Akwa Ibom Politics: The future belong to younger generation - Idongesit Ituen

Idongesit Ituen is the member representing Itu state constituency. He has been around and understands the terrain of politics. An erudite scholar, a thinker, a leader and a legislator par excel on. He is a soft speaker and a political analyst. An interviewer’s delight.

in this interview, he bares his mind on a wide range of issues……excerpts

How has it been so far in the 6^th Assembly the past one year?

It’s been a wonderful experience and I feel quite fulfilled to come this far even when I am just a first timer in the 6^th Assembly.

Would you say that in the past legislative year that you have been able to achieve what you actually set out to do for your people?

I still leave the assessment to my constituency but as a person I feel I had plans and I am almost exhausting them.  Firstly, when I was campaigning, I did say that I will be passionate about representation and also raise the bar in terms of empowering my constituent in Agricultural sector and other areas of life.  About 50 people were being empowered with the sum of 1.5million naira and that was during my first five to six months in office. 

And then we have also been able to set up training in technology skills acquisition programmes.  Apart from that, I have just set up a scholarship scheme which will be launched next week.  Recently, when I had a meeting with my Party, the youth leader demanded that something should be done in that area.  And apart from that I have been doing what is called yearly road maintenance projects in my Local Government.  I am trying to bridge the gap because the local government system is not very effective but I’m looking at how to help them by bringing in equipments to construct roads in my area.  Then as a Chairman of House Committee on Works, I intend to take that to other 26 local government areas in collaboration with my colleagues.

As the Chairman, Works Committee in Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, what is your relationship with the Ministry of Works like?

Well, the relationship has been quite cordial and cannot affect the Constituted roles each of the arms of government is supposed to play.  I am only doing what I’m supposed to do as a legislature to check and make sure that the money appropriated to the Ministry and signed by the State Governor are used judiciously. 

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

Akwa Ibom Consumer Protection Agency Bill passes second reading

A bill for a law to establish the Akwa Ibom Consumer Protection Agency, provide for the protection of the interest of Akwa Ibom consumers, settlement of consumer disputes and for connected purposes passed through its second reading today on the floor of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly.

The bill which is sponsored by the Member representing Etinan State Constituency in the 6th Assembly Hon. (Barr)  Aniefiok Dennis Akpan and co-sponsored by:

Rt. Hon. Mark Esset, Hon. David Lawrence, Hon. Aniekan Bassey, Hon. (Otuekong) Essien Nse, Hon. Emmanuel Bassey, Hon. Udo Gabriel Toby, Hon. Monday Eyo Okon, Hon. Samuel Ufuo, Hon. Archibong Asuquo, Rt. Hon. Victor Udofia, Rt. Hon. Mfon Ekong and Hon. Otobong Akpan has the objectives of the agency to include the right to be informed about the quality, quantity, potency, purity, standard and prices of goods and services as the case may be so as to protect consumers in the state against unfair trade practices.

Zonal retreat: NMA makes case for members entrepreneurial involvement

The South - South zone of the  Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in her 2016 zonal retreat over the weekend at the Orbit Galaxy Hotels, Uyo has made case for the medical practioners in the zone to see the need for Entrepreneurial involvement.

The event which had in attendance the NMA south - south chairman, Dr. Aniekeme Uwah, créme de la créme of NMA members across the south - south geopolitical zone and entrepreneurs, saw a carefully delivered lecture by an erudite entrepreneur Mr. Andy Eyo the executive director of Excellence Community Education welfare scheme (ECEWS) on the theme “The Doctor as an Entrepreneur”, which was set to urge the Medical practitioners to  engage in some other lucrative business in support of their basic profession.

In his lecture, Mr. Andy said that an entrepreneur is an individual who, rather than working as an employee, runs a small business and assumes all the risks and rewards of a given business venture, idea, or good or service offered. He also enumerated the five (5) basic characteristics of an entrepreneur as follows; Motivation, Vision, Passion, Confidence and Decision making.

Community hands over disputed land to philanthropist

After a successful court ruling, Ikot Akpabio Village, Afaha Obong Clan in Abak Local Government area has handed over their land “Akai Asung” to a prominent indigene of the Village, Obong Iberedem Eventus Umoh. 

Speaking at a colourful ceremony which took place in his Palace, the Village Head, Chief Joshua Otu  said the decision to hand over the land to Obong Eventus Umoh was based on the financial assistance he gave to the community while  the case lasted  in court. 

Chief Otu described Obong Iberedem Eventus Umoh as a worthy and illustrious son of the Village who has the interest of his people at heart and has also contributed immensely to the development of the community. 

The Village Head advised that whatever is to be done in the land, the people should obtain permission from Obong Iberedem Eventus Umoh. 

In his speech, the Village Youth President, Prince Usen Joshua thanked the Village Head, members of the Village Council and the entire people of Ikot Akpabio for taking a wise decision to hand over the land to Obong Iberedem Ikot Akpabio, Obong Eventus Umoh to be under his care throughout his life time. 

Udom, Akpabio and OBA: A bond beyond politics

BY SAMUEL AYARA

As the wind of open letter ravages our political space, leaving us more anxiety than the right to be informed, there is an urgent need to address the recurring media confrontation, which if not checked could threaten the fragile peace and harmony in the state.

The regular attempt to create a rift among leaders who have paid their dues and shown commitment to the founding ideals of the state, as a land of promise, is fast assuming an unpalatable crescendo, begging on all discerning minds to allow governance evolve, beyond politics.

It would be our biggest undoing when our major factors of strength are pitched against themselves, for no fault of theirs; having given up so much in resources, time, energy and passion in ensuring the labours of our heroes past are not in vain, the least they deserve from us is not drumming beats that would send them to war.

In clear departure from political allegiance, one would helplessly watch how the looming war in the State chapter of the All Progressive Congress, APC, threatens the soul of the party that should have grown into a fabric of rational opposition, to check the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, because of an avoidable standoff between major stakeholders.

APC crisis: Concerned members write National Leaders

The All Progressives Congress under the ageis of Concerned and Original Members of APC has written to the National leadership of the party asking them to step into the party and resolve the crises in it.

They spoke through a letter signed by Nsikan Etim, Ndarake Edet, Daniel Ibanga and Christopher Esang. The group maintained that, “It is widely accepted that the easiest definition of madness is doing the same thing, the same way, many times but expecting different results. In science, one of the assurances that a hypothesis must guarantee is that when conducted over and over again, irrespective of location, same results will emerge. 

In Law, it is a well established principle called Precedent, where it postulates that where similar facts occur, same judgment must apply. In Akwa Ibom, leaders of opposition parties do not seem to believe this truism- rather they assume that they are the exception to the rule. They keep doing the same thing over and over again, but expect a different result. 

Ex commissioner, Council Chairman, ors back Udom, Akpabio for second term

The immediate past commissioner in the Akwa Ibom State Executive Council Barr Emmanuel Enoidem, the Chairman of Etim Ekpo Local Government Area, Mr. Udeme Eduo and the PDP in the Local Government have thrown their weight behind the second term ambition of the state Governor Mr. Udom Emmanuel calling on him to contest.

They made this calling Etim Ekpo council secretariat in an enlarged political meeting that was attended by PDP faithful in the Local Government Area.

Speaking during the event, barr Enoidem described Udom Emmanuel in glowing terms and maintained that he will personally mobilize support for the state Governor. 

He said the people of Etim Ekpo Local Government are happy with the leadership acumen of Governor Emmanuel and urged the State Chief Executive to ignore the distractions from the opposition and go ahead to lead the people of the state the way and manner he is presently doing. 

Ikot Abasi PDP Stakeholders visit Udom * Says the Governor will win a second term at ease

Stakeholders of Ikot Abasi Local Government Area have reassured the State Governor Mr. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel of their determination to support him beyond 2019 till he completes his tenure which they said will elapse in 2023.

The stakeholders stated this last weekend when they met with the Governor at the Hiltop mansion at Government House in Uyo.

Speaking, the leader of the stakeholders and political Leader of Ikot Abasi Local Government Area, Mr. Chelly Okoko commended the Governor and described him as a legend who in the face of dwindling economy has been able to live above board. 

He spoke onbehalf of the stakeholders and maintained that the state Chief Executive in less than two years in office has been able to restore hope and confidence in the minds of Akwa Ibom people.

Akwa Ibom Community Shield: FC Okon Lagos through to second round

FC Okon Lagos of Nsit Ibom has qualified for the second round of the 2017 Akwa Ibom Community Shield Football Competition sponsored by the Member representing Itu State Constituency in Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Idongesit Ituen.

To qualify for the second round, FC Okon Lagos defeated Destiny Football Club of Uyo by 4-2 on penalty  shoot-out after a 1-1 full time score-line.

FC Okon Lagos will now meet Ikot Asanga FC in the second round match. And in a bid to put the team in proper shape for this all-important encounter, FC Okon Lagos has played series of friendly matches. In one of the friendly matches, FC Okon Lagos played a 2-2 draw with Iman Ibom United at MAURIC Polytechnic play ground.  The team also played with Destiny Football Club of Uquo Ibeno. 

Hope rises for MAN Oron ... As Ministerial Committee commences work on overhauling, restructuring and repositioning... (Part I)

BY EDET OKPO

Envisioned and established approximately 40 years ago in 1977 as a pioneer institution of its kind in a nascent Nigeria still grappling with the fresh waves and ripples of a hard-earned Independence in 1960, the Premier Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron had come as a conscious attempt to fill the country’s specific and diverse maritime needs. Hence, the vision of the Academy was (and still is) to provide the merchant Navy and the maritime industry and allied industries qualitative education and training that accords with up-to-date technology, meets national and international standards, and satisfies end-user expectations. 

A cursory brush of history shows that the institution was first known as the Nautical College of Nigeria, with the cardinal aim of educating and training shipboard officers, ratings and shore-based management personnel. 

Sure foundation matriculates over 200 students

It was a glaring example of giving back to the society when people from all walks of life converged on Ikot Akai in Ukanafun Local Government Area, for the official opening and maiden matriculation of the Sure Foundation Polytechnic; a privately owned institution, and first to commence with full accreditation from the National Board for Business and Technical Education, NBTE.

Performing the official unveiling, the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel who was represented by his deputy, Mr. Moses Ekpo, lauded the ingenious commitment of the founder, Dr. Idongesit Udom, to qualitative education, noting the institution holds a promising advantage in character formation.

Tradition and culture should not violent human right …says Human Right Commission

The Chairman Human Rights Commission  Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Anthony A. Iji has said that tradition and culture should not be used as an apparatus to violet human rights because the law must surely take its course without compromise.

The Chainman Human Right Commission Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Anthony A. Iji gave the advised while speaking with journalists during the workshop of training and educating citizens about violation of human right in Itu Local Government. 

He said there is no doubt that tradition and culture exist but not to victimized the people over their fundamental human right over their activities, that is where the challenge and problems lies especially the issue of widow experiencing torture from her late husband’s family and to crown it all sexual harassment or refusal to accept any members of the family as husband, forceful marriage etc.

Akwa Ibom Former Speaker Escapes Kidnapping on the Way to Hideout

The former speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Barrister Bassey Essien last Thursday, narrowly escaped from suspected kidnappers on the way to their unknown hideout.

It was gathered that the kidnappers have stormed the hometown of the former lawmaker at Etebi Mbakuyo, Esit Eket local government area where they traced him to his palm tree plantation farm in the community and forcefully took him away after several gun shots were fired which left residents of the community panicking and scampering for safety.

Information from reliable sources in the community indicates that the suspected kidnappers were using motorcycles to trace the former speaker to the farm.

NMA South South Retreat Begins ...Commissioners for Finance, Health and Special duties to grace event

All is now set for the South South zonal retreat of Nigerian Medical Association(NMA) holding in Uyo from Thursday January 26th to Sunday 29th , 2016. 

In a release signed by Chairman and Secretary of the NMA South South Caucus , Dr Aniekeme Uwah and Dr Nsikak Nyoyoko ; delegates from the six South-south States will arrive Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital today for the retreat themed “The Doctor as an entrepreneur”. 

On Friday January 27, the South-South Caucus of the Nigerian Medical Association(NMA) will pay a courtesy call on the speaker AKHA, Rt Hon(Barr) Onofiok Luke by 10am at Akwa Ibom State House Of Assembly complex. 

There after delegates will embark on a city tour, visiting some land mark facilities in the state capital including Ibom Specialty Hospital, Godswill Akpabio Intl Stadium, Ibom Tropicana , Le meridian IBOM hotel and Golf resort and the NMA house. 

AKSG to invest more in Education

Governor Udom Emmanuel has reiterated that his administration will continue to invest massively in educational sector in the state.

He stated this at the weekend during the Maiden Students Town Hall Meeting and Inauguration of Students Social Services Volunteer Scheme, organized by the Office of Special Assistant to the Governor on Student Matters, at AKWAPOLY.

Represented by the Commissioner for Education, Mr. Paul Udofia, the Governor said his administration has changed the face of infrastructures across public schools in the state and has sustained the free and compulsory education.

He noted that his administration is interested in the quality of knowledge impacted on the students.

“We prioritize the issue of welfare and the quality of knowledge impacted on our educational institutions which are based on our cardinal appreciation of the potency of an educated populace for the sustainability of our industrialization”.

APC’s taking over Akwa Ibom imminent – Sam Efanga

A former Commissioner for Science and Technology in the State, Mr. Samuel Efanga has said that it is most likely that the All Progressives Party (APC) will take over the reins f power in Akwa Ibom State come 2019 when the next general election is expected to held. 

Mr. Efanga made the prediction last week while reacting to the defection of Senator Nelson Effiong from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying that the Senator’s defection was well advised and that given the situation of things in the PDP at the national level, more cross – carpeting from the PDP will take place as 2019 approaches.

 The former House of Representative aspirant, himself a decampee from the PDP and now a faithful of the APC said the threat by the PDP to recall the decamping Senator from the National Assembly or to make him lose his seat in the Senate through the instrumentality of the judiciary amounts to an empty threat,lacking substance and basis. 

Akpan Andem market to face demolition Thursday

…as Environment Commissioner expresses anger with rebellious market traders 

BY DANIEL EKPENYONG

The Akwa Ibom State government has ordered immediate demolition of all illegal structures around Akpan Andem market in Uyo.

The Commissioner for Environment and Mineral Resources, Dr. Iniobong Essien gave the order on Saturday while monitoring the level of compliance with the monthly sanitation exercise which took him and his team of ministry officials, environment-based non-governmental organizations and the press round the various markets within the State capital.

At the Akpan Andem market, the Commissioner, flanked by the Special Assistant to the Governor on market matters, Mr. Idorenyin Raphael and the chairman, Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Mr. Patrick Albert, expressed disappointment at the non – challant attitude of the traders to the sanitation exercise, the first in the New Year. 

Dr. Essien who was not happy with the unsanitary condition of the market especially the blocked drainage system in and around the market, ordered that all forms of street trading around the market should be discontinued and all illegal market stalls built on top of gutters and road sides be pulled down on Thursday, February 2, 2017 . He instructed the SA on market matters to ensure that the traders have been adequately warned of the impending demolition exercise before that Thursday.

When the team visited Itam market, the Commissioner was shocked to notice that the market was in full session with buying and selling taking place despite the restriction on all such activities.

Addressing the Itam market traders, the Commissioner expressed unhappiness with their rebellious attitude and warned that next time any trader found flouting the sanitation rules would be arrested and charged to the sanitation court.

Other markets visit were the Ikot Akpe market along Good Luck Jonathan Boulevard, Urua Okpokpo along Uyo – Etinan Road, as well as Urua Ikot Ambang along Uyo – Ikot Ekpene Road.

In all these markets traders were seen displaying their wares without significant compliance with the exercise. 

Some of the traders at the various markets who spoke with this reporter attributed their non – compliance to forgetfulness. Others said they thought the exercise would not hold since it did not old in the last two editions (that is in November and December 2016). But they all promised to be good citizens in subsequent exercises.

Speaking with Journalists at the end of the monitoring exercise the Hon. Commissioner said apart from the attitude of the market traders at the various markets, he was impressed with the compliance level of the general public in Uyo. 

“I am happy to see Uyo residents cleaning their environments. The roads are free of traffic which shows that people are complying with the sanitation exercise. 

This is the first sanitation for the year 2017 and the best way to wish ourselves sickness free year is by beginning the year with the cleaning of our environments,’’ he said.

Ekid peoples Union backs Udom for second term

The people of Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State under the aegis of Ekid Peoples Union have thrown their weight behind their son Governor Udom Emmanuel by acknowledging his excellent leadership strides and endorsing him for a second term in office.

This position was made known when members of the Ekid Peoples Union led by the President Professor Asindi A Asindi paid a solidarity visit to Governor Emmanuel at Government House, Uyo.

The Union which is an apex organisation in Ekid Nation commended Governor Emmanuel’s dexterity in the deployment of the state resources for all- round development of the state despite the economic recession .

Village Head murdered in Ukanafun

The Village Head of Ikot Anta Eneng Obom in Ukanafun Local Government of Akwa Ibom, Chief Emmanuel Jim Umahaeyo has been killed by unknown gunmen suspected to be hired assassins.

Chief Umahaeyo, who was shot twice in his compound Tuesday evening by two unknown gunmen riding on a motor cycle, died on the spot.

Though the suspected assassins have not been apprehended, the death of the royal father may not be unconnected with an altercation he had with a faction of youth leaders in the village.

The late village head who assumed leadership in December 2010 was said to be having a running battle with a deposed youth leader in the village, one Eyak Umoekpo by ensuring the emergence of Esitime Emmanson as the new youth leader.

Embrace National ID card and pre-census programmes -Ekong Sampson urges A’Ibom people

Communities in Akwa Ibom State have been encouraged to key into the ongoing Federal Government National Identity Management System and the Pre-Census Programme, to ensure proper positioning of the State in national scheme.

The Special adviser, Bureau of Political, Legislative Affairs and Water Resources, Rt. Hon. (Barr.) Ekong Sampson made the advocacy during defence of his Bureau’s N1.3b budget for the 2017 fiscal year, at the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly. He said that Nigeria has already been overdue for a comprehensive database which he noted is a pre-requisite for proper economic planning.

The Honourable Special Adviser identified the need for communities in the State to be mobilized to take advantage of the several locations of National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) outlets across the State and get enrolled to be, and be captured in the national database. 

Step up your efforts in crime prevention, High court Judge tells PCRC

A High Court Judge in Akwa Ibom State, His Lordship, Justice Ekerette Ebienyie has appealed to members of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) to intensify effort in crime prevention and in educating members of the masses on the workings of the Nigeria Police.

Justice Ebienyie made this appeal last Saturday at the Civic Center, Ibong Ikot Akan in Ikot Ekpene during the conferment of Honorary Membership Award on Uko Ikot Ekpene, Engineer Udo Tom Essien by the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) Ikot Ekpene Area Command.

Justice Ebienyie bemoaned a situation where people are arrested by the Police for crimes committed by members of their families while PCRC members were busy arranging bail. 

Govt to revive state printing press

The State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Charles Udoh has reassured that the state government is passionate about resuscitating the government printing press.

The Commissioner, who stated this during an inspection tour of facilities in the Printing Press, stressed that the Udom Emmanuel-led administration is committed and ready to revitalize the Press for functional use, despite limited resources.

Speaking earlier, the Government Printer, Apostle Johnson Udoh said, the machines in the printing press needed to be replaced with modern facilities as most of the equipments were in operation last in 2005 and appealed to the state government to revive the Press for its socio-economic value to the state.

Citizens should not abuse the office of the Governor- Charles Udoh

The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Charles Udoh has enjoined Akwa Ibom people to accord the office of the Governor, the sanctity and respect it deserves. 

Mr Udoh, who gave this advice during a visit to him by members of the Inter-party Advisory Council Akwa Ibom State (IPAC), recently in his office, condemned the act of abusing the office of the governor, saying “I implore all of you to say in one voice and in unison that, the office of the governor must be respected”. He emphasised that Udom Emmanuel is not Governor of PDP but Governor of everyone in the state, irrespective of political, religious or ethnic inclinations.

The Commissioner emphasized that Governor Udom Emmanuel is transparent, passionate and committed to serve Akwa Ibom State and therefore called on members of Inter-party Advisory Council to give their unalloyed support to the governor.  

My Contribution on 2017 Budget Proposal - Sen. Bassey Albert Akpan

A close look at the 2017 budget indicates that its focus is on consolidating on the government economic recovery programme; restoring growth; ensure coherence between Monetary and Fiscal policies as well as Trade policy; completion of key infrastructure; and guaranteeing security of lives and properties.

Since the Budget deficit is still about the same, it is clear from the analysis that the increase on the budget is as a result of the increase in the benchmark exchange rate; marginal increase in benchmark crude price of $ 42.5/b; and Increment of over N 300 billion in recurrent expenditure.

One would therefore ask: with a deficit of N2.36 Trillion and Capital Budget of N 2.24 Trillion, what are the prospects of implementing the capital budget?

An attempt to address this question is to critically examine the CBN’s Forex Policy Regime. Currently, CBN is operating seven different Forex policies viz: Official rate, Money Transfer rate, Religious Pilgrimage rate, PMS import rate, AGO import rate, Bureau de change rate and Special window rate.

This has resulted in lack of investors’ confidence and has led to the withdrawal of over $ 87billion Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the last 16 months.

Youths tasked against criminality

...as Engr. U. T. Essien bags PCRC Honorary membership award

BY NSEOBONG DAVID

Youths of Ibong Ikot Akan in Ikot Ekpene Local Government area have been advised to shun criminality and embrace peace in order to achieve a conflict-free society.

The charge was made during the conferment of the Honorary Membership Award on Uko Ikot Ekpene, Engr. Udo Tom Essien by the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), Ikot Ekpene Area Command.

The event which attracted the crème de la crème in Ikot Ekpene LGA was held at Ibong Ikot Akan Hall on Saturday, 2th January 2017.

In her opening remarks, a former Librarian in the University of Uyo, Professor (Mrs.) Felicia Bassey thanked the PCRC for the honour conveyed on Engr. U. T. Essien, adding that the Award is well deserved, as he is a true philanthropist and a crusader for education who has impacted many lives in the community.  She urged youths in the area to emulate Engr. Essien’s gesture and work hard for a well deserved honour both in the community and everywhere they find themselves.

Udom seeks partnership for jobs creation

Akwa Ibom State Governor Mr Udom Emmanuel has called on the people of the state to partner with him in the task of laying an enduring economic legacy that would open up employment opportunities for the youths and engender sustainable development.

Governor Emmanuel made the call when a delegation of Traditional Rulers and Political Stakeholders of Ikot Abasi Extraction paid a solidarity visit on him at his office, Government House - Uyo.

He said that Akwa ibom is richly endowed with natural resources which should be adequately harnesed to create wealth and spoke extensively on the gains the area stands to derive when the investments programmes mature.

His Words : “survey for the creation of access roads in the coastal region is on course. This administration under my watch will leave no stone untouched in my poise to ensure the success of the Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone harbour as well as partnering with investors in the building of an industrial Estate to enliven economic activities in the area”

Bassey Etim’s counsel submitted fake delegates list, result to court – PDP

…as Party provides Court with Authentic List, result sheet

…clears Air on Multiple Expression of Interest by Aspirants

The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Assembly primaries Screening and Nomination Committee for Akwa Ibom in the build up to the 2015 National Assembly elections, Mr Olatunbosun Osuntokun on Friday (20th January, 2017) told the Federal High Court, Uyo in the on-going pre-election matter between one Bassey Etim and Distinguished Senator Bassey Albert representing Akwa Ibom North East (Uyo) Senatorial District who doubles as Chair, Senate Committee on Gas that the delegates list and result sheet earlier submitted by the plaintiff’s (Bassey Etim) Counsel, Barr. Taiwo Abe were fake and accordingly submitted the authentic list and result Sheet as it were to the court.

Osuntokun said “As the Chairman of the National Assembly primaries Committee for Akwa Ibom in December, 2014, I present and adopt the authentic delegates list that was used for the election and the result of that nomination exercise”. The judge, Mr. Riman had accordingly accepted the list and result as evidence after satisfactory responses from the questions posed by the plaintiff’s counsel.

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

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

Defection of Senator Nelson Effiong to APC is shameful, inconsequential - Hon. Michael Enyong

The member representing Uyo Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Hon. (Dr) Michael Enyong, has described as shameful and inconsequential the defection of Senator Nelson Effiong to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking with a large number of newsmen in Uyo, Saturday, the eloquent House of Representatives member said the political future of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State is completely unaffected by Effiong’s defection to the APC.

He called on Akwa Ibom people to continue to support and show loyalty to the administration of Governor Udom Emmanuel, assuring that “PDP is a household name and an irrepressible religion in Akwa Ibom State.”

Senator Nelson Effiong, on Thursday, 19th January 2017, during plenary, handed a letter to the leadership of the Senate and announced his defection to the APC.

Drivers, Police clash over extortions

Angered by excessive extortions by police and other security agencies, drivers in Eket, Thursday abandoned their passengers and protested with solidarity songs, armed with palm fronts with to drive home their rejection of illegal check point on Eket - Ibeno road

The drivers and their support staff numbering about a hundred armed with dangerous weapons marched on Eket Ibeno road with a determination to confront them at all the illegal check point by different police and security agencies and ensure it is dismantled forthwith.

The decision to take to the street according to spokesman for the taxi cab operators Mr. Francis Edinam Udo is to bring their plight in the hands of the police, F.R.S.C and other security agencies to the knowledge of the government.

Nelson Effiong under fire over attack on Udom, Ephraim Inyang

BY EMMANUEL AKPAN

Aides to Governor Udom Emmanuel have fired back at Senator Nelson Effiong following his Saturday’s interview on radio program, community views on planet FM, Uyo. It could be recalled that Senator Nelson Effiong who is the Senator representing Eket Senatorial District in the Senate, had on Thursday during the plenary of the upper chamber defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

A development that has generated political controversies both in Eket Senatorial District and Akwa Ibom State in general. Senator Nelson Effiong had on Saturday appeared as a guest on community view, a radio program on Planet FM 101.1, Uyo, made so many unacceptable comments on the State Governor, Deacon Udom Emmanuel and the Commissioner for Works, Akparawa Ephraim Inyang.

Samuel Ikon rallies Support for Maritime University in Akwa Ibom

The quest for the transformation of Maritime Academy of Nigerian Oron into a degree awarding institution received a major boost in the National Assembly recently as Rt. Hon Samuel Ikon moved a motion for the upgrade of existing Maritime Academy to a degree awarding institution.

Addressing colleagues, Rt Hon Ikon who represents Etinan Federal Constituency described the existing Maritime Academy as a dependable resource base in the maritime industry, noting that, the industry is a high income earner of the economy anywhere in the world.

While soliciting the support of his colleagues, Ikon who served as speaker of the 5th assembly, told them that an upgrade of the Maritime institution will help check capital flight where Nigerian students go elsewhere to get certification in order to operate in the industry.

Akwa Ibom NDDC boss dies

A former Akwa Ibom State representative at the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC Pastor Godwin Moffat has reportedly died.

Sources from his family told THE INK reporters in Eket that the late Moffat passed on early hours of yesterday after a brief illness.

His remains have since been deposited in a mortuary in Eket Local Government Area. The deceased who served as the Akwa Ibom commissioner in the board of NDDC during the Obong Attah era hails from Ikpa in Esit Eket Local Government Area. 

He is survived by a wife and children. The Late Godwin Moffat was earlier called and ordained a minister of God and he served in Covenant Ministries Eket till he passed on.

Obong Nsima Ekere is a God’s sent leader

BY UBONG INYANG

The Board of Directors, management and the entire staff of Kosta Technology Company, an indigenous firm in Uyo, has expressed their support, solidarity as well as overwhelming happiness over the appointment of Obong Nsima Ekere as the Managing Director and Chief Executive of Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC.

Prince Lawrence Akwa the CEO of the company revealed this while briefing news men in his office. He likened Obong Nsima Ekere to the biblical King David who soared to greatness without much stress while adding that the Ikot Abasi born politician was a born leader.

 He also added that once someone is anointed from the womb to be a king, irrespective of the challenges that follow, the person must be king at the appointed time that is why Obong Nsima Ekere’s path to leadership since 2007 till date wasn’t his personal decision but a divine call from God and that has made him defy all odds and overcome all the past challenges and stepped into the presidency as the MD/CEO of NDDC without stress. “Now we can clearly state that Nsima Ekere is a God’s sent leader just like King David in the Bible because his path to greatness has been without stress” he added.

Why we are driving Nigeria First Initiative - NyaEtok

Foremost Nigerian Architect and Pioneer National Chairman of Young Democratic Party, Ezekiel Nyaetok has assured that, those who seek to lead Nigeria at Local, state and Federal levels must be subjected to rigorous scrutiny for the best to emerge and salvage our nation.

Arch. Nyaetok dropped this hint, while explaining the objectives and focus of his new project, Nigeria First Initiative in a chat with newsmen.

Explaining that, Nigeria First Initiative is strictly non partisan group. Committed to charting and entrenching a new patriotic paradigm of putting our nation first in private and public service, Nyaetok who is the convener and Director General of the group, insisted that, the movement is not interested in praising or condemning anybody or our government at all levels.

Akwa Ibom gets new Commissioner of Police

Information reaching THE INK Newspaper indicates that, the State commissioner for police Murtala Mani has been transferred. Mani who was posted to A’Ibom by the police hierarchy shortly after the 2015 general elections is less than three years in his service as the Akwa Ibom State commissioner of police.

A civilian member of the PSC in Abuja told our reporter that Murtala Mani is proceeding on a course and may be promoted to the rank of an AIG upon resumption of duties after the course.  The PSC man however stated that in the event where there is no vacancy that Mani will have to be posted to another state to continue as a commissioner.

The CP who contributed his quota towards the security and safety of Akwa Ibom State was to be at the inspiration FM radio 10 Km walk on Saturday but news of his redeployment struck and he stayed away from the physical exercise.

Lawmaker reassures commitment to effective representation

The member representing Esit Eket/Ibeno constituency in the Akwa Ibom state House of Assembly, Mr. Usoro Akpanusoh, has assured his constituents of effective representation that would usher in a new vista of socio-economic development of the oil rich area.

Akpanusoh who is also the chairman, House committee on Finance and Appropriation gave the ssurance in Esit Eket while handing over twobed-room flats he built for two of his constituents as part of efforts to improve their welfare.

Akpanusoh who conducted newsmen around some of his ongoing constituency projects in Esit Eket Local Government Area on Saturday, said that he was moved by the inclement conditions which he found the beneficiaries.

Akwa Ibom Community shield commences

The football tournament which is sponsored by the Member representing Itu in the State House of Assembly is aimed at discovering young talents at the grassroots level within and outside Akwa Ibom state.

Performing the kick-off at the Uyo International Stadium the Deputy Speaker of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Mrs. Felicia Bassey commended the sponsor Mr. Idong Ituen for his commitment to sports development in the state.

APC’s plot to sack Udoedehe falls flat

BY VICTOR UFOT

Attempts by the state Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Akwa Ibom State Mr. Adamdu Attai and his associates to illegally expel Senator Akpan Udoedehe from the party was yesterday vehemently resisted by youths believed to be loyal to the former Senator.

Our reporter gathered that the State Party Chairman in connection with Obong Okon Umana the party’s flag bearer in the 2015 general elections have started scheming on how to expel Senator Udoedehe from the party because of the latter ambition of contesting the forthcoming general elections in 2019.

THE INK reporter who visited the party house was informed that problem started when youths supporting the former senator heard that some members of State Party officers headed by the State Chairman were at the state secretariat to finalize plans to oust party some members loyal to Senator Udoedehe from the party. The youths in their numbers mobilized the youths to the Party office and gained entrance into the party office in a bid to disrupt the meeting.

Nsima Ekere 182 Days in Office

BY DOPSE EBEREFIAK

Nsima Ekere, a Former Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State and presently serving as the Managing Director, NDDC, is unarguably one of Nigeria’s greatest asset. One interesting fact associated with this articulated son of the soil is that he has always raised the level of his performance to meet expectations.

Prior to his emergence as Managing Director, NDDC, Obong Nsima Ekere served meritoriously as Chairman, Akwa Ibom Investment and Industrial Promotion Council, AKIIPOC, (the State Investment agency) from 2007-2012. He also served as Chairman, Ibom Power Company from 2008-2011 and equally as Deputy Governor of the State within May 2011 and October 2012. Within these periods, he demystified the act of governance and laid a concrete foundation that has inexorably become a research point for students of leadership development.