THE INK is guided by the principles of factual, balanced, fair and objective reporting.
Thursday, 22 January 2015
Udom set to meet with G22
BY KENNETH JUDE
Plans are underway by the peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate in Akwa Ibom state, Deacon Udom Gabriel Emmanuel to meet with the twenty-two aggrieved governorship aspirants popularly known as G22. The move, we learnt is premised on the need for the G22, dubbed by Senator Helen Esuene as (God’s 22) to sheathe their sword and join forces with him to ensure sweeping victory for the party at the polls. This latest Olive branch by the Onna born banker, turned politician is the second time in an attempt by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to broker peace with the group.
DPR seals off 60 petrol stations in A’ Ibom
The Department of Petroleum Re sources (DPR) in Eket, Akwa Ibom, said it sealed off 60 petrol stations in the state between January and December last year.
DPR Controller of Operations in Eket, Asuquo Antai, disclosed this in an interview with newsmen in Eket on Wednesday.
Antia said the stations were sealed for selling petroleum products above the government-approved pump price of N97 per litre, under dispensing and operating without license.
Ukpanah mobilizes support for Udom, Akpabio, ors
BY OFONIME UDOTU
Ahead of February 2015 general elections, the Special Adviser to Akwa Ibom State Government on Investment and Industrialization, Chief Senas Ukpanah has tasked members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to ensure that they give block votes to the gubernatorial flag bearer, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, his running mate, Mr. Moses Ekpo and Ikot Ekpene Senatorial candidate of the party, Governor Godswill Akpabio. Ukpanah gave the charge during interaction with PDP Ward 5 executive members at Nsekhe on Saturday.
Ahead of February 2015 general elections, the Special Adviser to Akwa Ibom State Government on Investment and Industrialization, Chief Senas Ukpanah has tasked members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to ensure that they give block votes to the gubernatorial flag bearer, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, his running mate, Mr. Moses Ekpo and Ikot Ekpene Senatorial candidate of the party, Governor Godswill Akpabio. Ukpanah gave the charge during interaction with PDP Ward 5 executive members at Nsekhe on Saturday.
Akpabio to construct broken bridges at Nto Edino, Obot Akara
Governor Akpabio has pledged to award contract for the construction of bridges in Obot Akara Local Government Area to ease transportation of people and goods in the area.
Akpabio who stated this Tuesday at Nto Edino, Obot Akara headquarters during the PDP governorship rally in Obot Akara was responding to a request by a one-time deputy governor of Akwa Ibom, Obong Christopher Ekpenyong that three bailey bridges had broken down, thus hampering movement of people and school children in the area.
Akpabio who said he was shocked by the story of the broken down bridges which are hampering movement of people in the area assured to construct the bridges, noting that whatever remains the incoming administration will complete them.
Cooperative society for Ikot Okpudo women
In her bid to encourage and empower the women to take charge of their responsibilities as mothers and custodians of the future generation, the wife of the Secretary to the State Government Mrs. Maria Ekanem has expressed her willingness and readiness to register Ikot Okpudo Women Association in a corporative Society so as to enable them benefit Government developmental plans as well as having access to financial assistance and other soft loans.
Mrs. Ekanem dropped the hint at her family compound in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area when the women of Okpudo village paid her a courtesy visit.
SSG’s wife charges women on 2015 elections
As part of her contribution to support the sustainability of uncommon trans formation in the State, the wife of the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Maria Ekanem has admonished two women socio-political groups, the of Atai Iban Ubium South and Nsit Ubium Unity Women to be part and parcel of the ongoing 2015 PDP electioneering campaigns in the State.
Mrs. Ekanem gave the advice when the two groups whose membership cut across the 10 wards of Nsit Ubium Local Government Area paid her a solidarity visit in recently In Uyo.
2015: Matters arising BY KENNETH JUDE
Events leading up to the 2015 general elections are most engaging much as they are surprising. The various Political parties have commenced nation-wide campaigns to woo voters by selling their manifestoes while hoping that such junketing translates to success at the polls. At the federal level, it is a straight battle between President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and ex Head of State General Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the February 14 election. Both parties have commenced moves to woo voters for the polls; though, this has not been without some skirmishes here and there.
Hammer the harmatan
I had a chat with a senior citizen on issues of climate change and the effect of human actions on our environment. While I listened to him, he reminded me of the same words I have being hearing since the first week of this year passed without the rains. He said, its being quite very long since I had seen a year starting without rains. I personally remembered too that we had continually gotten accustomed to New Year rains as evidence of a great year in the making. Now that the year had started without rain, I thought, could this mean the year won’t be great?
Many who look out for omens from the weather as the prerogative for how the year will turn out may certainly find this writ uninteresting. However for those who don’t, congrats, you can afford to battle the harmattan. Success isn’t dependent on beliefs of how dry or wet the year begins. Anyone who wants to achieve anything must expect changing condition not necessarily because it affects his chance of succeeding but as part of the challenges he must face.
The harmattan season is often very dry, humid and cold. People struggle to get through with the weather; sometimes one could be lazy, weak and even sickly. There is a chance you may wake up from bed late and maybe have a head with your boss at work over being late. It’s a divergence form the wet season that sees green vegetations blossom, calm air and a vibrant atmosphere. However the condition you may find yourself, it’s the endpoint that really matters. That’s where the focus is.
The 22 musketeers: “On united A’Ibom we stand”
BY ETOKOWO OWOH
Forget the bravado of the Godswill Akpabio clan, the adamancy of PDP National Working Committee, and the loud silence of the Presidency, if nothing else signals the transition of Akwa Ibom State from continuing to be predominantly controlled by the PDP to one taken over by the opposition, the G22 and its movement to free the State does. As described by one member of the group, it is God’s 22.
Forget the bravado of the Godswill Akpabio clan, the adamancy of PDP National Working Committee, and the loud silence of the Presidency, if nothing else signals the transition of Akwa Ibom State from continuing to be predominantly controlled by the PDP to one taken over by the opposition, the G22 and its movement to free the State does. As described by one member of the group, it is God’s 22.
Heroes, they say, are not made of huge legs. Big as it is, an elephant does not have an answer to the bites of soldier ants. At the appointed time, Goliath bowed to a single pebble from the sling of David. Muhammad Ali was 22 years when he gave Sony (the ugly bear) Liston a bloody eye and snatched the world heavy weight boxing title. What has remained the unbeatable record in world sports started when Ali was mere 12 years. Faced with the frustration of his stolen bicycle and his subsequent efforts to search and recover it, he landed at a gym and in the hands of a policeman, Joe Elsby Martin, who was training boxers. It was there he was handed a form to register for boxing training when Martin heard the conviction in his boast to “whup” (beat) whoever stole his bicycle “even if he is an adult”.
PDP inaugurates election committees in Ukanafun
BY OFONIME UDOTU
Election committees to ensure landslide victory of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from the presidency to state assembly were inaugurated on Thursday at Ikot Akpa Nkuk, the council headquarters.
Election committees to ensure landslide victory of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from the presidency to state assembly were inaugurated on Thursday at Ikot Akpa Nkuk, the council headquarters.
Performing the inauguration, the champion of Akwa Ibom Consolidated Alliance (ACA) in the area, Obong Eno Akpan charged, the election committees in each of the 11 wards is to see to it that the party wins at all levels. He emphasized that PDP has a daunting task to deliver president Goodluck Jonathan for a second term, Mr. Udom Emmanuel and his running mate, Mr. Moses Ekpo to the Hilltop Mansion, adding that the only way to compensate Governor Godswill Akpabio is to vote massively for him to represent the good people of Ikot Ekpene senatorial district at the senate. Obong Akpan who is the commissioner for Lands and Town Planning explained that Governor Akpabio would give the people effective representation given his amazing political antecedent.
James 1:27 Orphanage fetes Donors, appeals for robust 2015
In the spirit of New year celebrations, the President/Founder, James 1:27 Orphanage, Ikpa Town, Esit Eket LGA, Bishop Evans Udoekaisong (JP), has eulogised public spirited individuals and groups for sustaining the lives of over 85 orphans and widows under his watch.
However, the home has also stressed the need for Children of God to help the less privileged, particularly orphans, the vulnerable and widows, to enable them to survive the present harsh economic climate in the country.
My people! my people!!
BY ANIEFIOK ESSAH
Mr. Umana Okon Umana, a former SSG of Akwa Ibom State and a PDP-turned-APC member, wants to govern the State. If there is no miscarriage of justice in Engineer Frank Daniel’s case, he will win in a land-slide margin and become the governor. Mr. UOU, a detribalized son of Akwa Ibom soil, decided to flag off his political campaign rally at Abak Stadium last Tuesday, January 13, 2015 A.D. His Royal Aniefiokness witnessed the event.
Mr. Umana Okon Umana, a former SSG of Akwa Ibom State and a PDP-turned-APC member, wants to govern the State. If there is no miscarriage of justice in Engineer Frank Daniel’s case, he will win in a land-slide margin and become the governor. Mr. UOU, a detribalized son of Akwa Ibom soil, decided to flag off his political campaign rally at Abak Stadium last Tuesday, January 13, 2015 A.D. His Royal Aniefiokness witnessed the event.
AKHA holds pre-hearing on 2015 budget *as Ministries, Boards appear before Committee
BY EMMANUEL AKPAN
The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has held pre-hearing on the 2015 budget proposal.
The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has held pre-hearing on the 2015 budget proposal.
The briefing took place on Monday at the House of Assembly complex, Udo Udoma Avenue, Uyo.
Declaring the briefing open, the Speaker of Akwa Ibom State Assembly, Elder Sam Ikon said pre-hearing on the 2015 budget was necessary in order for those concerns to explain every part of the budget to the understanding of House of Assembly members as well as stakeholders in the state who are interested.
Udung Uko students eulogies council chairman over bursary payment
The Leadership and the entire students of the Association of Udung Uko Local Government Students (NAULOGS) , worldwide has commended the council chairman, Mrs Kennim Onofiok for the timely and recent payment of bursary and project aides to students of Udung Uko origin studying in tertiary institution of higher learning across Nigeria and beyond.
The students made the commendation through their National president, comrade Emmanuel Umiom while exchanging views with newsmen recently in Uyo, the state capital.
2015: Oro Youth Leaders adopt Akwa Ibom PDP Guber Candidate
Youth leaders of Oro Nation comprising the five local government areas of Oron Federal Constituency, have risen up to affirm their support and commitment to the election of Mr Udom Emmanuel as the next Governor of the State.
Rising from a meeting with the PDP Governorship candidate in Uyo, the youth leaders numbering over 300, maintained that Udom possessed the right qualities and pedigree to move the state to the next level.
A New Breeze
BY KING UMANA
It is indeed a new breeze, an unusual one blowing across the land, a breeze we have all being waiting for. yes indeed, that breeze that will inundate our minds and body, it is a breeze of change coming from the horizon, a breeze that has the potentials to turn the feeblest of minds to a great leader, alas! it is THE PODIUM OF LEADERSHIP, a sensational talkshow anchored by the senior special adviser on power, Dr Victor Udo, a programme which focuses in bringing out that inate abilities especially in the youths.
It is indeed a new breeze, an unusual one blowing across the land, a breeze we have all being waiting for. yes indeed, that breeze that will inundate our minds and body, it is a breeze of change coming from the horizon, a breeze that has the potentials to turn the feeblest of minds to a great leader, alas! it is THE PODIUM OF LEADERSHIP, a sensational talkshow anchored by the senior special adviser on power, Dr Victor Udo, a programme which focuses in bringing out that inate abilities especially in the youths.
Tales of Nigerians seeking medical treatment abroad
BY VICTOR NKEREUWEM
The population of Nigerians seeking Medicare outside the shore of this country is increasing at an alarming rate. It is no longer an exclusive preserve of the elite, but a general practice among Nigerians, irrespective of class or status.
The population of Nigerians seeking Medicare outside the shore of this country is increasing at an alarming rate. It is no longer an exclusive preserve of the elite, but a general practice among Nigerians, irrespective of class or status.
In the 1970s and 80s, when the practice begun, the destination then were developed countries like United States of America (USA), United Kingdom, France, Canada and Germany, among others. But at present, the hand of the pendulum has swung towards India, Malaysia, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, China and many more. It will be an understatement to note that medical tourism as it is called, has become a major sector boosting the economy of many of these countries, while Nigeria is draining her foreign reserve. This term has come to embrace all facets of consumers seeking treatment, improvement or change through wellness outside the coast of Nigeria.
“Udom is the man to beat” - AKWA IBOM ONE VOICE FORUM
BY KING UMANA
Udom Emmanuel is surely the man to beat in the forthcoming gubernatorial election, before we declared support for him, we had to scrutinize the impeccability of all the contestant and came to the conclusion that Udom Emmanuel is the most acceptable candidate in the state, no other candidate can rival his acceptability by the good people of Akwa Ibom state.
Udom Emmanuel is surely the man to beat in the forthcoming gubernatorial election, before we declared support for him, we had to scrutinize the impeccability of all the contestant and came to the conclusion that Udom Emmanuel is the most acceptable candidate in the state, no other candidate can rival his acceptability by the good people of Akwa Ibom state.
He is a rare breed politician blessed with unrivalled skills and abilities destined to move Akwa Ibom to a pedestal of unequalled performance in servitude, opined AKWA IBOM ONE VOICE FORUM. The group, which has been doling out formidable support for the standard bearer of PDP, said that they will continue to support Udom Emmanuel, no matter the pressure from opposition parties in the state, to align with them.
5 die in gas explosion - DPR
The Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), in Eket has confirmed five persons dead in gas explosion at Afaha Ukwa in Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom.
The Operations Controller of DPR in Eket, Mr Asuquo Antai, made this known in an interview with the newsmen in Eket on Wednesday.
NAN recalls that the incident occurred last week and eight persons were taken to a hospital in Eket. “Three males and two females died in the hospital.
“A week ago, we had a fatal case of gas explosion in which five people lost their lives’’, he said.
New fuel price: DPR seals 5 filling stations in A’Ibom
The Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), in Eket, Akwa Ibom said it sealed five filling stations for non compliance to the new petrol pump price of N87 per litres in the state.
DPR Operations Controller, Victor Antai disclosed this in an interview with the newsmen in Eket on Wednesday.
“Our monitoring team where out yesterday and we sealed five petrol stations in Akwa Ibom and we intend to move into Cross River within the next two days to carry out the same exercise,’’ he said.
He said that the reasons why the affected fillings stations were given for failure to comply with government directive was not acceptable.
Nse Essien dedicates flag to his people * He will give us good representation – Onna Chairman
BY GODWIN SAM
The quiet community of Ikot Akpan Nkor, in Awa Clan of Onna Local Government Area on Friday 16th January, 2015 became a beehive of activities as their son Otuekong Nse Essien return with the PDP flag to give to his people.
The quiet community of Ikot Akpan Nkor, in Awa Clan of Onna Local Government Area on Friday 16th January, 2015 became a beehive of activities as their son Otuekong Nse Essien return with the PDP flag to give to his people.
Nse Essien popularly known as indomitable was among the twenty five (25) House of Assembly candidates handed the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) flag by the Party’s chairman Obong Paul Ekpo at the Uyo township stadium earlier the same day. But while most of the other candidates ended the occasion in Uyo, the State capital, Otuekong Essien headed to his village, Ikot Akpan Nkor, to hand the flag back to his people as the wise son of the community that he is, accordingly to the Chairman of the Local Government Council, Honourable Uffot Sunday.
Akwa Ibom is the unerring World Guinness Records holder!
BY ISRAEL UMOH
The recent news that a Nigerian choral group has broken Guinness World Records, London by assembling 275,272 Christmas carol singers sounded like a tale by moonlight. But a certificate of the world body presented to Akwa Ibom Governor, Chief Godswill Akpabio last week in his office in Uyo authenticated the veracity of the news.
The recent news that a Nigerian choral group has broken Guinness World Records, London by assembling 275,272 Christmas carol singers sounded like a tale by moonlight. But a certificate of the world body presented to Akwa Ibom Governor, Chief Godswill Akpabio last week in his office in Uyo authenticated the veracity of the news.
The certificate, no doubt, is a remarkable achievement indeed another theme song of Akpabio administration’s uncommon transformation. It was a New Year surprise gift not only to the state government but also to Nigerians and Akwa Ibom people both at home and in the diaspora. The accomplishment by Godswill Akpabio Unity Choir in assembling the largest choir in the world readily squashed the erstwhile record of 15,674 carol singers achieved by CENTI in Bogota, Columbia on December 13, 2013.
PDP campaign rallies- A penetration so deep
BY JOSEPH OKON
As the political activities in Akwa Ibom state moves to the climax with campaigns, the ruling People’s Democratic Party PDP seems to cut the biggest short in the state and made the deepest political penetrations in the state in the build-up to the 2015 governorship election.
As the political activities in Akwa Ibom state moves to the climax with campaigns, the ruling People’s Democratic Party PDP seems to cut the biggest short in the state and made the deepest political penetrations in the state in the build-up to the 2015 governorship election.
It all started last week Friday at Uyo Township Stadium which was filled to the bream with supporters overflowing the stadium to Udo Umana and Obio Imo streets. It was the day PDP formally and officially commenced their movement for actualization of the 2015 election.
The stadium which witnessed what can best be describe as a mammoth crowd of supporters and unprecedented in the history of campaign rallies in the state was attended by senior citizens of the state including those in the opposition camps. The stadium was filled to capacity which send a dangerous signal to those claiming that they will take over government house from the ruling PDP on May 29 to have a re-think.
Towards the attainment of peace in 2015
BY PRISCILLA CHRISTOPHER
Every human being earnestly expects and desires to be at peace with himself, with others, as well as with the community, group, organization, civil societies and the general public. However, a cursory look at the immediate and remote environment reveals that the attainment of the desired peace is somewhat an uphill task. (Nkana, et al).
Every human being earnestly expects and desires to be at peace with himself, with others, as well as with the community, group, organization, civil societies and the general public. However, a cursory look at the immediate and remote environment reveals that the attainment of the desired peace is somewhat an uphill task. (Nkana, et al).
The reason is that conflicts creeps in uninvited, unexpected and most times, undesired. Most times too, conflict rear its head as a result of man’s conscious manipulation at certain crucial times. This has made conflict an inevitable item in times of election, revenue sharing, allocation of resources, etc where incompatibility of interest always exists.
The Nigerian Armed Forces celebration day
BY VICTOR NKEREUWEM
The Nigerian Armed Forces are the Armed Forced of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The military has active duty personnel in three armed services, totaling approximately 200,000 troops and 300,000 paramilitary personnel. Its origin lie in the elements of the Royal West African Frontier Force that became Nigerian when independence was granted in 1960. In 1956 the Nigeria Regiment of the Royal West African Frontier Force (RWAFF) was renamed the Nigerian Military Forces, and in April b1958 the colonial government of Nigeria took over from the British War Office control of the Nigerian Military Forces. There has been a strong military coup culture; between 1966 and 1999 ten military coups took place.
The Nigerian Armed Forces are the Armed Forced of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The military has active duty personnel in three armed services, totaling approximately 200,000 troops and 300,000 paramilitary personnel. Its origin lie in the elements of the Royal West African Frontier Force that became Nigerian when independence was granted in 1960. In 1956 the Nigeria Regiment of the Royal West African Frontier Force (RWAFF) was renamed the Nigerian Military Forces, and in April b1958 the colonial government of Nigeria took over from the British War Office control of the Nigerian Military Forces. There has been a strong military coup culture; between 1966 and 1999 ten military coups took place.
The sins of our political elite
BY VICTOR NKEREUWEM
Politics is said to be a dirty game, other says it is not, and that what they see as the dirty aspect of it is the role some characters play in the game.
Politics is said to be a dirty game, other says it is not, and that what they see as the dirty aspect of it is the role some characters play in the game.
Plain and simple, the same route that you see in politics today is what is seen in every other spheres of human endeavour.
It is said that man is a political animal, while some are active politicians, some others are more passive. Inevitably, those who wield state power, who govern, come from the active members of the polity also known as the political elite while the governed otherwise popularly referred to as the people or masses are the more passive members.
What Nigerians stand to loss during African Cup of Nations
BY VICTOR NKEREUWEM
From January 17 through February 8, soccer aficionados across the world will turn their attention on Equatorial Guinea, a country on the West Coast of African where the continent’s biggest sporting event – the African Cup of Nations (AFCON), popularly known as the Nations Cup will take centre stage.
From January 17 through February 8, soccer aficionados across the world will turn their attention on Equatorial Guinea, a country on the West Coast of African where the continent’s biggest sporting event – the African Cup of Nations (AFCON), popularly known as the Nations Cup will take centre stage.
The 15 qualifying teams in addition to the hosts, who got automatic qualification, have since begun preparations to ensure a successful outing at the tournament. The qualifying countries include, Equatorial Guinea, Congo, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Zambia, D. R. Congo, Tunisia, Cape Verde, Ghana and Senegal, others are Algeria, South Africa, Ivory Coast, Guinea, Mali and Cameroon.
Tuesday, 20 January 2015
Udom shocks Akpabio’s boys *scraps CCU *Iraq, ors stranded, protest
In his determination to promote the state economy as well as sanitize Akwa Ibom by saving the state from unnecessary spending of money and the activities of thugs, the Akwa Ibom State governorship standard bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), for the forthcoming elections, Deacon Udom Emmanuel last Saturday shocked Governor Godswill Akpabio’s boys by allegedly positing that there is no need for their existence. Sources within the system hinted that the former SSG had maintained that the group is not controlling anything.
Udom Emmanuel is said to have ordered the scraping off of a well known group of boys alleged to be thugs who have been working for the state Governor, Chief Godswill Akpabio at every political function in the state, popularly known as Crowd Control Unit (CCU).
RTEAN advocates violence free polls … Declares support for Udom Emmanuel
A major transport union in Akwa Ibom State, the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) Akwa Ibom State branch has made a case for a violence free elections even as it throws its weight behind the Peoples Democratic Party and all its candidates.
This was made known by the State Chairman of the union, Comrade George Emmanuel at the Ibom International Airport shortly after his return from the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the union.
AK guber race- we have not endorsed Udom - Ohanaeze Ndigbo
Contrary to speculations that the Igbos in Akwa Ibom State has endorsed Udom Emmanuel in the forth-coming governorship election, the Apex Socio-Political Organization of Ndigbos in the State, the Ohanaeze Indigbo Youth Wing, has debunked such news, saying that they have not endorsed Udom.
In a released signed by its President General, High Chief Onyeoma Obi Nweke and publicity secretary, Onyeka Victor and made available to the Press, the group said “we have not endorsed Udom Emmanuel, as speculated in the media”.
The group warned impostors who have all along been using its name to play politics in the state to desist forthwith from the act as the law enforcement agencies have been notified of the development.
PDP flags off campaign rally in Uyo
The ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, on January 16, 2015 officially flagged of her campaign for the 2015 General Elections.
At the event, which was attended by a mammoth crowd of party supporters from across the state, flags were also presented to 41 candidates of the Party including the Governorship candidate of the Party, Deacon Udom Gabriel Emmanuel, by the State Party Chairman, Obong Paul Ekpo.
Those handed flags include the 27 Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Candidates, 10 Federal Constituency candidates and 3 senatorial candidates including Governor Godswill Akpabio, who will run for the senate seat of Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District.
G22, Umana unite ahead guber race *We will work together-Nsima Ekere
* We reject Udom in totality - Group
BY KENNETH JUDE
It was a carnival-like at mosphere penultimate Saturday when the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirants under the banner of G22 stormed the state after spending 40 days in Abuja trying to get the leadership of the party to listen to them as regards the December 8 purported governorship primary conducted in the state. The aggrieved aspirants who touched down at the Akwa Ibom International Airport aboard a chartered flight at some minutes past 5pm were assailed by a mammoth crowd who thronged the airport to receive them from their sojourn in Abuja after a prolonged absence from their native land since December 9, 2014. Also at the airport to receive the group was the standard bearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Umana O. Umana, whose arrival sent the excited crowd into wild ecstasy.
It was a carnival-like at mosphere penultimate Saturday when the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirants under the banner of G22 stormed the state after spending 40 days in Abuja trying to get the leadership of the party to listen to them as regards the December 8 purported governorship primary conducted in the state. The aggrieved aspirants who touched down at the Akwa Ibom International Airport aboard a chartered flight at some minutes past 5pm were assailed by a mammoth crowd who thronged the airport to receive them from their sojourn in Abuja after a prolonged absence from their native land since December 9, 2014. Also at the airport to receive the group was the standard bearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Umana O. Umana, whose arrival sent the excited crowd into wild ecstasy.
Illegitimacy of Udom’s gubernatorial ambition
BY ANIETIE IDUNG
Mr. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel should not delude himself that his is a legitimate quest to govern Akwa Ibom State. He lost legitimacy right from when his political party, People Democratic Party, PDP, erroneously fielded him as its governorship flag bearer despite clear indictment of the dishonest primaries that produced him.
Mr. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel should not delude himself that his is a legitimate quest to govern Akwa Ibom State. He lost legitimacy right from when his political party, People Democratic Party, PDP, erroneously fielded him as its governorship flag bearer despite clear indictment of the dishonest primaries that produced him.
Consequently, even though promoters of ‘udomification’ attempt to make people believe they have a man of the moment, they cannot lay claim to popular acceptance. Even if the entire machinery and resource of state is squandered on manifesting their wish, every vote cast to oppose his success will be worthwhile.
Why Obong Umana Okon Umana would succeed Gov. Akpabio
BY JAMES ABANG
Reading the above caption those who know me and have been following my writing would be surprised. Some can testify that my style of writing deploys periodic sentences waxed with related anecdotes and satires. I am never known to write with loose sentence. Students of English Language know the inefficacy of loose sentence in building suspense which is a key ingredient in literary works. In other words I never put my main points at the beginning of the sentence nor my Heading. It therefore follows that this writing isn’t my style.
Reading the above caption those who know me and have been following my writing would be surprised. Some can testify that my style of writing deploys periodic sentences waxed with related anecdotes and satires. I am never known to write with loose sentence. Students of English Language know the inefficacy of loose sentence in building suspense which is a key ingredient in literary works. In other words I never put my main points at the beginning of the sentence nor my Heading. It therefore follows that this writing isn’t my style.
I am not a prophet. Therefore this is not a prophecy. I am only a Deacon who was only ordained a few years ago. Like Jonah I escaped to South Africa but the spirit of God still found me and commissioned me for His service. The commission of the Deacon is simple:
Nigerian Legion calls on FG to empower wives, children of fallen heroes
PDP Candidates being dedictated by Rev Ime Usoroh at QIC Oku,Uyo |
The Nigerian Legion Eket Area Council has called on the Federal Government to empower wives of the fallen heroes in order to alleviate their sufferings.
Major Joseph Esu (Retired), Chairman, Nigerian Legion Eket Area Council made the call at the occasion of the Armed Force Remembrance Day Celebration in Eket.
He said that the wives and children of the fallen heroes are not care for since their breadwinners paid the supreme price and laid down their lives for unity of the country.
A’Ibom Carol Guinness World Records excites Akpabio
Governor Godswill Akpabio has expressed optimism that Guinness World Records broken by a Nigerian choir for assembling the largest choir on earth would foster peace and unity among the people.
Akpabio stated this Tuesday at the executive chambers of Governor’s Office, Uyo when the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Elder Etekamba Umoren presented him a certificate by World Guinness Records broken by Godswill Akpabio Unity Choir for assembling 25,272 carol singers on December 13, 2014 at Uyo Sports Stadium that smashed the record of 15,674 singers set by CENTI, Bigota, Columbia on December 15, 2013.
Monday, 19 January 2015
Shun ethnic politics, Gov. Akpabio warns
Nigerians have been charged to shun politics of propaganda used by opposition political party for the country to move forward.
Akwa Ibom Governor, Chief Godswill Akpabio, made the call Friday during the state PDP campaign flag-off rally at Uyo Sports stadium, remarked, “Nigerians must shun propaganda because propaganda can never win a war, for we can only move forward in Nigeria and not backward.
“I, therefore, urge all Nigerians to support President Jonathan in the upcoming elections and for members of PDP to obtain their permanent voters card and turn out en-mass to support the party during the forthcoming elections”, Akpabio maintained.
2015: Udom Emmanuel, PDP candidates receive divine endorsements
The aspiration of the PDP Gubernatorial Hopeful in the 2015 elections Mr Udom Emmanuel, on Sunday received Divine blessings, following the formal dedication of the project into God’s hands.
The event which took place at the Qua Iboe Church, 112 Ikot Ekpene Road, Uyo attracted a large crowd of PDP faithful, the business and political class, various political and socio-cultural groups who came to show solidarity to the governorship candidate.
Addressing the Church, Deacon Udom Emmanuel said he did not come to the church to campaign, but led his team to consult and seek divine blessings in view of the assignments before him.
A’Ibom 2015: State govt set to unleash terror on opposition
The Akpabio administration in Akwa Ibom State has concluded plans to open the floodgates of violence against the political opposition in the state. Impeccable intelligence reports suggest that the state government is about to attack and arrest leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Accord Party in the state under a number of pretexts in order to pave way for the completion of the imposition of Udom Emmanuel as governor on the state.
Emmanuel is a governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) handpicked by the wife of the governor and imposed on the state, according to a recent stunning revelation by the state governor himself, Chief Godswill Akpabio.
2015: House of Reps candidate promises effective representation
As the clock thickens simultaneously to the 2015 countdown general election is gathering momentum, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Candidate in Ikono and Ini Federal Constituency, Hon. Engr. Iboro Ekanem has promised to give hundred percent (100%) effective representation if voted into power by the good people of Ikono/Ini Local Government Area in the forth approaching elections.
The PDP flag bearer for the House of Representatives seat stated this when the People’s Democratic Party leadership under the watchful eyes of the indefatigable leader Obong Paul Ekpo, the State Chairman honoured all standard flag bearers of the party in the State with symbolic flags as candidates in various positions.
Health boss calls for commitment to service
BY NSEOBONG DAVID
The Honourable Commissioner for Health. Dr. EmemAbasi Bassey has charged staff of the Mary Slessor General Hospital Itu to be fully committed and dedicated to duties as reflected in the life and times of the Late Mary Mitchell Slessor. Dr. Bassey gave the charge during the centenary celebration of the death of Mary Slessor at the Mary Slessor General Hospital, Itu.
The Honourable Commissioner for Health. Dr. EmemAbasi Bassey has charged staff of the Mary Slessor General Hospital Itu to be fully committed and dedicated to duties as reflected in the life and times of the Late Mary Mitchell Slessor. Dr. Bassey gave the charge during the centenary celebration of the death of Mary Slessor at the Mary Slessor General Hospital, Itu.
Represented by Dr. Celestine Akpan, the health boss lauded the commitment of Late Mary Slessor which led to the establishment of the General Hospital which is named after her.
CYX and wife welcome baby girl
The proud father also went further to add: “Ok guys! Where do they buy pampers and more importantly pls....HOW MUCH?cos I seem to forget this things!”
This is coming after one year of marriage and few weeks into the new year. Congratulations CYX!
5 village youths in Eket visits motherless home
Youths of Mobil Airstrip Community under the aegis of 5 Villages Youth Movement on Friday visited the motherless babies home located at Idua in Eket with gift items worth hundred of thousands of Naira.
Presenting the items which included baby foods, toiletries, clothes, food items and cash, the President General of the group Deacon Samuel Etukudo said the gesture was a way of thanking God for His mercies on the lives of members and for giving hope to the children that God loves them.
The youth leader harped on the need for well to do individuals in the society to remember the less privileged amongst them and to always appreciate the goodness of the Lord by cultivating the habit of giving.
2015 Guber- No room for opposition in Oro Nation
The Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) Chieftain from Oro nation, Chief Victor Mathew has dismissed insinuations making the rounds to the effect people of Oro nation will not support the candidature of Mr. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel in the forthcoming election, insisting that Oro people were not ready to play opposition.
Chief Mathew stated this recently in Uyo during an interview with newsmen. He said that the Oro people will not in any way support the opposition All Progressive Congress, APC despite the fact that the party running mate is from the area.
COE Afaha Nsit commences Degree Programmes this year
The pragmatic and result-oriented leadership style of the Provost, College of Education Afaha Nsit, Dr. Patrick Uko has again, registered a significant milestone in the history of the College as the much anticipated dream of running degree programmes in the only State-Owned Teacher training institution has been achieved, through an affiliation with the University of Uyo.
This feat, achieved by an erudite administrator who seems to apparently be in a hurry to place the College on the world map of reckoning, has attracted positive reactions from stakeholders in the College and Afaha Nsit community.
Fielding questions from journalists shortly after receiving certificate affiliation from the authorities of the University of Uyo, the visibly elated Provost explained that the degree- awarding status of the College had opened a new fiesta in the institution and placed it in the comity of Colleges of education of note.
AD candidate promises better deal for Akwa Ibom people
BY EMMANUEL AKPAN
The Akwa Ibom State governorship standard bearer of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) for the forthcoming general elections, Obong Samuel Atang has promised to initiate policies and programmes that will impact positively on the lives of the people if elected as governor.
The Akwa Ibom State governorship standard bearer of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) for the forthcoming general elections, Obong Samuel Atang has promised to initiate policies and programmes that will impact positively on the lives of the people if elected as governor.
Atang, who gave the assurance during his consultation visit to Prestige Club Uyo, last week, said his administration would ensure the complete transformation of the state even as he also promised to revive dead industries as well as build new ones.
On education, Obong Samuel Atang pledged to rebuild dilapidated school buildings in the state as well as equip schools with computers to ensure that pupils and students were exposed early to modern information technology.
On united Akwa Ibom State we stand
On December 9, 2014 we arrived Abuja in search of justice and preservation of the sanctity of democratic processes. After 40 days in the wilderness of injustice, it is time to move on to the next stage of restoration of the dignity of Akwa Ibom State that has been so savagely raped and plundered.
We extend our gratitude to all our friends, supporters and well-wishers all over the country and the diaspora, especially the common men and women, political and religious leaders and followers and the patriotic members of the State and Local Governments in Akwa Ibom State for all the prayers, solidarity messages and support of the last several weeks. We ask that the Almighty God bless you all.
Ikot Oku Mfang holds Solemn Assembly
The first Solemn Assembly organized by Ikot Oku Mafng village in Abak Local Government Area for the year 2015, took place last Saturday at Ikot Oku Mfang Village Hall.
In his remark, the Coordinator of the Monthly Prayer Meeting, Apostle John Charlie said the meeting was to hand over the village to God for guidance and protection. Apostle Charlie thanked God for protecting them throughout the past years and for making it possible for them to live and see the New Year, 2015.
Aftermath of PDP primaries: Patrick Udomfang charges supporters to vote PDP
One of the leading contenders to the Abak Federal Constituency Seat at the recently concluded PDP primaries, Barr. Patrick Udomfang last weekend displayed what some people described as the highest level of party loyalty when he hosted his supporters in “a thank you ceremony.”
The event which took place at his country-home, Midim in Abak local government area was attended by a cream of personalities including members of Udomfang Divine Network Abak, Etim Ekpo and Ika Chapters, executive and members of Abak Youth Liberation Forum, members of Udomfang Divine Campaign Organization, Party Chieftains among others.
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