Latest Edition of tTHE INK NEWSPAPER, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State

Prison inmates, Motherless Babies pray for Enoidem

Inmates of the special Children’s home and  those of the federal prison, Ikot Ekpene last week were full of praises to God and had also prayed that the blessings of the creator should not depart from Barr Emmanuel Enoidem, the Commissioner Ministry of Special Duties in the state.

The inmates were relishing the hand of fellowship that was extended to them in continuation of the celebration of the 50th birthday of the special Duties commissioner as well as to mark the 27th birthday celebration of the creation of the state. Mr Jerry Umoette the National coordinator of Godswill Support Group had led other members of the body and friends as well as well wishers of the down trodden to the prisons and the special Children homes were he onbehalf of Barr Emmanuel Enoidem donated food items, toiletries as well as other valuables worth thousands of naira to the inmates.

2015: 850 groups endorse Udom Emmanuel for governorship

BY JOSEPH OKON

Barely two months to the People’s Democratic Party PDP Governorship primaries for 2015 scheduled to hold on 29 November 2014, over 830 socio political groups in Akwa Ibom state have endorsed and adopt the Secretary to State Government, Mr Udom Emmanuel as their sole candidate for the gubernatorial election in the state, and urged him to resign his appointment on or before 20th October 2014 according to the PDP guidelines as released and contest the primary.

The groups made the endorsement recently under the auspices of Transformation Initiative for the Empowerment of Ibom people and Akwa Ibom Consolidation Alliance ACA during their formal ratification of groups under the two main bodies which took place in Uyo.

Group endorses Nsima Ekere ahead 2015 guber election

A group known as the Akwa Ibom Consolidation Project has promoted the endorsement of a Unity Agenda christened “Akwa Ibom We Are One, Together We Prosper”. The Unity Policy is in line with the character and ethics prescribed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) constitution which stipulates in part thus: The party, while striving for maximum unity of purpose, shall respect the linguistic, cultural and religious diversity of its members.

‘AKWA IBOM WE ARE ONE, TOGETHER WE PROSPER’ is a political message with growing momentum across the state; it reinforces the need to support efforts to prevent marginalization and discrimination among societies of the State. It emphasizes that it cannot do it alone, but through the collaboration of all citizens.

The message is a reminder to citizens of the need to recognize the existence of Unity in Diversity among races, religion and gender. It synergises the populace especially the political class to braze up on power and be placed in influential positions in all sections of the State, and to regain the good feelings of political importance.

State of Emergency in Oron * Affected traders, ors cry for help, revolution looms

* Navy sacks residents, disrupts activities in Creeks

BY KENNETH JUDE
Government Area of Akwa Ibom State between the Nigerian Navy and the people of Idua Asang in Oron. As at the time of this report, business and other social activities have been paralysed in the community.  

The crisis, according to people of the area began over two weeks ago when the Nigerian Navy alleged that one of their men was killed. Though, the officer in question was kidnapped and allegedly murdered by Sea Pirates, who sources say have constituted a major menace to business in Calabar, the Cross River State Capital.

According to a source, the Sea Pirates have been maiming, robbing and committing all manner of atrocities in the waterways. “They steal from the women who transport goods to other states, do away with their hard-earned money and other valuable items yet, the government have done nothing about it”. He lamented. A stockfish seller in the market who displayed her goods by the roadside due to their eviction from their stores by men of the Nigerian Navy narrated that they were stopped from using the stores since last week.

However, the Navy officials forcefully extort money from them in a bid to control the fracas but to no avail. They have since taken to sporadic shooting and restricting movement of people to the beach and markets where their commercial activities thrive.

 The family Head of Idua Asang, Obong Edet Okon Ekpong, who bared his mind on the incident explained that the Navy men invaded the community, shooting indiscriminately and beating everyone in sight, leaving a number of casualties and victims. He expressed further that the result of their ignoble activities has caused great mishap to every sector of the community and has put fishing activities to a standstill.

The community leader expressed dissatisfaction that the Navy men have rather turned to harass the community instead of arresting the culprits who are at the fore of the problem.

When asked if they have reported the matter to any relevant agency, the community leader said they notified the marine police who made five arrests without probing the suspects for more information. He also said that the leader of Navy was contacted but he only asked them to go about their normal activities with the assurance that everything will be under control yet, nothing positive was been done to effect that. He noted that “if something is not done immediately, we will be forced to revolt.”

One of the affected traders who also expressed his mind on the turn of events expressed thus: “government is supposed to create an enabling environment for business to thrive because if there is no security, there is nothing like uncommon transformation. We are doing our legitimate business but we are beaten and battered and the government can’t pretend not to know about it because their agencies are with us. We are tax-paying citizens and we deserve to be protected by government. 

We appeal to the governor to assist us because that is the mandate we gave him.” Our on-the-spot assessment revealed that boats were not allowed to berth at the Oron Beach on the orders of Navy officials posted to the waterways. This, sources say has crippled their means of livelihood. The community have therefore called on government to come to their aid immediately to avert a full scale uprising.  However, pundits are of the opinion that the Navy has declared a state of emergency in Oron. Efforts to speak to the Navy leadership in Akwa Ibom State proved abortive as at press time.

Mkpat Enin AKHA: Mixed feelings over Ephraim Akpan

*  He’s an overnight philanthropist           - Group
* We have adopted him -  META

The erstwhile top political associates of  Mkpat Enin Local Government Council chairman, Mr. Ephraim Akpan, are passionately crying out over what they viewed as “total neglect and abandonment” by the council helmsman soon after he was sworn in as the council boss of the LGA in 2012.
First to speak to this paper on the issue was Mr. Ephraim Akpan’s then campaign manager in the 2012 local government electioneering in the state, Elder Ukonsek Ukonsek.

According to Ukonsek, who was popularly nicknamed “the engine room” of the campaign machinery that brought the Mkpat Enin Council chair in the saddle as chairman, due to the former’s pivotal role of garnering the support of power brokers in the area to the winning advantage of Mr. Akpan in the said election, “the chairman has since abandoned all of us who staked everything to ensure that he was returned in that election.

2015: Gov. Aspirant promises to focus on robust youths programme

Governorship aspirant  in the 2015 general  elections under the plat form of PDP, Mr. Nya Ebito says he will focus on youth empowerment by creating wealth through massive industrialization and embark on robust empowerment programs.

He said this in a chat with our reporter during an event recently in the State capital, Uyo.

According to him, “My focus as the Governor of the State will be to create wealth and employment opportunities through massive industrialization of the State.

2015: Mkpat Enin people adopt President Jonathan, Ephraim Akpan

No fewer than 500 delegates and stakeholders under the aegis of Mkpat Enin Transformation Alliance (META), recently adopted President Goodluck Jonathan and Hon Ephraim Akpan as their sole Presidential and House of Assembly candidates respectively in the 2015 general elections.

A motion for the endorsement which was moved by the Leader, Mkpat Enin Legislative Council, Rt Hon (Barr) Ikpong Franklyn and seconded by a political bigwig from Ikpa Ibom ward 4, Mr Ekanem Usen, specifically called on the council boss, Hon Akpan to accept the peoples’ call and throw his hat into the ring.

However, the uncommon endorsement was announced by the National President of META, Mr Ubong Ifut at the monthly general meeting of the group held at Godswill Akpabio Gas and Oil Academy in Nyaodiong, Mkpat Enin.

During the meeting, Mr Ifut who noted that the group was gathered to assess the performance of Hon Akpan, two years after elected Chairman, stressed that the council boss has given the people of Mkpat Enin an overdose of his 4-Point Agenda, namely: Health, Water, Roads and Empowerment.

Speaker after speaker including the Leader, Mkpat Enin Legislative Council, Barr Ikpong Franklyn, Obong Aniefiok Ntuen, Hon Nse Michael, Hon Fidel Akpan,  women leader in the area; Hon (Mrs) Rose Usen, the PDP youth leader and Supervisor for Works; Hon Richard Akan, President, Ikpa Ibom Youth Forum, Uduak Nkanga, Oyuekong Hilary Oton, President Ibiaku Youth, Nsikak Joe and others who spoke glowingly about the milestone achievements of Hon Ephraim Akpan, stressed that one’s antecedents and passion for development would be the yardstick of supporting any aspirant in the forthcoming House of Assembly race.

They specifically eulogized the State Governor who is also the leader of the ruling party in Akwa Ibom, Chief Godswill Akpabio, saying they will forever remain grateful for having discovered Hon Ephraim Akpan, as well as giving him the rare privilege to overseer the local government council.

The people noted that their support for the Council boss is not based on any primordial sentiments, but on concrete evidences of life touching achievements recorded in just two years in office.
They expressed optimism that the emergence of Hon Ephraim Akpan in the hallowed chambers of the State Assembly in 2015 would not only boost the socio- economic development of Mkpat Enin, but will bring more developmental projects to the area.

They noted that apart from the pioneer Council boss of the area, Hon Richard Aaron Umoren, no Local Government Chairman of Mkpat Enin since its creation has achieved so much within the time Ephraim Akpan has been in office, stressing that is the major reason the people have risen in unison to support the council boss to go and represent Mkpat Enin, in the State House of Assembly.

It was the believe of the speakers that Akpan’s achievements, goodwill, unequal patriotism, humane disposition and philanthropy, will see him through, being a journalist of no mean repute, they observed that Ephraim has the political will to influence infrastructure development to Mkpat Enin.

An elated Chairman, Hon Ephraim Akpan, who was present at the meeting, said he was overwhelmed by the massive crowd and his peoples’ support for President Jonathan’s Transformation programme in the country.

He noted that he was not surprised by the support because Mkpat Enin people were aware that judging by the antecedents and achievements of President Jonathan, he has break the record of achievements by any administration since the Nation’s independence, expressing optimism that Mr President would do more and as well complete all his transformation programmes, post 2015.
The Council boss however attributed his landmark achievements in office to God and his sincere desire to leave the council better than how he met it.

He emphasized that the next one year left for him in the council will witness a historic human capacity development such that a sizeable youths, elders and women in Mkpat Enin would be permanently independent.

On whether he will join the 2015 House of Assembly race as he was being pressurized to do so by his people, Hon Akpan responded in the affirmative and however said he was still consulting the relevant stakeholders in the area.

The council boss also used the occasion and call on the people of Mkpat Enin to continue in their support to Governor Godswill Akpabio to have a successor that will consolidate on the Uncommon Transformation in the State.

Brief on Rt. Hon. Okpolupm Etteh - Leader of the A’Ibom State House of Assembly

BY DARLINGTON DAVID

Born on 19 September, 1970, to the royal family of Chief Ikpong Ikpong Etteh of Upenekang in Ibeno Local Government Area, Rt. Hon. Okpolupm Etteh has remained the longest serving Member of the  Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly where he has garnered sufficient experience in the art and probably also, the science of law making. From an ordinary member and Committee Chairman in the Third Assembly, he rose on to become the Chief Whip in the Fourth Assembly between 2007 and 2011. In 2011, he climbed up the ladder again to become the Leader of the House of Assembly.

He has not been a legislator all his life, though. Before he got to where he is today, he attended the Central School, Upenekang, Ibeno. He also attended the Secondary Grammar School, Ibeno, before going to the renowned Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, where he bagged a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Marketing. He also attended the Galilee International Institute of Management, Israel, where he bagged a Post Graduate Certificate in Public Administration and Civil Service Management.

A’Ibom @ 27: What we have witnessed in this State these past seven years is a proof that God honours His words – Gov Akpabio

 

My dear people of Akwa Ibom State, I share  with you the joy of the momentous event of the creation of our State twenty-seven years ago. It was like the joy of daybreak to those who worked behind the scene for the creation of this blessed State.

As the announcement was being made by the then Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, on that happy day, most Akwa Ibom indigenes waited anxiously to know the local  government areas the new State was composed of. As each local government was mentioned, floodgates of joy and ecstasy accompanied the announcement in that local government area. There were street parties all over the State. There were celebrations all over the State. There were mutual congratulations all over the State.

A’Ibom at 27: How far, so far

 BY KENNETH JUDE

PREAMBLE
Last week marked a major milestone in Akwa Abasi Ibom State. It is even more unique on grounds that it is the only State in the federation named after God.

This appellation in many ways, places huge responsibility on the citizens of this great enclave carved out of the old Cross River State way back in 1987.

The events leading up to the creation of the State did not come on a platter of gold. It is instructive to note that it took the ingenuity and bravery of patriots to see to the creation of Akwa Ibom State. The road was tortuous and riddled with hiccups both natural and man-made. They were such that could easily cow the lily-livered and uninitiated into submission. Many remained tucked in their cocoons; others who could muster good enough courage according to their elastic limit fell by the way side when the chips were down. Some others who had genuine love built on concrete faith, uncommon grit and vim stood their grounds and never wavered in the face of terror, tension and telling difficulties. Such were those who laid the solid foundation upon which we are celebrating today with so much pomp and panoply. They went out of their way to draw the map that has culminated into one of the choice destinations in sub Saharan Africa. They deserve our endless showers of encomiums and accolades. They deserve a standing ovation without any compulsion whatsoever.

Workshop for automobile technicians ends in Uyo

BY EMMANUEL AKPAN

A three-weeks work shop for Automobile Technicians also known as mechanics has ended in Uyo, the State Capital.

The workshop which was organized by the National Automotive Council (NAC) in collaboration with the Federal Government through Subsidy Re-Investment Programme (SURE – P) and Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), took place at the Mechanic Village Hall, Afaha Offot.

The workshop featured lectures on personal and business vision, marketing and sales technique, book-keeping, banking and finance for medium-small scale business, customer care, ethics in business, as well as presentation of empowerment tools to the Mechanics.

The Mechanics were trained on how to handle and satisfy customers through good public relations rather than arguing with customers. They were also trained on how to open business account, modernize their operations as well as upgrade on their manner of business operations.

Delivering her lecture, the guest lecturer, working with Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Mrs. Lucy Ekpenyong said the aim of the workshop was to build the capacity of Automobile Technicians to be able operate and function properly in their business. She said it was to equip them with the necessary skills that will enable them run their businesses effectively and also to help them acquire new modern skills in times like this when newer brands of cars are being built. “This workshop was to equip them on how to handle new product of cars and also to teach them how to relate with all customers and satisfy them through good public relations”. She said.

She emphasized on the value of good ethics in the work place while encouraging the participants to always imbibe the principle of doing the right things for their customers; reminding them to always have vision and long-term plan in order to achieve success in their businesses.

In his speech, the consultant of the Mechanic Village and Nigerian Automobile Technicians Association (NATA), Akwa Ibom State, Otuekong Austin Ndaeyo commended the National Automotive Council for organizing the workshop. Describing it as a welcome development in the State, he said it will go a long way to upgrade their knowledge in the sector from analogue to digital.

According to him, I’m happy because this workshop is going to enhance their capacity in terms of service delivery and will help them know how to diagnose a car, how to attend to their customers and most importantly, how to access and operate certain facilities.

Otuekong Ndaeyo hinted that in a bid to draw government’s attention, he has concluded plans to organize the first Akwa Ibom Automobile Technicians Summit. According to him, it will be an economic summit with the essence of unlocking the potentials of all Automobile Technicians in the State.

While calling for cooperation from the Technicians, Ndaeyo maintained that the summit will bring them close to government so that they can enjoy the dividends of the present administration’s uncommon transformation; adding that the summit will also help them know the exact number of Automobile Technicians operating in the State.

Also speaking, the State chairman of Nigerian Automobile Technicians Association (NATA), Mr. Aloysius John, thanked the federal government for the initiative of ensuring that the workshop is achieved through the Subsidy Re-Investment Programme (SURE – P) in partnership with NATA at the National level. He expressed that they have benefited a lot from the workshop and described it as a right step taken at the right time.

In his words “It is a welcome development, it has helped us upgrade our knowledge, we are very grateful to the federal and State government”. Mr. John who is also the Chairman, Mechanic Village seized the opportunity to appeal to the State Government to help them work on the bad road network and poor environment they operate in. “We want government to look into us. There is no access road at the mechanic village and the place is over-populated. It is in a deplorable condition”.

Responding on behalf of the participants, Mr. Fabian Asanga thanked the organizers of the workshop. He promised to put to use the impact and knowledge gained at the workshop and to also train colleagues who missed the event in order to move the sector forward.

Participants at the workshop were: Asukwo Umana, Chuku Eze, Victor Ufia, Ime Akpaitam, Akpanimo Edet, Unwana Udo, Toby Etukudo, Patrick Udom, Pius Udia, Anietie Ekanem, Unyime Thomas, Monday Umoren, Etop James, Ime James, Sunday Edem, Friday Noah, Chima Ubani and Saturday Akpan.

Highpoint of the workshop was the presentation of empowerment tools namely: OBDII scan tool, Digital multi-meter and Battery tester by the training supervisor, Mr. Eze Everistus to all the participants.

Alleged rape: Court adjourns case to 29th October

BY EMMANUEL AKPAN

The Magistrate of Court One, Mrs. Uwem  Ibritam of the Chief Magistrate Court, Akpan Akpa Udo Street, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, last week Wednesday adjourned the case between the Commissioner of Police (compliant) versus Comfort Michael Patrick and Precious Victor Mark (accused persons) to 29th October, 2014 after the first hearing.

According to the charge paper with No: MU/515/2014, made available to The Ink, Comfort Michael Patrick ‘F’, Precious Victor Mark and three others on the 5th August, 2014 at Uyo magisterial district had conspired amongst themselves to effect unlawful purpose to cause injury to the reputation of Dr. David Umoessien by accusing him (Dr. Umoessien) of rape and unlawful detention of one Miss Precious Victor Mark knowing that he (Dr. Umoessien) is innocent of the alleged offence and thereby committed an offence contrary and punishable under section 556(1)(b) of the criminal code.

The count II of the case was that Comfort Michael Patrick, Precious Victor Mark and three others still on the 5th day of August, 2014 at Uyo Magisterial District, with intent to steal, demanded the sum of 1million naira (N1,000000.00) from Dr. David Umoessien and with threats to falsely scandalise his person as a rapist knowing fully that he (Dr. Umoessien) has not and thereby committed an offence contrary and punishable under section 426 of the criminal code, cap 38, vol.II, laws of Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria, 2000.

Meanwhile, the court has granted bail to Comfort Michael Patrick and Precious Victor Mark with the sum of N100.00 each and a surety 

A’Ibom at 27: Assessing the contributions of AKHA so far BY JOSEPH OKON

The Akwa Ibom State  House of Assembly was formally inaugurated in 1992 by the then first civilian Governor of the state, late Obong Akpan Isemin when the first democratic dispensation started in Nigeria after the long era of military rule and dictatorship.

As the first democratic legislature, the first Assembly was faced with enormous challenges and responsibilities ranging from framing laws for the new state, accommodation problems, and other internal rankling within the legislature. The state legislature was first housed along Wellington Bassey Way end, while the Uyo Local Government secretariat which was under construction when the state was created, became the Governor’s office, and the then Governor’s office was changed to the State House of Assembly, now the State Traditional Rulers’ chamber.

AD dares PDP - We will defeat ruling party at the polls

 BY EMMANUEL AKPAN 

The State Chairman of Alliance for Democ racy (AD) in Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Ekomobong Akpan has vowed to win the ruling Peoples Democracy Party at the poll come 2015.

Pastor Ekomobong Akpan stated this last Saturday during the Alliance for Democracy (AD) State Working Committee visit to its Ibiono Ibom Chapter.

The AD chairman said the visit was to sensitize the people and the party faithfuls in Ibiono Ibom ahead of the coming general elections in the state, he maintained that the party is rooted and waxing stronger in all the 31 Local Government Areas.

Governor Akpabio and the Oro Nation BY ANDERSON ETIM USUYAK

To an on looker, Governor Akpabio insistence that Mr. Udom Emmanuel, the current SSG must succeed him, may appear ordinary. Far be from it. That is an issue for another day. There is more to the governor’s preference successor than meet the eye.

Akpabio marginazation of Oro people during his eight years’ administration was seen by the political watchers as a deliberate plan for emergence of an Oro person as Governor of Akwa Ibom State in 2015. That was why Oro people kept quiet But the question is what has Oro as a Nation done to Akpabio to deserve such humiliation? The answer is not far-fetched. Why has Akpabio decided to make it personal and throws all decency and protocol into the wind?

That historic endorsement of Nsima Ekere by APCOTMA BY KENNETH JUDE

It is not pretty easy in contemporary times to have   people unanimously root or align fully with others perceived by the society as ‘those that matter’ or these persons identifying ‘intoto’ with the proverbial lay-men on the street. Before one enjoys the overwhelming goodwill and approving nod from the masses irrespective of the person’s financial muscle or standing on the social milieu, it is either such a person is projected with the believe that they will be benefit immensely from the path they have chosen to toe in the long run or they believe that identifying with such will either propel them in life or bring them blessings in no small measure.

In another perspective, it is somewhat easy to sing the praises of someone that is in control of the machinery of power; either in the political field, corporate environment, social circuit etc. This is so because in paying unfettered allegiance to the powers that be, one is not only entitled to the crumbs that will fall off the master’s table but is also guaranteed the pomp, affluence and alluring aroma that oozes out of the VIP lounge. Another lacuna that have continued to rear its ugly head is that the fear of the unknown have gripped the people so much that one wonders the effect Christendom have had on those who abide by its teachings. It’s either one is afraid of his next door neighbour or is not at ease in his place of work. This is borne out of the notion that it’s either to cut short the life of another or thwart their effort to make headway in life. So, these negative feelings and mindset have had etching effects on the way and manner we frolic with people no matter how well we know the person or how strange he is to us.

That endorsement of Hon. Samuel Effanga by Uruan, Ibesikpo people BY EMMANUEL AKPAN

Few months from now, the people of Uyo Federal Constituency will decide who will represent them at the Federal House of Representatives, Abuja.

Consultations have been on for the past few weeks in preparation for the D-day especially, now that the ruling party, People Democratic Party (PDP) has fixed a date for the party primaries which will take place soon.

One of the aspirants vying to represent the people of Uyo Federal Constituency is the former Commissioner for Science and Technology, Hon. Samuel Effanga.
To those who may not know him too well, Hon. Samuel hails from Afaha Offot, Ward 6 in Uyo Local Government Area.

Refrain from ethnicity, Akwa Ibomites urged

 

Governor Godswill Obot Akpabio presenting staff of office to the New Chairman, Akwa Ibom State Council of Chiefs, His Royal Majesty, Edidem (Surv.) Edem Silas Akpan at the Banquet Hall, Government HouseComplex, Uyo.

Akwa Ibom people have been tasked to refrain from serving the gods of tribalism and ethnicity, hatred and bitterness, which led to the spilling of the blood of innocent Akwa Ibom People in 1969 and again in 2011.

Governor Godswill Akpabio, who stated this Tuesday in a radio and television broadcast on occasion marking the creation of Akwa Ibom State 27 years ago, said “Choose this day whether you will serve the gods of tribalism and ethnicity and the gods of hatred and bitterness, which led to the spilling of the blood of innocent Akwa Ibom People in 1969 and again in 2011.

National Confab: Nduese Essien to be honoured for making Akwa Ibom proud

For his outstanding performance at the just  concluded National Conference and other national assignments, Rt Hon (Chief) Nduese Essien  is soon to be treated to a civic reception by his people.

The event is billed for Saturday October 11 2014, at Eket Sports Stadium, time  10.00 am Prompt.

Essien is said to have earned the enormous respect of his people through his sagacious handling of key national issues either at the national confab; as the minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development or as a two-term member of the House of Representatives.

Annang group backs Umana Umana

A Socio-political organization in Annang land,the Annang patriotic voice has risen in support of the condidatuer of Obong Umana Umana in the forth coming gubernatorial election in the state.

The group made its position known yesterday in Abak shortly after a meeting of the organization.Speaking to newsmen,after the meeting,the National President of the group,Comrade Mbuotidem Sunday Ubom said the group took the decision after considering many factors and issues especially as it concerns the continuity and development of Akwa Ibom State. In his words,” we have considered many things before taking this decision.We want continuity,we want peace and unity and we want development hence our choice of Umana Umana” he said. 

Udom Emmanuel: A metaphor of good governance BY JOSEPH OKON

The 31st of July 2013 herald in what can best be described as a new beginning in the administrative governance of Akwa Ibom state with the emergence of a gentle, humble, forward looking, progressive, superlative, trust worthy, active, dependable, tested, and result oriented administrator par-excellence, Mr Udom Gabriel Emmanuel as the new Secretary to the State Government.

There is no gain x-raying the many good things he has done including the good leadership qualities he possess since he does not like bragging about his achievements, but it may interest you to know that he is the first Secretary to State Government to build a huge financial autonomy for state government through his industrialization programme.
He is the first SSG to attract over four mega industrie

s of international recognition and standard to Akwa Ibom state within one year in office; he is the first secretary to Akwa Ibom state government to effectively reposition the economy of the state for efficient productivity.

UniPort visitation panel due for Akwa Ibom Tuesday

A visitation panel from the University of Port Harcourt, is due at the Afe Udomiifiok Institute of Education next Tuesday, September 30, to inspect facilities towards the proposed affiliation of the new school, to the University. 

The panel which will be led by the University’s Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. A. I. Joe, will include the Deans of the Faculties of Humanities, Education and Management, as well as the Directors of Academic Affairs, Institute of Education, Academic Planning and that of Local affiliations, Professor Monsignor Sylvester Udoidem to ascertain the physical infrastructure staff disposition, as parameters for qualifying the institution for the proposed affiliation. 

Rector of the institution, Very Reverend Father (Professor) Mathew Ekpo in a recent chat with newsmen, at the school’s administrative headquarters, in Ikot Ekpene, disclosed that construction work on classrooms and administrative buildings had gone far at the school’s permanent site in Adiasim, Essien Udim council area. The school is currently located temporarily at St. John the Baptist Monastery, Ikot Ekpene, by the new council secretariat.

Erosion threatens to cut off Esit Eket

The people of Ikpa town in Esit Eket Local Government area has sent an SOS to the Government of the state calling on the relevant authorities to please come to their aid and stop the ongoing erosion menace that is threatening to cut off the community.

In a release signed by the village head, Chief S B Ekpenekong, Prince Etim Abraham Eno village Council Secretary, Prince Amos Enyiekpon Asubop the village council secretary, Mr. F J Eyo who represented Idung Eyo Abidua and Chief Udo T. Onwong, they averred that, “the village council had written to the Hon. Commissioner for Environment about this more that 45 metres deep erosion menace. In response, the Hon. Commissioner had sent his team of Engineers to the area for inspection and a report was written. That report we believe is in the file of Ministry of the Environment, Uyo.

Ikot Ekpene Paramount Ruler celebrates 83rd birthday

BY PRISCILLA CHRISTOPHER

Ikot Ekpene Local Government Council Hall witnessed a mammoth crowd on Saturday 20th September when the Paramount Ruler of the Local Government Area, Okuku (Engr.) Augustus Jonah Ekpenyong Assiak celebrated his 83rd birthday. 

The celebration which was tagged “Royal Feast” also featured the public presentation of “Assiak and the Ikot Ekpene Evolutionary Experience”, a book written by Manasseh Umoette; and the conferment of Chieftaincy Titles/Awards of Excellence to deserving citizens of Ikot Ekpene. 

Ex-Minister task Nat’l Assembly on new Constitution for Nigeria ...Says successive bad governance squandered Nigeria’s wealth

A former Minister of  Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Chief Nduese Essien, has called on the leadership and members of the National Assembly to exhibit enough courage and political will by creating an enabling atmosphere for the people of Nigeria to ‘proclaim’ their own constitution.

The former National Assembly member who was a delegate at the recently concluded National Conference held in Abuja, stated this recently in Lagos while addressing participants of an Economic summit, organised by the Akpabioism Leadership Center at the Nigeria Institute of International Affairs.

While reflecting  on some national issues currently facing the country, and the successful ending of the Confab, the former lawmaker who led the South-South Caucus  while in the National Assembly, asserted that Nigerians have the capacity to resolve every tricky national issue facing it without resorting to violence and bloodshed. 

Ibesikpo Asutan 2015: Group roots for AKHA Speaker’s Aide

The Senior Special Assistant on Media to Speaker, Akwa Ibom House of Assembly, Mr. Ernest Akpan, has been urged to contest next year’s House of Assembly election for Ibesikpo Asutan State Constituency on the platform of PDP.

A group, Greater Ibesikpo Asutan for 2015, in chat with reporters in Nnung Udoe, the headquarters of Ibesikpo Asutan, said the area was in dire need of a core professional to consolidate on the gains of the present and former representatives.

The President of the group himself from Asutan ward 2, Mr Bassey Akpan, said Ernest who is from Ward 1, possesses all the qualities needed for a new generation of a legislator that will set Ibesikpo Asutan on the path of responsive representation and economic growth.

PETROCHEMICAL INDUSTRY SITE: IBENO FIGHTS BACK Says we own Okoiyak

The people of Ibeno Local Government Area under the auspices of Mpono Nnitor Ibeno says the land in which the petrochemical industry is sited belongs to Ibeno and not Eket as claimed by Okoiyak Landlords in Eket Local Government Area. The group made this known in a press statement addressed to the Editor of THE INK Newspaper last week. 

It avered in a release signed by Enienwe Ikoedem Ekong, John Cyril Ekang, Daniel Sunday, Friday Ebong and Ikwo Dan Okon that “For the avoidance of doubt and for the purpose of keeping the records straight, the land in which the Petrochemical Industry is sited belongs to Ibeno and not Ekid Nation. From historical facts, the Ibeno people are among the earliest settlers on the Atlantic Coast where they have remained till today. Historical facts and colonial documents have unequivocally confirmed this assession. 

It  is also on record that most Eket villages takes their origin from Ibeno even through Eket people maintain that they found themselves emerging from the ground to exist where they are now. Ibeno people are primarily fishermen and they have maintained that industry from the beginning of their life till now”.

The release indicates further that, Ibeno Local Government was created vide the Local Government Decree No 7. Of 1997, CAP A61 Federal Republic of Nigeria Decree 1997, and before the creation, the entire area of land occupied by the people of Ibeno have always been in effective and total occupation, and control by them including the land on which the petrochemical industry is sited. This recent claim by Dr. Obioba only represents a mere figment of imagination of the alleged claimant, since it is not supported by concrete facts on which a claim for title to land can be based. A mere reference to suit No. FHC/UY/CS/53/2003 dated 19th October, 1998 and an alleged judgment arising therefrom is not enough. 

In any case it would be preposterous to join issues with Dr. Obioba. However it is our intention to refer the matter of this publication to our lawyers since there is a case in the High Court of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State in connection with the so called “Okoiyak” land and all matters connected therewith are subjudice. 

It added also that the Ibeno people cannot be intimidated when it comes to the issue of protecting their land and they are absolutely confident in that all traditional and colonial records at their disposal confirm that the land on which the Petrochemical Industry is sited belong to them. It noted in parts that, Indeed it is proper to mention here and now that even the Gas Processing Facility allegedly named after Uquo in Esit Eket is built on Ibeno Land. As one passes from Uquo to Ibeno the cast excavation of sharp sand going along the road, shortly after the Gas Processing Facility is carried out on Ibeno Land. 

These show that Ibeno Community has great control of land along the axis leading to the home-stead of the Esit Eket community of the Ekid Nationality. The Ibeno people having appreciated the uncommon transformation of the Governor of Akwa Ibom State reserve their right at an appropriate time to negotiate for compensation in connection with the land on which the Gas Processing Facility is sited.

2015: ITA UDOH CONSULTS EKET - Promises better deal

Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Pastor Ita Umo Udoh has taken a big step towards actualizing his 2015 governorship ambition following his consultation to the political stakeholders of Eket Local Government Area. The event took place at the hometown of Chief Nduese Essien a former minister and a two term National Assembly member.

The commissioner who had earlier served as the an SA to the Governor Godswill Akpabio on Education matters dispelled the rumour that he is being sponsored for the gubernatorial election by the state Chief Executive and maintained that he had since 2005 in an interview hinted that Godswill Akpabio was going to succeed Obong Attah and that after Akpabio would have completed his tenure in 2015, he will succeed Akpabio. Ita Udoh who spoke amidst applause from the people informed that he is coming into the race for the Governorship of the state because he wants to consolidate on the uncommon transformation that is ongoing by the state Governor. He added that he is the only man that understands the problems of Akwa Ibom people and is ready to fix it.

The seasoned Educationist added also that the State Governor has not anointed anybody to succeed him and that he is the right person that will succeed Akpabio. Speaking further, the governorship hopeful said, he had since informed Governor Akpabio of his ambition and that he was not rebuked by the leader of the state. He described Akpabio as a compassionate leader and a man who understands the times as according to him, Godswill Akpabio is a leader that is detribalized, compassionate and kind hearted. He appreciated the Governor for maintaining that the governorship of the state by 2015 goes to Eket senatorial district. He said, he is ready to give his all to ensure that the people of Akwa Ibom state see the need to back him and send him to the Hiltop mansion.

Pastor Ita Udoh called on the people of Eket local Governmnment Area to continue to support the Godswill Obot Akpabio led administration noting that the present Government has done good to the people of Eket Local Government Area. He appealed that he is ready to take Eket and Akwa Ibom State to the next level as according to him, as a man who has stayed with his people, he knows were it pinches and is ready to fix the broken links. Ita udoh stressed further that as a man of God, he will not let God down, the people and himself. He announced that after observing the trend of things, he was convinced that he has the werewithal to continue in the goodworks of the state Governor Godswill Akpabio.

The event witnessed a mommoth crowd that even shocked the governorship hopeful who confessed that he was excited to have such population despite the short notice of his intention. He said he will continue to take his message to the other Local Governments of the state and explained that he is sure of victory when the primaries and the elections are conducted.

Those whgo spoke at the event commended the Tourism and culture commissioner for taking the bull by the horns to challenge for the position of the Governorship which they maintained was the turn of Ekid people. They promised to stand by him till the end. Barr Jack Udota, immediate past member of the House of Assembly for Eket State constituency stressed the need for the people of Eket local Government Area to stand by Ita Udoh as according to him, the commissioner is an Eket project that must be presented to the people of the state for support. He maintained that Eket people will not let Ita Udoh down in his quest to succeed Akpabio come 2015.

Speaking Nduese Essien said he is happy that Ita Udoh has come to tell the people of his intention to lead the state. He said, as a leader and chairman of Eket Senatorial District Assembly, he will continue to receive other aspirants but noted that it was the turn of Ekid people to produce the next Governor after Godswill Akpabio. He charged the people to see Ita Udoh as a noble project that should be supported.

Present at the consultation were the vice chairman of Eket, the member representing Eket State constituency at the House of Assembly Ayang Akanimo Ayang, Otuekong Dr Etuk Nsien Etuk, Hon Kennedy Akwaowo, Chief Usoro I Usoro, Chief Ekanem Willie, Emman Sammy, the chapter Chairman of PDP in Eket Prince Godwin David, the south-South woman leader of the PDP. Past and serving councilors from Eket amongst other top political leaders of the oil city. They were excited and expressed the optimism that Ita Udoh has all it takes to take Akwa Ibom to the next level.