Latest Edition of THE INK NEWSAPER, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State

Bassey Albert’s future at risk

 

This appears to be the end of a political chess game for the former AKS gubernatorial aspirant Obong Bassey Albert Akpan following the determination of the Presidency and the leadership of the red chambers of the National Assembly to return to the Senate Ita Enang for a second term. The ex-Finance boss ran into an ambush laid for him by Governor Akpabio and Sen. Ita Enang.

Although Albert had wanted his supporters to belief that his sudden change of mind from the governorship has had the backings of the Governor Godswill Akpabio, the leadership of the Senate and the presidency, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, close allies to the presidency and the senate leadership have informed our reporter that Albert is on his own and that the ex finance commissioner is not a sponsored candidate of Aso Rock. Last week was one of the decisive periods in the build up to the 2015 general elections. It could be recalled that the presidency had said it has handed over the structure of the party to the Governors in their different state. This position which did not go down well with senators especially those who are interested in a return to the National Assembly had seen members of the red chambers hurriedly calling for a meeting and threatening an impeachment of the President. The aggrieved senators had also threatened a move to congratulate Aminu Tambuwal for ditching the PDP for the APC.

Do not take the Party to court, says AKHA hopeful

While some aspirants for the upcoming party primaries of the People Democratic Party who feel cheated and unequally treated by the leadership of the party consider law court as the only option to fight for justice and their political right, a frontline contender for the 2015 Ikot Abasi/Eastern Obolo State Constituency seat in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Elder (Surv.) Kufre Ufot is of the stance that dragging the party to court over its internal decisions is the least thing a true party faithful can do.

In an interaction with newsmen in Uyo recently, Elder Ufot stressed that no good child can fight his father.

Wondering why some people who called themselves politician could not understand the nitty-gritty of politics, he condemned in strong term the filling of case in court against the Peoples Democratic Party by some members of the party believed to be aspiring for one elective position or the other.
He maintained that party’s decision is always paramount and unarguable as such cannot be challenged, especially when such decision is made through due process.

Global Newstrend holds Annual Leadership Conference * NUJ Chair, ors bag award

BY KENNETH JUDE

The 9th edition of the Global Newstrend  Newspaper Annual Leadership Conference and Conferment of Millennium Achievers and Leadership Gold Award on Distinguished Nigerians has been held in Uyo.

The yearly leadership meet, put together by Corporate-Mix Media Trend Limited, publishers of Global Newstrend Newspaper took place at the Governor’s office Annex, Wellington Bassey Way, Uyo on Friday 14th November 2014. It was themed “Sustaining Nigeria’s Democracy for Enhanced Economic Growth,’’ and well attended by corporate players, Lawyers, political office holders, the Media and the general public. 

In his welcome address, the Chief Host and Publisher/CEO, Corporate-Mix Media Trend LTD, expressed gladness at the gathering while adding that the Newstrend Annual Conference and Award is a yearly event aimed at providing a platform for brainstorming, exchange and articulation of ideas on topical national issues as a way of contributing to the policy formulation of the country towards the evolution of a sustainable and prosperous society. In his words, “the Millennium Achievers and Leadership Gold Award (MALGA), which is a brand of Newstrend Group of publications, a major component of the conference on its part is aimed at identifying people, groups and organisations who have excelled at their work to celebrate their talents, achievements and showcase them as role models to inspire a generation of Nigerians towards the actualisation of our nation’s quest for dedicated, committed and patriotic citizens.  It is a platform that is focused on inspiring and celebrating excellence in leadership, entrepreneurship and development.’’

Usoro Akpanusoh lauds Eddie Eyibo on award conferment

BY KENNETH JUDE

A top aspirant for Esit Eket/Ibeno State Constituency seat in Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Usoro Akpanusoh has congratulated Mr. Eddie Eyibo, the Permanent Secretary, Akwa Ibom State Government on the conferment of “Excellence Public Administrator” on him by Newstrend Group of Publications during the 9th Newstrend Annual Leadership Conference and Award held in Uyo last Friday. 

 

Rt. Hon. Usoro Akpanusoh who is also the immediate past State Organising Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), spoke glowingly about the recipient describing him as a man of integrity and a statesman he holds in high esteem. He commended Newstrend Group for the award noting that it is well deserved for his work ethic and service to humanity. Hear him: “he’s my father and inspiration and a very humble man who has been praying for me and has wished me well in my career as a politician. He’s a consummate administrator hence this award is not a surprise to me because the award is well deserved and I believe it’s a way of encouraging him to do more for the masses by being a father to the fatherless. 

 

Ikot Abasi Federal Constituency 2015: Bernard Udoh declares intention * Says his people want him back at the National Assembly

BY EMMANUEL AKPAN

Otuekong Bernard Udoh has reiterated his interest to represent the people of Ikot Abasi Federal Constituency again in the National Assembly come 2015.

Udoh who is the leading aspirant under the umbrella of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), stated this yesterday during a media interaction with journalists in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Otuekong Bernard Udoh who has already secured his nomination and expression of interest forms said, his aspiration again to the House of Representatives is a response to call and pressure from the people of Ikot Abasi Federal Constituency to go back and represent them at the National Assembly come 2015 which will be of their own interest.

War in Essien Udim: Kinsmen write Akpabio, say Emman Akpan is a disgrace

The people of Essien Udim Local Government Area under the aegis of Essien Udim Youth Conscience has sent an open letter to Governor Godswill Akpabio saying that it is the turn of Udim political bloc in the area to produce the next House of Representatives member and not the Essien Annang bloc.

The body made this known in a release made available to THE INK reporter last Sunday. The group said, it is amazed and embarrassed by the rumours making the rounds that the Governor, Godswill Akpabio has anointed the member for Essien Udim state Constituency, Hon Emmanuel Akpan for the position come 2015.

The release noted that the people of Ikot Ekpene federal constituency will lost out in the scheme of things if Emmanuel Akpan is sent to the Federal House as her representative. It noted that Your Excellency we are pained in our hearts to communicate this to you. Please spare sometime and follow this voyage as it is borne out of the desire to ensure that there is continuous peace and tranquility in our local government area. 

Effiong Bob-Uyo Senatorial Dist. meeting ends in disaster * USD Stakeholders shun gathering

In what could possibly be described as disappointment and rejection, youths of Uyo Senatorial District on Sunday descended on their political leaders at a meeting of the district convened by Senator Effiong Bob. 

The meeting which was convened to plead with the people of the district to accept the position of the party to support Eket senatorial district’s quest to produce the government ended in protest at the Akwa Ima Estate residence of Senator Bob by the youths who continually sang solidarity songs as, “all we are saying, give us governor”, “what is the interest of Uyo in 2015 in 2015”,...in Asan Ibibio accord we stand”, and lots more.

Eschewing extremism on the road to 2015 General Elections

BY PATRICK ALBERT

With a feeling of great Joy, I wish to welcome all  guests and awardees to this 2014 Newstrend Annual Leadership Conference and Award organised by Global Newstrend Newspapers and Panlela International Magazine.  It is interesting that this Leadership Conference and Award, inaugurated in 2002 has since then been held in 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011 and 2012 respectively.  

This year’s event, being the ninth edition, with the theme: Sustaining Nigeria’s Democracy for Enhanced Economic Growth,” is a further demonstration of the commitment, determination  and patriotic zeal of Elder Emmanuel Eduonge, the Publisher/Chief Executive Officer of the Global Newstrend Newspapers and Panlela International Magazine and his team to sustain this laudable initiative. 

Ibom International Stadium: New sports’ destination

BY JOE INIODU

The world stood still. The elements stood still to offer clement weather. Even government bureaucracy in the State had to stand still as work free day was declared while related parts were subordinated for the handling of some aspects of the event. It was the inauguration of the ultra-modern Akwa Ibom International Stadium which ground-breaking ceremony was performed on October 27, 2012 by President Jonathan. And so two years later, the same President Jonathan returned to officially declare the stadium ready for use. The date was November 7, 2014 and the world stood in honour of the great feat, great accomplishment which is an exhilarating addition to the sports’ menu that many would savour. 

Ini Okori: The quintessential leader

BY EMMANUEL EKONG

Inibehe Okorie has been a pivotal player in the ruling Peoples Demcratic Party since 1998 and remains a frontline chieftain of the party who also featured as a Governorship aspirant in 2006. 

For people who have come close to him, his in-depth passion to bring change to governance and his quintessential leadership qualities in his successful business career, leaves no one in doubt that this great son of AkwaIbom State, a tested technocrat and modern day leader is once again on the path of greatness to liberate his people in his quest to emerge as the next Senatorial candidate at the forth coming nominations of the party for Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District.

Onofiok Luke: Putting the people first

BY SAMUEL AYARA

“I agree with you that in politics the middle way is none at all” John Adams

Democracy in Nigeria seems to get better for its worth, and gives the assurances that leaders of the new order, with good intentions are what the nation needs, to stay in touch with the realities of modern day governance. Where government must of a necessity be that of the people, for the people, and by the people. No middle grounds whatsoever.

While a large section of the society wails on when they will savour the comfort and fulfillment which participatory democracy brings, some are praying to have what God has blessed them with, permanently, in the fear that subjecting the best result of their search for good leadership to another round of experiment may portray mediocrity.

Emmanuel Ekpenyong joins guber race - Picks APC gubernatorial form

    - Says victory will be a surprise

The member representing Uyo Federal  Constituency at the National Assembly, Rt Hon Emmanuel Ekpenyong has declared intention to contest the forth coming governorship Election in Akwa Ibom State and had filled and returns his expression of interest and Nomination form.

Mr. Ekpenyong, who is the only APC law maker from Akwa Ibom in the National Assembly made this know over the weekend during an interaction with our report in his Ewet Housing Resident Uyo.
He said his determination to contest the forth coming election was born out of his interest for the state, saying that after he had studied the political development in the state, he observed that nothing was zoned to his Federal Constituency, and due to the fact that his party, the APC does not consider zoning of political office except after the election. Adding that the gubernatorial contest in APC was open to all regardless of the person’s Tribe and Tongue, as in the case of their posit panties “arrangement in our party is open to every Akwa Ibom person, who are quality to contest.”

Uruan PDP Okays Kufre Etuk for Second term - As he Promise Effective Reps

The second term ambition of the member representing Uruan State Constituency in Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Obong Kufreabasi  Etuk was further boosted over the weekend when the eighteen chapter executive officers, eleven ward chairmen and ward officers of the Peoples Democratic Party gave a thumb up to his second term ambition.

The event was witnessed by a crowd that thronged the chapter secretariat of the party along Nwaniba, Idu-Uruan to give the lawmaker a rousing welcome.
Addressing the party officers and faithful, Obong KufreAbasi Etuk commended the party for giving him the mandate to serve in his first term, saying, as a loyal servant, when PDP and the entire people of Uruan gave him a mandate, he did not fail them but had worked assiduously to accomplish the assignment he was sent and promised to carry out more assignments of the party in his second term. 

RCCG Shalom’s season of abundant grace

It was a whole week celebration of God’s grace upon The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Shalom Model Parish, 13 SDP Road, Eket.
This must have informed the theme of the just concluded 20th anniversary of the parish, “Abundant Grace”, signifying God’s abundance grace upon the church and its members.

Grace, according to the Pastor in charge of RCCG, Region 14, Pastor Richard Adeboye, is qualifying the unqualified. 

An aspect of dictionary meaning says that it is God’s kindness to people because He (God) loves them. This must be the testimony of the 20 years existence of Shalom Parish.

High Court extends injunction against PDP

The Federal High Court, Abuja pre sided over by the Hon. Justice A. F.A. Ademola today extended the life of the interim injunction earlier granted on the 7th November, 2014 against the PDP and its Chairman, Alhaji Adamu Muazu and the Central Working Committee of the Party. Hon. Umana Okon Umana had on the 7th November, 2014 obtained Interim Injunction against the PDP and INEC on the following terms: 

1.       An Order of Interim Injunction restraining the 1st and 2nd Defendants from acting on the Press Statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Mr. Olisa Metuh on the 29th October, 2014 to the effect that only governorship aspirants from Eket Senatorial District of Akwa Ibom State were eligible to contest the Party’s primaries pending the hearing and determination of the Originating Summons herein. 

OBA- A true symbol of modern democracy

BY PROMISE ETIM

The true essence of Democracy is to ensure peace and development of a state. In a true democratic setting, the interest of the masses, sustainability and continued transformation are seen as major parameters for sustainability.

In the past couple of weeks, Akwa Ibom has been through troubled waters in terms of political development. One man that has ensured stability in the polity ahead of the 2015 race is “Obong Bassey Albert” also referred to as OBA by his admirers, friends and political associates.

OBA- End of a political career? BY NSIBIET JOHN

Former commissioner for Finance and chairman Inter-ministerial Direct Labour Coordinating committee Obong Bassey Albert has shown that he is still a kindergarten politician following his recent action of what many have since described as his ability to betray his followers in haste when it mattered most. Before this time, commentators have argued that Obong Bassey Albert was not a contender in the governorship race. The reason that was averred by this school of thought was simple. He was on a roadshow, a fanfare. They argued that the composition of his campaign committee was porous with men of low weight in politics except few who were sure bets to be delegates. For this writer, ever since OBA threw his hat into the ring, I have tried to imagine how he was going to be a Governor; I tried to understand how he will look like being a Governor. I sighed, but I had commended his courage.

Yours truly had believed that the ex finance commissioner had some things up his sleeves. He wanted to steal the opportunity, the chance of Eket Senatorial District to emerge the Governor. But the truth is that even if OBA did not surrender, he would have lost the election though with pride.

Why I want to be Senator —Ekpe James

The Executive Chairman,  Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government, Apostle (Dr.) Ekpe James, has averred that there is a  huge lacuna in the representation of Uyo Senatorial District.

According to the council boss, “the people of Uyo Senatorial district have suffered total neglect in terms of oversight and representation which are germane responsibilities of a lawmaker anywhere in the world, and can I assure my people of a very robust, resounding and people-oriented representation post 2015”, Apostle James boasted.

Exchanging views with our reporter over the weekend in Uyo, the State capital, Apostle Ekpe James, who recently bought and submitted his Peoples’ Democratic Party form to contest 2015 Senatorial District election, promised to make people empowerment his focus and sponsor laws that would better the lives of all and sundry in Uyo Senatorial District.

New SSG emerges

Governor Godswill  Akpabio has announced  the appointment of new Secretary to the Akwa Ibom State Government.

He is Engr. Nkereuwem Ekanem, immediate past Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Uyo. He replaces Mr Udom Gabriel Emmanuel who resigned his appointment last month to contest for the Governorship position under the platform of PDP in the State.

Engr. Nkereuwem, who is a fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and a holder of M.Sc. in Engineering from United Kingdom, hails from Nsit Ubium Local Government Area.

Governor Godswill Akpabio who announced this at appointment Saturday at the St. John Chaplaincy at Government House, Uyo during the Government House Prayer meeting, said the new SSG would be sworn-in next week, saying there have been a series of promotions in the State as reflection of presence of God in all affairs of the State including the successful commissioning of life-touching projects.

Mobil/NNPC Zonal finals holds in Akwa Ibom …as organizers move against age cheats

All government and private secondary schools in the state are once again in for a chance to showcase talents that abound in them in the Akwa Ibom State, NNPC Mobil Producing Nigeria Schools Athletics Championship which zonal finals comes up on Thursday and Friday this week.

The finals at the zone will take place in scheduled venues in the eight sports zones.
For Abak zone, the zonal final will hold at Community Secondary School,, Ikot Esop, Etim Ekpo Zone at the Etinan Stadium while Ibiono/Ikono zone will  hold at Community Secondary School, Ikot Anyang other centres are Ukpo Okon Comprehensive Secondary School, Okon Town Ikot Abasi for Ikot Abasi zone, State College, Ikot Ekpene for Ikot Ekpene Zone, Methodist Boys High School, Oron for Oron zone, and Comprehensive Secondary School four towns for Uyo zone.

Akwa Ibom agog for Super Eagles match

With the Super Eagles defeat of the Red Devils of Congo by 2 - 0, the stage is finally  set for an historic encounter with the Bafanan Bafana of South Africa on Wednesday, the 19th of November at the Akwa Ibom Stadium, the Nest of Champions in Uyo.

Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mr. Aniekan Umanah, while reacting to the hard-won victory of the Super Eagles over the Red Devils at Point Noire, Saturday afternoon, said “the match against the South Africans will be a memorable one for all Nigerians, as all logistic arrangements have been completed to ensure a hitch-free encounter between the two sides on Wednesday.”

Ukanafun 2015: Aniekan Akpan sues for unity

The member representing Ukanafun State constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Elder Aniekan Akpan has called for unity of purpose among the political class as PDP primary election draws closer.

In a telephone conversation with this paper, Elder Akpan said the turnout of political event in the constituency should unite and bring all political blocs and camps into one umbrella for the common good of the people.

In his usual humble way, the lawmaker said his reelection will be victory for the people who are deeply satisfied with his representation in the assembly since 2011 when he went to the assembly maintaining that, he is ever ready to work with all the camps to ensure victory for the party at the end of the day.

Etinan Federal Constituency 2015: PDP Stakeholders adopt David Etuk … Insist on Nsit Ibom slot

In what political pundits have termed as a landmark endorsement, political stakeholders from Etinan Federal Constituency have endorsed a frontline aspirant in the 2015 general election for the Federal Constituency, Hon David Etuk as their Sole candidate ahead of the nomination next month.

The PDP Stakeholders of Etinan Federal Constituency in a press release made available to news men resolved at the end of their expanded and well attended meeting to respect the age long zoning arrangement of political offices in the Federal Constituency.

AK Gov’s wife advocates for protection of widows right and privileges

Wife of Akwa Ibom Governor Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio has reiterated the need for widows to be taken proper care of by their in-laws,  communities and the society saying widowhood  is a very lonely and miserable life without help from the society .

The governor’s wife disclosed this recently during the 10th anniversary programme of the Gospel Foundation Mission International Etinan, tagged 

’’ Healing for women convention 2014’’. While speaking Mrs. Akpabio said government was not relenting in its effort in seeing that the rights and privileges of widows in the state as enshrined in the widow’s right law of 2012 were implemented.

More controversies over delegates list * Exercise may be cancelled

* Prince Akpabio hijacks Nsit Ubium list

* Esit Eket doctored

* One Ward missing in Oruk Anam

The last may not have been heard of the last PDP ward congress that was organized by the party in the state last Saturday. THE INK gathered from very reliable and credible sources that due to the disenfranchisement of Party leaders and stakeholders, the PDP stalwarts had written strong worded petitions to the Presidency and the National hierarchy of the party.

Initially, our reporter gathered that the petition may have been swept under the carpet but with the recent threat from Senators that they will dump the Party and also frustrate the second term ambition of the President, since, he had conceded party structures at the state level to Governors.

OBA warned

The immediate past commissioner for Finance in the state Mr. Bassey Albert Akpan has been warned by the people of Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area to steer clear from any attempt to cause disharmony in the political configuration of the Local Government Area.

Stakeholders and potential delegates of Ibiono Ibom hinted our reporter that Bassey Albert Akpan after mortgaging his gubernatorial interest feels he can use the head of Ibiono Ibom people. They said, Ibiono Ibom politicians will not follow the dictates of Bassey Albert as far as the election into the state House of Assembly is concerned.

One of them who spoke to our reporter said, they have gotten information that Bassey Albert is trying to stop the second term ambition of Ime Okon but that the people of Ibiono Ibom will resist it wholesale. They spoke to our reporter last night. 

A member of the PDP Exco in Ibiono who is a sure delegate to the party primaries said, if OBA wants to try their patience let him open up and try to stop Ime Okon. He said, they did not ask him to go ahead with a negotiation that is bound to fail his political move.      

AKSG hails success over Ebola

Governor Godswill Akpabio has attributed Nigeria’s successful containment of the outbreak of Ebola Viral Disease to the high literacy level in the country. 

Chief Akpabio who stated this Monday when the executive members of Nigerian Academy of Education led by their President, Professor Uduogie Iwowi paid him a courtesy visit at Governor’s Office, Uyo, described education as the answer to various issues in the society. 

He noted that “In the case of sensitization, education is the answer. Take the case of Ebola as an example. The level of literacy in some of the West African countries affected the ability to control the disease. I want to commend the President and health officials in Nigeria, particularly the academics, who were able to sensitize all Nigerians.

Inauguration of A’Ibom Stadium: Women protest against Akpabio

BY KENNETH JUDE

The women of Obio Etoi yesterday took to the streets to protest their non employment in the newly built Akwa Ibom International stadium billed for commissioning tomorrow by President Goodluck Jonathan. The women numbering over fifty barricaded the gates and marched round the premises of the stadium chanting diverse solidarity songs with placards bearing different inscriptions as: ‘’ our women need employment; our farmlands are gone; Obio Etoi women are crying; we are homeless; Godswill Akpabio, you have done well but...’’

They were also armed with palm fronds and other materials to register their displeasure over what they described as government’s insensitivity to their wellbeing. Speaking with THE INK, one of the protesting women said that what they are agitating for is their  right and the need to compensate them with employment. ‘’ we want our right; we want to work in this stadium; we are not requesting for much asides the job of sweeping and keeping the surroundings clean. We were promised that as soon as this stadium is completed, we’ll be employed to work here at least to sweep or as cleaners but now, we hear that they took down names of some girls whom we are not sure are from this village. We the women can work; they should employ us.’’ She pleaded.

Speaking in that vein, Mrs. Glory Etim Effiong noted that it is the farmland which served as their source of livelihood that government has taken over. ‘’This land provided food for us because we used to farm here hence since government took the land, we don’t have any other place to farm. As if that was not enough, they employed people from different parts of the world in total neglect of the women of Obio Etoi. We have been denied our right in our land same with our children. They should employ us so that we will have something to sustain our families since we have no other place to eke out a living other than here. We need help because it’s our right.’’

Another respondent who spoke with our reporter said, ‘we don’t have any market in this community that will fetch us money asides working here.’’ She added that the only compensation they need from government is for them to be employed as others so that they can cater for their families. Mrs. Margaret Moses Offiong who is the vice president of Esop Iban in the community bared her mind this way: ‘’we are here to demand our right. We plead that women should be employed to work in this stadium. It’s our right to work here because this facility is sited in our community. We got information that the governor will be coming today that’s why we had to cut short our meeting to come here. We want to work here as cleaners.’’ Asked if she’s aware of news making the round that persons indigenous to the community are the ones employed in the stadium, she said that she’s not aware of such development adding that all she wants is to work in order to secure a good future for the children of Obio Etoi. On insinuations that the youths of the village are not also given a look in, she claimed ignorance saying that though she has heard such tales but she can’t say with exactitude if it’s true noting rather that they are only fighting the course of women.

The boisterous and vociferous women had to be tamed by the commissioner of Environment, Prince Enobong Uwah who arrived the venue ostensibly to inspect the goings on in the stadium but had to intervene when the women brandished placards, shouting and blocked the gate. His efforts to address the teeming women were overwhelmed by piercing noise until he elected to meet with the president of the group inside the stadium. At the end of the parley, the women leader came and addressed the apprehensive women who had blocked the convoy of Dr. Emem Abasi Bassey, commissioner for Health from entering the stadium with their placards hoisted a notch higher even as an enraged Enobong Uwah managed to calm them before they cleared the pathway. Addressing the women, the president who simply gave her name as Mma Uko explained that the work being carried out at the moment is not the one government promised to give them, that it’s a voluntary work. Hear her: ‘’ I thank all of you that came out today because we came out to demand for our right and we will get what belongs to us. Government says that the ongoing work is not the one they promised to give us. 

In fact, when the time comes, nursing mothers, aged women and those on the plumb side will not be employed. He (Enobong Uwah) has endorsed just ten girls to be employed. When the time comes, those chosen will be employed on permanent basis; those that have been chosen are mainly youths. I don’t know them but if you are a member of Esop Iban,  rest assured that something good will come because they have promised to call me when the time is right.’’ She added that those women yet to give their names to do so as soon possible so that they won’t be left out of whatever will be handed out to Esop Iban.  

OBA- End of a political career BY NSIBIET JOHN

Former commissioner for Finance and chairman Inter-ministerial Direct Labour Cordinating committee Obong Bassey Albert has shown that he is still a kindergarten politician following his recent action of betraying his followers in haste when it mattered most. Before this time, commentators have argued that Obong Bassey Albert was not a contender in the governorship race. The reason that was averred by this school of thought was simple. He was on a roadshow, a fanfare. They argued that the composition of his campaign committee was porous with men of low weight in politics except few who were sure bets to be delegates. For this writer, ever since OBA threw his hat into the ring, I have tried to imagine how he was going to be a Governor; I tried to understand how he will look like being a Governor. I sighed.

Yours truly had believed that the ex finance commissioner had some things up his sleeves. He wanted to steal the opportunity, the chance of Eket Senatorial District to emerge the Governor. But the truth is that even if OBA did not surrender, he would have lost the election woefully. He was not a governorship material but a show boy who was busy making noise and placing sign posts everywhere in town.

Unemployment blamed on students’ poor attitude to craftsmanship

The endemic unemployment in Nigeria has been blamed on many students and graduates lacking basic occupational skills and inability of most secondary schools and tertiary institutions in the country to teach their students to be self-reliant but rather to be job seekers.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works in the state, Dr. Ifreke Ekpa who stated this during the weekend at the first graduation of Slawd Peters Engineering Training School, Etinan affiliated to Rivers State Polytechnic, Bori, noted that “In fact, the problem of unemployment in Nigeria is because schools do not train students to be self-reliant but rather to be job seekers. 

Appraising Nsima Ekerenomics 1

BY ETOKOWO OWOH

A few months back and in Daily Sun,  I did an evaluation of the Akwa Ibom economy with a view to determining in space and time its positioning within a global context. It was obvious from that analysis that Akwa Ibom is yet not out of the woods. An indication to this effect was found in the fact that if we discount the civil service, there is hardly anything to cheer about our economic foundation. And that it has become necessary to connect our infrastructural renaissance to the pivot of the economy which is the human element. 

The aim, in all these, was (and still is) to lay a framework that would guide our next development direction post-2015. I also, in that piece, drew attention to the fact that economic development cannot be divorced from the nature and nurture of the leadership. That the exigent attitude and character of the governor which is usually not unconnected with inert traits, learned attributes (philosophically and professionally) and experience gathered over years (whether in the wilderness or in Canaan, or both). It also implies knowledge of the people’s development history viz-a-viz world economic order. I remember pointing out that our development context and content will experience change in magnitude and direction depending on the attitude and development character of the next governor.  

2015 Guber Race: Oro Royal Fathers slam anti-oro politicians with traditional sanctions

The quest to enthrone the next Akwa Ibom Governor of Oro extraction by the people of Oro nation has taken a new dimension as royal fathers under the aegis of Council of Oro Traditional Rulers, invoked traditional sanction on all Oro sons and daughters who will mortgage the collective interest of Oro people for their selfish political interest in 2015.

 Angered by what they described as gross intentional neglect and marginilisation of Oro nation by the past and present administrations in the state in terms of infrastructural development and symbolic appointments, royal fathers across  the five local government areas of Oro nation, yesterday converged on the ancestral “Obio Ufere Oro” in Okobo local government area and invoked the gods of the land on any Oro son or daughter who indulges in anti-Oro politics or prepare to vote against Oro interest in the November, 29, 2014 PDP Governorship primaries. 

2015 AKHA: Etinan students kick against Nse Ubeh

Students of Etinan Local Government Area studying at various institutions of higher learning has warned Mr. Nse Ubeh to desist from dragging their names into confusion as they have since made their position clear on whom they want to represent them and by extension the good people of Etinan state constituency at the House of Assembly come 2015. They also said they are poised to ensuring that Barr Aniefiok Dennis gets the victory as the House of Assembly election approaches.

In a position statement made by the Worldwide President of the body Comrade Oku Amos on behalf of the students, he said the students were shocked by the antics of Nse Ubeh whom they noted was an affront on the sensibilities of the students body. Oku Amos said, let me put the records straight and counter the erroneous announcement our attention was drawn to in some radio houses in the state that at no time did the students body endorsed or encouraged Nse Ubeh to contest the House of Assembly position for Etinan State constituency. 

Fraudulent land agents dupe man of N15m …”419" suspects nabbed as police declare manhunt on 5 kingpins

Those who want to buy land or property in Uyo and its environs would have to look before they leap so that they would not fall among the robbers.

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has smashed a syndicate that specializes in fraudulent land deals. Recently, the gang allegedly defrauded a man of Fifteen Million (N15,000,000.00) for a parcel of land owned by Pastor Francis Anso whom the gang impersonated.

Our source revealed that one Monday Eyo Akpan, 32, a native of Effiat Offot and business man, residing thereat, in Uyo Local Government Area had received a man who wanted to buy land. The man who later became a victim of fraud was introduced to him by one Aniedi Sunday alias Fashion and wife, Blessing. The land, which is an authentic property of Pastor Francis Anso is located at Shelter Afrique extension, Uyo. The man of God had commissioned a land agent to look for a buyer. The photocopy of the survey plan is said to have been given to the agent who gave same, without suspicion, to Monday Akpan who alongside other fraudsters contacted some unpatriotic officials of the ministry of Lands and Housing to produce an alternative original in the name of Pastor Anso.

Ibom Int’l Stadium to be commissioned Friday

BY EMMANUEL AKPAN 

All is now set for the inauguration of the magnificent 30,000 capacity Uyo International stadium on Friday 7th November, 2014 by Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, president and Commander –in-Chief of the Federal Republic.

Addressing journalists at NUJ press centre on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Information and Communications Mr. Aniekan Umanah said, “Gentlemen, Akwa Ibom International Stadium is one of the land mark projects initiated and completed by the Administration of His Excellency, Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON, Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State. It is a prominent item on the Uncommon Transformation bouquet of this government. The significance of the Stadium to the development of sports in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, and indeed Africa, justifies the elaborate arrangements made to mark its official commissioning.

The International Stadium is a masterpiece

It is indeed a great honour to address you  today on behalf of the government of Akwa Ibom State.  The purpose of this conference is for me to intimate you on the line-up of activities for the inauguration of the magnificent 30,000-capacity Uyo International Stadium by His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic.

Gentlemen, Akwa Ibom International Stadium is one of the land mark projects initiated and completed by the Administration of His Excellency, Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON, Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State. It is a prominent item on the Uncommon Transformation bouquet of this government. The significance of the Stadium to the development of sports in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, and indeed Africa, justifies the elaborate arrangements made to mark its official commissioning.

Onna State Constituency: Why I am in the race - Nse Essien

Recently, Otuekong Nse Essien, popularly known as INDOMITABLE, resigned his appointment as the Secretary of Onna Local Government Council to pursue his political vision of becoming the House of Assembly Member, Onna State Constituency. In this interview with Godwin Sam he bore his mind on his political ambition and other state and national issues. 

Sir, I know you as Otuekong Nse Essien, but not everybody in the state knows  you thus, who really is Otuekong Nse Esseien? 

As you’ve rightly said, I am Otuekong Nse Esseien. Otuekong is a traditional little that was given to me in 2014 by the late clan Head of Awa. I am from Ikot Akpan Nkor, in Awa Clan in Onna Local Government Area. I have a Bachelor of Arts (B.A Hons) degree in English Language from the University of Uyo. Some people know me as Indomitable.  

You are known by those around you as a very generous and philanthropic person, what is your motivation in doing these philanthropic acts? 

Umana Okon Umana pleads for calm, welcome Jonathan to Akwa Ibom

The leading aspirants for the PDP gubernatorial ticket, Mr. Umana Okon Umana has disassociated himself from the rumoure making the rounds that his supporters plan to disrupt the visit of the president of Nnigeria to Akwa Ibom State on Friday.

He also stressed on the need for his supporters to remain calm as he is still in the race stressing that power belongs to God which has been his avowed believe from the onset.

My vision is to build A’Ibom’s private sector – Nsima Ekere

Immediate past Deputy Gov­ernor of Akwa Ibom State Nsima Ekere, is one of many political heavyweights jostling for the ticket of the ruling Peo­ples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of next year’s governor­ship election. In this interview with Sunday Sun, Ekere ex­plains why he’s the candidate to beat, his relationship with Governor Godswill Akpabio, as well as the driving force of his ambition to succeed his former principal. excerpts:

It’s almost two years since you left govern­ment as deputy governor of Akwa  Ibom state. Peo­ple are still wondering why you left. The story is that you would have been impeached if you did not resign. Why, real­ly, did you leave office?

You rightly stated it well that it will be two years in a couple of days since I left office. The truth of the matter is that, at a time I had to leave for some very personal reasons. I want to ex­press thanks and appreciation to the media. They have been very understanding and have granted my privacy on those issues.

I want to be the deputy governor of A’Ibom State – Nature Udoh

Ahead of the primaries and the 2015 general elections, renowned brand consultant - Nature Udoh of Nature Udoh & The Gand and Head of House, Ndito Boys and Girls Organisation speaks on his ambition as deputy governor, Ndito Edidia Nso Campaign, plus others issues bothering youths and the Akwa Ibom creative/entertainment industry. He bares it all to THE INK Entertainment Editor, Prince Simeon in this interview. 

Recently your face has been on almost every media platform concerning your  intention to run for the office of Deputy Governor in the forth coming 2015 general elections. Normally, one is picked as a running mate, but you are the record breaker of being the first person to declare for that position, plus a clamour from the youths. Why the choice of politics, even with a successful career as a Brand consultant?

Govt empowers Abak women

Akwa Ibom Government has empowered Abak Women Cooperative Society with a revolving loan of N10 million.

In addition, the state government has announced plans to construct and inaugurate former Independence Hall, Abak at the site of the demolished prisons by December this year.

Akwa Ibom Governor, Chief Godswill Akpabio announced this Wednesday during a ground-breaking ceremony of the former Independence Hall, Abak and the symbolic demolition of old Abak Prisons in line with the uncommon transformation of the state through massive development.

Akpabio remarked, “We are building a brand new prison in Abak Local Government Area and the construction is ongoing. In line with the uncommon transformation of the state through massive development, we decided to build a new prison because the location of the old prison was by the road”.

TCN moves to deploy maintenance crew to Uyo

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Power, Dr. Victor Udo has announced plans by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to deploy maintenance crew to Uyo.

Speaking recently at the power sector stakeholders meeting held in his office, Dr. Udo said “when this is crew is deployed to Uyo, faults detected along transmission linesand substations will be resolved speedily.”

He added that “currently, when faults occur along transmission lines, TCN has to deploy their staff from the workstation at Calabarto Uyo and that takes a lot of time.”

Who’s who in AKS compendium ready for public presentation

All is set for the Public pre sentation of the book – WHO’S WHO in Akwa Ibom State. The 525 page compendium is produced by Ministry of Information and Communications in collaboration with Main Trends Limited.

According to a release from the office of the Hon. Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr. Aniekan Umanah, the book, which documents stakeholders in the Uncommon Transformation drive of the Akpabio-led administration, is scheduled for Public presentation on Tuesday, 4th November, at the multipurpose hall of Governor’s office Annex, Wellington Bassey Way End, Uyo, by 11 o’clock in the morning.

AKS 2015: All eys on Abia BY OKPO EWA

One cardinal principle among courtiers in the power game and other very serious businesses is that “there is no second opportunity to create a first impression.” And some people just know how to bring this on in trail blazing effects as witnessed  on Thursday 16th October 2014 when it was announced that Barr Effiong Abia among others was one of the few aspirants to have purchased the governorship nomination form EO1. Soon calls started coming in from everywhere to confirm, some people even accused yours sincerely of not telling them that “the man of the year.” By mid day Akwa Ibom Airport was an Olympic stadium. People from every corner of the state converged to welcome the man: Barr. Effiong Abia.