioeconomic empowerment initiatives to curb hardship and enhance food security has positively impacted the lives of many.

As you celebrate this special day, we commend your unwavering dedication to public service and your relentless pursuit of excellence. Your leadership qualities, wisdom, and compassion continue to inspire us all.

May this birthday brings  you Joy, good health, blessings and cherish moments with your loved once. We wish you good health, continued success, and happiness in all your endeavors. We look forward to witnessing many more years of your impactful leadership and service to our beloved state.

Signed: Apostle Elijah Jack

Chairman, Apostle Elijah Jack's Foundation 

A' Ibom Senator Charges leaders to marry public service with their backgrounds ...lauds Governor Umo Eno as All Nations Christian Ministry Births in Onna

 

By Samuel Udoma

The Senator representing Akwa Ibom South in the National Assembly, Senator Ekong Sampson has charged leaders to marry public service with their backgrounds for the betterment of the nation. 

Senator Sampson made the call yesterday during the Special Service and Fund Raising for Church Building Project, held at All Nations Christian Ministry International, Onna Mission Field, Ikot Udo Junction in Onna Local Government Area.

Senator Sampson commended Governor Umo Eno - the Chief Shepherd of the church, for edifying a Godly, people-driven administration in Akwa Ibom State since coming on board. He lauded the Governor on the recently flagged-off food security programme, which he said, was a timely intervention to provide succour for people of the State.

Senator Sampson, who is the Chairman, Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, said that Akwa Ibom has enjoyed considerable peace and harmony under Governor Eno, noting that sustained peace will usher in great development for the State, while praising the Governor's commitment to rural development. 

Senator Sampson opined that leaders at various strata should marry public service with their backgrounds in order to deliver good governance to the people. He commended the missionary expansion of the All Nations Church, and tasked church leaders not to relent in providing the needed moral base for the society.

In support to the church, Senator Sampson, on behalf of other members of the 10th National Assembly from Akwa Ibom State extraction, announced a donation of N10million towards the building project of newly planted All Nations Christian Ministry in Onna.

Among dignitaries at the Special Fund Raising Service were Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. (Eld). Udeme Otong, Akwa Ibom State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Ekaette Obot, Secretary to State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, Head of Service, Akwa Ibom State, Elder Effiong Essien, MD/CEO, Hensek Integrated Service Limited, Engr. Uwem Okoko and a host of other government functionaries.

CSO Commends College Provost Over Accountability

The CHRAN Director, Otuekong Franklyn Isong (R), presenting a Letter of Commendation to the Provost of Akwa Ibom State College of Education, Afaha Nsit, Prof. Daniel George Udo, while the CHRAN Secretary, Barr Christopher Ekpo (l), watches on.

A foremost civil society group in Nigeria, the Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN), has commended the Provost of the Akwa Ibom State College of Education, Afaha Nsit, Nsit Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Professor Daniel George Udo, for his transparent handling of the funds accruing to the College since his assumption of office in 2019. 

The CHRAN made this assertion through a letter of commendation addressed to Prof. Daniel Udo, dated 27th March, 2024, and signed by its Director and Secretary, Otuekong Franklyn Isong and Barr. Christopher Ekpo, respectively, which was made available to newsmen in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State Capital, on Thursday, 4th April, 2024. 

The accountability and good governance group stated that it commended Prof. Udo on the remarkable achievements so far recorded in the State College of Education under his watch as the Provost. 

The CHRAN asserted that it was "particularly impressed that the College has had its audited account for 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 submitted to the State Auditor General while the 2023 audited account is going through the due process of approval." Continuing, the CHRAN said, "This speaks to the transparency and accountability exhibited by your administration since your assumption of duty as Provost in 2019."

Addressing the Provost, the civil rights group stated that "it is satisfied with the management of finances accruing to the College under your supervision." 

The letter reads in part; "We recall that on Thursday, 29 February 2024, the Center embarked on an advocacy visit to the College. The visit, which was initiated by the Center through a letter dated  20th February, 2024, was used to appraise developments in the College.

"The CHRAN's team was received by you and your management team, including the Deputy Provost (Academics), Dr. Jeremiah Iweh; the Deputy Provost (Administration), Dr. (Mrs.) Edo Ekanem, the Registrar, Barr. Augustine Udoibit; the Director of Works, Architect Anietie Ukpanah and the Bursar, Dr. Emmanuel Akpan. The Center advocated for the upgrade of the College of Education to a University of Education.

"Being an internationally-recognised good governance advocacy organisation  in Nigeria committed to its core mandate of holding public office holders accountable to the people, the CHRAN is pleased to commend you for the transparency and accountability of your administration in the College that is already earning you accolades.

"The Center congratulates you on your remarkable strides in ensuring a peaceful and conducive atmosphere for learning in the College which, the Center believes, has earned you the prestigious Award of Excellence in Leadership and Administration by the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU), South South Zone, 2024 Edition.

"The Center urges you not to rest on your oars but to sustain, and even surpass, your current achievements through the improvement of the enviable standard that you have so far set in the Akwa Ibom State College of Education, Afaha Nsit.

"We are sanguine that through the sustenance of your remarkable efforts, the College will remain the best College of Education in Nigeria."

NMDC DG Celebrates God's faithfulness at 70 ... urges youth to remain steadfast to their creator

 

By  Freshgist 

The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Metallurgical Development Centre, Jos, Plateau State, Prof Linus Asuquo, has celebrated God's faithfulness at his 70th birthday.

Asuquo who is also a senior Pastor with Redeemed Christian Church of God,  Region 8, headquarters Plateau State, 

recently gave a special thanksgiving service to God at RCCG, Jesus Power Parish, Province 6, Akwa Ibom State.

Speaking with newsmen in his Residence in Ewet housing estate, Uyo,  as part of activities to mark his birthday, Asuquo accounted his blessings to God .

The former commissioner of Science and Technology during Governor Victor Attah's regime recalled how he used to trek long distance to school without shoes, adding that God is the source of the preservation of his life. 

"Life is full of ups and downs, a lot in of people see from outside thinking it has been rosy. The way I started it was very tedious, i used to trek from my village where you have the timber market to Practising School (now University of Uyo) without shoes but i thank God for today. 

"First, i have to give glory and honour to God, our creator, because Iam what Iam today by His grace, i return all the glory to Him because He is the one that has preserve my life and kept me for this past 70 years".

He enjoined the youths to always stick to their creator, adding that part of the reason why there is a problem today is that the creature want to be higher than their creator.

"Today the younger ones are in a hurry and they don't want to trust God, the moment you disconnect from your creator; where the creature wants to be higher than the creator, then there is a problem and that is what is happening today. People want to know more than their creator.

" My advice  is for people to return back to their creator and know that He is supreme, omnipotent omniscient; whatever we do He has  a record of us and we cannot do anything without Him"

Professor Asuquo was born on March 18,1954 in Mbak Utam 3, Itu Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. He was educated at Practicing School, Uyo, now University of Uyo and graduated in 1965.

 He also attended Holy Family College,Oku-Abak between  1968 and 1969 and St Patrick's College. Calabar between 1970 and 1972.He then taught Physics Mathematics and Chemistry briefly at Christian Technical College, Oyubia, Oron in 1973 before preceding to College of Technology. Calabar, between 1973 and 1975 from where he obtained the London GCE (advanced level)

He taught Chemistry and Mathematics briefly at Immaculate Conception Secondary School, Itak in 1976 and obtained the Bureau for External Aid Scholarship to study Metallurgy in Technical University, Kosice in the then Czechoslovakia and graduated in 1982 with MSC distinction and also as the best graduating student in the University. 

He returned to Nigeria in 1982 and completed his national service year between 1982 and 1983 at Delta Steel company, Aladja, Warri. 

Prof Asuquo who has held various offices was appointed by the former President Mohammadu Buhari as the Director General of the National Metallurgical Development Centre, Jos, and he currently serving his second term.

Rights Group Faults Government Over Demolition of Shops by UCCDA

 

A civil rights group in Nigeria, the Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN), has faulted the ongoing demolition of shops and stores along Oron Road, Udo Udoma Avenue, particularly at the traffic light area, and other areas within the Uyo metropolis by personnel of the Uyo Capital City Development Authority (UCCDA) on Tuesday, 5th March 2024, accusing the Pastor Umo Eno-led Government of Akwa Ibom State of being insensitive to the hardship and sufferings of Akwa Ibom people.

This assertion was contained in a press release issued by the group on Tuesday, 5th March 2024, signed by its Director and Secretary, Otuekong Franklyn Isong and Barr. Christopher Ekpo, respectively, and made available to newsmen in Uyo. 

The CHRAN stated that the State Government should have first provided alternative locations and shops for the affected shop owners before pulling down the shops, which, according to the CHRAN, served as the only means of livelihood for the affected traders.

The CHRAN noted that if the officials of government had the interest of the downtrodden and the long-suffering masses of Akwa Ibom State at heart, they would have considered that embarking on such swift demolition exercise at this critical time of the country's economic downturn, would be counterproductive as it would further aggravate the high level of unemployment and push many more families into hardship.

The CHRAN called for a halt to the demolition exercise, stating that it could be perceived generally as a heartless exercise by the Umo Eno-led administration.

The CHRAN urged the Akwa Ibom State Government to mitigate the plight of the affected traders by paying compensation to all those whose goods and shops were destroyed during the inhumane exercise by the UCCDA.

FRB lauds USAID Nigeria-State2State impacts in Akwa Ibom

 

By Freshgist 

The Akwa Ibom State Fiscal Responsibility Board Director-General,  Mr. Victor Edet has Commended the United States Agency for International Development, Nigeria - State2State activities over their development strides in the state.

In a Quarterly Conflict Mitigation and Prevention Dialogue in Uyo yesterday, Mr. Edet, who is also the Secretary of State Transformation Committee told newsmen that State2State activities has helped in the development of the state working budget calendar and that of the Local Government Areas .

According to him, "prior to USAID Nigeria-State2State intervention, we did not have what is called Budget Calendar at the state level talkless of the Local Government Areas. The Budget Calendar helps us to know where and when the account circulation will commence, and when the account of threshold will be submitted for audit purposes, including when the account of the state will be published".

He also mentioned that, budget process manual guides explains how budget is conceived, executed and how budget is being monitored and plotted out.

According to him, "we commend the activities of State2State organization for its intervention so far. This has been a great help which has leverage us through the programme called States Fiscal Transparency, Accountability and Sustainability (SFTAS) in States

SFTAS programme is a World Bank intervention programme which states were compelled to key into and Akwa Ibom State could not have recorded the performance if the State2State activities were not deployed".

He disclosed that prior the intervention of State2State programme, the state government used to engaged the services of consultants in the production of Medium Term Expenditure Framework (M - TEF) but after training and capacity development, they were able to produce the 2022 M-TEF by state officials for the first time.

"With that idea also, the 2023/2025 M-TEF was also produced. The amount of money the state government used to spend in hiring consultants to make M-TEF documents now became utilized in the development projects in the state.

"So, the first Public Finance Management Assessment in Akwa Ibom state was through the intervention of S2S in 2021; it helps us to identify the gap areas and also sustain their capacity building towards the gap Area.

Declaring open the event earlier, The State Team Lead- State Accountability, Transparency and Effective State2State Activity, Mr Borve Paago- Imabel disclosed that the quarterly Conflicts Mitigation and Prevention Dialogue was expedient to appraise its contributions in conflicts resolution in the state especially, after the 2023 general elections and current Economic Crisis in the state.

The Team Lead who was represented by Dr Iboro Nelson urged the government to ensure timely payment of Salaries to people working,  palliative should also be given to those that don't have a job not people that are able to do already , to avoid protest and other demonstrations.

"We will also look at the conflict issues arising from the last quarter and the land dispute issues sourounding Eket itam, Wait Eket and Ibeno, is already affecting the Economy important of the area and this is one of the reasons this meeting becomes necessary.

"We will also discuss the LGA budget taking to cognizant the drivers of conflicts and implications of the budget  because what government should be doing now is to see how his people can survive to a large content because survival is the only important thing now." She added 

She commended the State government for it's initiative in resolving the Eket- Ibeno crisis amongst others in the state. 

Also speaking, the State2State Conflict specialist Akwa Ibom, Mr Cosmos Dinee said "We expect that as part of Budget processes as the government budget for service delivery area of Primary Health, Basic Education and WASH, we want to see how those budgeting provision addresses infrastructural needs, so that  people will be employed in the three areas to curb conflicts, because from our findings, unemployment is the major driver of conflicts in Akwa Ibom state."

AKWA IBOM: CHRAN Applauds lawmaker for distributing palliatives to constituents; Vows to expose horders

 

Hon. Patrick Umoh PhD Lawmaker 

Representing Ikot Ekpene/Essien Udim/Obot Akara Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Abuja

By Freshgist 

Rights Advocacy group in Nigeria under the auspices of Center for Human Rights and Advocacy Network (CHRAN) has applauded the National Assembly lawmaker representing Ikot Ekpene/Essien Udim/Obot Akara Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Abuja, Hon. Patrick Umoh PhD for distributing presidential palliatives to constituents in Akwa Ibom state.

In a press statement signed  by the CHRAN Director and Secretary, Otuekong Franklyn Isong and Barr. Christopher Ekpo and made available to newsmen in Uyo on Monday, described Dr. Patrick Umoh's gesture to his constituents in Ikot Ekpene/Essien Udim/Obot Akara Federal Constituency as an intervention which came at a time others were resorting to refutations on hunger issues by a cross section of Akwa Ibom people.

The advocacy group vowed to continue to track the presidential rice, even as it monitored the distribution of the palliative by Hon. Umoh.

The Center noted that, Hon. Umoh palliatives distribution exercise, which took place at the weekend 1st March, 2024 at Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency, was peaceful and successful.

The group noted that apart from the palliative rice, the federal lawmaker also met with the family heads (Mbong Ekpuk), youths and persons living with disabilities (PWD) from the three local government areas to merry with them.

The CHRAN stated that 510 bags of rice and a total of N2.3 million were distributed to the people.

Hon. Patrick Umoh, it is recalled celebrated Christmas with his constituents and presented them 300 bags of rice, 3 cows and the sum of four million ( N4m) Naira.

CHRAN however, urged other National Assembly members from the State, who are yet to distribute the palliative rice and other items to borrow a leaf from the federal lawmaker and be transparent and accountable to their constituents.

The CHRAN further stated that it was sanguine that the President Tinubu Palliatives had been received by all the National Assembly members on behalf of their constituents, and so urged them to distribute same to their constituents to mitigate the looming hunger in the land.

CHRAN also threatened to expose other National Assembly members from the state, who have not distributed the palliatives to their constituents stating that, it has reliable information that palliatives worth N57.8 billion had been approved for members of the National Assembly by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for onward distribution to their constituents and that same had been released and shared to all members of the National Assembly.

The CHRAN also stated  that it has been reliably informed that N200 million worth of rice was given to Senators as palliatives for their constituents, while N100 million worth of rice was given to members of the House of Representatives as palliatives for constituents.

It would be recalled that, the Presidency while showcasing Tinubu’s scorecard in palliatives disbursement to Nigerians, had revealed each Senator got N200 million worth of palliatives for their constituents, while each member of the House of Representatives received N100 million worth of palliatives for their constituents.

Rights group appeals AKSG to Upgrade COE, Urged Management and Union to Close Ranks

 

The provost with his entourage during an advocacy visit by CHRAN to the College on Thursday, 29 February 2024.

By Freshgist 

An internationally recognized Advocacy group in Nigeria under the auspices of Center for Human Rights and Advocacy Network (CHRAN), has called on the Akwa Ibom State Government to review the law establishing the State College of Education, Afaha Nsit, Nsit Ibom Local Government Area,  with a view to upgrade the College to the status of a University.

In a Press statement signed by both the CHRAN Director, Otuekong Franklyn Isong and the Secretary, Barr. Christopher Ekpo, expressed concern that the College, established in October 1990, has been losing its students population to Universities over the years as parents seem to prefer a University that offers a four-year degree programme to the College where students enrol for a three-year National Certificate of Education (NCE) programme.

Ekpo noted that though section 2(c) of the Akwa Ibom State College of Education Law, Cap. 31, Vol. 2, Laws of Akwa Ibom State, 2022 empowers the College to award degrees, that can only be done in affiliation with a University, as can be gleaned from section 4(2)(c) of the Akwa Ibom State College of Education Law, which makes the Dean of the Faculty of Education, University of Uyo a statutory member of the Akwa Ibom State College of Education Council.

CHRAN commended the Provost, Prof. Daniel Udo, and the management of the College for the relative peace enjoyed in the institution. 

The group stated that it was involved at some point in efforts to resolve the dispute between the management of the College and the trade union in 2022/2023, which arose from the suspension of some union leaders on account of their activities in the College. The Center thanked the Provost for resolving the dispute and paying the affected unionists their salaries as was directed by the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly. 

The Center called on the unionists to close ranks with the College management to facilitate the realisation  of the mission and objectives of the College, maintaining that no progress can be achieved in an environment filled with rancour, acrimony and malice. 

The Center decried the lack of a master plan for the College, observing that developments are being carried out haphazardly and indiscriminately in the College due to the absence of a master plan.

The Center decried the very poor state of internal roads in the College and called on the State government to, as a matter of urgency, construct internal roads in the College also observed that the College has no perimeter fence, which makes the College vulnerable to attacks, theft, vandalism and encroachment.

The Center also made a case for steady electric power supply to the College to aid students and facilities in the Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) Department, that is currently relying solely on solar power.

Reacting, the Provost of the College, Prof. Daniel Udo, applauded the CHRAN delegation for the visit, added that he has worked concertedly towards ensuring a peaceful and safe environment for learning in the College since his assumption of office as Provost.

 Prof. Udo lauded the State Government for providing funds for the College, which has facilitated the successful accreditation of all NCE programmes and ten (10) out of eleven (11) degree programmes. 

The Provost commended the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) for several infrastructural interventions in the College. Even so, the Provost called for increased intervention and funding. He stated that, working with stakeholders, including the host communities, he has curtailed cultism even as the Students Union Government is enhanced to function optimally. He stated that the College has discharged admirably its corporate social responsibility to the five villages constituting Afaha Nsit.

The Provost explained the misunderstanding that led to the face-off with the union leaders, saying that the matter has been resolved. 

He stated that the national leadership of the union had sent a team to the College on a fact-finding mission, saying that the report of the team, which was communicated to the branch of the union in the College, was copied to him. 

He noted that the national leadership absolved the College management of all the allegations levelled against the management by the branch unionists.

The Provost stated that the national leadership faulted the branch unionists and directed them to take steps towards working amicably with the College management. According to the Provost, the national leadership of the union cautioned the branch unionists to refrain from any attempt to operate a parallel management of the College. 

The Provost maintained that even though the branch unionists are yet to implement the directives of their national leadership, the College management under his leadership will continue to prioritise issues of staff welfare and improved work environment for workers, assuring that students of the institution will continue to enjoy good learning environment.

The CHRAN team was conducted around the facilities of the College by the Provost and management of the institution.

In the CHRAN team were: Otuekong Franklyn Isong, Director; Comrade (Barr.) Christopher Ekpo, Secretary; Comrade Theresa Donatus, Comrade Michael Bassey, and Comrade Banny Favour

The College team included the Provost, Prof. Daniel Udo; Deputy Provost (Academics), Dr Jeremiah Iweh; Deputy Provost (Administration), Dr (Mrs) Edo Ekanem; the Registrar, Barr. Augustine Udoibit; Director of Works, Architect Anietie Ukpanah, and the Bursar, Dr Emmanuel Akpan.

Council Boss sets to Partner Gov Eno's aide to promote Peace, security in Akwa Ibom

The Mkpat Enin Local Government Area Transition Chairman, Hon. Mercy Bassey has declared her readiness to partner with the office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor Umo Eno on Youth Matters in order to curb insecurity and promote peace in the council area of Akwa Ibom state.

Bassey stated this over the weekend while she played host  to the SSA to the Governor on Youth Matters, Mr. Iniobong Akpan at the council secretariat with the  village youth presidents and heads of security agencies in Mkpat Enin Local Government.

She applauded the Governor's Aid for putting up a timely meeting to compliment  her efforts of combing out criminality in the council area, added  that security is priority in Governor Umo Eno's ARISE Agenda and therefore becomes a priority for her administration, noting that she is open to multidimensional collaborations with security agencies and other groups genuinely committed to fostering peace and security in Mkpat Enin. 

"I wish to commend the SSA to the Governor on Youth Matters for coming up with this meeting. In the past we have held similar meetings with Village Youth Presidents and we achieved lot of positive gains. Mkpat Enin and ofcourse Akwa Ibom State has never been known for criminality.

"So far, we have invested a lot of resources to weed the bad guys out of our midst and I can assure you that very soon all these unfortunate happenings will be a thing of the past. The governor has been very particular about keeping the state safe for all and as the Chairman of Mkpat Enin, I can say that we will not relent in replicating these policies in our various communities".

In his remarks, Mr. Akpan emphasized the need for partnership between community youth leaders and security officers in maintaining peaceful and safe environment, where citizens can go about their legitimate businesses and sleep with their eyes closed.

Comrade Akpan said the meeting became imperative because of the recent happenings in many of the localities, urging the youth leaders to be more patriotic in safeguarding their communities and reiterated the importance of teamwork approach at a time when security maintenance is an integral part of governance as encapsulated in the ARISE Agenda.

"As we know, the security situation has been bad and we know that as youth presidents you are the security officers of your respective villages. There is no way people will perpetuate crime in your villages and you tell me that you are not aware. It is not about being called  youth presidents when you cannot even sleep in your various houses and close your two eyes. 

"We have to take back our communities from hoodlums because these vices does not represent who we are at all. Today, we have a governor who is very deliberate about development and employment. There is no way  we can have meaningful development when all you do is kidnap people sent to work in your villages.

"It is our duties to protect our communities and government investments because development cannot thrive in the midst kidnapping, murder, violence, stealing and so. Today's meeting is to mandate you to be ARISE Ambassadors, we have to work closely especially in the area of information gathering. 

"You have the security agencies here, the council chairman who is very active and responsive, myself and other leaders to partner with so that we can purge our various communities of these criminals. We all know that security is an integral part of the  ARISE Agenda of His Excellency and we have to be partners so that we can help him actualise his administration goals".He concluded 

Hunger Crises: CHRAN urges A'Ibom Govt., LG Chairmen to account for monthly allocations

 

By Freshgist 

At the peak of hunger Crises, The Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) has urged The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno to account for monthly allocations received from the federal government for almost 9 months .

In a statement jointly signed by the State Director of CHRAN, Otuekong Franklyn Isong and his Secretary, Barrister Chris Ekpo and made available to newsmen in Uyo yesterday, called out the 31 Local Government Areas Transition Committee Chairmen in the State to follow suit by accounting for the monthly allocations to their Local Government Areas from the Federation Account Allocation Committee since their assumption of office in December 6, 2023 respectively.

CHRAN stated in parts  "the call is in fulfilment of its civic responsibility and core mandate of holding public office holders accountable to the people and ensuring good governance in the country.

"That it is aware that the Federal Government of Nigeria, sequel to the fuel subsidy removal, has increased the revenue allocation to the States and the Local Government Councils in the country.

"That the Federal Government had released the sum of N5 billion and 3,000 bags of rice to the Government of Akwa Ibom State for the people of the State as palliatives to cushion the effect of the withdrawal of fuel subsidy.

"That Governor of Akwa Ibom State to account for the N5 billion and the other palliatives released to the Government of Akwa Ibom State by the Federal Government.

CHRAN also requested for information from the Government of Akwa Ibom State on the mass transit buses that the State Government proposed to provide from the N5 billion to mitigate the transportation challenges afflicting the people of the State as a result of the volatility of fuel price and galloping inflation.

CHRAN further requested the Government of Akwa Ibom State to account for the hundreds of billions of Naira received from the Federation Account Allocation Committee, including the 13 percent derivation funds to the oil producing states in the Niger - Delta which Akwa Ibom is a beneficiary.

CHRAN stated that, it has appraised the various Local Government Areas in Akwa Ibom State and has noted the dearth of development projects even in the face of the huge funds released from the Federation Account Allocation Committee to the Local Government Areas in the State. CHRAN requested for information and account.

"That it is alarmed by the prevailing exclusive class development in the State, where only those in high places with affinity to the government enjoy the commonwealth of Akwa Ibom State leaving a sizable number of the people to scramble for crumbs and pushing the poorest of the poor into the abyss of abject poverty.

"That being a pro-people organisation, it is bothered by the prevailing negative trend of neglect and lack of transparency and accountability by governments in the State and urged Governor Umo Eno and the Chairmen of Local Government Transition Committees to account for the monies that they have received as heads of governments within their tenures so far and to strive to ensure that visible development is delivered expeditiously to the people.

"That it is aware of a recent widely published statement credited to the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, to the effect that apart from the first tranche of funds given to State Governments, an additional N30 billion has been given to each State of the Federation through the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), different from allocations from the Federation Account.

"That, there being no rebuttal from the Government of Akwa Ibom State, CHRAN urged the Government of Akwa Ibom State to account for the said disbursement from the FIRS".

CHRAN applauds A'Ibom Assembly over Ibom Oil and Gas Corporation Bill

 

By Freshgist 

Rights group under the aegis of Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) has applauded the sponsors of the Bill for a Law to Establish the Ibom Oil and Gas Corporation and for Other Purposes Connected Thereto.

In a press briefing organised by the Center in Uyo, the CHRAN Director, Mr Franklyn Isong disclosed that the Bill was long overdue in the State, describing the state as one of the top crude oil producing States in Nigeria.

 The CHRAN flanked by the Secretary, Barr Christopher Ekpo, and other members, noted that the Bill, when passed into Law, will position the State in top reckoning as an oil producing State within and outside the country.

CHRAN lauded the Bill on its objectives, which include engaging in oil and gas upstream activities, including exploration, drilling and production; investing for the purpose of participating in oil and gas bid rounds and seeking the allocation of marginal oil fields; acquiring old and new exploration and drilling prospects and prospecting abandoned oil wells in Nigeria and overseas and optimising the benefits of the petroleum policies of the federal government;

Others include liaising with federal government agencies or private and multinational companies to deliver petroleum products to the State in the most effective and cost efficient manner, investing in downstream oil and gas activities including gas processing businesses, petroleum products retailing, gas retailing, gas pipelines deployment, acquisition of petroleum products tank farms and other distribution facilities, and investing in refineries, petrochemical processing or other production processes. 

CHRAN noted that the Ibom Oil and Gas Corporation, envisaged in the Bill would create employment for the teeming unemployed Akwa Ibom indigenes, generate revenue for the State and serve as a vehicle for economic growth and regeneration while harnessing and consolidating the huge oil and gas potentials of Akwa Ibom State. 

The beauty of the Bill, according to CHRAN, is that it is concise and purposeful in that it provides for both upstream and downstream activities by the Ibom Oil and Gas Corporation.  In that wise, the CHRAN believes that the acquisition of petroleum products tank farms and other distribution facilities, envisaged in the Bill, will go a long way to ensure the availability of petroleum products in the State.  

"The foresight of the sponsors of the Bill reflects in the provision in the Bill for expansion of the Ibom Oil and Gas Corporation to make for investment in existing companies or consortia and acquisition of old or abandoned oil wells and exploration and drilling facilities in the country and overseas." It said.

CHRAN advocated for support for the Bill by all members of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, the Executive Arm of the Akwa Ibom State Government and indeed, all Akwa Ibomites to ensure a quick passage of this important Bill and timely assent to the Bill by the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, in due course.

It commended the lead sponsor of the Bill, Prince Ukpong Akpabio, and the co-sponsors of the Bill: Hon. Sunday Johnny, Rt. Hon. Effiong Johnson, Hon. Udobia Friday, Hon. Nsidibe Akata, Hon. Kenim Onofiok, Hon. Selinah Ukpatu, Hon. Precious Selong, Hon. Uwem Imoh-Ita and Hon. Sampson Idiong.

DSS woos Akwa Ibom journalists for crime fighting

 

By Freshgist 

The Department of State Services (DSS), Akwa Ibom State Command has called on journalists in the state to join the agency in crime fighting to make the state a safe haven for development.

The State Director, Dr. Doyin Adetuberu made the call in Uyo on Tuesday when he received the new Executive members of the Correspondents' Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Akwa Ibom State on a courtesy visit.

He said, the society in general is prone to crime but, if every family can cooperate with the security agencies in the state, crime would be reduced to its barest minimum.

This he stated can be achieved when the people volunteer intelligence to rid the state of bad elements.

Dr. Adetuberu also disclosed that, already arrangements have been concluded by the DSS to arraign suspected kidnapping, cultism, murder and armed robbery suspects in court arrested in connection with crimes in various part of the state.

He said, the arrest of the criminal suspects was achieved through intelligence working in close collaboration with other security agencies, the civil society and members of the public.

The DSS boss further stated that, the suspects were arrested at various locations within Uyo metropolis and the environs adding that, with more collaboration, the DSS would extend it's dragnets to other criminal hideouts to nib the menace of cultism, kidnapping etc.

According to him, "in no distant time, you will be proud of security agencies in the state and, my regime in crime fighting would be people - centred with security stakeholders, the media and ordinary citizens as key participants.

"I am bringing my experience to bear in tackling security challenges facing the state" and, charged the media to help the agency do it's work well through constructive criticisms and responsible journalism.

Chairman of Correspondents' Chapel of the NUJ, Comrade Anthony Bassey told the DSS Director that, the visit was to introduce the new leadership of the Chapel of NUJ to him for effective and collaborative synergy, devoid of rancour that could arise from lack of adequate information.

He said, journalists in the Correspondents' Chapel in the state are professionals who are ready to give the agency the media mileage it deserves adding that, members of the Chapel abhor adversarial journalism.

World Radio Day: Eno Celebrates Radio Journalists over unbroken service delivery

 

By Freshgist 

Akwa Ibom State Governor His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno, has congratulated the media professionals, especially the On Air Personalities OAPs for their unbroken services rendered all over the world.

In a message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Ekerete Udoh and made available to journalists in Uyo on Tuesday, Eno commended radio professionals for the great work they used their medium to perform since the radio airwaves was established more than one hundred years ago.

“Radio has been a critical medium to reach a large swathe of the population.

“Through the medium, policies and programmes of government have been disseminated to people across social/ political strata.

“I am proud of the cooperation my administration has enjoyed from you, and I pledge my willingness to continue to partner with you, as we galvanize our people to Arise and shine.

“Once again, congratulations on this great occasion of ‘World Radio Day’ celebration”.

Lawmaker urges Gov. Umo Eno to bring back Government Technical College

 

By Freshgist 

Akwa Ibom lawmaker representing Ibiono Ibom State Constituency in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Moses Essien has called on the State Government to return the remodeled Dakakada Skills Acquisition Center to it's original status.

The Skills Development Center, it can be recalled was hitherto an abandoned Government Technical College at Ikot Ada Idem in Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area of the state but, remodeled and converted by the Udom Emmanuel administration into skills center that never been put to use.

Essien, worried by it's abandonment urged Governor Umo Eno to consider the recent resolution passed by the state legislature on the need to establish more technical colleges in the state and return the center to the former status.

 He said, such decision would favour Itu/Ibiono Ibom, Ukanafun and Ikono/Ini federal constituencies, where many students from the affected areas have been denied technical education due to the absence of technical colleges.

Essien, who is a YPP lawmaker made this known in Uyo, while presenting his Certificate of Return to the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State of Assembly after winning a By-election recently.

He regreted that many of his constituents who initially would have loved to pursue careers in the fields of engineering, science and technology have been denied such opportunities due to the absence of technical college in the constituency.

He also lamented that, years after the college was taken away from the area, and months after the Government Technical College, Ikot Ada Idem was renovated and converted to a skills’ acquisition centre  by the immediate past administration, nothing has happened to show any seriousness.

According to him, "I am so worried that the people of Ibiono Ibom were not comfortable when that decision was taken by the immediate past Governor, and they are not still comfortable that months after, nothing is happening to show any seriousness. The people of Ibiono Ibom believe that they would be better with the technical college, and I believe so with them.

“I don’t know what was the intention of the past Governor, Udom Emmanuel so, I am urging the present government to return the centre to its former institution as a technical college, and that is the mindsets of the people of Ibiono Ibom state constituency as we need a technical college in Itu/Ibiono Ibom federal constituency”.

While dedicating his recent victory in the rerun election to God and the people of his constituency, he promised to champion the development cause of Ibiono Ibom State Constituency.

NDDC sets to adopt 3-Ts development strata to transform Niger Delta

 

By Freshgist 

The Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC, has declared their readiness to adopt  3-Ts development mantra to transit from hitherto transaction approach to the transformation model, describing the agency as a palliative to the people of the region.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD/CEO) of NDDC, Dr. Sam Ogbuku disclosed the new philosophy of development of the oil rich Niger-Delta region during a two-day board and management retreat of the Niger Delta Development Commission with the theme, ‘Renewed Hope: A New Era for Vitality, Peace and Development,’ held at four points by Sheraton Hotel, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.

Dr. Ogbuku, who spoke the topic, "NDDC: The Journey So Far and the Road Ahead" mentioned that, though critics see nothing good about the establishment of the NDDC 25 years ago, affirmed that, the commission over had taken it's core mandate of development of rural communities in the area very crucial to change the way of life of the people.

He said so far, NDDC has undertaken the construction of about 4,151 roads/bridges, 2,323 rural electrification projects, 1,723 building projects and 642 water projects in the Niger Delta etc.

In addition to the above, he stated that the agency also embarked on medical outreach programmes, post graduate programmes for top level manpower development to meet today and tomorrow's needs, while concluding plans to embark on Project Hope to engage the youth population in transforming their lives.

He appealed to the federal government to consider the bulk release of funds to the NDDC as projects require radical approach to delivery, as well as remove NDDC from the Treasury Single Account financial framework (TSA) to enable it achieve optimal performance and efficiency.

On his part, the Minister for Niger Delta Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, has called on the commission to intensify engagements between its stakeholders and the NDDC in order to achieve sustainable development in the Niger Delta region.

He gave the charge in his keynote address during a two-day retreat of the Niger Delta Development Commission tagged, ‘Renewed Hope: A New Era for Vitality, Peace and Development,’ held at four points by Sheraton Hotel, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State on Friday disclosing that, the collaboration was  necessary for the goal of NDDC and the ministry to be achieved.

According to him, “The harmonisation of the existing development plans in the Niger Delta region was one of the ten deliverables the president gave to the ministry for implementation between 2024 and 2027.

“NDDC must insist on the delivery of quality jobs so that the Niger Delta region will get value for money expended on development projects.”

He explained that though the importance of principles enshrined in the TSA policy such as transparency and accountability, however, such a financial framework has weighty limitations for the interventionist agency.

 “We are not just building roads and bridges. We are stitching together a vibrant tapestry of development, from healthcare and education to skills development and job creation.

Meanwhile, The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has called for collaboration between the Niger Delta Development Commission and the state governments in the region for better service delivery in line with the core mandates of the Commission.

The Governor represented by his deputy, Senator Akon Eyakayin said he was confident that the new board will uphold its mandate and core responsibilities as an interventionist agency for the development of the Niger Delta region, urging the team not to subvert its mandate for political reasons.

He promised to collaborate with the Commission for the delivery of dividends of democracy to the people of the state while charging the management on involvement of the state government in its interventionist programmes based on needs assessment to avoid replication of projects.

AKWA IBOM: CHRAN Lauds Clement Jimbo over Palliative

 

Hon. Clement Jimbo, member representing Abak/Etim Ekpo/Ika Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives

By Freshgist 

A civil society organisation in Nigeria under the aegis of Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN), has applauded the member representing Abak/Etim Ekpo/Ika Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives and Deputy Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on National Planning & Economic Development, Hon. Clement Jimbo, for distributing to his constituents the consignment of rice and other items given to him by President Bola Tinubu for distribution as palliatives to his constituents during the 2023 yuletide.

In a press release signed by the group Director and Secretary, Otuekong Franklyn Isong and Barr. Christopher Ekpo, respectively over the weekend in Uyo and made available to our reporter stated that Clement Jimbo's gesture to his constituents in Abak/Etim Ekpo/Ika Federal Constituency came in the midst of refutations on the issue by some of his colleagues of Akwa Ibom extraction in the National Assembly.

The advocacy group vowed to continue to track the Presidential Rice even as it monitored the distribution of the palliatives by Hon. Jimbo.

The Center noted that the Hon. Jimbo's distribution exercise, which took place on Thursday, 8th February, 2024, at 67 Itu Road, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, was well attended by his constituents and was peaceful and successful. 

The Center stated that the rice, packed in bags, were distributed to constituents within the three (3) local government areas making up the federal constituency.

The group noted that apart from the rice palliative, the Federal Lawmaker also empowered four constituents drawn from the three local government areas constituting the federal constituency with one Toyota Camry car each while several sewing machines, hair-drying machines as well as business support grants were also distributed to the constituents.

The CHRAN noted that, so far, Senator Ekong Sampson, representing Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District in the Senate; Rt. Hon. Unyime Idem, representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, and Hon. Clement Jimbo, representing Abak/Etim Ekpo/Ika Federal Constituency, have distributed the palliatives and given  account of the palliatives to their constituents while other National Assembly members from Akwa Ibom State are yet to give account of the President Tinubu palliatives to their constituents in the State. 

The group hereby called on other members of the National Assembly from the State, who are yet to distribute to their constituents the presidential palliative rice and other items, to borrow a leaf from their colleagues who have done so for the sake of transparency and accountability to their constituents.

The CHRAN further stated that it was sanguine that the President Tinubu Palliatives had been received by all the National Assembly members on behalf of their constituents, and so urged them to distribute same to their constituents without further delay, maintaining that it will soon organise a press conference to name and shame the National Assembly members who have not distributed the palliatives to their constituents. 

The group holds that it has reliable information to the effect that palliatives worth N57.8 billion had been approved for members of the National Assembly by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for onward distribution to their constituents and that same had been released and shared to all members of the National Assembly,  knowing that it has been reliably informed that N200 million worth of rice was given to Senators as palliatives for their constituents while N100 million worth of rice was given to members of the House of Representatives as palliatives for constituents.

It would be recalled that the Presidency, while showcasing Tinubu’s scorecard in palliatives disbursement to Nigerians, had revealed that each Senator got N200 million worth of palliatives for their constituents while each member of the House of Representatives received N100 million worth of palliatives for their constituents.

Palliative Rice: Group Lauds Ekong Sampson, Calls for Accountability from other Federal Legislators

 

Distinguished Senator Ekong Sampson PhD, sharing the palliative Rice to its constituents in Akwa Ibom state 

By Freshgist 

A pro-democracy group in Nigeria, Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN), has lauded the Senator representing Akwa Ibom South (Eket) Senatorial District in the National Assembly, who is also the Chairman, Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, Senator Ekong Sampson, for distributing to his constituents the consignment of rice given to him by President Bola Tinubu for distribution as palliative to his constituents during the yuletide.

The commendation was contained in a press release issued by the civil society group and signed by its Director and Secretary, Otuekong Franklyn Isong and Barr. Christopher Ekpo, respectively, on Monday,  29th January, 2024.

The statement, which was made available to newsmen in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, stated that Ekong Sampson's gesture to his constituents in Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District came in the midst of refutations on the issue by some of his colleagues of Akwa Ibom extraction in the National Assembly.

The advocacy group vowed to track the Presidential Rice even as it monitored the distribution of the palliative by Senator Sampson.

The Center noted that the Ekong Sampson distribution exercise, which took place on Wednesday,  24th January, 2024, at the Senator Ekong Sampson Constituency Office, 105 Atabong Road, Eket, Akwa Ibom State, was peaceful and successful. 

The Center stated that the rice, packed in bags, were distributed to constituents within the 12 local government areas that made up the Eket senatorial district.

The group noted that apart from the palliative rice, the Senator also empowered 700 indigenes of the district with education and business support grants. 

The CHRAN urged other National Assembly members from the State who are yet to distribute the palliative rice of President Tinubu to borrow a leaf from Ekong Sampson by being transparent and accountable to their constituents.

The CHRAN further stated that it was sanguine that the President Tinubu Palliative Rice had been received by all the National Assembly members on behalf of their constituents, and so urged them to distribute same to their constituents without further delay. 

The CHRAN maintained that it will soon name and shame the National Assembly members who have not distributed the palliative rice to their constituents. 

The CHRAN stated that it has reliable information to the effect that food palliatives worth N57.8 billion had been approved for members of the National Assembly by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for onward distribution to their constituents and that same had been released and shared to all members of the National Assembly.

The CHRAN also stated  that it has been reliably informed that N200 million worth of rice was given to Senators as palliatives for their constituents while N100 million worth of rice was given to members of the House of Representatives as palliatives for constituents.

It would be recalled that the Presidency, while showcasing Tinubu’s scorecard in palliatives disbursement to Nigerians, had revealed that each Senator got N200 million worth of palliatives for their constituents while each member of the House of Representatives received N100 million worth of palliatives for their constituents.

Nigeria Solid Mineral Sector Untapped Gold Mine - Senator Sampson. ....Doles Out More Rice, Cash As Palliative To Constituents

 

By Freshgist 

The senator representing Akwa  Ibom South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Dr. Ekong Sampson has described Nigeria's solid mineral sector as untapped gold mine awaiting investment opportunities.

Senator Sampson, who is the Senate Committee Chairman on Solid Minerals made the remarks while giving out another round of rice and cash to the 12 local government areas of Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal last year.

Sampson promised to ensure that members of his constituency benefits from the sector while informing them that most of the demands they made from his office have been captured in the 2024 budget.

According to the Senator, "We have oil, we have gas and also abundant solid minerals deposits, I will make sure that our people have in abundance the benefits of these natural resources to better their lives.

He added, "I came into this office prepared to serve the people without excuses, I am accessible, practice open door policy in addition to being transparent and accountable for all my activities in office".

Speaking on the second round of palliatives been distributed by his office within one month, Sampson explained that his decision was borne out of his desire to cushion the harsh economic conditions faced by Nigerians owing to the fuel subsidy removal.

He averred, "I wish to say that in my seven months in office, I have secured employment for our youths, I have also empowered many,  few weeks ago, we went round giving out palliatives (rice and cash) to my people to help cushion the effects of fuel subsidy, today we are doing more give away and Wednesday, January 24, over 600 people will receive empowerment from my office mostly in the areas of education and business grants to help them advance in their various careers.

"This empowerment cut across partisan lines and even included some people who are not from our state, we are one Nigeria, and they also voted for us in the last election, more so it is a fact that we must strive to curb the pangs of hunger across the senatorial district"

The Senator expressed deep seated gratitude to the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture for partnering with his office in ensuring the availability of the food stuffs, assuring his constituents that the he will intermittently brief them and also provide them with all necessary succour.

In his goodwill message, the Akwa Ibom State coordinator of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Mr Uyiobong Uko expressed delight at the deep compassion the senator has for his constituents stressing that others may want to divert such palliatives to somewhere else.

He highlighted, "Today you have this because your Senator did not want the money but prefers you get the palliatives, he is a man of integrity and I can assure you that the way he is going there is nothing meant for this senatorial district that will be hold up in Abuja or diverted to somewhere else for his pecuniary gain".

He said that the Federal Ministry of Agriculture is determined to help Nigerians and urge the people to look forward to a nation with abundance of food for its citizens soon.