September 2013 ~ Welcome to the Official Blog of THE INK Newspaper- Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Sunday 22 September 2013

THE INK NEWSPAPER-UYO, AKWA IBOM STATE

HOUSE OF WAR, CONFUSION

* Assemblymen fight over money

* Speaker on a hot seat, begs Ibibio Elders, ors

* Please save me from impeachment

GOING by what is currently happening in the Akwa Ibom state House of Assembly, the legislators may soon resolve into an open confrontation. Already, fisticuffs were avoided between the Ikono House member, Victor Udofia and the Deputy speaker Udo Kerian Akpan last Tuesday.

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A’Ibom industrialization programme on course, says commissioner

Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Aniekan Umanah says the industrialization programme of Governor Godswill Akpabio is well on course.

Fielding questions from reporters on industrialization of the State promised by Governor Akpabio,Mr Umanah said the Akpabio administration remains committed to the promise of facilitating the establishment of industries in all the 31 local government areas of the State through a viable public-private arrangement.

Ikon takes peace, unity tour to Ntisong Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio says BY JOSEPH OKON

Don’t blame Akpabio, Ibibios are the architect of their misfortune

Worried by the recent tribal politics played in the state, the speaker of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Elder Samuel Ikon has called on Akwa Esop Ima Isong Ibibio and Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio to join him and reach out to other Ibibio sons and daughters to shun tribal politics and sentiments.

Elder Ikon stated this when he paid a surprise visit to Ntisong Ibibio, Ntisong Essien Ekidem and Mkpisongs in Council at Ntisong’s palace in Ewet Housing Estate.

ETIM EKPO/IKA STATE CONSTITUENCY: A quest for justice

The next general election is few years away and the heat is on. Political parties have perfected plans to ensure victory for themselves and their prospective candidates.

* The people of Ika Local Government Area under the auspices of Ika Voice are seeking for political justice in Ika/Etim Ekpo State Constituency.

UCCDA: A tool for destruction or change? BY PRISCILLA CHRISTOPHER

The Uyo Capital City Development Authority, being a part of the uncommon transformation machinery of the incumbent government has really proven to be a worthy tool for the restoration of the lost glory of the state’s capital and the state as a whole.

Sequel to the need to keep to her promise, the incumbent government saw it fit to exist as a paramount device that would fast-track her implementation strategies and awaken the hope of the citizens; thereby giving them a strong conviction that the promises are on the road to fulfillment.

In justification to its existence, the UCCDA has been at the fore of bringing down structural obstacles and hindrances to the above mentioned goal to the delight of the government and the detriment of the citizens.

"The life story of our governor is not written with a pen, but with his actions. I like what Dwight L. Moody said: “Be humble or you’ll stumble”. God will intervene and the lessons will become clearer to all that God is in control, he who felt he would not leave the seat for the ordained and destined person will be force out of office, he who chooses to become the prisoner of hilltop mansion will be parceled out, the uncertainty will be brought to a final full stop"

That day will come but it will not be allowed to pass like every other day, there will be jubilating galore all over the state, it will remained indelible in the life of many Akwa Ibomites.

It will certainly be the eve of a new dawn. The state will place a higher premium of oneness and people will have a sound regard for their fatherland and stand up in defense of her unity and progress, people will be given chances to demand their rights, appreciate the rights and privileges of others and always ready to defend the defenseless.

AKHA speaker charges investors to enhance quality BY JOSEPH OKON

Emenite to Establish Depot in AKS and Increase Existing ProductionThe Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Samuel Ikon has called on Companies operating within Akwa Ibom State to comply with global standards, while asking them to ensure that their prices are moderate so as to sustain patronage.

The Speaker stated this while playing host to the management team of the Emenite Group of Companies who paid him a courtesy call. Elder Ikon reiterated the State assembly’s resolve to remain committed to partnering with the state Governor, Chief (Dr.) Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON to develop the state. He pointed out that the state is safe for investors, arguing that the state assembly in anticipation of the influx of investors passed the Public Private Partnership (PPP) Bill and the Akwa Ibom Investment Holding Corporation bill to secure investments within the state.

NIPR inducts 310 registered public relations practitioners

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), established in 1963, has recently inducted 310 registered Public Relations Practitioners during its 2013 induction ceremony which took place at the Oranmiyan Hall of Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja, on Tuesday, August 27, 2013.

Bringing the new members into their fold, the 12th President of the body, Alhaji Mohammed Abdullai, noted that NIPR derived its power by law to register members, regulate the practice/development of the PR Profession and monitor professional conducts through an established Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct regime, stressing that as it was the practice with respectable professional organizations everywhere, the law allows standard academic and professional qualifications for admissions into the Institute.

Forum of former deputy governors sues for peace in PDP

The forum of former Deputy Governors has appealed for peace in the crises that is currently rocking the Peoples Democratic Party. The group in a release signed by Abdulmalk Mahmud and Chris Ekpenyong Former Dep. Gov. Bauchi State and Former Dep. Gov. Akwa Ibom State who are the Chairman and secretary respectively said, We in the forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria, FFDGN have noted with great and grave concern the recent happenings in the People’s Democratic Party, PDP especially as it concerns the actions and inactions of some key members at its just concluded special convention which has led to infighting, rancor and division, capable of further disintegrating our party and obviously posing a veritable threat to our democracy”.

Deputy Governor’s Aide extols Mkpat Enin Council boss

The Personal Assistant to the Akwa Ibom State Deputy Governor on Mobilization and General Duties, Mrs. Imeofon Udoh, has expressed satisfaction with the developmental strides of the incumbent Chairman of Mkpat Enin Local Government Council, Mr. Ephraim Akpan, especially in healthcare delivery, youth and women empowerment programmes.

Speaking with journalists recently at Government House, Uyo, shortly after a stakeholders meeting, Mrs. Udoh, who is also the Mkpat Enin Chapter President of National Council of Women Societies (NCWS) and Secretary General of Uyio Iban Mkpat Enin, a foremost women socio-political group in the area, described Mr. Akpan as a Chairman per excellent.

"Our God is always willing to help, save and to protect. All you need now is to present to him your request and wait to reap the fruit of it. This season I can authoritatively assure you that whatever the desire of your heart is, this season God will meet it at the point of your need in the name of Jesus Christ"

Please meditate on this song before you proceed: Lord I believe (2x) all things are possible,

Lord I believe.

A Sower went to sow seed, after sowing he went home waiting for the time of germination and fruitfulness. On his returns to where he sows the seed, the harvest was wonderful at a point he asked for help from his fellow Sower during the harvest. The harvest was big enough that he has to lend out to many people and nations. That was how he later turns to become a lender, this season I prophesy into your life ‘When others will be crying and weeping during this time of harvest, yours will be joy, happiness and celebration in the name of Jesus Christ’

"Truth is, neither Ekpeyong nor Uwah cuts a saintly portrait even though both men aren’t unsuitable as candidates for the House of Reps job. At the end, maybe, Uyo PDP will settle for one with lesser flaws. With its new identity as the recalcitrant city of Akwa Ibom State – the bride of opposition and the possible spread of the virus to its near-neighbours, the general election will be just another hurdle"

Another massive sign that the two have become so estranged occurred ‘silently’ during the child dedication of the secretary of Uyo Local Government Council at Insight Bible Church - pastored by the charismatic Dr. Sylvanus Ukafia whose trademark humility is highly contagious.

A’Ibom speaker donates computers, generating set to Police Command

As part of his efforts to ensure that the Nigerian Police meet up with the security challenges of today, the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Samuel Ikon has donated a generating set, a set of computer, a printer and other accessories to the Etinan Police Community Relations Committee, PCRC, for upward transmission to the Command.

The Speaker while presenting the equipment attributed the lingering insecurity in Nigeria to the inadequacy of security personnel and the necessary motivation. While explaining his motivation to digitalize the police command, He said, “This computer and accessories are meant to aid the police in maintaining law and order, even as we strive for a more law-abiding society” According to the Speaker, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Political Affairs, Obong Donald Uko, The community made the request for a standby generating set and a computer in the station to help checkmate crime and proper record keeping.

Elder Aniekan Akpan

Following minor changes in the headship of some standing committees of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly recently where six committee chairmen were directed to swap positions by Speaker Sam Ikon, the member representing Ukanafun State Constituency and chairman, House Committee on Public Account, Elder Aniekan Akpan says he is bound by the Standing Rules of the House, as every other member to comply with directives of the House leadership.

Akpan offered the clarification in his reaction to publications in a section of the local media which he said attempted to create a faulty impression of the situation. He described it as a normal parliamentary practice globally ‘which is observed even at the executive arm of government’.

Arise Nigeria gets involved with over Akwa Ibom

Hon. Patty Etete-ineme

Arise Nigeria, a duly-registered socio-political organization with the mandate of supporting good governance, ensuring credible elections, due process as well as protecting good democratic values in the country, has made serious in-roads into every nook and cranny of the oil-rich Akwa Ibom State.

In a release signed by Mr. Patrick Okon, the Director of Media and Publicity, Hon. Patty Etete-ineme, a former member of the House of Representatives has been appointed the State Co-ordinator; Obong Otong Akpabio, the State Secretary and Barr. David Udoh, Legal Adviser amongst others that constitute the State Exco.

Savior Enyiekere is Ika political leader – aide on political matters

The Hon. Special Adviser on political matters to the chairman of Ika Local Government Area, Marcus MacDonald has described his boss Saviour Enyiekere as a focus leader whose sterling leadership qualities are based on the hallmarks of integrity and consistency.

MacDonald describes Enyiekere as a leader with precise understanding of grassroots leadership demands and administration. He states that the Ika council boss is determined to put in place a legacy of enduring public utilities and stated that as a second term chairman, Enyiekere has allowed his experience to lead him right adding that Ika people did not make a mistake in voting him into office for a second term. That throughout his tenure Ika has enjoyed and witnessed relative peaceful and cohesion which is a pre requisite ingredient and cursor for sustainable development of any community.

Arise Nigeria in A’Ibom State has a dual mandate – Hon. Patty Etete-Ineme

Hon. Patty Etete-Ineme, a former member representing Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency at the lower legislative chamber of the National Assembly is currently the State Co-ordinator of the Akwa Ibom State Chapter of Arise Nigeria, a socio-political group that is promoting the rule of law and democracy. In this interview, he talks on the group’s mandate of supporting President Goodluck Jonathan for a second-term in 2015 and other sundry issues. Excerpts.

You have been given the enormous task of leading the Akwa Ibom State Chapter of Arise Nigeria. How does this make you feel? How prepared and equipped are you to face the task?

APN preaches unity

Akwa Ibom Progressive Network says what the state needs now more than ever is unity especially as the 2015 election approaches observing that it is through unity of purpose that the state will be able to present a strong voice in the politics of the nation. The group stated this through the BOT secretary Aniebiet Odung over the weekend while exchanging views with THE INK reporter.

Odung, a former chairman of Ukanafun Local Government Area observed that the state Governor Chief Godswill Akpabio had done enough to unite the state and charged all indigenes of the state at home and in the Diaspora to always see themselves as Akwa Ibomites.

Okpo on Transformation Agenda of President Jonathan

To the Rector of the Academy, Mr Joshua Okpo, keying into the Transformation Agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan explains why he has taken the bull by the horn in his efforts at giving the Academy a facelift.

In just two years in office, the Rector has changed the landscape of the institution beyond the imagination of all doubting Thomases, thereby enriching the confidence of the Maritime stakeholders on the wherewithal of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, in producing seafarers capable of meeting the 21st century shipping challenges.

Omobola applauds AKS government on ICT

Akwa Ibom State Government has been applauded for putting in place projects and programmes that are ICT driven.

The Honourable Minister of Communication Technology, Mrs. Omobola Johnson who made the commendation at the 2nd meeting of the National Council on Communication Technology held in Akure, Ondo State said that the Akpabio-led administration has taken steps on leveraging ICT for social and economic development of the State with the establishment of Information and Communication Technology infrastructure in the State.

Minister challenges engineers on professional conducts

The Minister of State, Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, Architect Darius Ishaku has challenged the Nigerian Society of Engineers to ensure that the academic school curriculum in post-primary institutions contain subjects that will encourage interest in engineering studies. This, he said, would enable the profession out-live the existing sets of engineers in the field.

Akpabio, progressives and the contrary BY JOE INIODU

Those who thought that the visit of Nigeria Consensus Group to Akwa Ibom for what its leader, Professor Ben Nwabueze called a Summit to save Nigeria was going to run into contrary wind with the State and federal governments must be disappointed and miffed with the turn of events. The Summit held under very congenial atmosphere rubbishing earlier insinuations which alleged that the agenda of the meet was to ratify the group’s position against President Jonathan’s 2015 ambition.

The Labadi Beach Hotel at the heart of Accra was a beehive of activities. It was a Saturday afternoon which rolled gallantly into a splendid evening. August guests indeed in the month of August. The stage was set and beckoning. The awardees had arrived from far and near, a gathering of the honourables in honour of a chosen few – ‘The Icons of Africa’, as the organisers preferred to call them. One of the notable recipients was Mr. Joshua Okpo, the Rector of the renowned Maritime Academy of Nigeria in Oron.

The International Centre for Charity and Peace (ICPC), an NGO which has been on the forefront of propagation of the ideals of the late Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, the great Pan-Africanist, was on the driving seat again, pushing the conferment of the Dr Kwame Nkrumah’s distinguished African Meritorious Service Order of Merit Award for 2013.

Mr 2kay dominates UK chart, gets verified on Twitter

Big things a gwan for Mr 2kay, the PH artiste is steadily making an entry into the mainstream…

After releasing his impressive ‘Bubugaga‘ remix featuring UK based acts May7ven and Moelogo, the single has risen to the top of UK Afrobeats top 20 chart. The chart is the online home of Green World Music, the UK’s newest and hottest Afro record label.

Closely following Mr 2kay on the chart is J Martins with ‘Touching body’, Iyanya with ‘Sexy mama’ and Star Boy Ent with ‘Caro’.

In other news, the ‘waterside boy’ has been verified on micro-blogging site Twitter. His page got stamped with the blue badge this week.

Ngozi Ezeonu says her weight loss isn’t health related

Ngozi Ezeonu has reacted to rumours suggesting she has a health condition after she released a new set of photos.

The Nollywood actress has been posting pictures of her toned down body on her Facebook Page. Ezeonu was plus sized before now, and the new images show she’s lost an incredible amount of weight.

‘I will really appreciate it if some people will stop insinuating that I am sick just because I worked on my weight. Please o I’m not sick. Wish us well instead of sickness or death. Thank u’, she wrote on her Facebook page.

The actress has over the years featured in over 50 movies, ubiquitously playing the role of a ‘mother’.

Youssou N’Dour sacked as Senegal’s minister of culture

Grammy award winning artiste and Senegal’s Minister for Culture and Tourism, Youssou N’Dour has been removed from office.

N’Dour was sacked on Sunday, September 8, 2013 after a cabinet re-shuffle by the Senegalese president, Macky Sall.

Sources revealed that N’Dour, the prime minister, Abdoul Mbaye and some other cabinet members were dismissed allegedly for failure in delivering public services to the masses.

The 54-year-old artiste turned politician was named Senegal’s Minister for Culture and Tourism on Wednesday, April 4, 2012 after his bid for presidency failed. N’Dour has released 27 albums over the past 28 years with his most recent being 2011’s ‘Mbalakh Dafay Wakh’.

Comedian Sir James Storms Eket with the Six Wise Men

Come September 23rd 2013, our dear state Akwa Ibom will be rolling out drums to celebrate its 26th creation anniversary.

This point to reasons why Akwa Ibom’s No.1 comedian and recipient of BEST AKWA-CROSS Comedian 2013 is basic ready to storm oil-rich city, Eket with SIR JAMES & THE THREE WISE MEN. According to the host who also doubles as the Chairman of Comedians International, the event will be hosted at the oil-city’s No.1 Nite Club DEJAVU located along Marina Road on September 22nd 2013 by 9pm.

Genevieve Nnaji moves into N200m Ikoyi mansion

Three months after buying a twin duplex in Sangotedo, Lekki, Lagos, superstar actress Genevieve Nnaji has made another pleasantly surprising acquisition – a fabulous mansion in the highbrow Park View Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos.

The actress who turned 34 on May 3, 2013, has already moved into the new crib, according to investigations. ‘She is still putting a few things in place like electronics and fittings, but she’s moved in already’ a source privy to the details tells us in anonymity. Before the recent move, Genny lived in Lekki with bestie Chinny Onwugbenu

Akwa Ibom All Stars league begins in Uyo

The first round of the maiden edition of Akwa Ibom AllStars League of 2013/2014 has kicked off in Uyo, the state capital. The participating teams are: Uyo Allstars, Central Uruan AllStars, Onna AllStars, Etinan AllStars, Consolidated Allstars, Nsit Atai AllStars , Mkpat Enin Allstars, Essien Udin Allstars, Abak Allstars, Ikot Ekpene Allstars, Oro Allstars and Pegasus Allstars Eket.

Briefing Sports writers in Uyo last week, the president of Akwa Ibom State Allstars Forum Barr. Chris Essien said the league competition will be on yearly basis and it is targeting on fostering unity among retired footballers as well as Akwa Ibom people.

Barr. Essien said there shall be a trophy and cash prize tag to the winners at the end of the football season adding that the competition is for age of 35 and above and the competition which started on September 14 will end by November 2013 he solicited support from the media to give coverage from the beginning of the league till the end.

Agenda for new sports associations in A’Ibom

Sports development in Akwa Ibom State charted a new course on Tuesday, September 10, 2013 when 26 boards were inaugurated to re-position sports in the state and sustain the excellence so far achieved which has ensured that the state remains at the echelon of Nigerian sports.

Not even the morning showers could deter sports enthusiasts and stakeholders in Akwa Ibom State Sports as they thronged the Uyo Stadium venue of the inauguration with high hopes and expectations as the new boards took off with style, pomp and pageantry.

Sports associations inaugurated in A’Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State government on Tuesday 10th September, 2013 inaugurated 26 boards of sports associations in order to develop and promote sporting activities in the state. The inaugurated boards are Taekwondo, Darts, Traditional Sports, Squash Rackets, Table Tennis, Wrestling, Baseball/Softball, Track and Field, Volleyball, Chess, Swimming, Cricket, Basketball, Special Sports, Badminton, Handball, Judo, Tennis, Weightlifting, Boxing, Golf, Kick Boxing, Cycling, Karate, Kung-fu and Shooting.

Inaugurating the boards at the state box, Uyo Township Stadium, the special adviser Bureau of Sports and Youths Development Mr. Samuel Frank congratulated the chairman and members of the various sports associations, adding that their wealth of experience will develop and promote sporting activities in all its ramifications.

THE INK VOL.1 NO.20

Ibanga Akpabio, Okpolupm Etteh plot Akpabio’s fall

* Soon Aso Rock will shun the Governor - OPL

The trouble in Akpabio’s family took a different twist as the state party Secretary Barr. Ibanga Akpabio’s secret plot with Okpolupm Etteh to ensure the leader of the 5th Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly emerges as Akpabio’s successor has been exposed. The deal is a dirty one that if it sees the light of the day, Governor Godswill Akpabio will die politically, THE INK can report on authoritative grounds.

Ibanga Akapbio is the secretary of the Akwa Ibom PDP and is one of the Akpabios that was fighting the ex-SSG Obong Umana Umana’s guber ambition arguing that the next Governor after Godswill Akpabio should emerge from Eket Federal Constituency.

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Whither Umana Umana

One of the greatest pre-birthday gifts a hurricane Governor Godswill Akpabio gave to his immediate past Secretary to the State Government Obong Umana Umana was an untimely, unceremonious and an embarrassing exit from Government. Not only that Akpabio mandated the throwing out of UOU to the chagrin of members of the public. The supervision of the exercise was carried out by women, the Governor’s wife and first lady Ekaette Unoama Akpabio and the Head of Civil Service of the State, Mrs. Cecilia Udoessien. The UOU’s birthday was few days away and when this incident occurred, many had known that politicians, blackmailers, eye service payers knowing who they are will wait. The truth is Umana Umana August 2012 and August 2013 birthday proved that UOU was just a fall guy that was being used by many to enrich themselves.

Enoidem, Etido Inyang and their lessons on humilityBY MANASSEH UMOETTE

Leaders don’t need to preach about humility, they need to demonstrate it. This is so because some of the greatest lessons in leadership are seen and not heard. This must have prompted David McKay to say, “I’d rather see a sermon than hear one any day.” Indeed, I saw a sermon last Friday in Barr.Emmanuel Enoidem, AKS Special Duties Commissioner and Engr.Etido Inyang,Special Adviser to Governor Akpabio on Technical Matters.

Oil Theft: AKSG charges communities to rise up to the challenges

Akwa Ibom State Government has charged oil bearing communities to rise up to the challenges of pipeline vandalism to guard against oil spills and other environmental degradation.

Governor Godswill Akpabio stated this during a one-day stakeholders’ sensitization forum on anti-vandalism jointly organized by the State Government and the State Command of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) at the Civil Service Auditorium, Idongesit Nkanga Secretariat Complex, Uyo, on Wednesday.

Excellence of a restored nation – Part 2

“This is the reason I said because the word of God says ‘The Lord shall bring health and healing” I refuse to be sick and that cannot be compromise. When you know the truth, the truth will set you free.

When you are restored, good health and healing to your soul is guaranteed. It is you that should start to exercise this. Do not allow people to compromise your health, healing and your financial breakthrough.”

God bless you, today is the concluded part of our ‘Stop and Think’ on “Excellence of a Restored Nation” – a case study on Jeremiah 33:1 -10. If you have search very well on our anchor scripture, you will acknowledge that Jeremiah the Prophet excel in all he does simply because God was with him. Jeremiah hears directly from God and not only hearing, he also does what God instructed him.

Ethnic attack on Akpabio unnecessary, says Chris Okonna

Akwa Ibom people have been urged to eschew ethnic jingoism and other forms of divisive tendencies capable of flaming violence and disunity in the state.

Amidst smears and calumny by certain people inciting some ethnic groups against the Governor Akpabio administration, it has been asserted that bringing up ethnicity at the time when the state was enjoying even spread of government projects and programmes, amounts to a great disservice to the people.

Elder Chris Okonna, a former commissioner in the State Universal Basic Education Board SUBEB, who spoke to newsmen in Uyo said that the Governor had clearly demonstrated himself as a highly detribalized leader, and that is evident from the nature of political appointments he has distributed to competent Akwa Ibom citizens since the advent of his administration in 2007.

“You can see from the recognition widely accorded him from several sections of the country and beyond that Akpabio is a selfless leader of international repute”, Okonna enthused.

ESD; Beyond the clamour for zoning

“Aspirants who desire to govern us must understand the words of their manifesto. They should not just read it to us, they must believe in it. They should also be engaged in tutorials in social contract. We don’t necessarily need as our governor someone with an impressive resume or experience. Who we need is someone who wouldn’t need run to Harvard to know that roads should be constructed where there are poor roads, and attend seminars by Cambridge to know that jobs should be created for the hungry and unemployed.”

The race for elective offices for the next political year in Akwa Ibom State has apparently begun; Interests have popped up and are surging. It is expected to attain a crescendo by early next year. Political ‘warlords’ are building up their arsenal. Their subalterns are fixing the landmine. One office that has dominated discourse for 2015 is the office of the governor and there are prominently two sides of the divide on how the race should go. This, I have assumed here we are fully aware of.

An open letter to the President Commander- in-chief of Armed Forces Federal Republic of Nigeria, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR

“Don’t allow discipline to suffer a sharp decline, this time around they should be no “long leg” or man know man, even though it has been infected into the vocabulary of the Nigerian public, allow justice to prevail, if not your respect will be thrown to dogs. If I reference the case of Ibrahim Saisu Buhari the speaker of House of Representative, the then speaker’s case was triggered off when the news magazine came out with a story titled “The Face of a Liar”, he falsely claimed to hold a degree in business administration from University of Toronto in Canada, and also falsified his age”

Sir, the entire Akwa Ibom people greet you. We want you to save our state from terrible maladies afflicting us, as a true Nigerian, we implore you to please devote a lot of time to think of the social and political ills plaguing our state and possible remedies.

Relocation of Totalfina Hqtrs: Governor was misquoted -Info boss

Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for information and Communications, Mr. Aniekan Umanah says Governor Godswill Akpabio did not ask for the relocation of the headquarters of Totalfina Elf Oil Company to Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State Capital, during the visit by the Consul General of the French Embassy, Mr. Francis Sastourne, as reported in the media.

According to a statement issued from his office, Mr. Aniekan said, what the Governor said during the Gala Night in honour of Mr. Sastourne was that “Totalfina Elf Company should have some kind of presence or a liaison office in Akwa Ibom, given the fact that it has robust drilling activities in Akwa Ibom territorial waters.”

ASSU and the Federal Government: So far, how well? BY PRISCILLA CHRISTOPHER

The academic staff union of universities (ASUU) and the Federal Government have been at logger heads for quite some time owing to issues involving rumination, entitlements, and infrastructural developments amongst others. Of all arguments and debates which have been swept under the carpet, the recent one emanating from the accumulation of failed promises seem to be more pressing and indisputably unbearable such that the union seem to have drawn a battle line between the government and itself.

2015: Tender your resignation * Labour Party chairman tells Akpabio

Following the recent riot act read by the Governor Godswill Akpabio that every Political appointee in His cabinet nurturing political ambition against the 2015 general elections should resign before the end of September, 2013, the Labour party has called on the state Chief Executive to resign in view of his Senate ambition come 2015.

The state chairman of the party comrade Etim Stern stated this recently, while fielding questions from newsmen shortly after his arrival from Abuja where he served as one of the members in the screening committee of the Labour Party governorship aspirants in the upcoming 16 November 2013 Governorship election in Anambra state, which also saw the emergence of Chief Ifeanyi Ubah as the party flag bearer.

PDP mini-convention: House Leader praises Akpabio

The Leader of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Okpolupm Etteh, has praised the significant capacity and contributions made by Governor Godswill Akpabio towards the success of the just concluded mini national convention of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, held over the weekend in Abuja.

In a press release sent to our mail box, Hon Etteh is quoted to have said as the deputy chairman of the convention planning committee and as chairman and member of some subcommittees; Governor Akpabio’s imprint was very glaring in the organization of the event.

In order to add value to the people of his senatorial district, Senator Ita Solomon Enang representing Akwa Ibom North East Senatorial district in the National Assembly has attracted another live touching road project to his area and the contract is awarded by NDDC to a reputable Construction Company called Northcrest Integrated Nig Ltd based in Port Harcourt.

Addressing the people of Uruan and Itu Local Government Areas on the nature of the project recently at the primary school Ikot Ayan Itam, Senator Enang appreciated president Goodluck Jonathan and Governor Godswill Akpabio for their support to the project, he equally commended the NDDC while stating that this is one the projects that when completed will link the people of Enen Atai, Uyo Itam, Mbiakot, Ikot Anie, Ema, Ikot Offiong, Ekid Itam, Ikot Ayan and Oku Ayadehe to Mbiaya Uruan and others in Uruan LGA which about five villages also benefit from the said construction.

Isantim kenneth Okon, Council Chairman

Chairman of Etinan Local Government Area Isantim Kenneth Okon has waded into the imminent crises that was threatening the legislative arm of the Local Government Area following what not less than nine councilors described as the impeachable offences committed by the Leader Hon Item Etuk and Deputy Inemesit Itina.

A political warfare was imminent in the legislative council of Etinan Local Government Area following what the aggrieved Councilors of the area described as the selfishness, greediness and financial recklessness and the dubious attitude of their leader and Deputy Hon. Item Etuk and Hon. Inemesit Itina respectively.

Shareholders endorse Consolidated Breweries’ sale of 57% equity stake in Champion Breweries

At the Extra-Ordinary General Meeting of Consolidated Breweries Plc held on the 23rd of August, 2013, shareholders of the company voted in favor of the Board’s proposal to sell 513,000,000 ordinary shares of 50 kobo each in Champion Breweries Plc held by Consolidated Breweries to The Raysun Nigeria Limited, a wholly owned Heineken B V subsidiary.

Addressing shareholders at the meeting which held at Lagoon Restaurant, Victoria Island, Lagos, Chairman, Consolidated Breweries Plc, Prof (Mrs) Oyinade Odutola-Olurin noted that as part of the sale, Raysun will be assigned all of the rights to and interests in the debt owed to Consolidated Breweries by Champion Breweries. The sale, according to her, will reduce Consolidated Breweries’ exposure to Champion Breweries’ debt balance and eliminate the losses from Champion Breweries’ operations that are consolidated with Consolidated Breweries group’s financial performance.

A’Ibom Speaker explains Govt’s industrialization agenda

“ ...Gone are the days people took public funds as political gratis”

Speaker of Akwa Ibom state House of Assembly, Hon. Samuel Ikon has called on indigenes to avail themselves of the N20billion seed fund being provided by the State Government for genuine investments through Private Public Partnership Council to drive the economy of the state and beyond.

Ikon who spoke while declaring open a three-day workshop organized by the state House of Assembly on Parliamentary Reporting for Journalists and Media Correspondents covering the House, explained that the state lawmakers have no reason to be confrontational with the Executive arm so as to be able to work together to meet the yearning of the electorate in the state.

Startimes holds week 7 draws in Uyo as more winners emerge

Two more winners emerged this week in the ongoing 3rd Anniversary promo of StarTimes currently taking place in Uyo. The week draws were held at the company’s headquarters office along IBB Avenue, opposite the Ibom e-library in Uyo on Thursday 5th September, 2013 at 12:30pm.

Conducting the draws, the systems Engineer, StarTimes Uyo office, Mr. Collins Ibor took the participants through the modalities for one to qualify and win in the promo. He told participants at the event that to qualify one has to buy a decoder of either N4,900 or N5,900 while existing subscribers have to recharge theirs with at least N3,000 to also qualify. He however warned participants and other subscribers to always confirm with the office if they have a call that they have won a prize as fraudsters are on the prawl and may want to capitalize on the promo to swindle the innocent subscribers of their money and valuables. He also used the occasion to congratulate the winners so far and urged others to key in as one week is still left where they too can also be winners.

Nsit Ubium leaders get exco

A group the Supreme Council of Nsit Ubium Youth leaders’ penultimate week elected a pioneer executive to pilot the affairs of the body for the next one administrative year. A release signed by the body indicates that Abel Akpan emerged as the chairman while Esema N. Esema emerged as secretary. Others in the exco include Obot Ekpo Director of Mobilization, Udeme Gamble Director Security and protocol. Alex Udoh emerged as the publicity secretary while Saviour Williams emerged as the organizing secretary.

In his acceptance speech, Abel Akpan stated that they will ensure that they integrate and carry the youths along in not only the politics of the local government area but in also that of the federal constituency, senatorial district, state and nation at large. He added that this pioneer executive will leave no stone unturned as they seek more dividends of democracy to the people of Nsit Ubium LGA.

Umeakuka emerges president-general for Ndigbo Nigeria, Diaspora

Chief Cyril Umeakuka has been appointed the president general of Eze Ndi Igbo Nigeria and in the Diaspora following the dissolution of the previous executive of the association at the general meeting Friday, July, 19, 2013 in Akure, Ondo State.

A statement by the National Media Secretary of the dissolved national executive, Ugochukwu Ekwuebelem said it was necessary for such decision to be taken to appoint a competent person in the caliber of Umeakuka, the Eze Ndi Igbo of Akwa Ibom to emerge as the National President of the body.

Ekwuebelem who said the association of Ndi Eze Ndigbo in the Diaspora is the umbrella body of all Ezes in Nigeria and in the Diaspora, expressed optimism that with Umeakuka as the newly appointed president, the organization will turn a new life.

Info boss applauds Akpabio’s capital allocation policy

The Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr Aniekan Umanah, has applauded the new financial regime adopted by the Akpabio-led administration, in consistently allocating 80% to Capital expenditure in her annual budgetary outlay.

Speaking recently in Uyo, the State Capital, the Information boss said, the trail-blazing achievements recorded by Governor Godswill Akpabio, is due to the 80:20 capital, recurrent expenditure ratio adopted by Government in the past 6 years

Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State has said that the socio-political challenges facing Nigeria as a nation can be surmounted if Nigerians were tolerant, peaceable and united.

Chief Akpabio stated this on Tuesday in his message to the National Political Summit organized by the Nigeria Consensus Group held in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State Capital.

Represented by his Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr. Aniekan Umanah, the Governor, who anchored his message on the theme Our Strength is Our Unity: Seek Diversity said the strength of Nigeria lies in the unity of Nigerians.

We are interested in Akwa Ibom, says French consul

The Government of France has expressed the confidence that the relations between France and the present administration in Akwa Ibom will take a new turn.

The Consul General, French Embassy, Lagos, Mr. Francois Sastourne gave this indication in a note of appreciation to Governor Godswill Akpabio, following his successful visit to Akwa Ibom, recently.

According to the diplomat, “French enterprises will be looking at the recent developments conducted under your authority and I am sure that they will be as impressed as I was by the “transformation extraordinaire” that is going on.”

It was a special day for one of the foremost political youth group in the state, the Akwaibom youth alliance movement as they took a giant step to extend their tentacles to Ikotekpene local government area in other to spread their vision across the state.

The group recently on Sunday inaugurate a new chapter in Ikot Ekpene to help them reach out to the youth of the area, the event gathered most of the political youth group association in the area who came out in mass to work under the umbrella of the group, the group has its main headquarters in Uyo also has other sub_ chapters across the three senatorial district in the state which also include Ikot Ekpene which is their 15th chapter so far.

Sunday 22 September 2013

Tuesday 10 September 2013