Full List of Commissioners /Special Advisers sent to AKHA

Governor Udom Emmanuel has sent the following names as Commissioners and Special Advisers to Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly for screening.

#THELIST Below

1. Mr Paul Alexander Udofia
2. Arc. Ime Okon Ekpo
3. Nse Udo Essien, PhD
4. Prof. Eno Ikpe
5. Mr. Idorenyin Sunday Udo
6. Mr. Linus Nkan
7. Uduak Charles Udoinyang, PhD
8. Mr. Charles Udo
9. Hon. Orman Esin
10. Dr. Iniobong Essien
11. Dr. Dominic Ukpong
12. Barr. Uwemedimo Nwoko
13. Hon. Victor Antai
14. Hon. Monday Uko
15. Mrs. Glory Edet, PhD
16. Hon. Udo Ekpenyong
17. Mr. Akan Okon
18. Mr. Ephraim Inyang

SPECIAL ADVISERS

1. Barr. Ekong Sampson
2. Mrs. Ekemini David Umoh

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

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

Amalgamated Okobo Youth Leaders Council inaugurated

Okobo youths have been described as a formidable force to the development of the area, hence, there is need for them to amalgamate and integrate themselves with the aim to support governor Udom Emmanuel inorder to attract dividence of democracy to their area as well as key into the “dakada” philosophy of governor Udom Gabriel Emmanuel.

This was the message of Hon Chris Okon who was the chairman on the occasion of the amalgamated youth leaders programme which took place at Okopedi Okobo last weekend.

He particularly commended the organizer of the rally, ULAP Joseph Okon on his foresight in giving the youths of the area a sense of direction. 

APC members defect to PDP in ITU * Mobilize support for Udom

Immediate-past Commissioner for Finance, Akwa Ibom State; Mr Akan Okon, has asked returning members of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) who left the party to different opposition parties, to submit to party hierarchy and shun acts of indiscipline within the PDP but join hands to build a strong and virile party. 

Mr Okon, gave the advice on Friday, at Government Primary School, Ayadehe, Itu Local Government Area, while receiving into the party, over twenty decampees from Ayadehe Ward 2 in Itu. 

The elated former Finance boss, who said that the event marked the end of “opposition party” in the area, charged the returnees to abide by the party’s constitution and regulations to move the PDP forward.

Mr Akan Okon who used the occasion to eulogize the virtues of the State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel, emphasized that since assumption of office May last year, the governor’s visionary, exemplary and transformational leadership has taken Akwa Ibom State to an all-time high level.

Obong University Inter-Secondary School Football Competition kicked off

BY NSEOBONG DAVID

The maiden edition of Obong University Inter-secondary schools football competition kicked off on Thursday, 17th November, 2016 at the mini stadium of Obong University, Obong Ntak, Etim Ekpo Local Government Area.

The football fiesta which is packaged by the Board of Trustees Obong University in collaboration with Etim Ekpo Football Council, is aimed at discovering football talents from secondary schools under Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District and will span through a period of one month.

S-South Zonal Conference of NUP ends

The South South Zonal conference of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP) has ended in Uyo, the State Capital with a call on governments to see the need of harmonizing pensions of retirees in the States of the South South Zone.

According to Zonal body of the Union during the meeting which took place at the Akwa Ibom State branch Union’s Secretariat, No. 10 Uko Eshiet Lane Uyo, the reason for the harmonization of pension is to alleviate the problems of those whose monthly pension allowances fall within 600 to 1,500 Naira respectively.

Deliberating on the issue, the South South Zonal Secretary, Obong Cosmos M Essien explained that comparing the allowances of retirees of 1980s with that of 2016, that they are earning the same amount, considering that fact that those retiring during recent years earned more, while those who retired during 1980s and 1990s are earning less of about 600 to 1,500 as their monthly allowances.

Pastor Kumuyi visits Akwa Ibom again Dec. 1st & 2nd

All is now set for members of the Deeper Life Bible Church Akwa Ibom State to host the General Superintendent of the church Pastor W.F.Kumuyi on 1st and 2nd December at the Uyo township stadium in a two day power packed programme.

The crusade which is tagged ‘’Akwa Ibom Day of Total Deliverance and Dominion’’,  will feature deliverance from sin, satan and sickness; Outpouring of Abundant Blessings; Irreversible Breakthrough;Un-negotiable Victory, and lots more.

Speaking with journalists in Uyo, the State Overseer of Deeper Life Bible Church, Pastor Obinna Nkemjika said the General Superintendent of the church will be in the state to seal up the year for every Akwa Ibom person.

UCCDA Town Planning Director emerges NITP National Treasurer

The Director Town Planning of Uyo Capital City development Authority (UCCDA) Elder Effiong Akpan has been elected national treasurer of Nigerian institute of town planning (NITP).

The election which was conducted during the 50th anniversary/ annual general meeting of NITP at Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja was closely contested. Elder Akpan defeated his opponent by a margin of 116 votes to emerge victorious.

Speaking with newsmen during an interview session in his office in uyo, Elder Akpan who said his opponent – the former National Secretary of the institute is a giant who many ran away from contesting against, attributed his victory to God’s grace, hard work, and his past record in the institute.

Sports Administrator calls for more support for Super Eagles

A Sports Administrator in the state, Mr. Blaise Umoh has described Super Eagles last Saturday’s encounter against the Dersert Foxes of Algeria as their best game in recent time.

Mr. Umoh who spoke with journalists at the Godswill Akpabio’s International Stadium, Uyo shortly after the encounter, congratulate the players and the coaching crew for making the country proud with the resounding 3-1 victory.

The Physical Education instructor noted that the team has recorded remarkable improvement, stressing that with the victory, the team would not play their remaining matches under pressure.

AKWAPOLY suspends fee review * as Akon Eyakenyi calls for peace

BY EMMANUEL AKPAN  

Following last Monday protest by students of Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Asura, over fee increment, the governing council of the institution has put on hold the fee review, saying the council will meet with the school management and come up with a new directive.

Briefing newsmen on Tuesday at the school compound, the Chairman, Governing Council of Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Mrs. Akon Eyakenyi said the decision to suspend the fee review was reached after the governing council had met with the Rector of the institution, Dr. Isreal Affia as well as the management of the institution to discuss issues affecting the institution.

Mrs. Akon Eyakenyi disclosed that from what the Rector told the council, the fee review was approved by the immediate past Commissioner of Education, Hon. Aniekan Akpan for it to be implemented from 2016/2017 new academic session. She said the fee increment was for the new students and it has nothing to do with the old or returning students.

She said the governing council was yet to give approval for the management of the institution to begin the implementation, stressing that the day-to-day running of the institution is vested on the Rector and the school management, while the council is to ensure that policies approved is properly implemented. 

Another feather to a worthy Akwa Ibomite

“Nigerians are very intelligent, hardworking, industrious, resourceful and hospitable” – DORA AKUNYILI

The above quote by our late minister for information, an inimitable woman of depth, captures our abiding nature as Nigerians. She said those words during the launch of “good people great nation” national rebranding exercise; a national campaign to reclaim our sullied image among Nations. Similar thoughts also resonated on Timi Dakolo’s mind when he dropped the line – “one day we’ll shine like the sun”.

These Nigerians just quoted could be said to be stating the obvious. There is little doubt that we Nigerians are an exceptional breed. This conviction of ours was made firmer, when on Monday, November 14th in faraway California U.S.A our very own Abuja based Oscar Ekponimo who hails from Abak LGA, was awarded alongside others as a YOUNG LAUREATE by ROLEX. The event took place at the Dolby theatre in Los Angeles – a venue noted for epochal events, with notable celebrities in attendance.

Udom Emmanuel of economic and political inclusion

BY SAMUEL AYARA 

Far gone with the winds are the era Akwa Ibomites were left in the dark over matters that directly affected their economic and political fortunes, as it was roundly viewed an exclusive preserve of well placed citizens, until Governor Udom Emmanuel identified both as what his administration would readily avail the people in his 2015 electoral manifestoes.

With a little more than a quarter of that mandate, there has been adequate will aimed at not only fulfilling the promise, but building in the citizenry a culture that would aid them dare the very essence of what will engender for them a niche in the positive direction the state is navigating.

Call it ambitious or the over display of it, several indices have pointed the state as better off in bridging the widened gap that hitherto existed  between the “haves and have-nots”, through the bottom-to-top approach the current state administration have employed in down-playing the overrated place of well placed citizens over others. 

Anchor Borrowers Poultry loan latest: Petition hits House of Assembly

 *AKHA has no constitutional powers to investigate or probe ABP 

*Consulting firm to challenge Ad-Hoc Committee’s legislative competence in court 

*Lawmakers must apologize to farmers - Lead consultant insists

BY EMMANUEL AKPAN

The Ad-Hoc Committee that was set up to investigate the list of the first batch of beneficiaries of the Poultry Anchor Borrowers’ Programme Scheme from Akwa Ibom State may not be finding it easy to get away with it as the consulting firm anchoring the programme, New Phase of Agriculture Limited have petitioned the committee and may drag the House of Assembly to court over legislative competence.

 It could be recalled that the House of Assembly two weeks ago had ordered the immediate suspension of the implementation process of the Scheme. The House, in a resolution, had directed that the disbursement and implementation of the Scheme be suspended until after the conclusion of investigation and action taken at plenary following a motion by Hon. Nse Ntuen, who drew the attention of the House under Matters of Urgent Public Importance to the list published in some newspapers which had over 3,800 names of beneficiaries. 

Nse Ntuen, who is the Chairman, House Committee on Agriculture, had alleged that the entire process of the selection of the names of the beneficiaries was a fraud and was not transparent in anyway. Since then, the Ad-Hoc Committee headed by Hon. Idongesit Ituen, has been sitting on the matter as well as summoning those concern to appear before it investigative committee.

But it looks like the matter has taken a new dimension as the lead consultant to the programme; Atuekong Austin Ndaeyo has taken a legal action against the House of Assembly, challenging the legality of the House of Assembly to investigate the process of the programme.

In a petition, titled ‘Petition against legislative competence of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly to investigate newspaper publication of beneficiaries for the Poultry Anchor Borrowers Programme of Central Bank of Nigeria’, signed by Martins Ekung, Esq of Innih – Archibong & Co (Liberty Associates), and made available to THE INK, the firm anchoring the programme in Akwa Ibom State, New Phase of Agriculture Limited, stated that the Anchor Borrowers Programme is purely Central Bank of Nigeria initiative programme as a solution to the challenges of huge food import bills and ramping up local production of identified commodities along the agriculture value chain through providing access to finance by small-holder farmers.

APC disowns Etok Ekanem * Says he is still a PDP member

New APC  strongman and former commissioner for Agriculture Professor Etok Ekanem has landed in big trouble with the founding members of the APC over what they described as Ekanem’s plot to hijack the APC, the party they funded when Etok was busy promoting the ideals OF THE Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

In a release signed by APC youth movement in Itu and made available to THE INK reporter in Uyo, the party said, ‘’ We have watched with dismay the recent development in the All Progressives Congress (APC) in which those who did not labour for the victory of the party both at the national and state are gradually assuming place of opposition against the government of Governor Udom Emmanuel thereby warming themselves into the political centre stage of our party to assume various leadership roles.

Ambassador-Designate appointed AK APC caucus member

The Ambassador-Designate from Akwa Ibom State, Major General Godwin Umo (Rtd), has been appointed a member of the State Caucus of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The appointment was made by the APC State Working Committee when the Ambassador-Designate visited the state secretariat of the party, recently.

Announcing the appointment, the State APC Chairman, Dr. Amadu Attai, congratulated General Umo for making the ambassadorial list and lauded President Muhammadu Buhari for the appointment.

In his remarks, General Umo expressed appreciation to the state APC leadership for his appointment into the caucus and promised to do his best to carry the party along.

Expect political tsunami, disintegration in Akwa Ibom soon – Prophet Jackson

The General Overseer of salvation power ministry, Prophet Mbere Jackson has revealed that Akwa Ibom government and the entire political machineries are seated on a gun powder ready to explode soon.

He stated this during his Prophetic Church service last Wednesday at Ukana Onuk in Essien Udim L.G.A.

The young prophet said God revealed to him that Governor Udom Emmanuel is not comfortable as governor based on bad secret he is trying to hide but will soon explode.

The man of God further said there will be confusion among politicians as many of them will be on the run while others settled for the winning party for cover.

The Prophet added that Governor Udom Emmanuel will disappoint a lot of politicians, even as politicians will betray him too and called on all Churches to pray and fast for Akwa Ibom government.

He also performed other miracles on the occasion, as he restored 2 ladies of their menstruation lost 3 years ago instantly, cured HIV carrier among others.     

Nse Essien: A 21st century Legislator

BY SIMEON AKWA        

The history of humanity for ages past is often characterized by a general philosophy of life and this tend to be centered on special personalities who did not just exist for their selfish purposes, but who have made while on earth, these of course are the men of the moment that are found in the history books.  They are seen to have caused changes in history through their immense contributions which enhances the standard of living in the modern society. 

Going by the philosophy of a renowned writer, Samuel Johnson, a life afford no higher pleasure than of surmounting difficulties, passing from one step of success to another, forming new wishes, and seeing them gratified. He that labours in any great or laudable undertaking has his fatigues, first supporting by hope and afterwards rewarded by joy. To see strive with difficulties and to conquer them in the highest human facility. 

Ikot Abasi Federal Constituency professionals back Nsima Ekere

Professionals from Ikot Abasi Federal Constituency i.e Ikot Abasi, Mkpat Enin and Eastern Obolo say there will swim and sink with Obong Nsima Ekere the Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) till the end of his tenure and even beyond.

Rising from their annual general meeting held in Ikot Abasi last Friday, the group described Obong Ekere as the Seasoned Administrator, a consummate leader and a dogged politician with a large dose of perseverance. 

They recalled how he served the State creditably as the Chairman of Akwa Ibom Industrial and Investment Promotion Council (AKIIPOC), Chairman of Ibom Power Company (IPC) and the State Deputy Governor with stainless records.

Anichebe shines among Nigerians abroad

The international break is finally over and as expected, domestic football returned to the top leagues across Europe at the weekend as Victor Anichebe stole the show once again.

Nigerians continued to throw their weight about in the various competitions across the old continent and supersport.com now runs the rule on how the lads performed at their respective clubs.

ENGLAND (PREMIER LEAGUE)

Alex Iwobi was widely expected to play a part in the big game between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford, but it was not to be.

He was on the bench for all 90 minutes as the man who has consistently come on for him as a substitute in recent weeks, Olivier Giroud, came off the bench to head home a late equaliser as the two sets of Gladiators fought out a 1-1 draw at the Theatre of Dreams.

Victor Anichebe is the flavour of the month in the northeast of England and the larger metropolitan area of Tyne and Wear following consistently impressive performances for Sunderland.

The big striker scored two goals to help the Black Cats beat Hull City 3-0 at the Stadium of Light.

It was Anchebe’s second and third goals in his last two league matches for Sunderland.

UNIUYO Don harps on war against corruption of the mind

The President of Nigeria Philosophical Association [NPA], Prof. Joseph C. A. Agbakoba, has asserted that, the fight against corruption in the country may be a mirage, except government fight seriously against what he described as corruption of the mind.

Speaking during the Association’s 2016 biennial conference held at the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom state, he stressed that, without re-orienting the minds of Nigerians, the exercise may end in futility.

According to him, corruption perpetuated at any level is an act of injustice, noting that, to get rid of this monster, government and individuals must imbibe the spirit of justice, rationality and honour.

He challenged such institutions as National Orientation Agency to rise to its responsibilities by creating awareness for good virtues in the minds of Nigerians.

“Corruption is one thing, corrupt thinking is another.

Top Spanish club officials storm Uyo for Ultimate Cup

Uyo will be agog as a top scout with Deportivo Alaves of Spain, Perez Lopez Raul leads representatives of other top European clubs to the state for the Ultimate Cup Championship holding from November 29 to December 5,2016.

The event which will be rounded up with an award night billed for December 5 at Le Meridien hotel and Golf course is a top competition involving 11 invited football academies from Benin Republic and across the country.

Other European club representatives that have confirmed their coming are Sporting Lisbon, Braga, FC Stockholm and Victoria Setubal.

A Portuguese football legend Mauro De Brito Santos Pouliquerio on Wednesday also confirmed to our reporter that he will be in Nigeria for the event.

Ex-Eaglets, 11 Academies for Tournament in A’Ibom

Organisers of the Ultimate Cup Championship in Uyo have released list of 11 teams invited for the tournament expected to be watched by representatives of Deportivo Alaves, Sporting Lisbon , Braga, Victoria Setubal, Udinese among others.

According to the LOC press statement, the teams were carefully selected based on previous performances monitored by top coaches across the country.

The statement further explained that this was in line with the charge given by one of their foreign partner clubs for the tournament, Depotivo Alaves, a Spanish La Liga side.

“It is a unique tournament and the foreign club representatives are coming for observation. They love Nigeria players and really want to see their developmental programmes, hence we recognized only properly structured academies with solid facilities and good training programme for the tourney,” the statement signed by Dr David Thompson, the coordinator stated.

Akwa United desirous to get team anthem * Call for entries * Composer to grab #100,000

BY EMMANUEL AKPAN

Akwa United Football Club of Uyo is eager of having an anthem for the team ahead of the new 2016/2017 Nigeria Football Professional League season.

In a release signed by the media officer of the club, Uwem Ekoh and made available to THE INK sports desk, the statement called on entries form Akwa Ibom people who can compose an anthem for the team to summit their composed anthem and a reward of N100, 000 awaits any luckiest person that his or her song would be approved by the team.

The release reads, “In line with international best practice, Akwa United F.C, the promise keepers and pride of Akwa Ibom is desirous of having a theme song that fans and supporters will be proud of. 

YOU ARE A FAILURE, EKET PEOPLE Tells David Lawrence

By Assam Abia

Youths across the three geo-political zones of Eket State Constituency has risen against the Member representing the area in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon David Lawrence in what they termed as his ‘’ lackluster, insensitive and brainless representation’’.

The group, under the aegis of Eket National Youth Forum for Good Governance in a release signed by Iwaad Akpadiaha Udonsek, James Udotai, Mbre Monday, Udo Ekanem, and Glory Okposin among 15 others lambasted the lawmaker for not showing any interest to the plight of those who voted him into office.

They described him as a ‘’Lagos been to’’ and an opportunist who lacks the zeal for service’’, adding that he does not even pick calls put across to him by his constituents having derailed from his campaign promises.

VASITY STUDENT BAGS FIRST CLASS AWARD; GETS AUTOMATIC EMPLOYMENT

Nsikak Esenowo

Sequel to Dakkada creed, an initiative introduced by Governor Udom Emmanuel to spur Akwa Ibom people towards achieving greatness, an Akwa Ibom son has bagged a first class degree in Mechatronics Engineering from Bell University of Technology, Ota, set to get automatic employment.

Receiving the award during the 8th Convocation Ceremony of the University held recently in Ota, the recipient of the award Ifiokobong Promise Offiong who hails from Mkpat Enin Local Government Area expressed immense gratitude to God for academic success and his parents for the support he gained to become the first graduate to get a first class degree in Mechatronics since inception of the course in the department.    

There is no impeachment moves against the speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, says Chief Press Secretary.

A statement from the office of the speaker not only distanced the members of the assembly from the impeachment rumour but described the members as highly responsible and patriotic individuals who are more concerned with the peaceful co-existence and development of the state than heating up the polity, as it is being insinuated by a section of the media. 

The statement signed by Henry Ebireri also came hard on some journalists in the state, urging them not to turn the state into a battle field but to engage themselves in constructive and productive journalism.

He urged them to stop cheapening the profession by publishing unworthy news items and using unprintable words in their publications. 

“The Rt. Hon Speaker did not exchange blow with any staff”

The Chief Press Secretary accused some media practitioners of working tooth and nail with some detractors to cause disaffection and disunity within the state.

“The Delta State House of Assembly is not a home for blackmailers, opportunists and hooligans”

Protest As Illegal Mining Threatens Akwa Ibom

After series of petitions to no avail, the Ikot Ukpong Iman community in Etinan Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State has threatened to embark on mass protest following the devastation of the area by activities of illegal sand miners.

Narrating their ordeal, Prof. Gabriel Umoh, a stakeholder in Ikot Ukpong Iman, explained that the community was under serious threat of landslide, if urgent steps were not taken to stop the illegal activity.

According to him, the community has been shut in, as the only access road to the area has been completely devastated by heavy duty trucks and earth excavating equipment used the company.

“Currently, socio-economic activities in my community have crippled by the activities of the miners because the only link road to the community with a bridge has collapsed, forcing local farmers to take bush tracks to the major markets in Etinan”.

He lamented that some neighbouring communities, who cashed in on this, erected tolls along the alternative routes in and out of Ikot Ukpong, charging between N50 and N100.

MARTHA EMMANUEL EMPOWERS ORUK ANAM WOMEN

A cross section of women and youths from Ibesit community in Oruk Anam LGA have benefited from the empowerment programme of Family Empowerment and Youth Reorientation Path-Initiative (FEYReP), a pet project of the Governor’s wife, Mrs. Martha Udom Emmanuel.

The empowerment programme which was in partnership with Ibesit Development Association, had the beneficiaries smiled home with various items ranging from hair dressing equipment, sewing machines/fashion designing, to generating sets and motorbikes.

In her remarks at the event, Mrs. Martha Emmanuel said FEYReP as an organization is passionate about harnessing the talents of Akwa Ibom youths.

Our Procurement Processes will be Transparent, NDDC Chairman assures

The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, is taking steps to strengthen its procurement processes as part of measures to ensure transparency in the interventionist agency.

The Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba (SAN), said this in an exclusive media briefing in Abuja, after an extra-ordinary meeting of the board on Monday.  He underlined the importance of firming up the procurement unit and fine-tuning the processes for better transparency. 

Senator Ndoma-Egba regretted that the public image of NDDC had suffered because of the procedures adopted by its procurement unit in the past. “The Commission has not had the most edifying of public image and that is because the procurement processes were opaque,” he said. 

The NDDC Chairman stated that a transparent process would help the Commission to get all its outstanding funds. He said: “We will persuade those who are in arrears to pay and one of the easiest ways of getting them to pay is by ensuring that our processes were transparent. The moment they see a certain level of transparency, it will encourage them to live up to their obligations to the Commission. When the processes are opaque, people will hold back.”

Uyo Council Chairman is exploiting us – Akpan Andem Traders lament

Traders at the Akpan Andem market in Uyo have expressed displeasure over what they label as “oppressive and exploitative antics by successive Uyo Local Government Council, especially the current Transition Chairman, Hon. (Barr.) Mfon Ben.”

Speaking under the aegis of Concerned Traders of Akpan Andem Market, they declared that the current transition committee chairman has hijacked the traders’ welfare organization structure by dissolving its committee and went further to replace them with his stooges for reason that they (committee) complained the deplorable condition of the market to His Excellency, the governor.

 

They alleged that the thugs have been dehumanizing them by seizing and stealing their goods openly without respect to the rule of law.

 

The traders also decried the issue of multiple taxation, introduction of gambling by granting permission to R & S Lotto agents after collecting huge sum of money, poor sanitation despite payment of heavy sanitation levies and non-existent water supply.

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

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

Anchor Poultry Borrower’s scheme suspension: AKHA moving to correct past systemic ills

GODWIN AKPAN

On Thursday, the 3rd of November, 2016, dur ing its plenary, the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly rose to its responsibility by ordering the immediate suspension of the implementation process of the Anchor Poultry Borrower’s Scheme, an initiative of the Central Bank of Nigeria.  

The action of the AKHA which pundits believe is in the best interest of the generality of Akwa Ibom people, was brought before the honourable House in a matter of urgent public importance by the Chairman House Committee on Agriculture and Mineral Recourses and Member representing Essien Udim State Constituency, Rt. Hon. Nse Ntuen, who sighted a lacuna and irregularities in the entire selection process, with multiple repetition of names, and the uncertainty surrounding the list of beneficiaries not representing the composition of the state in a proportionate manner.  

FSTC Non-teaching staff protest over non-payment of allowance *Demand transfer of principal

BY EMMANUEL AKAPN 

Non-teaching staff of Federal Science & Technical College, Uyo, on Friday protested over non-payment of their Duty Tour Allowance (DTA) for some months now.

The non-teaching staff which took to the street of Ukana Offot where the college is situated blocked the gate of the college as early as 7a.m as well as other staff of the college from entering the school compound. The non-teaching staff, numbering over 50, protested as well as chanting with placard’s inscriptions, “Principal settle your house before charity, no DTA no party, no payment of death benefits to our late colleagues families no party, principal who buy gift items for her friends is corrupt, DTA is a right not a privilege, if there is money for DTA then forget about party, we no go gree pay our DTA” among others. 

    

Stakeholders angry with political leader over marginalization

Stakeholders of Ndiya/Usung Ikot Idaha Supreme Council, an apex socio-political forum in ward 8 in Ikono Local Government Area have moved against the political leader of Ikono Local Government Area, Obong Emmanuel Ukpongudo over what they described as ineffective representation of the ward’s interest in political negations.

The stakeholders while expressing their anger, said they will not condone further acts or omission capable of causing rancour in the ward which is currently begging for government attention, especially appointments and provision of conducive learning environment in Comprehensive Secondary School, Ndiya.

Mboho Ikot Abasi gets new officers

The umbrella organisation of Ikot Abasi people, Mboho Ikot Abasi, last Saturday in the council hall of the local government secretariat elected and inaugurated a 16-man executive council to manage its affairs.

 The election which was adjudged the most free and credible, produced the following officers: Hon Ufot Frank Enoidem- President General, Mr Isa Daniel  Isa –vice President 1, Engr. Nsima Edittu- vice President 2, Barr Cyprian Ikwot- secretary general,  Mr Segun Umoetuk- assistant secretary 1, Hon Emmanuel Genesis- assistant secretary2 , Prince Anthony Ekpe – publicity secretary 1, Mr Enobong Luke Akpan- publicity secretary 2

Others were: Mr Abasiakan Udodok- financial secretary, Obong Henry Akpaneyen- Treasurer, Mr Friday Ntteh-Auditor, Obong Aniefiok Brown Akpan- Auditor 2, Mr Enobong Jackson Umoh- Provost 1, Hon. Akpan Ukpeye- provost 2, Barr. Udauk Ekanaem – legal advicer 1 while Barr. Otu Etukudoh was elected and sworn-in as legal advicer 2.

Youths laud Gov. Emmanuel over their illustrious son

The Ibiono Ibom Youth under the aegis of Ibiono Ibom Youth for Democracy and Development lauds the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel for giving their illustrious son Dr. Iniobong Essien to serve as commissioner for the past 17 months in the State executive council.

The National President of Ibiono Ibom Youth for Democracy and Development, Akparawa Imo Jeremiah made this known after the group’s third quarterly general congress at Okoita, Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area.

Akparawa Jeremiah, said that within the span of the 17 months as commissioner, Dr. Iniobong as demonstrated a capacity of unifying Ibiono Ibom people, and also empowered the youths.

Academic Don goes to church in thanksgiving

It was a row call of the creme de la creme of Christian Faithfuls, Academicians, Relations, Business Associates, Friends and Well-wishers etc, as they all gathered Yesterday, at Church of Christ, Four towns in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State Capital, in a thanksgiving service organized in honor of Dr. Obot Ekpo Essien who has just being conferred with a Professional honor as a Professor of the Department of Agriculture and Food Engineering by the University of Uyo.

The Academic Don, Prof. Essien who is equally an Elder in the Church of Christ, Four towns, Uyo, had gathered his family to give thanks to God for the journey so far. The event which was under the chairmanship of Elder Edet Ayara was colourful with glitz and glamour.

Mobil Airstrip Community conducts Elections Dec 3

Mobil Airstrip youth in Eket, under the aegis of Five Villages Youth Movement will on Saturday December 3, 2016 go to the poll to elect a new executive for another three years.

Speaking to our correspondent in Eket on Saturday, the Chairman f the election committee, Comrade Ephraim Ebitu said the tenure of the incumbent executive has long expired and that he election becomes urgent so as to curtail any youth restiveness in the area.

‘’the current cordial relationship between the community and Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited must not be allowed to be strained, hence the urgent need to channel all youths of the surrounding villages under one umbrella through an election’’. He said.    

AKHA considers legislative agenda, reads two bills

The Akwa Ibom state legislature is soon to begin the full implementation of a legislative agenda which will serve as the template for a more effective service delivery for the 6th assembly. This follows the report submitted on Tuesday to the House by the Committee on Rules, Business, Ethics, and Privileges on Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Legislative Agenda for the Legislative Year. Also on Tuesday, the House had the first reading of two private member bills.

It would be recalled that the state assembly on October 13, 2015, deliberated on a motion titled, Legislative Agenda for the Legislative Year sponsored by the member representing Itu state constituency, Hon. Prince Idongesit Ituen. The matter was thereafter referred to the Committee on Business, Rules, Ethics and Privileges for in-depth study and scrutiny.

When it becomes law

BY OFONIME UDOTU

The native language Bill recently initiated by member representing Ibesikpo State constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Aniekan Uko has scaled through legislative crucibles, awaiting  Governor Udom Emmanuel’s assent. I consider the bill a laudable one as it seeks to articulate what is left of the spirit of profound patriotism among the people. 

According to the lawmaker, he came to limelight because he sang gospel songs in his native Ibibio native language. Hon. Uko, by any portrayal is a man who loves and promotes his cultural heritage.The timeliness of the bill is also commendable as it comes at a time when most of African cultural values have been despoiled – a phenomenon that is compounded by the gospel of globalization which puts on the mask of replicating Western Industrialization and economic paradise in the Third world. 

Hon. Onofiok Luke: The media friendly Speaker

BY IMO BEN

The Honourable speaker, Bar. Onofiok Luke as the unique character symbol of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly who showcases the honour and integrity bestowed on the legislature has jealously guarded and defended these attributes so proudly that no doors are open for mischievous media attacks since he assumed office, except from mischievous practitioners who have no business in the profession in the first place.   

Normally, because bad news sells faster than objective reportage, the craze to scandalize the image of lawmakers during previous leadership was prominent in our media community. Sometimes, due to poor communication management, outright malice by opposition, or out of sheer mischievous prompting, issues of public interest were misrepresented to spite or ridicule the image of the members and the corporate entity of this arm of government. 

Trump’s triumph: Any lessons?

  

 By Kenneth Jude

He went about his campaign the way he believed was the best strategy needed to win an election. His rambunctious and brash style left the world in awe. He was accused of everything under the sun, including but certainly not limited to his widely reported sullied salacious appetite. The media was also awash with his mistreatments of the female folk and how he sexually assaulted them. 

But all these paled into insignificance as he waltzed his way into the White House in a blaze of glory, leaving many confounded, astounded and with mouth agape. 

EX-MP offers recipe to gain democratic prominence

A former Federal Law maker has suggested the cultivation of a robust leadership nursery through innovative political skills with a well crafted support base, the creation of a transparent and acceptable leadership culture and ensure leaders are tenacious in their belief in procedure and institutions as key element that govern public life in a dynamic society.

Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, erstwhile representative of Eket Federal Constituency and spokesperson of the Green Chambers of the 6th National Assembly gave the recommendation in a congress lecture he presented at the 2016 congress of Ekid People’s Union at Uquo, Esit Eket Local Government Council.

School fees hike: Akwapoly students cried out for change over School fees increment

Students of Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, today staged a peaceful protest and gathers momentum to show their grievances over the sudden increment of school fees and other issues bothering the school/students.

The angry students took to the street and locked up the school gates at the early hours of about 7.30a.m and no one was allowed to go in nor goes out from the school campus.

The protest led by the SUG president, Comr. Kingsley Eyo, glared on the situation as oppressing the students. Kingsley cried out to the school management to reduce the school fees from the purported N76,700.00 that is setup for the National Diploma (ND) students and N85,700.00 for Higher National Diploma(HND) students to the former rate or something affordable for the students, else there’ll be no accadamic activities in the school campus.

Okosis quits PDP

A former Caretaker Chairman of Urueoffong Oruko Local Government Area, Chief Edet Isong who is popularly known as Okossissi has announced his resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party.

In a letter personally signed by the former council Boss and made available to THE INK reporter, Isong says he is leaving the party on personal reasons stressing that his family and supporters gave him the nod when he consulted them.

The Good Governance Group helmsman appreciated the party for the platform it gave to him to serve and wished the party well in her future endeavours.

Ufot Ekaette and the healing of Niger Delta

BY EDIDIONG UDOBIA

From the maiden outing of the Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta, MEND to the current incessant and misguided activities of some militant groups in the Niger Delta region, the overall aim has always been and still remains to seek genuine and lasting cure for the sick region. Yes, the region is sick. 

Based on common sense and the simple understanding that a sick man cannot heal by attempting suicide, one can disagree with the unorthodox approach by which these militant groups have so far taken to seek healing for the region. After many years of bombings and other unwholesome attacks, the situation has only gone from worse to very worse. 

Since the days of MEND, the activities of the militant groups have taken a serious toll on the region and the country at large. Apparently, this informed the decision of the President Umaru Yar’Adua led administration to give a serious attention to the Niger Delta situation. The government’s sincerity of purpose was first revealed by the appointment of Obong Ufot Ekaette as the first Minister of Niger Delta on 17 December 2008.