Switch in House Committees: I only follow directives – Aniekan Akpan

 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’. 

‘Such routine changes can only help to solidify the bond of brotherhood that exists among members. It is basically about service to our constituents and to the state as a whole,’ he elaborated further. He said he wasn’t aware of any complain by members as a result of the changes except the one speculated by the media. No committee, according to him is lesser in ‘status’ or scale of importance as all work in synergy for the collective goal of the House.

He described as ‘absolutely untrue’ that some members including himself were privy to the changes before it was announced, saying the House present House as constituted has never been selectively run. ‘If we are to believe those who claim so, then it is good that I have become a decision-maker in the House,’ he joked.

Aniekan Akpan prior to the speaker’s recent directive on the swapping of committees chaired the House Services Committee where he performed outstandingly and ensured effectiveness and efficiency in the general affairs of the Assembly.