DON ETIM, IBOKESSIEN, CHRIS EKPENYONG, MOVE AGAINST AKPABIO OVER 2019

DON ETIM, IBOKESSIEN, CHRIS EKPENYONG, MOVE AGAINST AKPABIO OVER 2019

* Say Ex Governor cannot breach zoning arrangement for selfish interest

A crisis of confidence has broken out between Senate minority leader Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio and political stakeholders cum gladiators from Ikot Ekpene/Essien Udim/Obot Akara federal constituency.

The senate minority leader has been accused of plotting to scatter and abuse the age long tradition of zoning in the federal constituency owing to what they (stakeholders including Senator Emmanuel Ibokessien, Pastor Sunny Ibuot, Don Etim, Rt (Hon) Nsikak Ekong, Elijah Iyak, Chris Ekpenyong, Idongesit Ntekpere and others) understand as Sen. Akpabio’s subtle plans to impose Emmanuel Akpan on the people for a second term.

Some of the stakeholders who spoke to our reporter in Ikot Ekpene over the weekend described as insensitive and callous the perceived plot by Akpabio to return Emmanuel Akpan to the National Assembly against the wishes of the people.

THE INK understands that Ikot Ekpene federal constituency have since 1999 been practicing a term zoning system where candidates from the three Local Governments that make up the federal constituency go to the National Assembly for a term and not seek a second term whatsoever.

Stakeholders are not pleased that Senator Akpabio, the political leader of the federal constituency has perfected plans to foist the incumbent member Emmanuel Akpan who hails from Essien Udim LGA on them for a second term.

In separate interactions with our political desk, they have however promised to stop Emmanuel Akapn whom they described as not only being a poor representative but a man who in the first instance did not even deserve to have been a representative of an enlightened people like Ikot Ekpene/Essien Udim, Obot Akara federal constituency.

An aide to Emmanuel Ibokessien told THE INK Portal that Senator Ibokessien has not found it funny ever since the rumour mills leaked information that Akpabio was planning to return Emmanuel Akpan for a second term.

Senator Ibok Essien is said to have described the rumour as nonsensical even as he is alleged to have added that Akpabio would betray himself if he continues selling Emman Akpan’s candidate in 2019 to Ikot Ekpene federal constituency.

The Senator who served from 1999 to 2003 at the red chambers of the National Assembly is said to have informed some political gladiators that any attempt by Akpabio to return Emmanuel Akpan will run contrary to led down rules of political engagements in the federal constituency.
Pastor Sunny Ibuot who is a frontline contender for the federal constituency seat come 2019 spoke through one of his aides who simply said “Editor, we are not happy that Ete(referring to Akpabio) will have the mind to contemplate returning Emmanuel Akpan to the National Assembly for a second term.

Well, if he does, it will not stop Sunny Ibuot from defeating them. The truth is that there is zoning in this our federal constituency and Godswill Akpabio’s pact with his brother Emman Akpan cannot erase it. Zoning has come to stay”.
Don Etim is said to have laughed it off when he learnt of Emmanuel Akpan’s second term bid. The Ex-commissioner is said to have told his political followers that it is all politics and that they should not be frightened.

The feelings of stakeholders from Obot Akara LGA were also sampled. The Paper learnt that it is the belief of stakeholders from Obot Akara Local Government Area that if Emmanuel Akpan is not stopped now, then the zoning and rotational political policy in the area would have been altered for the bad reasons.

Their position is that it will take Obot Akara more than twelve years beginning from 2019 to produce a National Lawmaker if Akpabio and Emmanuel Akpan have their ways.

This paper understands that the likes of Chris Ekpenyong, former Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, serving Commissioner Monday Uko, Assemblyman Idongesit Ntekpere and even SA to Governor on due process, Ufot Ebong have concluded plans to team up with their Ikot Ekpene colleagues to stop Akpabio from having his way in the Federal Constituency by 2019.

Former Deputy Governor, Engr. Chris Ekpenyong is understandably annoyed that Akpabio intends to shift the goal post in the middle of the game. THE INK Portal understands Chris Ekpenyong is of the opinion that zoning and rotation of representatives in the federal constituency predates Akpabio’s political voyage and therefore the Senate minority leader owes the federal constituency that political loyalty and not abuse.

Ekpenyong popularly known as Ukarakpa is believed to be plotting a political war against Akpabio should the former Governor makes real his plot of denying Ikot Ekpene LGA the chance of producing a representative in 2019.

Immediate past National Lawmaker for the area, Barr. Saviour Udoh is one of those waiting for Akpabio and Akpan.  The Obot Akara born politician had in 2015 sought a second term but was stopped by forces from the federal constituency with Akpabio then the Governor leading the pack because of zoning.

Barr. Saviour Udoh is today however wondering why Akpabio seeks to change the rule of the game midway.  Barr. Udoh is opined to have said that come sun or rain, Akpabio will be stopped.

For Idongesit Ntekpere who speaks for the people of Ikot Ekpene/Obot Akara State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Akpabio’s silent plot to retain Emmanuel Akpan is an affront on the sensibilities of Ikot Ekpene/Essien Udim/Obot Akara federal constituency and should not only be discouraged but all arsenal towards the stoppage of the rascality should be deployed. 

Ntekpere’s political fans and aides told THE INK reporter in Uyo last week that the Assemblyman is very angry over Akpabio’s sinister moves to return his kinsman and will join the struggle to stop what they termed as callous political sentiment.

An aide to the Youths and Sports Commissioner told our reporter that Monday Ebong Uko is not pleased with the political development of returning Emmanuel Akpan to the National Assembly. 

He said that the sentiments of the Commissioner is that anything worth doing to ensure that Akpabio’s plot against the zoning arrangement falls should be encouraged.

The Commissioner, one of his aides said will prefer to fight the battle from the background because of his seeming closeness to the former Governor.

Ufot Ebong, SA to Udom Emmanuel on Due Process and Technical Matters is said to have told some political heavy weights that even though he is not a politician, that the very idea of returning Akpan to the National Assembly as a representative of an enlightened people is absurd especially when the person is not favoured by zoning. 

He is said to have promised to stand on the side of the people against any form of injustice, be it political, moral or otherwise.

Stakeholders from Essien Udim Local Government Area would not share their thoughts on this debacle.  One of them who is quite close to the Akpabios when contacted pleaded anonymity while responding that a lot of things will be and whatever will be will be.

But one of them Cosmas Udoekaebe however added that Essien Udim people will stay on the side of justice, truth and peace. 

Our source maintained that the political leader of the LGA, Chief Michael Afangideh will obviously be comfortable with Ikot Ekpene producing Emmanuel Akpan’s successor irrespective of what Godswill Obot Akpabio will want.

Other stakeholders who contributed to the discourse when contacted opined that as far as 2019 is concerned, that Emmanuel Akpan has no business at the National Assembly. They maintained that Godswill Akpabio’s antics and scheming will meet its limit if he (the Ex-Governor) attempts to fly with Emmanuel Akpan.

Stakeholders across the federal constituency argued also that if the zoning arrangement in the federal constituency is to be reconsidered, then it should wait until power returns to Obot Akara LGA who will then take the first slot at a second term.

The Akpabio’s idea of shortchanging people and abusing zoning would have to come to an end, they opined.

It could be recalled that upon the return of Democracy in 1999, Abom Tony Ibanga Esu from Obot Akara LGA was elected the representative for the federal constituency from 1999 to 2003. Esu made way for Barr. Nsini Umosoh in 2003 and Umosoh was to run that legislature for four years of 2003 to 2007. But unfortunately Umosoh who hails from Essien Udim died mid way into his tenure.

He was accordingly succeeded by his senior legislative aide Sunyiekekere Inokon who also hailed from Essien Udim Local Government Area. At the end of that tenure in 2007, party Elete Ineme from Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area took over and ended his tenure in 2011. An attempt by Etete Ineme to seek a second term was rejected. The cycle began again with Barr. Saviour Udoh from Obot Akara in 20011 and his tenure ended in 2015.

He also attempted a shot at second term but was stopped because he was not favoured by zoning. Political gladiators from the Federal constituency said, the move to stop Saviour Udoh was orchestrated by Akpabio.  Upon his stoppage, the way for Emmanuel Akpan from Essien Udim Local Government Area was cleared and Akpan eventually emerged.

Emmanuel Akpaan is a former Deputy Chief whip of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly. His tenure as a representative for Ikot Ekpene/Essien Udim, Obot Akara federal Constituency is supposed to end in 2019 to make way for a candidate from Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area.

Given the alleged interest of Akpabio in plotting to return him come 2019, Ikot Ekpene candidates appear to be waiting on a wing and a prayer.

Amongst candidates from Ikot Ekpene seeking Emmanuel Akpan’s seat are: Rt (Hon) Nsikak Ekong, Pastor Sunny Ibuot, Patty Etete Ineme and Obongifiok Anny Asikpo of APC.

These are the early birds for the job for now.

Fresh trouble for Moses Ekpo * Deputy Governor’s cashier robbed in broad day light * Dispossessed of over 50million Naira * Police yet to effect arrest, shots innocent person instead

A Toyota Saloon car which was last Wednesday robbed along Paul Bassey by Brooks street in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital has been linked to the office of the Deputy Governor Mr. Moses Ekpo.

Government House sources who identified the car with registration number AK 705 CO1 said the vehicle belongs to the office of the Deputy Governor.

It was gathered that the occupants of the car a driver and female Mandu who is the cashier in the Deputy Governor’s office escaped unhurt while the armed men who looked fierce and deadly carted away over 50million Naira.

The car is said to have returned from a transaction in one of the new generation banks in Uyo before being caught up by the dare devil robbers.

THE INK Portal gathered that the robbers must have acted on a tipoff, then decided to trail the vehicle to the point it was accosted before unleashing torrents of pellets on the boot of the car to force it open. 

The robbers are said to have operated unchallenged for over twenty minutes, and when they must have succeeded, they then escaped through the popular and most secured barracks road.

Meanwhile, followers of the incident are worried that a vehicle attached to the office of a number two citizen of Akwa Ibom State could be robbed following a tipoff and twenty minutes later, the police could not respond even as no arrest have been made close to a week after the ugly event took place.

I am Committed to the Welfare, Devt of Ika People – InibeheEtukudo

The Transition Committee Chairman of Ika Local Government Area, Mrs Inibehe Silas Etukudo has expressed concern over the gender sentiment being peddled in some quarters in Ika, stating that capacity and ability to perform is not gender sensitive.

Mrs.Etukudo who stated this while interacting with newsmen in her office in Uruainyang maintained that it is only myopia that could be responsible for such sentiments.

She noted that God is the ultimate, the giver of power and gives it to whomever He pleases, adding that God has made her a trail blazer since her childhood and as the first female councillor in Ika.

According to her, “there is no gender that has monopoly of capacity for leadership; some female leaders have done amazingly well in the history of Nigeria and the world at large. It is disappointing for people to still weep the sentiment of male or female in the call to leadership position. 

“I think they should rather say what they can do, what they have done and what they want to do for the people of Ika. By the grace of God, for the little time I have served as the Transition Committee Chairman of Ika, I have made some modest impact in the area. 

Fresh trouble for Moses Ekpo * Deputy Governor’s cashier robbed in broad day light * Dispossessed of over 50million Naira * Police yet to effect arrest, shots innocent person instead

A Toyota Saloon car which was last Wednesday robbed along Paul Bassey by Brooks street in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital has been linked to the office of the Deputy Governor Mr. Moses Ekpo.

Government House sources who identified the car with registration number AK 705 CO1 said the vehicle belongs to the office of the Deputy Governor.

It was gathered that the occupants of the car a driver and female Mandu who is the cashier in the Deputy Governor’s office escaped unhurt while the armed men who looked fierce and deadly carted away over 50million Naira.

The car is said to have returned from a transaction in one of the new generation banks in Uyo before being caught up by the dare devil robbers.

THE INK Portal gathered that the robbers must have acted on a tipoff, then decided to trail the vehicle to the point it was accosted before unleashing torrents of pellets on the boot of the car to force it open. 

The robbers are said to have operated unchallenged for over twenty minutes, and when they must have succeeded, they then escaped through the popular and most secured barracks road.

Meanwhile, followers of the incident are worried that a vehicle attached to the office of a number two citizen of Akwa Ibom State could be robbed following a tipoff and twenty minutes later, the police could not respond even as no arrest have been made close to a week after the ugly event took place.

Fresh trouble for Moses Ekpo * Deputy Governor’s cashier robbed in broad day light * Dispossessed of over 50million Naira * Police yet to effect arrest, shots innocent person instead

A Toyota Saloon car which was last Wednesday robbed along Paul Bassey by Brooks street in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital has been linked to the office of the Deputy Governor Mr. Moses Ekpo.

Government House sources who identified the car with registration number AK 705 CO1 said the vehicle belongs to the office of the Deputy Governor.

It was gathered that the occupants of the car a driver and female Mandu who is the cashier in the Deputy Governor’s office escaped unhurt while the armed men who looked fierce and deadly carted away over 50million Naira.

The car is said to have returned from a transaction in one of the new generation banks in Uyo before being caught up by the dare devil robbers.

THE INK Portal gathered that the robbers must have acted on a tipoff, then decided to trail the vehicle to the point it was accosted before unleashing torrents of pellets on the boot of the car to force it open. 

The robbers are said to have operated unchallenged for over twenty minutes, and when they must have succeeded, they then escaped through the popular and most secured barracks road.

Meanwhile, followers of the incident are worried that a vehicle attached to the office of a number two citizen of Akwa Ibom State could be robbed following a tipoff and twenty minutes later, the police could not respond even as no arrest have been made close to a week after the ugly event took place.

Fresh trouble for Moses Ekpo * Deputy Governor’s cashier robbed in broad day light * Dispossessed of over 50million Naira * Police yet to effect arrest, shots innocent person instead

A Toyota Saloon car which was last Wednesday robbed along Paul Bassey by Brooks street in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital has been linked to the office of the Deputy Governor Mr. Moses Ekpo.

Government House sources who identified the car with registration number AK 705 CO1 said the vehicle belongs to the office of the Deputy Governor.

It was gathered that the occupants of the car a driver and female Mandu who is the cashier in the Deputy Governor’s office escaped unhurt while the armed men who looked fierce and deadly carted away over 50million Naira.

The car is said to have returned from a transaction in one of the new generation banks in Uyo before being caught up by the dare devil robbers.

THE INK Portal gathered that the robbers must have acted on a tipoff, then decided to trail the vehicle to the point it was accosted before unleashing torrents of pellets on the boot of the car to force it open. 

The robbers are said to have operated unchallenged for over twenty minutes, and when they must have succeeded, they then escaped through the popular and most secured barracks road.

Meanwhile, followers of the incident are worried that a vehicle attached to the office of a number two citizen of Akwa Ibom State could be robbed following a tipoff and twenty minutes later, the police could not respond even as no arrest have been made close to a week after the ugly event took place.

Fresh trouble for Moses Ekpo * Deputy Governor’s cashier robbed in broad day light * Dispossessed of over 50million Naira * Police yet to effect arrest, shots innocent person instead

A Toyota Saloon car which was last Wednesday robbed along Paul Bassey by Brooks street in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital has been linked to the office of the Deputy Governor Mr. Moses Ekpo.

Government House sources who identified the car with registration number AK 705 CO1 said the vehicle belongs to the office of the Deputy Governor.

It was gathered that the occupants of the car a driver and female Mandu who is the cashier in the Deputy Governor’s office escaped unhurt while the armed men who looked fierce and deadly carted away over 50million Naira.

The car is said to have returned from a transaction in one of the new generation banks in Uyo before being caught up by the dare devil robbers.

THE INK Portal gathered that the robbers must have acted on a tipoff, then decided to trail the vehicle to the point it was accosted before unleashing torrents of pellets on the boot of the car to force it open. 

The robbers are said to have operated unchallenged for over twenty minutes, and when they must have succeeded, they then escaped through the popular and most secured barracks road.

Meanwhile, followers of the incident are worried that a vehicle attached to the office of a number two citizen of Akwa Ibom State could be robbed following a tipoff and twenty minutes later, the police could not respond even as no arrest have been made close to a week after the ugly event took place.

Fresh trouble for Moses Ekpo * Deputy Governor’s cashier robbed in broad day light * Dispossessed of over 50million Naira * Police yet to effect arrest, shots innocent person instead

A Toyota Saloon car which was last Wednesday robbed along Paul Bassey by Brooks street in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital has been linked to the office of the Deputy Governor Mr. Moses Ekpo.

Government House sources who identified the car with registration number AK 705 CO1 said the vehicle belongs to the office of the Deputy Governor.

It was gathered that the occupants of the car a driver and female Mandu who is the cashier in the Deputy Governor’s office escaped unhurt while the armed men who looked fierce and deadly carted away over 50million Naira.

The car is said to have returned from a transaction in one of the new generation banks in Uyo before being caught up by the dare devil robbers.

THE INK Portal gathered that the robbers must have acted on a tipoff, then decided to trail the vehicle to the point it was accosted before unleashing torrents of pellets on the boot of the car to force it open. 

The robbers are said to have operated unchallenged for over twenty minutes, and when they must have succeeded, they then escaped through the popular and most secured barracks road.

Meanwhile, followers of the incident are worried that a vehicle attached to the office of a number two citizen of Akwa Ibom State could be robbed following a tipoff and twenty minutes later, the police could not respond even as no arrest have been made close to a week after the ugly event took place.

Onna Chairmanship hopeful assures of Eagles Victory

The Chairmanship Aspirant for Onna Local Government Area in the November 11 local government election, Hon Imo Attat has expressed hope that the Super Eagles will defeat Cameroon in the World Cup qualifier in Uyo slated for Friday, 1st September, 2017. 

He gave the assurance while interacting with newsmen in uyo recently that Nigeria will qualify for the Word Cup. Attat who is also the Vice Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State football associated said he was satisfied with the selection of the players by the Technical Adviser for the encounter. 

He thanked the Executive Governor of the state, Mr Udom Emmanuel for sponsoring the Super Eagles match in uyo, describing him as a sports loving Governor. He assured that everything has been put in place by NFF and the State FA for the success of the match. 

He said, “NFF is fully in charge and we in the State FA are playing a good role to record a successful match” “The security is intact, we are doing our best to ensure that everything will go on well “ The President of All Stars Formation in Akwa Ibom called on Akwa Ibom fans and Nigeria at large to come out enmass to support Super Eagles to victory.

Ikot-Abasi will Stand with Udom - Kufre Uffot

Impressed by his developmental projects and the implementation of his administrative 5 point agenda scheme, a PDP stakeholder in IkotAbasi Local Government Area, Mr. KufreUffot has re-assured the Governor that come 2019, the people of Ikot Abasi Local Government Area will again in large number, cast their votes for the re-election of Governor Udom Gabriel Emmanuel.

Mr. Uffot made the assertion recently while fielding questions from newsmen in Uyo on the infrastructural projects initiated by the Governor so far.

He particularly applauded the governor for placing more emphasis on Agricultural and Food Sufficiency Programmes which according to him has gone a long way in impacting on the lives of AkwaIbom people especially for the establishing of AKEES, a programme which he noted has produced a lot of job opportunities for the AkwaIbom people.

Mr. Uffot explained that with AKEES, there is no doubt that with in no distant time, the State will be top on agricultural exporters’ map.

He used the opportunity to charge the AkwaIbom people to key into the agricultural programme of the Governor, inorder to be self-sufficient.

Eminence oil empowers over 200 in Nsit Atai, targets 5 million people

One of the leading oil & gas magnet in Akwa Ibom State, Eminence Oil & Chemicals limited has set an unbreakable record of empowerment in Nsit Atai Local Government Area.

This was the position of Conference of Akwa Ibom State Unit Youth Leaders, Nsit Atai Chapter. In a release signed by the Chairman, Hon. Emmanuel Johnny and Secretary, Mr Edidiong Okon, and made available to journalists in Uyo, the body described the initiative a commendable achievement.

The group commended the MD/CEO of Eminence Oil and Gas limited, Mr Emmanuel Okon for his love and passion to improve the living standard of people in his private capacity.

The statement further disclosed that Mr Okon who is doing his private business has set an unbreakable record of empowerment in Nsit Atai, adding that the area has never witness such massive empower running to hundreds of millions of naira from any of their elected representative talk less of a private individual.

The release maintained that within the last one year, Mr Emmanuel Okon has empowered over 200 people from Nsit Atai, and true to his word, he will certainly empower 5million people cutting across Uyo Federal Constituency before 2023.

Eminence oil empowers over 200 in Nsit Atai, targets 5 million people

One of the leading oil & gas magnet in Akwa Ibom State, Eminence Oil & Chemicals limited has set an unbreakable record of empowerment in Nsit Atai Local Government Area.

This was the position of Conference of Akwa Ibom State Unit Youth Leaders, Nsit Atai Chapter. In a release signed by the Chairman, Hon. Emmanuel Johnny and Secretary, Mr Edidiong Okon, and made available to journalists in Uyo, the body described the initiative a commendable achievement.

The group commended the MD/CEO of Eminence Oil and Gas limited, Mr Emmanuel Okon for his love and passion to improve the living standard of people in his private capacity.

The statement further disclosed that Mr Okon who is doing his private business has set an unbreakable record of empowerment in Nsit Atai, adding that the area has never witness such massive empower running to hundreds of millions of naira from any of their elected representative talk less of a private individual.

The release maintained that within the last one year, Mr Emmanuel Okon has empowered over 200 people from Nsit Atai, and true to his word, he will certainly empower 5million people cutting across Uyo Federal Constituency before 2023.

Eminence oil empowers over 200 in Nsit Atai, targets 5 million people

One of the leading oil & gas magnet in Akwa Ibom State, Eminence Oil & Chemicals limited has set an unbreakable record of empowerment in Nsit Atai Local Government Area.

This was the position of Conference of Akwa Ibom State Unit Youth Leaders, Nsit Atai Chapter. In a release signed by the Chairman, Hon. Emmanuel Johnny and Secretary, Mr Edidiong Okon, and made available to journalists in Uyo, the body described the initiative a commendable achievement.

The group commended the MD/CEO of Eminence Oil and Gas limited, Mr Emmanuel Okon for his love and passion to improve the living standard of people in his private capacity.

The statement further disclosed that Mr Okon who is doing his private business has set an unbreakable record of empowerment in Nsit Atai, adding that the area has never witness such massive empower running to hundreds of millions of naira from any of their elected representative talk less of a private individual.

The release maintained that within the last one year, Mr Emmanuel Okon has empowered over 200 people from Nsit Atai, and true to his word, he will certainly empower 5million people cutting across Uyo Federal Constituency before 2023.

Mkpat Enin Chairmanship Election: PDP endorses Ekaette Usip

BY VICTOR UFOT

The People Democratic Party (PDP) Ukpum Minya Ward 3 in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area, last Wednesday vowed to work tirelessly for the success of Lady Ekaette Usip  in the upcoming PDP party primaries elections.

The Leadership of the party at the Ward threw their weight behind the aspiration of Lady Usip when the Transition Chairperson and her team paid a consultative visit to the party Executives to formally intimate them of her ambition.

While introducing the Transition Chairman to the Ward Executives, the Director Of Campaigns, Mr Nseobong Essien described Lady Usip as the most experienced and most qualified aspirant for the job of leading Mkpat Enin Local Government Area for the next three years.

“Ordinarily, She needs no introduction here but I am here with your daughter and mother, It is a rear privilege to come  form the Ward where the chairman comes from, it is with respect that I stand here to introduce someone which other wards wish she was from their place. First Female Council  secretary In Mkpat Enin, First Education Secretary In Mkpat Enin, First female Transition Chairman and by the grace of God, she will be the first female Elected Chairman of this great Local Government Area”. He said.

Stakeholders kill Emman Ekon’s Third Term bid …Zones House of Reps seat to Abak LGA …Aniekan Umanah favoured to win

Former commissioner for information Mr. Aniekan Umanah’s chances of emerging a federal lawmaker in the Green Chambers received a major boast over the weekend.

Thanks to stakeholders of Abak/Ika/Etim Ekpo Federal constituency’s punctuation of the third term bid of Emmanuel Ekon, the incumbent House of Representative member.

On Friday last week, stakeholders of Abak Federal constituency gathered in their numbers at the Independence Hall Abak Local Government Area.

The meeting which was presided over by the State Attorney General Barr Uwemedimo Nwoko arrived at far reaching decisions bothering on the coming 2019 elections in the Federal Constituency and Akwa Ibom state as a whole.

In a communiqué read by Ahaziah Umanah stated that come 2019, Abak Local Government Area will produce the next House of Representatives member after Etim Ekpo had gone twice. By this decision, the third term bid of Emman Ekon had fallen flat.

Ini Youths celebrate Udom …Say Gloria Edet, Emman Ekpenyong worthy leaders

Youths of Ini Local Government Area have joined the ranks of Akwa Ibomites who are extolling the leadership qualities of Mr. Udom Emmanuel the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State describing him as a man who has so far lived up to the mantle of divine mandate that was entrusted into his hands.

Speaking under the auspices of Ini Youth Vanguard, the group who spoke through their Chairman Iboro Nnah and Secretary Innocent Udom respectively said Governor Emmanuel’s youth inclusiveness in governance is an indication of the fact that the State Chief Executive is a man of character. They added also that the state Governor is living up to his campaign promises of industrialization of the state acknowledging that even with the lean resources occasioned by recession, that the Governor has been superlative in his leadership and industrialization drive in the state.

The leadership of Ini Youth vanguard stated specifically that the construction of Ikpe – Iko Nkon – Arochukwu road, awarding of contract for the construction of Odoro Ikpe – Mbiabet road, as well as the cassava processing mill at Anananmong in Itu Mbouso in Ini Local Government Area are some of the indices of Development Governor Emmanuel has brought to Ini Local Government and expressed their desire to support the State Chief Executive to the fullest.

Niger Delta monarchs call for devolution of power, end to ASUU strike

BY KENNETH JUDE

The Association of Traditional Rulers of Oil Mineral Producing Communities of Nigeria (TROMPCON) has ended its three-day National Conference and inauguration of new executive council with a charge on the federal government to quickly take steps that will address the ongoing ASUU strike. 

The three-day event which held at Eden Hotel in Eket, Akwa Ibom State, also saw the paramount Ruler of Ibeno LGA, Owong Effiong Achianga emerge the new National Chairman of TROMPCON. 

Dr. Effiong Achianga takes over from Eze Akuwueze Ikegwuruka, the Paramount Ruler of Mgbirichi/Abakuru Land, and shall lead for a period of three years. 

In his remarks at the occasion, Owong Achianga, noted that the event is designed to chart the way forward for Niger Delta States, pointing out that traditional Rulers play a vital role in the sustenance of peace in the society. He added that there’s strength in unity hence called on the federal government to ensure that issues of poverty, neglect and deprivations experienced in the Niger Delta region are tackled expeditiously. 

“The good people of this region deserve freedom from poverty, poor infrastructure such as roads, access to qualitative education, affordable houses, good sources of drinking water, amongst other things for the development and sustainable livelihood of the region.” He called on traditional rulers to be consistent and persist in the demands of their rights for the region. He reiterated the need for oil companies operating in the region to relocate their headquarters to their operational states. He thanked Governor Udom Emmanuel for approving the conference to be held in the State. 

LG polls: Ward send S.O.S to Gov. Udom, Ekpo, others

A group of patriotic persons in ward 1, Esit L.G.A have send a Save Our Soul (SOS) message to Gov. Udom Emmanuel as the leader of the party, the State Chairman, Mr. Paul Ekpo and members of the Esit Eket Local Government Executive Committee of the Party on the perceive plan to short change and deny them opportunity to produce council chairman in the coming Local Government Polls in favour of ward 2.

Transparency, Integrity and Equity Watch, through her spokes person Mr. David Etukudo alleged the purported zoning of the chairmanship position to zone A does not reflect the sincerity of the local executive committee of the party. 

He accused them of unguarded utterances, behavior and activities skewed to short change them from the chairmanship race which should be exclusive for ward 1 only, if they were sincere, equitable and just to all component units of the zone and council.

The group maintained, “Though the constitution of the party vest the sole responsibility to zone political positions on the local government executive committee of the party, noted, it’s absurd that the same committee has already signed an understanding to promote the candidature of a particular individual at the detriment of others”.

AKS PDP, Martha Udom Emmanuel mourn Late Mrs. Edet and Mrs. Glory Peter ....Send empowerment to the bereaved families

BY ANIEBIET ANTIA 

The State woman leaders of  PDP, Deac. Mmeme Akpabio who represented the wife of the governor Mrs Martha Udom Emmanuel, Deaconess mmeme Akpabio on her remarks noted that the event was a special event which has never happen in the history of Akwa Ibom State, showed appreciation to Mrs Udom Emmanuel for identifying with the bereaved families who lost their love ones. 

She described her as a correct, capable and a sunshine leader, according to Deaconess Akpabio, the event was to condole and present empowerment to the family of Late Mrs Akon Edet and Late Mrs Glory Asuquo Peter. She further urged the women to emulate what Late Akon and Glory did while they were alive. Also speaking at the event, wife of the UCCDA Chairman, Mrs Inemesit Uwah in her speech, commended Mrs Martha Udom Emmanuel on the significant event. According to her, the event has come to energize the women to put more effort in serving the people. 

“Late Glory Asuquo was a woman leader with both body, spirit and soul, it is the effort she put in PDP that prompts the party, wife of the Governor to send delegates to identify with the family “she added. Mrs Uwah also used the opportunity to urge the women to maintain absolute loyalty both in the secret and in open.

Police Hilux kills motorcyclist in Uyo

BY KINGSLEY UDUAK

A commercial motorcyclist popularly known as Akamankpo was today knock dead by a Nigerian Police Hilux at Ring Road Junction,  Aka Etinan Road,  Uyo.

The Police Hilux with the plate number 11Z12FG which was on top speed  according to eyewitnesses lost control while avoiding collision with a moving Julius Berger Company’s Hilux eventually hits the motorcyclist riding on an opposite lane of the junction.

An eyewitness,  Mr Francis Eking who is a resident of the area described the accident as unfortunate accounting that the “Police Hilux was an escort for a car and it was on top speed,  so the Hilux  suddenly held a break while trying to avoid one Julius Berger Hilux coming from  NTA Aka Etinan axis of the road.  The front tire burst,  and the Hilux  Jam a little part of the Berger’s Hilux.  With that speed the car flew to the other side of the Ring Road junction Leading to Akpabio Stadium,  and killed the bike man who was patiently waiting to get moving order by the Police Traffic warder.

Mammoth Crowd as Gabriel Etim consults Abak Ward 3

The premises of Smiler Hotel, Ikot Okoro Road, Abak was filled to capacity last Wednesday as Party Chieftains, Elders, women and youths trooped out to catch a glimpse of the most popular and acceptable Chairmanship aspirant for the area, Obong Iberedem (Sir) Gabriel Etim.

The event which was the official consultation of the people of Abak Urban Ward 3 by Sir Gabriel Etim, saw the youths singing solidarity songs in support of the aspiration of Obong Sir Gabriel Etim.

Receiving the Chairmanship hopeful into the ward, the Chairman Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Abak Urban Ward 3, Mr. Ekukinam extolled the sterling qualities of Obong Gabriel Etim, describing him as a seasoned politician, a committed party man who has worked and contributed immensely to the success of the party over the years.

Addressing the gathering, Obong Etim who started by singing praises to God, expressed gratitude to God for making the day possible and thanked the people for coming out in large number despite the short notice.

MAN, Oron: Towards actualizing the FUMSO bill

BY JOSEPH ATAINYANG

Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron is 40 years old. 

For now, it remains the only maritime institution in the country. It has trained thousands of seafarers and maritime personnel since its inception. By virtue of its long years of existence, it is one institution that should be cherished and guarded jealously by the government of Nigeria. 

The monotechnic deserves serious attention in the areas of provision of basic tools and instruments for practical based training. It should be held dearly by Nigeria’s policy makers as the only certified, long standing and productive organ, as far as the maritime sector is taken into consideration.

As a federally owned educational institute in Oron, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria which was originally called the Nautical College of Nigeria, its main purpose of establishment was to educate and train shipboard officers, ratings and shore-based management personnel. Available historical records show that the school graduated its first batch of cadets in 1983. It is on record that the college, in 1988, had its mandate expanded to training all levels and categories of personnel for all facets of Nigerian maritime industry.

Politicians who cross over to the FG Govt Party are spared by anti-graft agencies - Rt. Hon. Chief Nduese Essien

Being a member of the Opposition Party in the Country, how does it feel observing the developments in the country? 

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is not an opposition party in Akwa Ibom State. It is the governing party. It is only at the national level that we lost to the All Progressives Congress (APC) which is opposition in the state, and we are watching to see how they will improve on the performance of the PDP. So far, we have not seen the change. We are looking forward to changing the change come 2019.

Do you think anything surprising can come up to get back power in 2019?

You can see the trend now. With the Supreme Court ruling, PDP has veered back into strength, making other parties to run helter-skelter and calling meetings which they didn’t use to call. As soon as PDP met to celebrate its Supreme Court victory, other parties started calling meetings. PDP has also called for the national convention, and other parties that were staying dormant are now working because they know that threat has come and it is real.

Let’s look at the issue of transparency in governance. Do we see any level of transparency in the act of governance both at the federal, state and local governments?

That is a serious problem in Nigeria. People in government are not accountable to those that put them in office. That is because since 1999, there were some elements of democratic rule. The parties were strong and were controlling the government, but from 2003, the presidency and the governors at the state levels became so powerful that they were no longer accountable to anybody. The national and state assemblies were weakened through a process of selection of members of the Assembly.

Oron Urban Ward 10 reaffirms support for Gov. Emmanuel Beyond 2019

Impressed by his developmental projects and implementation of five cardinal points of his campaign promises, the PDP elders/stakeholders of Oron Urban ward 10 have reiterates their stand to support His Excellency, Gov. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel and his 2nd term ambition even as they passed vote of confidence on him, and however, pledged their support on the re-election bid of the member representing Oron/UdungUko Constituency in the AKHA, Rt. Hon. Effiong Okon Bassey.

The decision was unanimously adopted shortly after a motion moved by Hon. Peter Basseyand duly seconded by Hon. Asukwo Nyong Effiong during a meeting of PDP Elders/Stakeholders on the zoning arrangement in Oron urban ward 10 recently in Uyaoro, Oron L.G.A.

The meeting which was well attended by PDP stakeholders/elders agreed that come November 11, 2017 Uyaoro Ube for the first time in the history of democracy, should be given an opportunity to produce the councilor to represent the ward in Oron Local Government legislative council as enshrined in article 7, section 7.2 – sub section (C) of the constitution of the PDP2006 as amended.

Akwa Ibom at 30: Governor Udom Emmanuel’s Rep lauds celebration in Lagos

The Special Representative to the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State in Lagos, Mr. Samuel Bassey has given his blessings to the forthcoming Akwa Ibom International Fiesta- Lagos 2017 when he received members of the event’s central planning committee in the state’s Lagos Liaison office on Monday.

The team comprised of the duo of the event progenitor, Nelson NseAbasi and the Consultant Mr. Louis Alozie, who is also the Marketing Manager for the German Automobile giant Volks Wagen in Nigeria.

In his speech, Nelson briefed the Governor’s rep on the need to create event activities to mark the creation of Akwa Ibom State in Lagos. According to him, the number of Akwa Ibom people in Lagos out numbers those residing in Akwa Ibom, he also stated in line with the Dakkada and Amazing Akwa Ibom initiatives of the Governor Udom Emmanuel led administration, the event seeks to harness the potentials of Akwa Ibom beyond oil, looking at Arts and Agriculture as a viable alternative.

Of two leaders …And some noisy followers BY NSIBIET JOHN

We are living in perilous times. Times when some acclaimed supporters of certain interests have thrown decorum to the mud. Times when our leaders preached a direct opposite of what they practice and claim it is politics.

It is a reflection of the contents of their characters. Weeks preceding this, Akwa Ibom state has been hilarious and full of comics.

Supporters of different political interests have been up in arms against their perceived or real enemies. Online platforms especially facebook pages and whatsapp mechanisms have played host to some gilberish and insidious innuendoes published as news and or promotions for respective candidates and 2019 aspirants.

It appears none of these commentators are ready to call a spade a spade. They glory even in the abuse of government institutions. Whether State or federal. They appreciate the failure of their paymasters to accord respects to which respects are due. They seem to forget quite hastily that Udom Emmanuel and Nsima Ekere did not join politics through the door of insults on leaders but after they must have or in the present sense in the process of a successful exploits in their chosen careers.

Why we chose to audit activities of Le-Meridien Ibom Hotel - Governor Emmanuel

Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State has warned that endless criticisms and propaganda will not derail him from completing the auditing of the accounts of the Le-Meridien Ibom Hotel and Golf resort.

He said that the essence of any investment is profit, and as such it was expedient for the government to assess the gains and losses of the outfit having invested heavily on it for several years.

Governor Emmanuel who spoke over the weekend during the monthly  prayer meeting at Government House, Uyo said that the state took a logical decision of examining the return on investments after several years of putting up the hospitality outfit and making major investments in the outfit.

Governor Emmanuel said that the choice of a reputable audit firm, Price WaterHouse  Coopers, was out of the intention for a standard and transparent audit process, which will afford everyone knowledge of the gains or losses in the firm.

He said the intention of Marriot to abandon the resort simply because the auditing process has started, is unacceptable to the state government and holds no water.

Commissioner harps on tackling Maritime security challenges

BY NSEOBONG DAVID

The need to tackle maritime security challenges for socio-economic development of Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria in general has been stressed.

The Commissioner for Economic Development, Mr. Idorenyin Sunday Udoh made the point while playing hosts to the Commandant, members of Faculty of the Naval War College as well as participants of Course one who visited the Ministry as part of their research tour.

Mr. Udoh said that an overhaul of our national approaches to security issues was needful to tackle maritime insecurity in our part of the world.  He listed approaches which can be used in tackling the menace to include: educational enlightenment of our people at all levels about security matters, reviewing and strengthening legal procedures in security matters as well as investing in and promoting intelligence gathering and sharing in a variety of fields. 

The Economic Development boss expressed delight in the tour which he said offered the opportunity for engagement with stakeholders on the crucial matter of maritime security. He noted that the theme of the Study Tour which was: “Combating Maritime Security Challenges Towards Socio-Economic Development” was apt, since Akwa Ibom State possesses the longest coastline in the country with 129km and whose offshore oil activities produce the highest quantum of oil in the country.  

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

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

Effort to reposition QIC youth fellowship underway …as Rev. Efanga inaugurates Hon. Uwem Etuk, Elder Udim Thomas, as patron/patronesses

The avowed commitment of the Chairman of Conference of Qua Iboe Church of Nigeria, Rev. Ekpedeme Moffat Efanga at repositioning the youth fellowship of the church, continue to receive the support of various stakeholders of the church, who are up beat in their pursuit of the vision and policies of the current leadership. 

The General Superintendent/Chairman of Conference Rev. Ekpedeme Efanga gave the charge at Qua Iboe church, 2 Olusegun Obasanjo Way, Uyo while officially inaugurating patron/patronesses of national youth fellowship at the weekend. 

Rev. Efanga charged the youth patron/patronesses to be selfless, as the task required of them was enormous, reminding them that they were chosen on consideration of capacity, experience, exposure and willingness to serve to serve, hence the need to deliver on the expectations of the church. 

The National Youth Fellowship President Obong Mboutidem Alexander in his address said persons of credible characters are selected as their backbone based on merit adding that as patron/patronesses was in recognition of their contributions to the youths’ development, social economic and humanity.