August 2015 ~ Welcome to the Official Blog of THE INK Newspaper- Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Tuesday, 25 August 2015

Federation Cup Final: Gov. Udom Emmanuel must cheer Akwa United to victory by Amos Etuk

BY AMOS ETUK

The two major football competitions in Nigeria are the Nigeria Professional Football League and the Federation Cup formerly known as the Challenge Cup. Winners of both competitions are guaranteed automatic slots to represent the country at the continental battle for the different competitions of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) each season. Winners of the Nigeria Professional Football League and the runner up automatically represent the country at the CAF Champions League while the third placed team and the winners of the Federation Cup represent the country at the CAF Confederations Cup.
It is always a gruesome season as clubs battle with many matches moving from one end of the country to the other winning and losing matches on the road to victory as each game comes with more pulsating actions and for the losers, more regrets and heart breaks.

Aniekpeno Udoh

In-form striker Aniekpeno Udoh says he is confident of ending the season on a high with Akwa United.
The striker, who has notched in six goals this season including four in his last four games in the league, told npfl.ng of his readiness to spearhead the Uyo side’s front line to a fantastic end to the season.
“It has been an exciting season so far and adequate progress has been made by the team and myself as an individual.

Otuekong Nse Essien

BY GODWIN SAM

The adage that a goldfish has no hiding place used to be vague to a lot of people until they come in contact with Hon. (Otuekong) Nse Essien. As a Goldfish he has stood out shining in the 6th Assembly of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly. In the Assembly where some members have not yet seconded a motion for the adjournment of plenary (let alone move such motions), the Onna Lawmaker has already presented two motions on the floor of the House. The first motions move by the eloquent Deputy Chief Whip of the House was a motion seeking to stop the establishment of a Nuclear Power Plant in the state. According to the Onna Lawmaker, this motion was informed by his desire for the protection of lives and properties in the State.
The second motion presented by the Lawmakers calling on the state Government and all relevant Federal Government agencies like the NDDC, to come and do something about the deplorable condition of Ikot Akpatek – Ikwe – Odio Road. The road, according to the motion presented at the floor of the House is a very strategic road linking Onna Local Government Area (His Constituency) with Eket Local Government Area.

Afaha Obong Youths restate claim for Abak Chairmanship seat

Youths from the 24 Villages of Afaha Obong Clan in Abak Local Government Area last Saturday converged at Afaha Essang Village to discuss the way forward for the area. The well-attended meeting had in attendance, the National President, Afaha Obong Clan Youth Association, Prince Nsikan Ibanga, the Coordinator Afaha Obong Clan Youths, Comrade Iboro Udotong, National Executive members of the Association, Village Youth Chairmen and their executive members.

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AIT ground-breaking ceremony: Transporter commends Governor, Aniekan Umanah

The State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel has continued to receive goodwill messages from groups and individuals on the recent Ground-Breaking Ceremony of the Africa Independent Television – AIT/Ray Power Station at Midim Waterside Village in Abak Local Government Area. The latest came from the Chairman Inter-State Drivers Association of Nigeria (ISDAN) Abak Chapter, Elder Friday Udo-Obot who described the establishment of the station at Abak as a welcome development which he noted will not only help in the dissemination of information, but also create job opportunities to the people of Abak Local Government Area in particular and the state in general.

Drivers partner Local Government Council on sanitation

Drivers in Abak Local Government Area under the umbrella of Inter State Drivers Association of Nigeria (ISDAN) Abak Chapter, last Wednesday embarked on a sanitation exercise. The Executive and members of the Association were seen removing debris from the gutters as well as cleaning the environment. Speaking with our reporter, the Chairman of the Association, Elder Friday Udo-Obot said they decided to partner the Local Government Council under the leadership of Dr. Emmanuel Udosen in the area of environmental sanitation which the council has already started.

Udosen

The Catholic Youth Organization (CYON) of the Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Atai Otoro, Abak Parish has congratulated Dr. Emmanuel Udosen on his appointment as the Transition Committee Chairman for Abak Local Government Area. In a congratulatory message to the new Council helmsman signed by the President, Mr. Joseph Justin and Secretary, Mr. Victor Augustine, the Organization described the appointment as meritorious and well-deserved.
The organization expressed the hope that as a vibrant, highly intelligent and God fearing young man, Dr. Emmanuel Udosen will perform well by taking Abak Local Government Area to the next level of development.
The Catholic Youths prayed God to give the new Council helmsman the requisite wisdom to discharge his duties effectively, assuring that they will continue to support him with prayers to succeed.
The Organization commended the Chairman for steps so far taken by him to restore the lost glory of Abak especially in the area of environmental sanitation, describing it as commendable.
They appealed to the good people of Abak to continue to support Dr. Emmanuel Udosen to enable him succeed in the task of attracting dividends of Democracy to Abak.
The Catholic Youths thanked the State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel and his Deputy, Mr. Moses Ekpo for the choice of Dr. Emmanuel Udosen as the Transition Committee Chairman for Abak.

You will stay for 8 years uninterrupted - Ekpuk (family) Heads assure Udom Emmanuel

Family Heads in the State under the umbrella of Ekpuk (Family) Heads Association have assured the State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel that irrespective of the case going on at the Election Petition Tribunal, he is going to govern the state for eight years uninterrupted. The State Chairman of the Association, Otuekong Sunday Umoh JP accompanied by some executive and members of the Association, gave the assurance during the Ground-Breaking Ceremony of the AIT/Ray Power Station at Midim Waterside Village, Abak describing the establishment of the station at Abak as a welcome development which will create job opportunities to the people of Abak in particular and Akwa Ibom State in general.

Hope in sight to rid Uyo of flood menace as Gov. Emmanuel flags-off outfall drain construction

Akwa Ibom State Governor Mr Udom Emmanuel has taken steps to tackle flood menace in the state with the flag off of the construction of Uyo Outfall Drain. Speaking at the event which took place along Oron road, Nsikak Eduok by four lane junction , Governor Emmanuel expressed delight at the quick take off of the project. He said his government is responsive to the welfare of the people by ensuing that the state is made habitable for it citizens. He added that he would explore every means to justify the people’s mandate on him and announced that the project would be completed in four months.

Mr.&Mrs Emase Williams with their Son, Emase

The premises of Qua Iboe Church Ikot Akpabio, Afaha Obong in Abak Local Government Area was last Sunday filled to capacity when a Staff a National Orientation Agency (NOA) Mr. Emase Williams dedicated his Son, Master Emase Isaiah William II. In his homely, the officiating Minister, Rev. Dr. V. I. Philip who spoke on the topic, “Blessing of Giving thanks to God”, called on Christians to always give thanks to God in every situation they find themselves.

Hon. (Engr.) Otobong Ndem

BY EMMANUEL AKPAN

Following the inspection of the gully erosion site at Enen Atai Itam along Calabar-Itu road by the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Ad-Hoc Committee on Friday June 26, 2015, the Chairman of the Ad-Hoc Committee and member representing Mkpat Enin State Constituency, Hon. (Engr.) Otobong Ndem during last Tuesday’s sitting submitted the committee’s report to the House of Assembly.

Child Abuse: Children should not be traded as commodities – Gov Udom

The 2015 Sensitisation Campaign against Child Abuse, Child Trafficking, Child Labour, Child Abandonment and Baby Factory has been flagged-off by the State Governor, Mr. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel, with a call on all and sundry to join in the fight to stem the tide, by fighting shoulder to shoulder. Performing the ceremony in the Council Hall of Eket Local Government Area and Headquarters of Eket Federal Constituency, the Governor condemned in totality the abuse of children in whatever form, describing it as a grave offence, not just against children, but a crime against humanity.

Nse Essien

BY EMMANUEL AKPAN

The Deputy Chief Whip and member representing Onna State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. (Otuekong) Nse Essien during last Tuesday’s sitting in a motion drew the attention of the House of Assembly to the abandoned Ikot Akpatek-Ikwe-Odio road. The Onna lawmaker who moved the motion under Matters of Urgent Public Important, said Ikot Akpatek and Ikwe in Onna and Odio in Eket Local Government Areas has for years been in a critical state of neglect requiring the intervention of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) which was awarded a contract for its rehabilitation to Worldwide Technologies Limited in 2002.

* Akan Okon, Aniekan Umanah speak
* The House of Assembly will do the needful, says AKHA Chairman on Finance & Appropriation

Akan Okon

BY EMMANUEL AKPAN

There appears to be an interesting dimension in the recent request by the state Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel towards converting Akwa Ibom State loans into Federal Government bond. THE INK reporter gathered that the request does not cover the loans gotten from other banks as the United Bank for Africa, UBA is the only commercial Bank that this over sixty four billion naira is being owed. Our reporter understands that the state is indebted to UBA with an outrageous sum of money. It was revealed to our reporter by a senior member of Staff of UBA in Uyo that as at June 30th, the loan amount stood at 64,556,632,439.08 with an international rate at 15% running in tenure of about five years.

...Observers adjudge election as most credible in INOYDA’s history

The Youths of Ikot Ntuen village in Oku Clan, Uyo local government area met on Sunday August 23, 2015 in their village town hall along Akpan Essien Lane, Uyo and in three hours of a very peaceful gathering elected officers of INOYDA to run the affairs of that body for the next two years with Comrade Kingsley Uko Edet emerging as President. The election was adjudged free, fair, credible and peaceful by observers from other villages of Oku Clan such as the representative of the Clan Head of Oku Clan, Etidung D. E. Inyang, village head of Uyo Oku village who felt impressed to be associated with such a peaceful and credible youth election.

The Divine City Ministry International, Uruk Uso, Otoro in Abak Local Government Area is organizing A-3 Day powerful prayer meeting (Akam Ukpoho Mkpo). The programme will take place at the church auditorium from Friday, 28th – Sunday 30th August, 2015 beginning from 6am – 12 noon daily.

Dr. Emmanuel Ating Onwioduokit

The importance of statistics in economic planning and overall national development has been underscored.
The Commissioner for Economic Development, Dr. Emmanuel Ating Onwioduokit made this known when the executive members of the Nigerian Statistical Association (NSA), Akwa Ibom State Chapter,paid a courtesy call on him recently. Dr. Onwioduokit explained that statistics was key to any meaningful planning, stating that greater results and efficient resource allocation and application were achieved when projections were based on reliable data.

…commissions new girls’ palace

BY VICTOR UFOT

Friday last week will remain evergreen in the mind and heart of the management, staff and Students of Tower of Ivory Schools Ediene Abak, Abak as they gathered in their numbers at the school premises to welcome the Catholic Bishop of Ikot Ekpene Diocese Most Rev. Dr. Camillus R. Umoh to the citadel of learning as part of the his Pastoral visit to Abak Deanery of the diocese. As early as 3pm, Staff members, students, management, members of Catholic Women Organization Abak Parish, neigbours, friends and lovers of the schools led by the Chairman Board of Governors, Tower of Ivory Schools D.I.G Udom U. Ekpoudom (RTD) had gathered in their numbers at the institutions’ entrance along the old Abak-Uyo road in their colourful attires and uniforms to welcome the bishop who was making his first official visit to the school since it was established five years ago.

Not everybody can preach - Clergy

BY PRISCILLA CHRISTOPHER

A minister of the Church of Christ, Afaha Offot in Uyo, Bro. Idongesit Ekpo on Saturday 22nd of August noted in clear terms that preaching in the Lord’s church is not an everybody’s job. The minister said this while addressing youths at the maiden youth seminar of the Use Offot Church of Christ, 341 Nwaniba road on the topic “Overcoming Denominational Influences”. Noting with dismay what the church today has turned into, he advised the youths to desist from denominational practices which he said has brought controversy in the church, threatened its unity and exposed it to public ridicule and blasphemy; while encouraging them to preach the sound doctrine of Christ as it was delivered by the Apostles and respect authorities in their local congregations.

* Contractors spits on Commissioner for non-payment of owed sums for work done
* This is the worst women affairs commissioner we’ve ever had – Woman Leader

Dr. Glory Edet

One of the meeting points for women in Akwa Ibom state – the Akwa Ibom state women Development Center is currently in a state of disrepair and decay following the unpatriotic decision of the returning Commissioner for Women Affairs Dr Glory Edet to squander a whooping sum of N201 million naira released to her for the rehabilitation of the Center by the former administration. Our reporter can authoritatively report that as disclosed in the painstaking investigative effort of our team of editors, the Women Development Center was just unlucky to have fallen into the hands of the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr Glory Edet thereby leading to the unfortunate abandonment of the rehabilitation work as the rehabilitation for Ibom Hall Facility which was awarded around the same period with the Women Development Center had long be completed and tastefully furnished.

Government investment drive yields dividend as Shoprite arrives Akwa Ibom

Akwa Ibom State Governor Mr Udom Emmanuel has commended the decision of Resilient Africa a shopping conglomerate in establishing a Shopping Mall, Shoprite in the State stating that the initiative underscores the avowed determination of his administration to place the state among comity of industrialised Nations.Governor Emmanuel stated this during the ground breaking ceremony of Shoprite Shopping Mall at Ibom Tropicana Complex, Uyo.

Commissioner tasks youths on talent development

The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Education, Elder Aniekan S. Akpan has charged youths to embark on creativity, talent development and ventures that can make them useful members of the society. The Commissioner gave the charge penultimate Sunday when he inaugurated De Royal Brass Band at Ikot Oku Usung, Ukanafun L.G.A. He gave an assurance that the State Government would appreciate and promote good initiatives among the people of the State. To achieve these, the commissioner said it calls for persistence, courage and enterprise.

Dr. Glory Edet

Women in the State have been enjoined to eschew all acts of gossiping and slandering as these are capable of tearing relationships apart, but rather to exhibit good motherly virtues and conduct, geared towards love, unity and togetherness, with the view of a better society for all. This was from the State Commissioner for Women Affairs & Social Welfare, Dr. Glory Emmanuel Edet, during a meeting she had with the State Executive Members of the Market Women Frontline Group in her office. While emphasising the virtue of love as an integral element of any successful society, Dr. Edet charged the women to be humble, submissive and obedient to constituted authorities, never to be conceited in any position they happen to occupy, adding that promotion only comes from God.

...The Council’s action is a breach of contract - Management of Ekemini Motor Park

Emmanuel Udosen

Last Friday, Ekemini Motor Park along Ikot Abasi road in Abak was sealed on the order of the Transition Committee Chairman, Dr. Emmanuel Udosen for alleged illegal operation. Speaking with our reporter on phone shortly after the motor pack had been locked, the chairman said it was part of the committee’s commitment to sanitize the transport sub-sector and bring orderliness to Abak township which hitherto had been untidy; stressing that the illegal tricycle (Keke) park near the Post Office and the one near the flanks of Bishop Clark’s Primary School, along Ikot Ekpene road would be shown the way out of illegality this week. Dr. Udosen explained that the three motor parks had since been intimated in writing to move to Abak main Motor Park for easy management and control, adding that it was at the expiration of the written order that the council struck.

There’s more to information technology

BY UBONG NSEKPONG

I turned sluggishly on my mattress and felt a slight ache on my ribs. The long nights I witness recently seems to add more pains to the existing ones. With the level of patronage IT practitioners garner in the state one is forced to shut down his system completely as against hibernation which is common in the practice. I reached out for my psalter to say the morning prayers but the constant text and social media alert on my phone was a great cause of distraction. I therefore decided to turn off the alerts before approaching the throne of my creator for thanksgiving which was more of a daily ritual.

Addressing insecurity on School campuses

BY PRISCILLA CHRISTOPHER

Security, according to Wiktionary.org is the condition of not being threatened, especially physically, psychologically, mentally, spiritually emotionally or financially by anybody or force. Issues of insecurity have often raised concern in troubled states and countries who have little or no provision for security. This is why some weak states/countries opt for support from nearby or stronger nations when it is necessary. The campus, being a unit of the larger society is also one place where insecurity is almost inevitable. Issues of cult clashes, disagreements between and among students and the school management, neighbouring disputes as well as strikes often challenge the security modalities of institutions.

Gov. Udom Emmanuel pledges commitment to healthcare delivery in the State

Akwa Ibom State Governor Mr. Udom Emmanuel has advised citizens to engage the services of qualified and experienced medical personnel in government approved hospitals to attend to their health needs.
Governor Udom Emmanuel gave the advice at The Apostolic Church, 69 Oron road where he attended the church service. He said his office has been inundated with complaints of poor services provided by some of our medical personnel in health institutions. The State Chief Executive frowned at the situation where medical doctors hurriedly carry out surgery on patients without proper diagnosis stressing that such patients usually leave the patients with permanent injury even as others do not survive to tell the tale of the outcome of such surgeries. Please if you are sick or somebody that you know is sick; don’t patronize a doctor with doubtful experience. A lot of deaths could have been avoided if the personnel were painstaking in their diagnosis. The situation is that, once a Doctor sees a patient, he rushes to administer treatment without adequate information on the ailment. The Commissioner of health is doing a whole lot about this. That is why we are in a haste to ensure that St. Luke’s hospital, Anua, receives immediate attention so as to provide health care services within Uyo and its environs. If you go there now, you will witness work in progress. i don’t like people patronizing quackery, I value the life of every Akwa Ibom citizen.

…Warns politicians against sabotage

Stakeholders, well wishers and friends of the Rector, Maritime Academy of Nigeria, MAN, Oron, Amb. (Dr.) Joshua Okpo, recently in large number converged at the Testimony Assembly, Oron, for a thanksgiving service in honour of the Rector over his reappointment for a second term of four years by President Buhari. Speaking at the thanksgiving service, the Rector recalled that his journey to Oron was a great task, particularly when he was a Director in the Federal Ministry of Transport and had dreamt of becoming a Permanent Secretary in the course of the service as a career public servant.

Aniekan Umanah

The Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr. Aniekan Umanah has called on investors to emulate the shining example of Chemax Power Plaza by investing in Akwa Ibom State as a way of keying into the industrialization policy of Governor Udom Emmanuel. The Commissioner made the call last weekend during the official opening ceremony of Chemax Power Plaza at 124 Aka road, Uyo. Mr.Umanah who was represented by his director of Technical Services, Mr. Inyang Jameson gave the assurance that such investments would be successful since Akwa Ibom is the most peaceful state in the country. He commended the chief executive officer of Chemax Power Plaza for the initiative, pointing out that by this investment the business outfit has offered employment to youths and has assisted government in combating poverty.

Rt. Hon. Usoro Akpanusoh

BY EMMANUEL AKPAN

The Chairman House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Rt. Hon. Usoro Akpanusoh has said the House of Assembly did not reject the Governor Udom Emmanuel’s letter. It could be recalled that the State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel had sent a letter to the House of Assembly on Tuesday asking the House to give him an approval to restructure commercial banks loan into Federal Government bonds. The Finance and Appropriation Committee Chairman while briefing newsmen last Friday at the House Committee’s Conference room, said the letter was after passing through first reading by the clerk was referred to his committee which he had taken step to invite the State Commissioner of Finance in order to brief the committee on some issues.

Obong University

The management of Obong University, Obong Ntak in Etim Ekpo local Government of Akwa Ibom state has described as false and erroneous the malicious publications emanating from some Akwa Ibom state-based newspapers that 11 private universities including Obong University who received provisional licences by the National Universities Commission, NUC are substandard. In an official press release by Obong University signed by the Registrar of the institution, Mr Imoh Akpanudo on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Professor Udoudo Ekanemesang, the institution explained that contrary to the false reports published by some tabloids, that the 11 private universities in the country including Obong University were substandard or had lost their licences, the truth remains that these universities were given 2 years extension of their provisional licenses.
Professor Ekanemesang hinted that at the recent ceremony at the headquarters of the NUC, nine (9) universities were given Permanent licences while eleven (11) were given provisional licences, stressing that these universities were given provisional licences because less than 80% of their programmes were fully accredited.

L-R: Hon. Idongesit Ituen, Hon. Usoro Akpanusoh and Barr Onofiok Luke during a press briefing at AKHA Committee Conference room ... last Friday

BY EMMANUEL AKPAN

The member representing Esit Eket/Ibeno State Constituency, Rt. Hon. Usoro Akpanusoh in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has suggested the creation of an Akwa Ibom State Government consolidation Internally Generated Revenue Account, where all revenues of the State government collected by the appointed collecting banks are regularly and centrally transferred to before affecting government expenditures and other charges on the revenue. Usoro Akpanusoh stated this last Thursday while chatting with newsmen in his office Akpanusoh who is the Chairman, House Committee on Finance and Appropriation said the State should create an Inter-Ministerial, Departments and Agencies Revenue Collection platform at the Internal Service (IRS) of the State with IRS as the sole revenue collector for government for effective collection and consolidation of all government revenues.

David Lawrence

The people of Eket Local Government Area will soon enjoy trading business as the old Urua Nka in the area will soon be converted to an ultra modern market. The project is initiated by the Member representing Eket state constituency in the State House of Assembly, Hon. David Lawrence Udofa, and is to be undertaken by CICASA (West Africa) Company Ltd after a stipulated period. This information was disclosed by Hon. David Udofa during his meeting and formal briefing with the Chairman and members of Eket Transition Committee in the office of the Transition Committee Chairman, Mr. Frank Archibong on Thursday, August 13th, 2015. During the meeting, the House member disclosed that the project will cost about nine (9) billion naira with a total capacity of 5,000 shops which he said will be completed within 24 months, adding that the state Government has already given approval for the project.

- Affected workers protest in Uyo

National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) protesting

Following the outright dismissal of employees and retrenchment/termination of appointment of indigenes of Akwa Ibom state working in the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution company– PHEDC, affected staff of the company, on Thursday 20th August 2015 took to the streets to protest against the act which they described as “Nepotism, Unethical and man’s inhumanity to man” that has embedded the company since it was changed from Power Holdings Company of Nigeria, PHCN. The protesting workers who matched in their numbers around Paul Bassey, one of the popular streets in Uyo, chanted war songs but were cordoned by a detached team of policemen and members of the Join Taskforce (ADUMA). The aggrieved workers also barricaded the entrance of the company’s office in Uyo barring other staffers from performing their official duties.

Okpo

Against the backdrop of the recent comment made by Governor Udom Emmanuel to the effect that the reappointment of the Rector of Maritime Academy of Nigeria, MAN, Oron, Amb (Dr.) Joshua Okpo, for a second term of four years was selfish and against the dream of the envisaged Maritime University, which attracted wild condemnations from all quarters, the Council of Oro Traditional Rulers have risen in support of president Buhari’s wise decision to renew the appointment of the Rector, MAN, Oron. In a letter of congratulatory message addressed to the Rector, dated August 7th, 2015 and signed by the Secretary, Council of Oro Traditional Rulers, Offong Nyong I. Nkereuwem, the Royal Fathers note “Your reappointment has ushered in another regime of purposeful, transparent and focused leadership in the Academy. You are an acknowledged bridge builder and an epitome of true and detribalized Administrator whose first tenure witnessed monumental development of the Academy”.

Remembering Samuel Sochukwuma Okwaraji (May 19, 1964- August 12, 1989)

Late Samuel Okwaraji

BY AMOS ETUK

It was a lovely Saturday in Lagos State. The sun shone brightly and the excitement not only in the commercial city of Nigeria was also across the country especially as a crucial World Cup qualifier was to be played later that afternoon. The city of Lagos is one town where football fanaticism remains at its highest in the country and when any favourite team fails to live aboard expectations, then you must be ready for the scathing attacks passionate Lagos fans would dole on you especially during the days of rivalry with ferocious supporters of Stationary Stores Football Club, ACB, First Bank, Julius Berger and others.

Aniekan Umanah

As stakeholders set to evaluate the performances of various elected officers within their first 100 days of office, Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr. Aniekan Umanah, says Governor Udom Emmanuel has performed creditably so far. Speaking with newsmen in his office, Mr. Umanah explained that Governor Emmanuel had no problem hitting the ground running because he came into governance with a clear vision of how to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people.

Cleric charges Christians to fight for their own destinies

The presiding minister of Christ Army Church, Ikot Mkporikpo Assembly, Etim Ekpo Local Government Area, Evangelist Israel Sunday Udo has admonished Christians to possess their destinies against all the odds of life, saying that if one must live and fulfill his destiny, he must be ready to wrestle his way through the thick and thin of life. Speaking on the topic: ‘Struggling for Supremacy’, and took his scriptural text from the book of Genesis 25 verse 19 to 34, the clergyman noted that life is not a fairy-tale but a real deal which must be lived to the fullest according to God’s wishes to his children, no matter the many challenges and daily confrontations.

FASA elects new parliamentarians

The Federated Abak Students Association (FASA) Worldwide, has elected new Parliamentarians to work and implement the programmes and policies of the Association. At the end of the election, Comrade Abasiofiok Ime Joe emerged the Speaker, Comrade Usenemem Manasseh Mkpang-Deputy Speaker while Comrade Imowo Matthew Sampson was elected as the Chief Whip. Similarly, Comrade Daniel Monday Umoh emerged as the Leader while Comrade Nnateiye Monday Udofia was elected as the Clark of the Parliament.

Ukanafun is on a new covenant with God – Barr. Udokoh

The Chairman, Ukanafun Transition Committee, Barr. Samuel Udokoh has reiterated that his administration is poised to renew the foundation of Ukanafun Local Government Area as well as re-dedicated the council to God, in order for Him to take full charge of the council’s affairs now and in the future. The Ukanafun council boss made the remark last Wednesday during last month’s (July) Solemn Assembly conducted at Ukanafun council hall, in Ikot Akpan Nkuk.

Udom Emmanuel

BY UBONG SAMPSON

Just a fortnight ago, I noticed photos of Akwa Ibomites storm different social media platforms in Philadelphia backgrounds. Ordinarily, this would have been no issue, since anyone with the financial permit can find his way to any planet of the world. Consequently, I had taken my mind away from it until the small-in-age-but-old-in-brain Junior, my neighbour’s eight (8) year old boy who has always a stubborn, yet very interesting friend of mine, came up with the issue, and suddenly forced my interest on it.

The fate of Etebi – Enwang road

The Etebi Enwang road whose contract was awarded to SINOENG , Construction Company has become a dead trap and eyesore due to its deplorable state especially during this rainy season. When journalists visited the area recently it was difficult to speak with inhabitants of the area who have been automatically cut off from the rest of the people in the state due to bad road.

Ini Ememobong

BY SAMUEL AYARA

This might be one of the most tasking adventures to embark on, since writing about some people requires more than words, especially when they mean different things to different people. I will however seek in my own way to acquit myself of selfishly keeping to myself what I have come to know of Ini Ememobong Essien. This may pass for every other consideration but sycophancy, as more of what will come here are things known to a lot others, I would wish chief amongst what this piece shall pass for, would be lessons geared towards making the world a better place.

...as Ekong Sampson calls for local, state government collaboration

Barr Ekong Sampson

As part of the fulfilment of his vow to ensure effective government presence in the rural settings, the Hon Commissioner for Rural Development, Rt Hon (Barr) Ekong Sampson has introduced a new strategy to sending prompt government intervention to the rural communities through the Prompt Response Mechanism, as newly introduced by him. Disclosing the initiative to newsmen in Urueoffong Oruko during the last inspection visit of his led ministry to the area, Barr Ekong noted that the ministry under his leadership is out to re-create the village and make lives more meaningful to those in rural areas through the Prompt Response Mechanism (PRM) which he said, is part of the Rural Development Master Plan (RDM) he earlier launched and set to work with.

Traffic Intervention Team during parade

BY EMMANUEL AKPAN

The International President of Traffic Intervention Team, a unit of Akwa Ibom Ofon-Ama Initiative, Ukai Udeme Emmanuel has expatiated on why the organization intervened to stop traffic congestion within the city of Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital. Ukai Udeme Emmanuel while chatting with THE INK on Wednesday in his office said the Traffic Intervention Team is a free voluntary organization which is aimed at contributing meaningfully to the growth of Akwa Ibom by ensuring the State is traffic congestion free.
Ukai Udeme Emmanuel, who is also the president of Itiam Etoi Youth Council, maintained that the organization is made up of different units to include; Traffic, Education, Sports, Health and Safety. He stressed that the Traffic Intervention Team is way of contributing to the present administration especially now that Akwa Ibom State is fast developing whereby attracting people from outside the State.

Grace Dieu Academy ends Parents’ Day, Convocation ceremony

One of the fast-growing Nursery and Primary Schools in the state, Grace Dieu Academy, Obong Ntak in Etim Ekpo Local Government Area has on 22 July, 2015 ended her maiden Parents’ Day/ Graduation of first batch of pupils with a charge on them to go and be shinning stars in their next academic endeavours at their chosen secondary schools, urging their parents and guardians to have special interest in their education as well as assist schools in the course of bringing their wards up in line with the 21st century academic standard.

The Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Matters, Comrade Aniefiok Iwaudofia (l), in a discussion with his predecessor and Chief Whip of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Emmanuel Ekpenyong (r), during the 2015 International Youth Day at Ibom Hall Grounds, on Wednesday

Youths of Akwa Ibom State have been charged to earn a living with dignity by ensuring they take advantage of the laudable policy thrust of the Governor Udom Emmanuel’s administration in the area of sustainable youth development. Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Matters, Comrade Aniefiok Iwaudofia, who confirmed the Governor’s position that the youth will be seriously engaged, gave the charge at the Ibom Hall Grounds, venue of the 2015 International Youth Day, on Wednesday.

Uwem Ita Etuk

BY ITORO BASSEY

As I sat to unwind in a pub in Uyo after a hectic assignment at the weekend, I became keenly interested when I overheard three young men who sat directly behind me loudly cheer at the politics of rotation in Ibesikpo Asutan local government area of Akwa Ibom State and the role of the current commissioner for lands and housing, Prince Uwem Ita Etuk in the entire configuration. I was drawn to this particular conversation because of main subject, Prince Uwem Ita Etuk – the political leader of Ibesikpo Asutan. My interest was obvious. Ibesikpo Asutan is my local government area it was only apt that I stayed a while and listened to the gist.

Victor Udo

The managing director of Ibom Power Company, Mr. Victor Udo spoke with newsmen, on the vision of the company and other issues…Excerpts

What is your comment on the improved power supply in Akwa Ibom State?
The magic is the expertise, experience and commitment of the governor, the superior performer. The governor’s expertise has been able to leverage on what his successor, Senator Godswill Akpabio did. During the last administration, the building blocks for steady power supply was made. We have gas in Akwa Ibom, an agreement was reached between Seven Energy and Frontier to establish a gas processing plant in Esit Eket and pipe it to Ikot Abasi. We also have a power plant that is functioning, working very well now. We are producing over 100 mega watts. We have also have transmission lines; we have built one from Ikot Abasi to Eket. In addition, the state government has also invested in the distribution significantly, by making sure almost all villages and communities have transformers and are connected to the national grid. The government has also put money into the power distribution when assets of distribution companies were privatised. What we are seeing today did not just start with now, it started when the governor was the Secretary to the State Government. When Governor Udom Emmanuel came in as the SSG, he started by making sure that the right people are put in the right place. He understands the system because he was in charge of the energy and power desk at Zenith Bank.. To me, that is the magic, being able to put things together. He knows whom to call; when he assumed office as governor, he met with the people in the distribution company and told them what his expectations and that is why we are seeing improvement in the supply of power in Akwa Ibom State. Since the governor came to power, we have not had a day Ibom Power Company is not running; what this means is that there is always power in Akwa Ibom, even when there is no power in the national grid. So, that is something we should be happy about and give the governor the highest credit. And also our personnel who are running the plant, making sure that they do everything possible to maintain the plant.

Ibom Power Company

Doubts over the stability of supporting infrastructure for Governor Udom Emmanuel’s industrialisation plan are gone with the recent tremendous improvement in power in the state. The improved power supply has not come to the state by happenstance, but through a concerted move by Governor Emmanuel to enhance the quality of life of the people while providing the enabling environment to attract the right investments to the state as well as the understanding of its role in the industrialisation plan by Ibom Power Company, IPC.
Barely three months in office, it already feels like the governor had been around for a decade in the state preparing for his tenure. Few weeks after assumption of office, the governor who had served at the Energy and Power Desk of Zenith Bank, met with the Port-Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company, PHEDC, on issues bothering on regular power supply. Since then, there has been a relative stability and improved supply of electricity in the state in recent times.

Obong Paul Ekpo

BY NATHAN UWEH

It is no longer news that the much anticipated 2015 general elections have come and gone with the victorious team jubilating ecstatically to the envy of the loser. It is a common knowledge that in Nigeria like in most African countries, there is no place for political losers as they are treated like pariahs where nobody is supposed to even greet talk to. Once you fail, you are on your own. No wonder politicians do everything to cling to power.

Dr. Dominic Inyang Ukpong

Facilities in some Government Hospitals are to be revamped for greater productivity in line with the policy thrust of the present administration. The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Dominic Inyang Ukpong gave the hint when members of National Association of Government General Medical and Dental Practitioners, Akwa Ibom State Branch visited him in his office.

Rt. Hon. Victor Udofia and family being prayed for

The last may not have been heard of the Member representing Ikono State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Victor Charles Udofia. The latest news emanating from Ikono Local Government Area has it that the election petition tribunal sitting in Abuja, has struck out a petition brought before it by the House of Assembly candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Gabriel Obot, challenging the victory of the PDP candidate, Rt Hon Victor Udofia.

Finance Boss, Akan Okon (r)inspecting ongoing payment of gratuities to pensioner

In a bid to ensure the smooth dispensation of outstanding arrears of gratuity benefits to Local Government Pensioners in the State, the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Akan Okon has visited the payment venue to inspect the ongoing exercise. The Commissioner who was accompanied on the visit by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs Eme-Ette Imuk was conducted round the designated centre at the State Secretariat complex by the Secretary, Local Government Pensions Board, Mr. Uduak Udo.

Addressing addictions (2)

BY PRISCILLA CHRISTOPHER

In the previous edition of this piece, the concept of addiction was analysed and defined as a great interest in a particular thing to which a lot of time is devoted. A state of physiological or psychological dependence on a potentially harmful act or habit. Addictions are habits we find ourselves indulging in without being duly conscious of. They are attitudes we put on that apparently stand out no matter how much we try to hide them. It is an excessive involvement in a particular act which renders the performer incomplete or dissatisfied when they are unable to carry out the act as at when due. It is in summary, an unstoppable interest developed for an action for which one is always noted for.

Comrade Monday Akpan

Not less than 3100 Akwa Ibom Youths will benefit from the All Progressive Congress, APC National Youth Vanguard’s Skill Acquisition Programme, billed to commence in August, 2015. The Akwa Ibom State Coordinator of the organization, Comrade Monday Akpan who disclosed this recently in Uyo, said the programme was part of APC National Youth Vanguard’s project geared towards massive empowerment of the youths in order to produce “a self-reliant generation.”

Senate: Akpabio opposes application to tender INEC’s Atlas of Constituency

...petition not about senatorial district- Akpabio cries out
...senatorial district a big issue - Okori insists
...I left PDP because of impunity - Dr Udoma Ekarika tells tribunal

Inibehe Okori

Eight days after he tendered the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the disputed Akwa Ibom North West senatorial district election results, the Akwa Ibom State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Amadu Attai on Wednesday appeared before the Hon Justice Goddy Anunihu led Akwa Ibom State National and State Houses of Assembly Election Petition Tribunal sitting at the Customary Court, Dutsen Alhaji , Abuja to conclude his testimony at the tribunal as a witness in the ongoing trial of the disputed March 28, 2015 National Assembly election.
Dr Attai who had last Tuesday tendered the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the final result of the Akwa Ibom North West senatorial district election as was allegedly issued by the 2nd respondent (INEC) sought the leave of the court to tender the Atlas of Constituency of the three senatorial districts in the state as produced by INEC and relied upon for nomination and election into the senatorial seat. This was opposed to by Akpabio , INEC and the PDP .

The people of southern Ukanafun Clan in Ukanafun L.G.A. have felicitated with the commissioner for Education, Elder Aniekan Akpan on his appointment. The Clan made its position known in a release signed by some of their outstanding sons, Engr. Emmanuel Obong – Secretary to the Clan Council, Obong Saturday Umoren – Central Youths President, Elder Emmanuel Etukudo and Barr. Idongesit Umoh.

The First Bank Abak branch, has allegedly indulged in plethora of robbery activities which make some customers to be scared of the Bank in recent time. Just recently, a river of tears flows freely in the farming village of Ikot Udo Mbang in Ukanafun L.G.A. Their inconsolable sorrow stems from the untimely death of one of their prominent sons who was a senior nurse with the State Ministry of Health, Mr. Sunday Effiong Inyang who died recently from bullet wounds he sustained when armed men attacked him near Obio Akpa bridge, shortly after Akwa Ibom State University campus.

Unfinished business: Uyo Sex Worker fights man, 35 over refusal to pay after service

BY KENNETH JUDE

A mild drama ensued in the early hours of Wednesday (yesterday) at Nyong Essien Street, Uyo when a middle aged lady from Essien Udim and a young man, whose name was given as Anietie Effiom from Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area of the state, apparently in his early thirties engaged in what many regarded as a show of shame. One report has it that the said lady is two years in Akwa Ibom State, this, she revealed to our reporter in a terse response. According to the lady, who did not want her name in print, she explained, in a rather subdued voice that the man, whose name she refused to reveal had carnal knowledge of her when she came in to town newly with her consent on the agreement that the man will pay her after the show.

Oba Okunade Sijuwade

BY NELSON UTIP

Death can be whimsical; one of the greatest play wrights William Shakespeare in his historical Tragedy Macbeth says that death is a necessary end that will come when it will. He also said that when beggars die, there are no comet seen, but heaven itself seem to react to the death of a royalty.

Prof. Etete Peters

The family and community of the security guard from a private outfit, JEKASON, attached to the residence of the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH) Prof. Etete Peters are at daggers-drawn with the CMD over the death of one of their own.

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

Niger Delta youths condemn attack on NDDC

A group under the aegis of Niger Delta Youths for peace, equity and development (NDYPED) has condemned in strong terms the recent Media attack on the Niger Delta Development Commission. NDDC, describing it as a sponsored diatribe of blackmail, hatred and retrogression by some selfish politicians angling for positions in the commission.

Addressing newsmen in Uyo over the weekend on Monday, the National President of the group, Prince Ubong Umana, Mr. Lawrence Eno Alfred, National Secretary and Mr. Justin Akaninyene Edem, PRO, said the campaign of calumny lunched against the commission was a way of drawing the region backwards.

Ikot Ekpene Transition C’tee visits Etido Inyang, hails Udom

For the umpteenth time since his appointment, Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Special Duties, Engr. Etido Inyang has yet again moved to unite political gladiators in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area with a view to consolidating and expanding the support base of the present administration. The latest round of such nobility was seen last weekend when the chairman and members of Ikot Ekpene Transition Committee visited him at his Uyo residence to affirm their loyalty to the present government led by Governor Udom Emmanuel.

Speaking during the visit, the Committee Chairman, Mr. Unyime Etim acknowledged the humane and humble disposition of Hon. Inyang and thanked him for always leaving his arms wide open to accommodate all persons and interests. On behalf of the committee members, he expressed profound gratitude to the state governor, Deacon Udom Emmanuel for appointing Inyang as a member of his cabinet saying with his years of robust experience in the private and public sectors, the commissioner is apparently the best man for the job.

Oron monarchs extol president Buhari over Okpo’s reappointment – Sue for proper funding of the Academy

BY NSEOBONG DAVID

The Oron Traditional Rulers’ Council and the entire people of Oron Local Government Area have expressed gratitude to His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari for reappointing their son, Amb. (Dr.) Joshua Okpo as Rector, Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron for a second term of four years.

Briefing the Press recently in Oron, His Royal Majesty, Offiong Odiong Akan said that the reappointment of Dr. Okpo as Rector was the best thing that has happened to the Maritime industry and the Academy which would afford Dr. Okpo an ample opportunity to consolidate and surpass is massive infrastructural renaissance and other developmental projects spread across the length and breadth of the Academy.

Ini Ememobong: The portrait of a true humanist

This may pass for every other consideration but sycophancy, as more of what will come here are things known to a lot others, I would wish chief amongst what this piece shall pass for, would be lessons geared towards making the world a better place.

My meeting Ini Ememobong; who I may intermittently refer to as Timmy, agrees with Clotaire Rapailli’s posit on impressions, when he said, “you never get a second chance to have a first experience.” If there ever has been an opportunity for a second chance, then I would be in the front agitating that our generation returns to the path of humanity, excellence, mien, candour, finesse and compassion; which struck me when I first met Ini, the scion of Obong Ememobong Essien dynasty of Use Ndon in Ibiono Ibom.

Ntisong Ibibio III receives, blesses Ikono political leader

The selection and grand reception of a substantive Political Leader of Ikono in the person of Obong Emmanuel Ukpong-Udo has continued to enjoy wider acceptability, endorsement and royal blessings across the state, with the Ntisong Ibibio III, Obong (Dr) Essien Udo Ekidem being the latest to throw his weight behind the Leader.

Speaking at his Palace when the Political Leader, in the company of some notable elders from Ikono paid him a royal visit on invitation, the Ibibio Monarch said he heard of the emergence of the Political Leader of Ikono and whereas Ikono is the cradle of Ibibio Nation where his monarchy covers, he decided to send for him and to have some words of wisdom for him.

“Ibom Power has been producing for 70 days stretch” – MD

“Ibom power plant has been producing for 70 days without downtime” this was disclosed by the Managing Director of Ibom Power Company (IPC), Dr. Victor Udo.

The MD made the disclosure during an interactive session with Journalist in his office.

He said “if the distribution infrastructure in your community is not vandalized, you will have witnessed improved power supply in the last 2 months because Ibom Power has been producing constantly”.

2015 polls: Artisan’s group hail Udom’s election ...Praise Enoidem’s appointment as Commerce Commissioner ...To partner State Government on development of SME’s

As the Akwa Ibom State Governor, His Excellency Mr. Udom Emmanuel activates plans and programs to revitalize the moribund industries that dots the landscape of the entire State, and even build other ones as a step towards diversifying the State’s economic base, we can authoritatively report that a relevant trade group/ umbrella body of all skilled professionals, tradesmen and informal sector employers in the State, the Akwa Ibom Artisans/Tradespeople Association (AKATA) has risen in strong support of the Governor and has formally congratulated him over his emergence in the just concluded polls.

http://i2.wp.com/www.thekillerpunch.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/standalone-9.jpg

BY EMMANUEL AKPAN

While strangers and those outside Akwa Ibom may think Akpabio’s four star Hotel christened, Four Points by Sheraton is a major glory to Akwa Ibom State, recent developments in the premises of the much hyped hospitality industry have revealed that the project is a failure and a complete waste of Akwa Ibom tax payers money.

It appears the much talked about Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Ikot Ekpene that was built and commissioned at an uncompleted stage by former governor Godswill Akpabio has finally been abandoned. The project which is seen by many as a big fraud perpetrated by former Governor Akpabio may not progress beyond the level it is at the moment if information gathered by this paper is anything to go by.

No jamboree in battlefield

BY ANIEFIOK ESSAH

Life is good; if you never knew it to be so, put a call through to LG and find out.

But, unfortunately, a lot of people know nothing about the sanctity of human life, especially our strayed and culpable youths. You may call them exuberant and delinquent youths, censurable youths, blameworthy youths; you may call them offenders, wrongdoers, guilty party or law-breakers, you may call them reprehensible youths, criminals, miscreants or men of forbidden practices. This type of youths have lost all respect for life. Greed, envy, blind imitations or insatiable appetites have dehumanized them. “I want to have this, that and the other”, “I want to drive a customized Jeep”, “I want to fly in a private Jet and cuisine in a Titanic-like oceanliner”, “I want to dwell in a castle”, “I want to marry an out-of-this-world queen”, “I want to show them that I have arrive”, “Level don change”…bla-bla-bla. Human life, to these get-rich-quick guys, means nothing, yet they hate to die. Unfortunately, even today fathers and mothers, like wicked King Ahaz of Judah, carry on this same practice as they sacrifice their unborn children in the name of reproductive rights to the harsh gods of convenience and economy. They sell or even kill their own children for money, claiming they have the right: Anie mkpo anam nanha ama”.