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

AKWA IBOM 2015- INEC, REC SAY TRIBUNAL ERRED IN CANCELLING 18 LGAs

The Independent National Electoral Commission has urged the Appeal Court to set aside the judgment of the Akwa Ibom state Governorship Elections Tribunal and to confirm Governor Udom Emmamuel as the valid winner of the April 11,2015 governorship elections having polled the majority of votes cast by the electorates.

In a cross appeal number EPT/AK/GOV/1/2015, the electoral umpire which faulted the order for a rerun in 18 local Government areas by the Justice Abubakar Sadiq Umar -chaired tribunal, prayed the appellate court to dismiss the Petition of Mr Umana Umana and the All Progressives Congress.

This brief of argument by INEC in a joined Appeal with the state resident electoral commissioner Austin Okogie was adopted before the Appeal Court by counsel to the appellants Dr Onyech Ikpeazu SAN.

AKPABIO’S SAHARA HOAX: PDP LAWYERS FLAY JOURNALISTS ON FALSE NEWS

More Nigerian lawyers, Chief Adekunle Adesanya (SAN) and Barr Uno Umoekeyo Uno have advised media establishments against being used to publish unconfirmed and mischievous news to cause confusion and attempt to mislead the course of justice.

Chief Adesanya, lead counsel to the Peoples Democratic Party at the appeal court, and Barr Uno the Assistant Legal Adviser of the Akwa Ibom state PDP, who spoke shortly after the Appeal Court upheld the election of Senator Godswill Akpabio, expressed dismay over the false report by an online news medium Sahara Reporters a night before the actual ruling.

READ-BREAKING NEWS: Senate Minority Leader Godswill Akpabio Sacked From The Senate Sahara Reporters had caused a stir by announcing that Akpabio had been sacked by the appeal court. Adesanya who was happy with the outcome of the case said that his team had a solid case and where not dissuaded by the mischievous publication on the social media. He said that the judgement has reaffirmed that the judiciary is the last hope of the common man.

The PDP lead counsel said that even the witnesses to the petitioner had admitted at the tribunal that Senator Akpabio was the most popular politician in the state, and that he campaigned to be elected as the senator for Ikot Ekpene senatorial district, and so an error on one of the preliminary forms which had since been corrected by INEC had no bearing on the actual outcome of the election.

ILLITERATES: BEFORE CASTING THE NEXT STONE ON UDOM By Joseph Okon

During the last joint Television and Radio live interview programme by the state Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel to mark his eventful six months in office as Governor of Akwa Ibom State which he gives account of stewardship so far in office to the people, as well as highlighting the impact his administration has created.

While taking stock of his performance so far in office, the spurious and baseless allegation of the opposition All Progressive Congress APC spokesman in the state, Mr Ita Awak, and that of the immediate past chairman of Eket Local Government Area, Mr Aniekan Akpan who maliciously accused the governor of building a Government House in his country home, Onna and also taking two billion naira monthly as security vote was one issue that needed clarifications. These allegations were brought to the attention of the Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel.

In his swift respond to the wicked and baseless allegation aimed at tarnishing the good reputation of Mr Udom Emmanuel, the governor said, “those who are making such allegation against me are illiterates; they lack common knowledge on the workings of government. You see some people go to Newspapers and published all kinds of lies and falsehood about our modest effort in developing the state, those things can actually be done be illiterates”. He explained that the building in his village is just a four bedroom expansion to his old family house.

 

Patrick Albert Reply Critics with physical projects *Says his drive in NUJ is for the unity and stability of Akwa Ibom state

Recently, the Akwa state council chair man of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Elder Patrick Albert was engaged in an interview by the E4plus media crew in his office. He ceased the opportunity to give answers to certain burning State’s and National issues; the NUJ he met, now and the future.
Excerpt!

 
NUJ in Akwa Ibom has just concluded the 2015 Press Week. How will you rate the event?
Well, I must say that the event came and went but the memories of it will linger for a long time to come. On the side of performance or success, I will say it was far above average. Press Week is usually a period to give members the opportunity to appraise themselves, share banters and make the community they are operating to understand their roles better. It is also the time when we look at some members and appreciate them for their performances in their various areas of Journalism practice. Of course, we kick-started with a thanksgiving service because Journalists are also the creation of God. Knowledge comes from God. We also had other activities like the 2-day lecture sessions which provided an opportunity for intellectual meals to be served. This year, we decided to invite people from other disciplines, not just the media because a Journalist should attempt to be all knowing; a Journalist should reasonably discuss matters of law, medicine and other areas. So, if we do not give opportunities for other professionals to come and share some ideas with us, we will not really have that broad knowledge. So, we brought professionals from other areas and for the first time in our Press Week, we had the State Director of SSS coming to share his experience and words of advice with us. So it was above average.

Support and more support trails Mrs. Emmanuel’s LGA’S visit

In continuation of her Local Government Areas visitation, the wife of Akwa Ibom Governor Mrs. Martha Udom Emmanuel during the week visited Etim Ekpo, Ukanafun and Oruk Anam local government areas where she appreciated the women for their unflinching support towards the administration of Mr. Udom Emmanuel as Governor. Mrs. Emmanuel who also used the occasion to share in the joy of the season with the women donated cash and gift items to them saying it is just a token from her heart for the yuletide. 

Speaking at the respective local government areas, the first lady Mrs. Emmanuel appreciated the women for their support and loyalty during and after the elections, stating that she embarked on the visit to say thank you to the women for the mandate which they freely gave the Governor at the April polls.

Stakeholders applaud Works Commissioner on peaceful Disposition

Transport Stakeholders in Akwa Ibom  State has applauded the Commissioner for Works, Mr Ephraim Inyang-Eyen and his Permanent Secretary, Dr Ifreke Ekpa, for ensuring that peace return to the State Road Levies Implementation Scheme through dialogue and peaceful settlement over minor discrepancies between the Ministry and the Scheme.

In separate interactions with  journalists in Uyo recently the State leadership of various Transporters union comprising National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), Akwa Ibom Transport Company Lease Vehicle Operators, (AKTCLVO), Tipper Drivers, Owners, Loaders and Sand Dealers Association (TPOLSDA), Earth Moving Equipment, Double Axle, Truck Owners /Operators Association (EMEDATOA), National Union of Petroleum Employee of Nigeria (NUPENG), Foodstuff Dealers Association, among others, stated that the peaceful resolution of the seeming imbroglio will further enhance good working relationship with the transporters.  

Exxon Mobil spend N300M for project in Akwa Ibom Varsity

Mobil Producing Nigeria (MPN), Unlimited says it has spent N300 million as total cost of project in Akwa Ibom State University, Ikot Akpaden in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area.
Mr Mike Udoh, Manager, Operations Technical Geo-science, disclosed this at the inauguration of mini-Geo-science Workroom at the institution in Mkpat Enin LGA.

Udoh explained that the amount of money includes the cost of construction, furnishing, hardware, software, training, transportation and other associated personnel cost.

Shocking Revelation! *Udom Emmanuel Doesn’t Receive His Salary *

*As lawmaker sheds light on Governor’s family compound fuss  

It has been revealed that Mr Udom Emmanuel, is doing charity work as governor of the oil rich Akwa Ibom State. 

The lawmaker representing Onna State Constituency in the State House of Assembly, Hon (Otuekong) Nse Essien, made the shocking revelation, over the weekend, while interacting with a cross-section of his supporters and admirers in Ewet Housing, in Uyo, the State capital. 

The lawmaker who is the Deputy Chief Whip in the current sixth Assembly, stated unequivocally that, Mr Udom Emmanuel, has been forfeiting his salary right from the time he served as the Secretary to the State Government till date. 

Cerftred out to tackle rights abuses, promote education -director

BY OFONIME HONESTY

The Executive Director of the Centre for Rights to Fair Treatment and Education (CERFTRED), Comrade Elijah Inyang, has reiterated the organization’s resolve to campaign for a better society via tackling human rights abuses and promoting qualitative education.

Inyang, who made the assertion during an inaugural meeting with the foundational members and strategic partners of the group in Abak, described the group as a formidable platform of expression.

Igbo community Akwa Ibom supports Buhari on corruption

BY ASSAM ABIA

The Igbo Community Development Association, Akwa Ibom State has thrown its weight behind the anti-corruption crusade of president Mohammadu Buhari.

 In a release signed by Nze Obi Anthony, chairman electoral inauguration committee, the group called on Nigerians not to politicized the on-going trail of key players of president Goodluck Ebele Jonathan’s administration.

“Some people say the Buhari’s administration is selective in its anti-corruption drive but we wish to call on Nigerians to be patient because the world is watching the president”, adding that the crusade has started yielding result.

Yuletide : FRSC warns motorist against reckless driving

The Federal Road  Safety Corps (FRSC), Eket Unit Command, on Friday warned motorists especially commercial drivers against reckless driving during the Yuletide.
The Unit Commander, Mr Lucky Ugenlo gave the warning in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), in Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom.

He said that motorists should obey rules and regulations to ensure safety and to also avoid road traffic crashes on the highways during the Christmas season.

“If any driver is reckless on the way, as a passenger you should be able to caution that driver.

Akwa Ibom: Remembering Philomina Udonwa

BY EDIDION GODWIN

Perhaps, she did a great disservice to humanity for standing by her husband, Sir Udonwa, through thick and thin to raise their children including, Engr. Iniekong Udonwa. Or, may be, her crime was being a proud mother of a successful son who found himself fit to aspire for the governorship of Akwa Ibom state in 2011. May be, she should have aborted the pregnancy so Iniekong would not be born. May be, she should have walked away from the marriage and left her husband and the children traumatized. She should have done something to destroy the family, at least, that would have ensured that Iniekong was not successful in life.

Late Mrs. Philomina Udonwa, mother of Engr. Iniekong Udonwa, who was a governorship aspirant in the 2011 gubernatorial race, was abducted from her home by unknown gunmen. One month after she was abducted, her desecrated lifeless body was found in a village in Mbiaso, Nsit Ibom Local Government Area. The over 70-year-old woman was only a trader so all she could offer those that held her hostage was her old wrinkled weak body, which was cruelly defiled before she was murdered. One month? I cannot imagine how many of them had her and how many times? It was her son they wanted but she paid more than the ultimate price.

Tower of Ivory Elementary Schools, Uyo celebrate Christmas

BY EMMANUEL AKPAN

It was a moment of celebration for the pupils of Tower of Ivory Elementary Schools, Uyo branch as they were treated to a Christmas Coral party.

The party which marked the end of the 2015 academic session, took place at the school compound, 41 Idoro Road last Friday, featured welcome song, presentations, cutting of Christmas cake, dance concert as well as Christmas Carols by the pupils.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman, Board of Governors, Tower of Ivory Schools, DIG Udom Ekpoudom (Retired), expressed happiness for being part of the maiden edition of Christmas Coral of the school since the school opened her branch in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.

Mistakes: Missed stakes to success

BY SAMUEL EKEKERE

I grew up in a fairly hostile environment where mistake were hardly tolerated. My     father was a stern man who we took very seriously; he scarcely smiled with us his kids. We were only privileged to see him smile when he is amongst his friends and colleagues. He often expected that we developed the perfection of an adult which was hardly [possible. If we failed just a sum out of twenty, he would query why we had to fail that one. He expected one hundred percent from us and we were too little to understand that degree of perfection.

I’m grown up now and looking at those years, I’ve carried that mentality of striving for perfection transferred from my dad to me in everything I’ve had to do. I’ve observed through experience that a perfect state is not attainable. As much as we strive towards it, mistakes hang around.

Addressing issues of marital unfaithfulness

BY PRISCILLA CHRISTOPHER

Marital unfaithfulness can be described as the act of sharing marital dividends to others outside the marital bond. It can also be termed as the inability of a partner to remain committed to their marital vows. In many cases, marital unfaithfulness or infidelity has resulted in heart breakages and is responsible for the high rate of divorce in the society today. Over the years, there have been a long-term debate of who does it better in the game of marital infidelity. While the women folk have posited that their male counterparts are more marital cheats, the male folks also have valid reasons to propose that their female counterparts are experts in the field of marital unfaithfulness. 

Whichever is correct or wrong, marital unfaithfulness is fast becoming a culture in today’s society. Many married men and women still enjoy the company and maintain close ties with friends of the opposite sex they had while they were single. Some reasons they give are that their friends are as biological as their first family who will always be there for them unlike their marital partners who will one day decide to throw them out, should they get fed up of them. Others (men especially) posit that going into their wives constantly may lead to wear and tear in the body system and as such, the need to reserve them and exercise elsewhere is tantamount. 

Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio inducts Idong Ituen

The member representing Itu State  Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Idongesit Ituen was last Saturday inducted into Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio as a member.

The induction ceremony which took place at the Mboho Unity hall, Udo Udoma Avenue, Uyo, was the yearly event to officially induct members into the family of the prestigious Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio, which is the apex Ibibio socio-cultural organization in Akwa Ibom State.

Speaking with THE INK shortly after the induction, Mkparawa Idongesit Ituen expressed happiness to the leadership of the socio-cultural organization for finding him worthy to be inducted as a member.

Umana vs Udom: Appeal Court set to rule * Date may be fixed this week * Says, we are studying briefs of APC, PDP

Ahead of the Appeal Court ruling in the case between Obong Umana Okon Umana of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Governor Udom Emmanuel of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), there is palpable tension in the state as members of both camps are doing all within their capacity to earn a favourable verdict.

The Peoples Democratic Party is banking on the Appellate Court to set aside the ruling of the tribunal which nullified elections in 18 local government areas of the state but the opposition All Progressives Congress are praying the Appellate court to cancel the entire election. Sources from both camps hinted THE INK that there is anxiety in both camps with the date for the all important judgment getting ever closer.

Our judiciary correspondent gathered that judgment on the case will be delivered any time soon, probably over the weekend in order to beat the deadline of determining election cases. It could be recalled that the Appellate Court had adopted briefs from both parties last week.

Unconfirmed reports has it that Umana Okon Umana has accused the judiciary of double-standards as regards the judgement recently delivered in favour of Senator Godswill Akpabio in the case between Chief Inibehe Okori and the Minority Leader. While those who accuse UOU of challenging the judges who adjudicated the case between Akpabio and Okori are said to be sympathetic to Governor Udom Emmanuel and the PDP, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has equally accused Governor Udom Emmanuel of trying to bribe the Appeal court judges in order to have a favourable ruling. 

While the people of Akwa Ibom State are looking forward to the Appellate court’s verdict with bated breath, political commentators are of the view that it is one judgment that will shape the political structure of the state.

Local Investors, ors assures of Govt support

Local investors/entrepreneurs in the State have been assured of Government readiness to partner and support them, as well as create an enabling environment for them to thrive, with a view to actualising the present Administration’s policy on industrialisation.

This was the assurance given by the Executive Chairman, Akwa Ibom Investment Corporation (AKICORP), Dr. Elijah Akpan, while playing host to the Management of Master Plan Innovative Industries Ltd, Ikot Ekpene, in his office, on Wednesday 9th December, 2015.

Akwa United unveils new Technical Adviser *as Zachary Baraje’s contract expires

BY EMMANUEL AKPAN

Coach Zachary Baraje has been relieved of  his duty as the Technical Adviser of Akwa United football club following the expiration of his one year contract. The 2015 Federation Cup Champions, Akwa United football club has signed a new Technical Adviser to take charge of the team for the 2015/2016 football season.

The new Technical Adviser of the team is Coach Maurice Cooreman and has signed a two years contract with the club.

Unveiling Coach Maurice Coreman before the press on Monday at the conference room of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mr. Monday Uko said it is the determination of the State Government to strengthen and put up things in place in the team ahead of the Confederation Cup competition. 

OBA Under 20 Unity Football Competition: Discovering new talents for the future

For the people of Akwa Ibom North East Senatorial District, the overwhelming mandate given on March 28, 2015 during the National Assembly polls which led to the emergence of Senator Bassey Albert Akpan (OBA) as their representative in the Eight Senate has continued to yield more milestones and landmarks as his stewardship has sustained the set targets towards the empowerment and development of the people.

The footprints of the effective representation which Senator Bassey Albert Akpan charts has added value to the robust legislation which the Eight Senate continues to thrive as they re-define a purposeful legislative process that would give the electorate new vistas of hope for a brighter horizon for our nation.

History will favourably recall that his motion on the floor of the Senate which drew the attention of the  legislature on the appalling state of federal roads in the country especially the Calabar-Itu Highway ensured that the Senate swung into action as the ad-hoc committee on Works of which he was a member toured several states to assess and get first hand information on the state of the road infrastructure in our country and the menace of erosion which has continued to threaten economic activities in many communities and the need to ensure that the 2016 budget will address these challenges extensively.

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

Udom Emmanuel: Standing tall despite all odds

BY ASSAM ABIA

Let me start in the fashion of a good  historian, a story teller, whose duty is to keep records of events and present same to the public for the development of society. 

Deacon Udom Gabriel Emmanuel is a political child of a conspiracy of circumstances, fate and destiny whose journey to the position of governor of Akwa Ibom State began on Sunday June 5, 2015 at a meeting in the governor’s lodge Uyo, hosted by the then Governor of the State, Obong Victor Attah, involving major political stakeholders of the State including Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio who was then the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Obong Umana Okon Umana, then Commissioner for Finance, Chief Ita Toyo, then State Chairman of the People Democratic Party (P.D.P) and the Late Hon. Joe Udobia, then Special Adviser to Governor Victor Attah on Political and Legislative Affairs among other decision makers of the State. 

AKHA backs Enobong Uwah

BY OSONDU AHIRIKA

On November 25,  2015,  the  Honourable  Com missioner for Ministry of Housing and Urban Renewal, Akwa Ibom State, Otuekong Prince Enobong Uwah, led his Permanent Secretary, Dr Mrs Valerie Obot and Staff of the ministry to host August Visitors. 

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Committee on Lands and Housing arrived the hitherto abandoned complex of the defunct 10th Anniversary Hotel for an on-the-spot assessment of the ongoing massive renovation going on at the site, carried out by russian construction giant TUNALUM NIG.LTD 

Strengthening Media-Legislative Engagement in an Emerging Democracy: Current Trends and Alternatives

Within every socioeconomic realm, the media and the legislature are the two estates which happen to be the most influential and, perhaps, the most closely related in objective. The advocacy roles which members of the press play more often than not stir corresponding advocacy actions within a legislative assembly. By their functions also, the media and the legislature are the closest institutions to the masses. 

Yet, despite of their shared social aspirations, members of both institutions do not seem to have forged the level of closely knitted relationship that one would have expected of the press and the legislature. This experience is very peculiar among young democracies in Africa. Rather than enjoy very robust relationship, you see them operate as strange bedfellows; an atomistic pair always at loggerheads with each other

Udom: Six months on the saddle

Last Sunday was exactly six months since Governor Udom Emmanuel took over the reins of governance from the Akpabio-led administration. In this piece, THE INK reporters, EMMANUEL AKPAN, KENNETH JUDE and PRISCILLA CHRISTOPHER carefully assess the Governor’s six months voyage with searchlights on how he became the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), his subsequent emergence as PDP candidate, his resounding victory at the poll, benefits of his administration so far, his challenges as well as the expectations of Akwa Ibom people  

  

The Exodus
Governor Udom Emmanuel’s journey into Akwa Ibom State politics started when he was brought into the system as Secretary to the State Government (SSG) a year ago to succeed the former Umana Okon Umana who was whisked out of office by the wife of the immediate past governor, Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio through the directive of her husband. Udom Emmanuel did not join politics as a way of making ends meet since he was a Director in one of the outstanding banks in the country, Zenith Bank. 

The former Governor, Senator Godswill Akpabio saw Udom Emmanuel fit to succeed him with the confidence that he will liberate the people of Akwa Ibom State from poverty as well as take them to the next level. Chief Godswill Akpabio then encouraged Udom to indicate interest in the contest of the governorship position in the State; a development which many political stakeholders considered as wrong by the then Governor. Aspirants who considered themselves more qualified for the position were denied their mandates for Udom Emmanuel to emerge the party flag bearer for the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) at the party’s primaries. 

This development then led to the coming to gether of the other twenty-two governorship aspirants who contested for the position to form the G-22, a formidable force aimed at fighting Udom Emmanuel’s ambition. Their efforts however, could not hold water due to the leadership of the then ruling party at the National level which was bent on supporting Udom Emmanuel as well as the then country’s President Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan who also never gave the G-22 a listening ear.

This development resulted in the defection of some G-22 members to other political parties where they picked up tickets with which they could use in fighting Udom to the last point. Obong Umana Okon Umana went to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bishop Sam Akpan left for the Accord party, Chief Samuel Atang moved to the Alliance for Democracy (AD) and others. These notwithstanding, Udom Emmanuel, during the general elections, being the flag bearer of the PDP defeated Umana Umana of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and governorship candidates from other political parties. He won against all odds and became the Governor of Akwa Ibom State.  

Udom Emmanuel since  he took over the  mantle of leadership from his successor, Senator Godswill Akpabio has been up and doing to ensure the fulfilment of his campaign promises. One of the brilliants things he did on coming on broad as Governor of Akwa Ibom State was the discovery adoption of the best brains in the State to work with him. Knowing the heaving task ahead of him, he carefully considered technocrats with wealth of experiences to help him pilot the affairs of the State.  Through the due process of the law, he sent the list of Commissioners and Special Advisers to the State House of Assembly where they were scrutinized and approved. The Governor then became duty-bound to both the executive, legislative and judiciary by ensuring the existence of a synergistic relationship among them thus, making them feel among and included in the movement of the state to the next level. 

During the inauguration of the State Executive council, Governor Udom Emmanuel had charged the commissioners to be creative and dedicated to the task of improving the lot of the people. He urged them to be up and doing in their respective ministries. Udom who recognized the difficulties and challenges of the times he found himself was apt in his choice of Commissioners and Special Advisers to help in the actualization of transforming the socio-economic landscape of the State.  

 
It would be recalled that on his inauguration day as Governor, Udom Emmanuel stood before Akwa Ibom people at the Ibom International stadium to present himself not as a master but as a servant, neither as a boss but as a co-labourer. He had accepted the mandate given to him by the people with great humility and sense of responsibility. Udom Emmanuel intends and has tried to keep his part by executing programmes that would be of benefit to the masses. 

Promises of Governor Udom Emmanuel include; leveraging and building on the immediate past administration of Godswill Akpabio, transforming the economy of the State through industrialization and sustaining public-private sector initiative; opening up opportunities for growth and improved living standards, respecting and upholding the tenets of democratic governance which the PDP unflinchingly stands for as well as respecting the party’s structure. Also included in his plans are his commitment to ensure the security of lives and property of people at all times with strict adherence to the rule of law by ensuring equity, justice and fair play all in a bid to promote unity and oneness across the State with due respect to traditional institutions and authorities of the State. 

Other pledges are to develop, mobilize and empower Akwa Ibom women and youths through planned and well articulated welfare and capacity building programmes to give Akwaibomites a feel of a sense of belonging built on good governance and economic advancement. Among other goals, Udom Emmanuel seeks to pursue the task of rural development and integration of all into the mainstream of the economy. This is to ensure that benefits and dividends of democratic governance get to every nook and cranny of the State. He also intends to ensure accountability and transparency in government by fighting and tackling corruption in all facets of his administration and to provide trade, commerce and tourism between Akwa Ibom and the rest of Nigeria. This does not exclude his plan to foster, develop and maintain a good working relationship with both the legislative and the judiciary arms of government as well as ensuring an effective Local Government administration for grass-root development through the mobilization and empowerment of all.
 

Lastly, it is the dream of  the Governor to attract all possible required federal presences to Akwa Ibom State by developing and sustaining a harmonious and even relationship with a government at the centre.

The Benefits
Few weeks after his assumption of office, the Governor immediately hit the ground running by swinging into action. He started by flagging off roads projects within and outside the State capital. Records have it that the Governor has so far performed the ground breaking of road projects such as the dualization of 19.7km Uyo-Etinan road, construction of 7.3km Ebekpo-Ikot road with 2No. Bridges and spur, construction of 7.3km Ebekpo-Ikot Ebidang road, construction of 3.5km Ikot Udom road, construction of 15m span bridge in Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area, construction of 5km Ikot Usop-Ikot Edeghe-Ikot Ekpuk road with 30m span bridge in Ibiono Local government area and Mkpat Enin Local government areas respectively. Also, contracts for the construction of 5km Mkpok-Okat road in Onna Local Government Area, resumption of work at the dualization of Eket-Ibeno road, urban renewal projects within Eket township, construction of second Runway at the Akwa Ibom International airport, emergency intervention, flood control, completion of outfalls and urban roads in Oron. Other infrastructural maintenance and development projects include the construction of 1.2km underground drainage line in Uyo and the repair of Eket-Ibeno Road which are almost due for accessibility.

Governor Udom has so far proven that he was guided by infrastructure expansion and consolidation elements of his manifesto. The administration has intervened in the deplorable gully erosion ravaging the federal Calabar-Itu highway at Enen Atai in Itu Local Government Area as well as one ravaging the School of Nursing in Anua, Uyo. 

The benefits amassed by citizens of Akwa Ibom State by the Udom-led administration are innumerable. Within his first three weeks in office, Governor Udom in his avowed bid to focus more on industrialization set up a 10-man committee to oversee the realization of the Ibaka Deep Seaport- a project which holds the promise of the creation of over 100,000 jobs at completion. It also holds the promise of a self-sustaining commercial city with oil and gas support service that would help Akwa Ibom finally tap into awesome and largely untapped maritime potentials. This, he government believes will create employment and greatly urbanize the area and also stimulate a multiplier effect. 

Displaying an unrelenting spirit and fidelity to his industrialization mantra, governor Udom led a team of experts to the defunct Peacock Paints in Etinan. After accessing the plant, he promised to revive the moribund industry in his continued efforts to create employment through industrialization. This, in relation to the groundbreaking of the automobile assembly plant in Itu where armoured personnel carriers, fire trucks, ambulances and luxury cars would be assembled are instrumental to his job-creation bid which he had said was the first chapter in the book of his industrialization. 

Adding to this aura brought by his administration is the almost uninterrupted power supply that has pervaded Uyo and its environs. This, the government has noted will continue unabated with the megawatts of electricity to be increased by 20 percent. 

The Governor also inaugurated a Technical Committee on Foreign Direct Investment and another Technical Committee on Agriculture and Food Sufficiency to ensure the availability of foods ahead of the rainy days. One can therefore say that the Udom Emmanuel-led government is futuristic and has long-term benefits.  

One of the greatest achievements of Gov. Udom Emmanuel so far is the initiative to send 1,000 Akwa Ibom youths for training in Cloud Computing at Oracle, the world’s largest software firm situated in California, USA. Notably, the biting unemployment rate staring at the government has been observed by the visionary Governor who is leaving no stone unturned in the provision of employment opportunities for citizens. Previously, he had announced the completion of plans to set up a micro credit scheme towards the empowerment of Akwa Ibom People across board. According to him, the Oracle training will open up the beneficiaries to a world of unlimited opportunities that greatly establish the state as a leader in the ICT part of the world. He had said that cloud computing, a data management business solution, is an area where Oracle has comparative edge advantage, and in high demand by any big and modern corporations. As such, Oracle trained professionals are highly sought for lucrative employments that could fetch salaries as high as $55,000. 

The positive effects of the policies and programmes of the present administration are justified by the over 20 foreign investors who have indicated interests in coming to settle down and transact business in the state, courtesy of Governor Udom’s octopusal connection with the international world. 

In ensuring the safe hygiene of Akwaibomites, Gov. Udom declared war against indiscriminate disposal of wastes when he flagged-off the monthly environmental sanitation in the state and subsequently set up a task force to apprehend defaulters. The Governor who did not just declare his dream went as far as participating in the exercise with his wife to show example to others. This particular stride of the governor is laudable as it is a foremost preventive measure in tackling with diseases and health threats. Sequel to his, the Governor has been quite supportive in delivering health benefits to the state. This was seen at the flag off ceremony of the first round Maternal, Newborn and Child Health organized by the State Ministry of health to deliver low cost child survival and maternal interventions where he advised citizens to embrace the free health care services provided by the government. The Governor, still in his bid to reclaim the glory of the health sector had earlier visited Anua Hospital in Uyo where he inspected the theatre, gynaecology, paediatrics and other facilities and expressed readiness to improve the defunct sections and infrastructures of the place. 

It is evident from the foregoing that Gov. Udom came into governance with a clear vision of how to deliver the dividends of democracy to his people. And in line with his promises during the thanksgiving service after the inauguration of his administration that he would serve and be ready to work for the good of the people of the state, Governor Emmanuel has taken concrete steps to move the state forward.  

In the education sector, Governor Emmanuel has ensured the payment of 10 years arrears of pension and gratuities to primary school teachers as well as Local government employees. He had also embarked on a tour to one of Akwa Ibom’s early colleges, the CCC where he approved the construction of internal roads and renovation of dilapidated buildings. This visit is not limited to the Cornelia Connelly College alone but others, pointing to the fact that upgrading school facilities holds invaluable importance to the promotion of academic activities by creating a conducive environment, especially in public schools noted for their state of disrepair nationwide. It also goes a long way to demonstrate the Governor’s dedication to a high standard of education in Akwa Ibom SStae.

The Expectations
In as much as the Udom Emmanuel administration can still be said to be in its embryonic stage, one cannot run away from the huge expectations from the mass of Akwa Ibom citizens on this administration. Coming in from the banking sector with many years of experience and wide connections, the citizens are looking up to the governor to leverage on his reach to lure investors into the state and make good his promise of industrialising the land of promise.

How he will go about all of these is not particularly the concern of the people who had voted for him on April 11 with the belief that he is the right man to steer the ship of the state to an enviable height. He is looked upon with much confidence going by the air of authoritative finality with which he went about his campaign promises. Akwa Ibomites, with their seeming political awareness in recent time will surely not entertain excuses arising from inability of the current administration to meet their yearnings and collective aspirations.

The expectations on the part of the people from this administration are legion and deservedly so taking cognizance of the huge resources that accrue to the state monthly from the federation’s account including the internally generated revenue. Akwa Ibom, since 2007 or so have been receiving the highest allocation among other federating units in the federation. While the last administration of  Chief Godswill Akpabio had done its bit in utilising these resources for the development of the state, not a few citizens are at ease with that administration with analysts opining that the immediate past administration was characterised by wanton spending of resources without recourse to the future and the health of the state.

Analysts contend that the prodigal spending that was the lot of the last administration has had telling effects on the current administration of Udom Emmanuel with many observing that the seeming slow pace in terms of fulfilment of campaign promises made to the people is as a result of the lean resources that Udom is having to work with. Yet, in spite of any shortcomings either because of resources or the will power to be assertive and aggressively stick to his 5 point agenda and work assiduously to making same come to realisation, Udom Emmanuel knows he can’t afford to fail the people who have so much trust and confidence in his ability and capacity to deliver the much needed dividends of democracy.

Many are yet to come to terms with Udom Emmanuel’s failure to have disclosed to the citizens of the state how much he inherited from the immediate past government of Chief Godswill Akpabio. While there have been promises and assurances from some of the governor’s aides that sooner than later, the needful will be done as to getting Akwa Ibom people acquainted with how much he (Udom) inherited from his predecessor, many are still worried and sceptical that it may after all be a mirage or tales of moonlight. The inability or sheer unwillingness by the governor to make public what should ordinarily have been one of the first things of his administration is seen as an unwritten pact between the Governor and his benefactor in Chief Senator Godswill Akpabio who single- handedly saw to his emergence as governor of Akwa Ibom State against all the odds.

The opposition have pounced on this lacuna to pour scorn on the Udom Emmanuel administration, noting that it is crystal clear to all and sundry that Akpabio is hiding behind Governor Udom Emmanuel to do a third term in office as governor. Not a few citizens have bought this position hook, line and sinker going by how Udom has piloted the ship of the state this past six months with many still contending that the former bank chief is taking advice from the Senate Minority Leader to govern the state. This, political observers aver is injurious to Udom’ administration and a slap on the psyche of the good people of Akwa Ibom State who see Udom as a smokescreen of Senator Godswill Akpabio.

The Challenges 

Though, many also argue against the widely held notion that Governor Udom Emmanuel is not a man of his own. His supporters contend that he is only focused in bringing development to the state especially the building of industries and turning around the fortunes of the state occasioned by the dakkada philosophy but the raw fact remains that to whom much is given, much is surely expected. That is the lot of Governor Udom Emmanuel and he must wake up daily with this singular thought in his mind if he must survive the unrestrained onslaught against his administration by those who still feel he was foisted on the people of Akwa Ibom State against popular opinion and their wish.

This and other baggage cannot easily be dis missed as being at the root of the stormy time Udom has had to grapple with in office since his declaration as Governor by INEC on April 11. Coming into the fray in 2013 as SSG, Udom Emmanuel was an unknown quantity in the political milieu of the state even as word was rife that he was drafted into the state EXCO with the clear intention to have him learn the ropes and there after succeed Chief Akpabio as Governor. Not a few discerning minds had read the writing on the wall. Of course, at a point, since the time was relatively short, happenings in the polity revealed in clear terms that Udom Emmanuel had been packaged to come and vie for the number one office in the land.

In no time, different groups organised rallies and called on Udom Emmanuel to resign his position as SSG and declare for the governorship position of the state. He ‘heeded’ the call after much ‘pressure’ and threw his hat in the ring and that opened the Pandora’s box as wild politicking, acrimony and the fiercest political weather in the state took centre stage. The arguments against Udom Emmanuel were plenteous. But after all said and done, he emerged winner of a highly controversial and contentious gubernatorial poll. His closest challenger Obong Umana Okon Umana of the All Progressives Congress has since headed to the courts and the case has undeniably shaken the political pillars of the state.

With the governorship election tribunal led by Sadiq Umar having nullified elections in 18 local government areas of the state, the political temperature has taken an unusually heated and tensed dimension. This, without a shred of doubt is one of the many challenges confronting the Udom Emmanuel administration. Analysts say that the nullification of election in 18 LGAs is a colossal setback for Governor Udom Emmanuel and his bid to implement his five point agenda to the letter which include but not limited to job creation and industrialisation.

It is a dicey situation as far as the state and this administration is concerned. Though, both parties have since proceeded to Appeal court with diverse arguments, the grim reality remains that Governor Udom Emmanuel, in the eye of the law is sitting on a keg of gun powder as he does not have the constitutionally required number of LGAs in his kitty to remain the validly elected Governor of the state. Political analysts are of the view that Udom’s relationship with Senator Godswill Akpabio is at the root of the travails that has bedevilled his administration. It is believed that if Udom had come in as an independent candidate without being tied to the apron strings of Akpabio, he would have had it smooth and simple but this, analysts maintain is the Governor’s albatross.

In spite of all these, Governor Udom Emmanuel must devise a means of warming himself into the hearts of the people and dedicatedly but consciously commit himself to bettering the lot of the people of Akwa Ibom State. That is what the Governor owes the people in the face of wild attacks from the opposition camp and the looming appeal court judgment. Udom must also look for alternative but practicable ways of creating wealth for the state and reduce the high rate of unemployment to the barest minimum.  While power supply has experienced a leap in recent times, the citizens are still yearning for more. Failure to meet these basic amenities will surely not be in the best interest of this administration. He has to work and be seen to be working without any atom of doubt on the part of the people that they are being deceived or taken for a ride.

By and large, the days ahead are riddled with bombs with the opposition showing no signs of allowing the governor take a sip of chilled water in the best presence of mind. The recently inaugurated Specialist Hospital staff quarters at Shelter Afrique has also generated unrest in the polity with reports having it that the choice property belongs to Senator Godswill Akpabio. Udom has also come under severe scrutiny over the mansion he is building or (renovating) in his home country, Awa Iman. Some folks are of the view that embarking on such gargantuan project is not ideal at a time many are hungry and earnestly seeking for ways to survive the skyrocketing harsh economic situation occasioned by dwindling oil prices.

There have also been reports in recent time that the governor is not having the best of relationships with his party chieftains with its Chairman, Obong Paul Ekpo being a culprit having been allegedly barred from accessing the Government House by the governor’s security guard recently. On the whole, the future is still bright for Governor Udom Emmanuel only if he weans himself from the apron of his great teacher (Akpabio) and settle down to work for Akwa Ibom people. While we wait with trepidation for the court processes to roll away, one hopes that the governor will not relent in his efforts to improve the economy of the state relying on his very rich background from the private sector where he rose to the top echelons. 

Since one good turn deserves another, Udom must utilise this time to cement his position as Governor with one eye in 2019. Did I hear you say it is too early? In politics, time and strategic planning is of essence. So, one should not wait for things to happen but should rather make things happen to avoid being swept away by the tide.

On the issue of feeding pupils

BY ERINYANA JEREMIAH

Before the present federal administration was officially accepted by the federation, there was this news going viral that the Buhari/Osinbajo-led administration would be feeding primary school pupils across the country daily. Although this sounded like a farce but it soon became a poem on the concerned persons lips wherever they went campaigning before the elections. While this may not be a bad idea altogether, the possibility of achieving such a high-priced venture is sceptical. But without doubting the leaders’ ability, one can say that it is a big step in correcting the rot in Nigeria’s education system from the root.

The idea should be lauded and supported by everyone who long for a better future for the country. The abject poverty causing havoc in most families is no longer in doubt and families in this predicament who can hardly afford one meal a day find it extremely difficult to send their children to school. This has for a long time been a recurring decimal resulting in the rise of school drop-outs.

Akwa United set for thanksgiving service, Sunday

BY EMMANUEL AKPAN

All is now set for the thanksgiving service of Akwa United Football Club after winning the 2015 Federation Cup. 

 
Addressing members of Sports writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) on Wednesday, the Chairman of Akwa United Board, Akparawa Nse Ubeh said the thanksgiving will take place on Sunday, December 6, 2015, at The Apostolic Church Nigeria, No. 63 Obio Imo Street, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

 
He said the service is to thank God for making the team comes out victorious in the Federation Cup competition. Ubeh used the opportunity to invites all Akwa United supporters as well as sports lovers in the State to turn-up for the thanksgiving service.

 

Akwa United: Beyond the continental ticket

By Amos Etuk

And it came to pass in history on Sunday, November 22, 2015 as Akwa United Football Club won the 2015 Federation Cup at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos State beating Lobi Stars of Markurdi by 2-1 in front of a capacity crowd of passionate fans in their thousands including Governor Udom Emmanuel as the victory automatically berths the team on the continent among Nigeria’s representatives at the Confederation Cup Competition of the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

It was a victory that was widely expected especially with the fact that the team had a better record in the out gone season over their opponents and the psychological edge taken to the fixture after the last league match which coincidentally featured both sides a week earlier had put Akwa United on a bigger advantage. 

AKSG condoles with the people of Oruk Anam over the demise of their Paramount Ruler

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Rt Hon Victor Antai has described death of Late Obong (Prof.) Brown Esen Owoh, Paramount Ruler of Oruk Anam Local Government Area as a great lost to Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria in general.

The Commissioner stated this yesterday when he led a delegation of government officials to Oruk Anam Local Government to sympathize with the family of the late monarch, said “Governor Udom Emmanuel is deeply touch over the death of the erudite scholar who would be miss by all”.

TRANSITFAVOUR –MOT FUED: Ntukudeh may be arrested

* We’re awaiting his arrest warrant – Police
* We will not watch him kill our son’s            business – Uyo Elders

The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Transport Mr. Godwin Ntukudeh may be on his way to jail as police in the state have been put on red alert to arrest the man as soon as the court warrant to that effect is received.

This follows the commissioner’s contemptuous treatment of an Uyo High Court judgment delivered in January 2014 by Justice Pius Idiong restraining the Commissioner, the Ministry of transport and their agents from intimidating or harassing private park operators for any reason as the ministry lacks lawful powers to regulate park operation in the state, according to the 2007 Local Government (Administration) law. 

“Uruan Local Government is for PDP” – Paramount Ruler

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Rt. Hon Victor Antai has reiterated Governor Udom Emmanuel readiness to establish farm settlements and an industrial estate in every local government area of the state.

He made this known recently in Uruan Local Government Area during the Dakada sensitisation tour of local government areas.

In his words; “Governor Udom Emmanuel is so passionate about industrialisation, this is why he wants to build farm settlements in every local government and an industrial estate for easy processing of raw materials, the Governor wants to turn Akwa Ibom from civil service state to industrialised state”.

Environmental sanitation: The Udoumana Experience

BY ESTHER ETIM

Cleanliness as popularly said, is next to godliness.  Keeping our  environment neat and tidy promotes good health and thus, leads to a healthy life.

Though we sanitize our immediate surroundings daily, the government in August 2015, declared last Saturdays sacrosanct for the sanitation of the state forthwith.

The sanitation exercise is to further strengthen the sanitary habit of Akwa Ibom people as well as enhance the sustainability of a healthier environment for them to live in.  Moreover, those who disobey or refuse to observe the compulsory sanitation exercise do not go unpunished.

As Keke drivers go wild this yuletide

BY PRISCILLA CHRISTOPHER

The advancement of technology is indeed changing the way things are done especially in the communication and business world. Though not built for illicit and unwholesome reasons, technology has given birth to modern day ‘Smart’ activities such as pickpocketing, pilfering, and the likes.

Pickpocketing is one of the oldest and most widespread crimes in the world usually requiring considerable skill and a knack for misdirection.  It is a form of burglary that involves the stealing of money or other valuables from a victim without their noticing the theft at the time. It has continued to evolve around generations such that only new dimensions to the ‘old game’ can be termed ‘news’. Unsurprisingly, newer generations initiated into the business have not failed to improvise it to meet contemporary demands of the fast-growing economy. 

Gov. tasks youths to use formal education for economic dev.

GovernorUdom Emmanuel has called on graduates in the country to look beyond their fields of specialization in their quest to make ends meet, saying the dynamic nature of today’s society is dictated by ideas rather than certificates. 

Speaking at a Variety Night organised for the Batch ‘B’ National Youth Service Corps members at the State Orientation Camp, Ikot Itie Udung in Nsit Atai, the Governor urged youths to see education as a foundation for self actualisation, which should stimulate their thinking and propel them to break new grounds in coping with the challenges of the dynamic society.

LG boss advises widows against cursing children

Widows in the State have been asked to refrain from heaping curses on their children to enable them fulfil their destiny in life.

The Ika Transition Committee Chairman, Mr. Marcus Macdonald speaking last Tuesday, during a meeting by Women Advocacy and Support Centre (WASC) Uyo, rather urged widows to always pray for their children to be prosperous.
Saying he was an example of the message of Dakkada, Mr. Macdonald said as a son of a widow who did not give up hope, he encouraged himself with the help of his mother and studied hard to be what he is today.

The Ika Council boss said that Ika Transition Committee, through the Ika Community Enhancement Programme will soon give financial support to widows in Ika and train youths in relevant skills.

Info Commissioner extols professional broadcasters, media workers

The Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr. Aniekan Umanah has acknowledged the contributions of professional broadcasters and media workers to the growth of society.

Mr. Umanah, who made the acknowledgment last Wednesday, when members of the Association of Professional Broadcasters, Akwa Ibom State branch paid him a courtesy visit at his ministry’s headquarters,  observed that broadcasters and the media have contributed meaningfully towards uplifting the society through enlightenment, education and entertainment programmes.

Charging the group to key into the governor Udom Emmanuel’s Dakkada philosophy of greatness, the Commissioner said “broadcasters have been doing a great job in keeping the country healthy in many ways.” 

SA charges retirees on State development

The Special Adviser, Bureau of Political and Legislative Affairs, Mr. Anietie Etuk has admonished retirees in the State to assist in nurturing younger workers in the service and to lend their wealth of experience to the development of the state. 

 Mr Etuk, who stated this when the Akwa Ibom Retirees Initiative paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Uyo, extolled the group for their unity, focus and dexterity even after retirement, noting that the present administration was passionate about the welfare of retirees and senior citizens of the state.

Federation cup: Akwa united are champions

Akwa United FC of Uyo has emerged this year’s champion of Federation Cup after beating Lobi Stars of Makurdi 2-1 to lift the Cup for the first time.

In a final match played at Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, last Sunday, Nnamso Edo scored the first goal for Akwa United in the 37th minutes of the epic encounter, while Awakan Abdulafeez doubled the lead for the Uyo Club in the 69th minute., , , 

However, Lobi Stars of Makurdi that has won the cup once and played five times in the finals of the cup pulled out one goal through a free kick at the stoppage time.

Dep Speaker Congratulates Akwa Utd over victory

More reactions  have continued to trailed the recent qualified of Akwa United football club of Uyo to the federation cup coming up in 2016 against Lobi stars of Markurdi.

The latest is from the member representing Oron/Udung Uko State constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Effiong Bassey. 

The lawmaker who was reacting shortly after the football tournament where the boys won with 2 goals against 1, described them as the ‘dakkada’ Ambassadors of sport who have made the State proud.

For the girl-child, FEYREP embarks on road walk

Wife of the Governor and founder of Family Empowerment and Youth Reorientation Programme (FEYReP), Mrs.  Martha Udom Emmanuel and a cross section of Akwa Ibom people hit the streets of Uyo on a road walk to sensitize the girl-child on the need to uphold her dignity.

 During the colourful event, which had women and youths turn out enmass and geared in FEYReP’s attire, the Governor’s wife admonished young girls in the state to keep away from bad company and abstain from all forms of sexual vices which could endanger their future . According to her, “abstinence is the only sure way for girls to avoid being victims of teenage pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases.”

Finance boss tasks public servants on removal of miscreants

Public servants in the state have been  tasked to see the on-going personnel audit as their own by collaborating with government in weeding out miscreants from government payroll.

The State Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Akan Okon, while addressing representatives of MDAs and LECs during a meeting at the Ministry of Finance headquarters, Uyo last Friday, said the essence of the meeting was to find out why some MDAs were yet to comply with the directive of submitting their new nominal roll according to specified format, with the view to forestalling delay in the payment of staff salary.

Save our lives - Ewet, Eniong Offot residents cry out

Residents of Ewet  and neighbouring villages in Uyo Local Government Area have sent a save-our-life message to the state government to rescue them from the gully erosion menace that is almost rendering them homeless.

Already, the erosion has destroyed about 10 residential buildings, business premises, farmlands and economic trees worth millions of naira. 

Mostly affected are: Cardinal Ekandem Seminary dormitory, Pagus Hotel, Eniong Offot, Keniss Hotel, Eniong Offot, Sermony Gospel Mission, Ewet and a poultry farm owned by a resident of the community while The Apostolic Church, Eniong Offot is at the verge of destruction.