Exposing Ekerette Udoh, CPS to Governor Udom Emmanuel

Exposing Ekerette Udoh, CPS to Governor Udom Emmanuel

I don’t know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody. - Bill Cosby

In explaining the above assertion Bill Cosby simplified his claims thus.  According to him, “One of the weaknesses of many of today’s leaders is our compulsion to take surveys.  It happens in politics, and it happens in churches.  

A leader must go beyond being a people-pleaser to being a God-pleaser.  If our need for the people’s affirmation exceeds our need for God’s affirmation, we’re in trouble.  Leadership sometimes means doing what’s unpopular”. 

Cosby’s theory of what a leader should and should not be or do is the everyday experiences in our society today.  An example is  Governor Udom Emmanuel who came on board not being loquacious.  He carefully avoided seeking to please everybody, but he was focused doing his work adroitly.  He has been pummelled front and back and he will not budge.  He kept on working despite daunting challenges.  

Lately, he would not even mention his projects until they are hatched like the proverbial eggs.  Today, Governor Udom Emmanuel is cruising home with over fourteen workable PPP industries donning the economic space of Akwa Ibom State.  Roads infrastructure are spreading like wild fire of the Harmarttan season  across the senatorial districts of the Akwa Ibom.  Ibom Air is flying and making the mark.  All the sectors of the Akwa Ibom economy are kicking and yet the traducers of Governor Udom Emmanuel, even as glaring as the facts are, would not rest.

It is however true that a society most times is the reflection of its leader.  It could be adopted too that followers most times are likely to keenly observe and follow the footsteps of their leaders.  Ekerete Udoh, a former columnist in NewsDay Newspaper and Vice Chairman of News of the World Newspaper, Lagos, and currently the Chief Press Secretary/Senior Special Assistant to Governor Udom Emmanuel on Media, is cast in this mould.  

Again, #UDOM wowed Akwa Ibomites with new cars for doing nothing (NORLAND)

Again, #UDOM wowed Akwa Ibomites with new cars for doing nothing (NORLAND )

Few days ago, Glory Udom, an Akwa Ibom-born entrepreneur, was awarded with a GOLD DIAMOND by NORLAND INDUSTRAL GROUP during the 2019 NORLAND CAR AWARD in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

She also parted away with a whooping Four Million Naira (N4M) cash.

Seven members in her team, The NORLAND HIGH-FLIERS also got brand new SUVs.

See details of the event in video below

 

For Norland, It’s all about making money from the things that takes money from your pocket on regular bases, even the poor can find every means to shine their teeth.

WHY YOU SHOULD JOIN NORLAND BUSINESS

Election was tough but God made it easy for PDP - Woman Leader

The Woman Leader of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Afaha Obong Ward 2 in Abak Local Government Area, Mrs. Ima Idongesit Johnson has said that the recently concluded election was tough but God made it easy for the party.

Mrs. Ima Johnson who spoke with journalists shortly after receiving an Award presented to her by the PDP Ward Executive, Afaha Obong Ward 2, described the re-election of Mr. Udom Emmanuel as the divine work of God. “It was a very tough election. We had thought how we would do it, but God did it all because our dynamic Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel anchored his project on Only God and God did not disappoint him”, she stated.

The Woman Leader called on the people of Abak to continue to remain steadfast, as according to her, PDP is the party of truth and should also support all the newly-elected leaders to succeed in their up-coming assignment. “My advice to the people of Abak is for them to remain steadfast in PDP. They should stand by the truth because PDP is the party of truth. They should continue to support the party and all the newly elected officers”, he advised.

On the award conferred on her, Mrs. Ima Johnson expressed gratitude to God for what He has done in her life. She thanked the PDP Chairman in the Ward, Mr. Nsisong Etukudoh and the entire ward executive for the honour done her, stressing that mobilizing women of the ward to support the party would not have been successful without God.

The Woman leader called on the people of the ward embrace God, since according to her, there is nothing God cannot do.

I will continue to do my best for the Party - PDP Chairman

The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Abak Urban Ward 3 in Abak Local Government area, Mr. Charles Ekukinam has said that he will continue to do his best for the growth and success of the party.

Mr. Ekukinam who spoke after receiving an Award conferred on him by the PDP Ward Executive, Afaha Obong Ward 2 for his outstanding contribution to the success of the party in Abak Local Government area, expressed happiness that his little contribution has been noticed.

Mr. Ekukinam who is the Chairman Forum of PDP Ward Chairmen in Abak, commended the PDP Chairman for Afaha Obong Ward 2, Mr. Nsisong Etukudoh and his executive members for their well-thought initiative, stressing that the award will encourage him to do more for the party in particular and humanity in general.

He thanked the State Deputy Governor, Mr. Moses Ekpo for giving him the opportunity to serve as the Ward Chairman. Mr. Ekukinam showered praises on the Member-elect for Abak-Etim Ekpo-Ika Federal Constituency, Hon. Elder Aniekan Umanah who he described as his mentor, for always giving him good advice. The Party Chairman also thanked the Ward Chairmen for the confidence reposed in him as their Chairman, the Ward Executive, Elders, Stakeholders and the entire people of his ward for their support and cooperation which led to the success recorded by the party in the area.

He prayed God to bless and reward them abundantly.

Mr. Ekukinam dedicated the award to God.

DAKKADA Entrepreneurs Ambassadors honours Brig. General Etukudo

BY ASSAM ABIA

Brig. General Anthony D. Etukudo (Rtd) OON, has been decorated with another golden feather on his cap by Dakkada Entrepreneurs Ambassadors, DEAL, for his enormous contributions to the success of the 2019 general elections in Akwa Ibom State. 

In a well attended ceremony including the State governor in Uyo recently, the Chairman of DEAl, Mr Sam Edoho, himself a Senior Special Assistant to governor Udom Emmanuel said that the former military officer has shown great patriotism for Akwa Ibom State, especially during the just concluded general elections in which he assisted in the maintenance of peace. 

Mr Edoho described General Anthony Etukudo as a retired Army General who is not tired of rendering selfless services to his motherland. 

He commended him for leading a team of both local and foreign election observers during the general elections throughout the State, an action he said culminated into the peaceful conduct of the elections. 

“General Etukudo is a retired Army General who is never tired to respond to national call in times of emergency, he personally averted.

RCCG issues business grants to members

BY ABASIFREKE OBOT

In a bid to add colossal value, growth and development to the businesses of its members and by extension, boost their standard of living,  the Redeemed Christian Church of God(RCCG), Grace and Glory Maga Zone on Sunday empowered 17 of her members with huge finances to start up as well as run their businesses.

The special empowerment programme which took its first phase held at the church auditorium, 67 Wellington Bassey,  Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Addressing the beneficiaries, the host minister, Pastor Chris Eromosele, informed that the Church thought it apt to give out start-up capital to them in order to aid their businesses and bring their business ideas to fruition.

The cleric advised beneficiaries to use the capital judiciously and also ensure to use the capital to accomplish the purpose for which it has been given them.

He noted that the next phase of this special empowerment, by the grace of God, will be mapped out to accommodate over 30 beneficiaries and more in subsequent phases.

Re-Union: Samuel Bill Students tackle Old Boys

Re-Union: Samuel Bill Students tackle Old Boys

The premises of Samuel Bill Theological College in Abak Local Government Area will this weekend witness influx of personalities as Old Boys of the School arrive for their annual get-together (re-union).

The event which is scheduled for Saturday, 4th May, 2019 at the school premises will commence with a novelty football match between the current Students of the school and the Old Boys at the school sports-ground on Friday, 3rd May, 2019 by 4pm.

Those expected to feature for the Old Boys Team are former footballers who had made their mark while playing for the school. The annual event which will attract Old Boys of the school from all the chapters within and outside the country, has a former Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Uwem Udoma as the Chairman of the Planning Committee while the Executive Chairman of Abak, Hon. Barr. Imoh Williams is the Chief Host.

Speaking with our reporter about the up-coming event, the Chief Host and Chairman, Abak Local Government Area, Barr. Imoh Williams explained that it is an annual event aimed at bringing old students of the school together to chart a new cause for the development of the school.

Bolt launches in Uyo, Calabar

Bolt launches in Uyo, Calabar

Bolt (formerly Taxify), the leading on-demand transportation platform in Africa on 3rd May, 2919launched operations in Uyo and Calabar. It is the first ride hailing service to connect passengers with drivers in these cities. 

The expansion move brings Bolt’s cities in Nigeria to a total of seven: the service is already well established in Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, Owerri and Benin City.   

Bolt is a cell phone-based application that lets passengers easily, quickly and cost-effectively request for a driver to pick them up wherever they are, to take them wherever they want to go. 

Uche Okafor, Bolt’s Regional Manager for West Africa: ”After our successful launches in Nigeria’s main centres, expanding to Uyo and Calabar is a natural next step for Bolt as it further reinforces our position to make urban travel easier, quicker and more reliable. We are also looking forward to introducing flexible employment opportunities to thousands of drivers and vehicle owners in both cities”.  

Akwa Ibom Youths extol Gov. Udom over peaceful election

Akwa Ibom Youths extol Gov. Udom over peaceful election

Youths in Akwa Ibom State have lauded the state governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, for ensuring that peace reigned supreme during the just concluded 2019 general elections in the state.

The youths who came under the auspices of Young Democratic Movement (YDM), made this known while on a courtesy visit to the state commissioner for Special Duties and Aviation Services, Mr. Akan Okon in Uyo on Wednesday.

Speaking, the Leader, YDM, Prince Kuseme, said that even though politicians from different quarters chanted war songs suggesting that the elections would be marred by violence and irregularities, the governor maintained a peaceful disposition which made room for unruffled polls in the state.

The Leader also encouraged political actors in the last elections that either won or lost to join hands together to build and push the state forward, saying that the collective growth of the state is more important that ambition of an individual.

Attack on Members of ONNA Legislative Council: Council Boss deny involvement

Attack on Members of ONNA Legislative Council: Council Boss deny involvement

- Says mischief makers on the prowl

The ONNA LG Boss, Hon. Imoh Attat has debunked rumours linking him to the attack on Councilors of his Legislative Council in the council chambers today.

Speaking with this reporter, he said that the executive arm has enjoyed a robust working relationship with the legislature since the inception of the administration, and as such can’t involve in any unlawful action that can severe such productive relationship.

He stated that councillors had been misinformed by someone he is yet to know that he collected 17M instead of 8M naira as allocation accrued to the local government for the month of March, and has also collected several entitlements on behalf the councillors without remitting same.

Attat said further that Councilors on receiving this information surreptitiously hatched plots of his impeachment after he was invited to balance information rightly as it was.

He stated that the attack on some Councilors is also a concoction by those orchestrating the peddled smear campaign of his pilfering funds due to the legislators, who are also in a coup to oust him from office by all means.

Uyo Council VC, CEO Flaire Decor dedicate DEAL award to God

Uyo Council VC, CEO Flaire Decor dedicate DEAL award to God

...We will do more, everybody worked for Udom’s Victory - DEAL Chairman

...Says the award presentation is in batches

The Vice Chairman of Uyo Local Government Council, Ukai Udeme Emmanuel and Mrs. Eseme Essien has dedicated the Dakkada Entrepreneurs Ambassadors League award presented to them to God.

Fielding question from Journalist during the DEAL Thanksgiving Award Ceremony on Sunday at Duolaz Event Center in Uyo, the Council Vice Chairman thanked the organizers of the event for honor done him.

He expressed satisfaction with the award, describing the award as an honor from a sincere assessment, in that he has not paid a dime for the award before selection as the award is just a thank you message of encouragement for him to do more.

Easter Celebration: Christians should love one another and remember the needy - Koko Ekpo

Easter Celebration: Christians should love one another and remember the needy - Koko Ekpo

As Christians, the world over celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the International President, Abak 5-In-One Consolidated Movement, Prince Kokoette Ekpo has called on them to emulate the teachings and example of Jesus Christ.

Prince Kokoette Ekpo who made the call at the weekend when he hosted Executive members of the organization at his residence at Abak, explained that as followers of Christ, Christians should love one another as Christ loved the church. “Easter is a period of sober reflection. We should be grateful to God for sending his only begotten son, Jesus Christ to come and die for redemption of mankind. So, we should equally love one another, live peacefully with all men and remember the needy and the less privileged ones in the society”, Prince Ekpo advised.

The former Member, Abak Local Government Transition Committee called on members of the organization to use the period of Easter to pray for the government of Mr. Udom Emmanuel, all the newly elected leaders and peace of the country.

He assured the executive and members of the organization that the National Secretariat of the organization will soon be ready for inauguration.

Elected NASS Members say Gov. Emmanuel’s victory, lesson to all

Elected NASS Members say Gov. Emmanuel’s victory, lesson to all

Elected members of the national assembly from Akwa Ibom State say the sweeping victory of Governor Udom Emmanuel and the entire PDP candidates in the state sends a strong message that everyone needs to remain humble and grateful to God as the redeemer and father of all.

In a goodwill message jointly signed, the 13 members-elect congratulated the Governor and his wife Martha, on his re-election for a second term in office.

“We are convinced that ONLY GOD could have guaranteed such landslide win. 

We are grateful that your enduring legacies of sustainable development have not only raised Akwa Ibom to national reckoning, but also become for us the building block that won the people’s confidence.”

The incoming national assemblymen acknowledged the “speed the state has gained through your superlative performance in industrialization, infrastructural development, wealth creation, youth and women empowerment,peace, security and prosperity.”

While pledging their support and loyalty to Governor Emmanuel’s completion agenda, the re-terated their resolve to use their engagements in the national assembly to partner the Governor’s efforts at developing the state.

Politicians lobby Ufot Ebong, Udoeka, Udom’s brother for appointments …donate goats, yams, others Items to curry favor

Politicians lobby Ufot Ebong, Udoeka, Udom’s brother for appointments

... turn due process man’s residence to Jerusalem

…donate goats, yams, others Items to curry favor

BY KENNETH JUDE

The persistent fuel scarcity occasioned by the strike action embarked upon by the Petroleum Tankers (PTD), for more than one week in Akwa Ibom State has come to an end.

This is sequel to the resolutions reached at a meeting between Akwa Ibom State Government and representatives of the Petroleum Tankers’ Drivers (PTD), Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and the Nigeria Union of Petroleum & Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) held in the office of the Secretary to the State Government on Monday.

This more was contained in a press release signed by the Special Assistant to the governor on Petroleum Matters, Engr. Festus Sunday, MNSE, the Deputy National President of NUPENG, Comrade Bassey Harry and the National Treasurer of the Petroleum Tankers’ Drivers (PTA), Canaan Otu.

The release has directed sellers of Petroleum products in the state to immediately revert to the Government regulated price of N145.00 per litre, adding that failure to comply with the directive will attract sanctions.

The release made available to our reporter read: “the strike action has been called off in order to avoid continued hardship caused on the generality of Akwa Ibom people and residents.”

The Special Assistant to the governor however apologized to the people of Akwa Ibom for the hardship they suffered over the period the strike lasted.

According to the release, the decision of the union is based on the intervention of the State Government in the face off that led to the strike action.

The release also urged the Petroleum Tankers’ Drivers and members of the Law Enforcement Agencies on routine duties in the state to always conduct themselves within the ambit of the law in the discharge of their responsibilities.

Meanwhile, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Emmanuel Ekuwem, has called on Petroleum marketers and their allied partners not to embark on strike again, due to what he termed as the attendant suffering it poses to the people.

Ekuwem who spoke in his office shortly after the suspension of the strike, noted that those greatly affected by the strike were ordinary citizens, adding that strike actions do not favour anybody.

The SSG noted that the Akwa Ibom State Government is only intervening in the crisis due to the hardship the fuel scarcity has brought to the people, adding that the government was not involved in the crisis, but only stepping in as a peacemaker.

“You know that government was not at the check point when the incident happened. The Police was responsible not government. Government was not involved, but only intervening as a peacemaker to ensure that things are better for Akwa Ibomites. Government is innocent in this matter and is stepping in for peace to reign. The economy has suffered in the past five days due to this strike,” he stated.

He thanked everyone for the result achieved, adding however that the fuel scarcity was not good for the economy of the state, even as he called on drivers to always obey the Police.

Responding, the Deputy National  President of NUPENG, Comrade Bassey Harry, said as a union they don’t celebrate strike actions.

He noted that the issue that snowballed into the strike action began in September last year, saying that had there been immediate intervention from appropriate quarters, the strike could not have been embarked upon.

While apologising to the people of the state for the strike, Mr. Harry commended the effort of the State Government made through the SSGs office in intervening in the crisis, noting that “For my 28 years in this union, this is the first time I’ve seen a government take an action like this.”

He promised to take the SSGs message back home, saying that “we’ll raise these issues of talking to our members about dealing with police on the Road.”

Chief Udoma Ubom reacts to widow’s allegation against the Police

Chief Udoma Ubom reacts to widow’s allegation against the Police

With Reference to the publication of Tuesday 23rd April – Monday 29th April, 2019., Vol.4, No.105 by THE INK Newspaper Captioned “Police Brutality, How IGP Squad MAIMED, abuse Divorce in Akwa Ibom State” by one Mrs. Margaret Etim Udoh of St. Christopher Avenue, Nung Udoe, Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State at about 10.00am on the night of Saturday 13th April, 2019 and Sunday Punch April 28, 2019 Vol. 23 No. 20,047 Caption, “I want IG to punish cops who humiliated me in my house -  A’Ibom divorcee brutalized by policemen”. 

I, Hon. Elder Udoma Ubom Akpan father of the Late Mr. Udoma Udoma Ubom of No. 5A, Akpasak Street, Afaha Nsit, Nsit Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State and a father of Late Mr. Udoma Udoma Ubom who was killed by known members of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Cult group members led by Victor Moses Elijah and Aniekan Moses Etuk on the Eve of the Gubernatorial and House of Assembly Elections which was 8th March, 2019 at about 9:30 pm after returning from a friend’s house in his village. 

I accompanied the IRT Team from Abuja who came to arrest the key suspect that killed my son, late Mr. Udoma Udoma Ubom, Mr. Aniekan Moses Etuk, a staff of Estate and Works Department in College of Education, Afaha Nsit, Nsit Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State at where he relocated to Mrs. Margaret Etim Udo’s house at St. Christopher Avenue, Nung Udoe, Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State. Before the Police Team arrived the place, there was a careful tracking and the coordinates located them to that address. 

American based Cleric storms Eket with Festival of Miracles

American based Cleric storms Eket with Festival of Miracles

BY ASSAM ABIA

A world renown cleric, known for miracles, American based Nigerian, Apostle Charles Ndifon will storm the oil city of Eket on Tuesday May 7, 2019 to preside over a 5 day crusade organized by Trinity Gospel Mission. 

In a press briefing on Saturday, the presiding pastor of Trinity Gospel Mission, located at 29 Afaha Atai Road Eket, Pastor Ita Udoh, in company of his wife and other officials of the church said that the crusade is aimed at bringing down the power and glory of God for miracles in a manner that has never been experienced before in Akwa Ibom State. 

Apostle Udoh, a governorship aspirant of the 2015 gubernatorial election in Akwa Ibom State, anointed to serve humanity in the vineyard of God, said that the crusade wish is part of programs for the church second anniversary, will start on Tuesday May 7, and end on Sunday May 12, 2019 from 5pm daily and 9am on the last day, Sunday. 

My greatest achievement in life is Salvation in Jesus - Felicia Bassey

Inspite of her accumulated material blessings and Status in the public Service, the Deputy Speaker and Member representing Okobo State Constituency in Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly,Rt. Hon. Princess Felicia Bassey has attributed her greatest achievement in life to Salvation she derived from God some years ago .

Speaking in a visibly elated tone  during the 7th Anniversary of Shepherd Porch international,Uyo and birthday Ceremony of Presiding  Pastor of the Church,  Senior Pastor Tunde Oyeyipo, disclosed amidst tears of  Joy how Pastor Oyeyipo led her fully  to Christ, explaining  that the wonderful experience has completely changed her belief  in the Police might where she served in strategic departments before  joining  politics.

“ My Pastor, I’m always impressed to have you around us because you inspire me always with spirit- filled and soul lifting  messages.  Since you discovered me and led me to the path of Christ,I have experienced unmerited favour and blessings. Above all, the greatest achievement is the Salvation I have secured in Christ Jesus. Those who came with me to this church can boldly testify that I have remained resolute and steadfast in always leading them to Christ the Saviour. Am always fulfilled to drink from God’s fountain  of grace.

Ibiono Ibom students honour Ime Okon for Education Development

Ibiono Ibom students honour Ime Okon for Education Development 

IMMENSE contributions of the ember representing Ibiono Ibom in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly; Rt Hon (Barr) Ime Okon, to the development of education in his constituency and beyond over the years, have been commended. 

The commendation came Monday, from the leadership of National Association of Ibiono Ibom Students (NAIBS) Worldwide while presenting an award of honour to the lawmaker at his abode.

Describing Barr Okon as the “burden bearer of Ibiono Ibom Students”,  the Worldwide President of NAIBS, Comrade Nathaniel Ukpoho, highlighted the impressive role of the lawmaker in taking the burden of sponsoring a good number of indigent Ibiono Ibom students away from parents and guardians, saying the gesture has not gone unnoticed within and outside the State.

“We are so privileged to have a rare politician like you who takes delight in solving the educational challenges through sponsorship of innumerable number of Ibiono Ibom students in higher and tertiary institutions. Sir, you have done this from your first day in office and you are not tired of this humanitarian act eight years after. May God bless and reward you and we pray that God Almighty should give you other platforms so that you can continue serving humanity”, he said.

Akwa Ibom: Ibiono Ibom Councillor risks jail ...for assault, attempts to kill woman

Akwa Ibom: Ibiono Ibom Councillor risks jail ...for assault, attempts to kill woman

A Councillor in Ibiono Ibom Legislative Council Uduak Godwin Nseobot, alias King Pele who represents Southern II, Ward 6 in Ibiono Ibom LGA may soon taste the walls of solitude if he does not engage in drastic measures that will scale him out to safety.

The Councillor is accused by a middle aged woman Iniubong Essien of abusing, assaulting and attempting to kill her after falsely accusing her of stealing the money sprayed on the Councillor and his wife during their wedding recently.

Narrating her ordeal, she said, King Pele and the wife paraded her to the community square where she was accused of stealing some of the money sprayed on them during their marriage which took place that weekend.

There, the villagers, allegedly at the prompting of the Council lawmaker, stripped her naked, tied a rope around her waist, battered her with sticks and stones and paraded her round the village.

The Akwa Ibom State Branch of the International Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA has however stepped into the matter with a  petition sent to the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and the police to use their good offices to ensure the case was not swept under the carpet. 

Akwapoly holds 6th convocation Saturday ...Rector warns against cultism activities

BY ABASIFREKE OBOT

In tandem with Governor Udom Emmanuel’s zero tolerance for cultism in the State, the Rector of Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic (AKWAPOLY), Ikot Osurua, Dr. Moses Charles Umobong, has warned cultists against encroaching the venue of the upcoming Akwapoly Convocation ceremony billed for May 11th or making advances to perpertrate violence. 

This warning came while the Acting Rector, at a press briefing in Uyo, field questions from newsmen on security measures put in place to avert violence at the convocation, of which the recent cult induced violence in the University of Uyo was a case in point.

Dr. Umobong stated in strong terms that the citadel of learning does not condone cultism. In his words, “We don’t tolerate it here.”

THE INK captured that the school has attempted, faring successfully to bring the issue of cultism to the barest minimum and won’t fall short of expectations on Saturday.

Legal Practitioner calls for population control

Legal Practitioner calls for population control 

BY ASSAM ABIA

Barrister Vincent U. Essen, a caucus member of the All Progressive Congress, APC, Akwa Ibom State has called on the Federal Government to as a matter of urgency, check population explosion in Nigeria. 

Essien, in a press briefing in Eket, Akwa Ibom State, over the weekend, said that the country’s population was growing in a very alarming rate against the available resources and that if not urgently checked, the country may find itself groaning for food sufficiency and economic survival. 

He averred that Nigeria will in the next decade become the third most populous nation in the world after China and India, a situation he said will bring untold hardship to its citizenry, if proper planning is not done now. 

“We can never get it right if our economic planners do not consider the geometrical rise in our population vis-a-vis available resources and future projections”

“The Federal Government should as a matter of urgency formulate policies that will check population explosion through birth control and incentives to family planning, as was done in China some years ago”, Essien said. 

Ibibio Caucus in APC shun Nsima Ekere

Sensing the imminent defeat of the All Progressives Congress’ governorship candidate in the state, Obong Nsima Ekere, caucus members of Ibibio extraction in the party have reportedly deserted the former deputy governor.

THE INK gathered from impeccable sources that following the massive defeat recorded by the party in last Saturday’s Presidential and National Assembly elections, chieftains of the party have made a volte face in their support for the former NDDC Managing Director.

With the loss suffered by Senator Godswill Akpabio, sources say top shots of the APC are demoralised, adding that most of them are contemplating pitching their tents with Governor Udom Emmanuel and the Peoples Democratic Party.

Saturday’s results indicate that the deputy governorship candidate of the party, Amadu Attai, lost in his polling unit along with the state chairman of the party, Ini Okopido who also lost in his unit.

The results, a source said, has not gone down well with members of the party who feel the defeats faced by ranking members of the party in their units is a clear indication that they are politically weak and ineffective.

Chief Efemena Atutu commends Mike Igini

As AkwaIbom People and indeed Nigerians exercised their franchise at the polls, the Chairman of the Coalition of All Domestic Observer Groups in Akwa Ibom State, Chief Efemena Atutu has expressed confidence in the ability of the Independent National Electoral Commission’s REC in the State, Barr. Mike Igini to conduct the most free, fair and transparent elections ever in the history of the State.

Atutu who said that from their observation, INEC was ready to afford the electorate a level playing ground to exercise their franchise at the polls, harped on the integrity of the Resident Commissioner who he noted has over the years demonstrated unparalleled strength of character in conducting credible elections in any State he is saddled with the responsibility in Nigeria.

The Chairman of Observer groups arrived at this standpoint while exchanging views with newsmen in Uyo, the AkwaIbom State Capital City during the presidential and national assembly elections that took place across the country.

He stated that ‘We appreciate the arrangement put in place by the INEC in the State to ensure the security of sensitive materials and the arrival of the same at their respective Local Government areas and polling Units’.

Midim APC Leaders hail supporters over election

Leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Midim Ward 1 and Midim Ward 2 in Abak Local Government Area have expressed dissatisfaction over the cancellation of the results of election in Midim and called on the Electoral Officer (EO) in charge of the area to as a matter of urgency release the full details of the results.

In a well-attended Press Conference which took place at the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chapter Office along Ikot Ekpene Road, Abak yesterday, the Leaders pointed out that it is not the duty of the Electoral Officer to cancel results as supplied to the Ward Returning Officers by the Units Presiding Officers and that the pretense of relying on the smart card readers only in Midim Ward One and Two is unacceptable, whereas elections were not cancelled in Abak Urban Ward 3 where according to them, the younger brother of the PDP Candidate for House of Representatives was caught by the Army snatching ballot papers and boxes.

In a text read by the APC Candidate for Abak State Constituency seat, Barr. Victor Nkanang and signed by prominent Leaders from the two wards, the Leaders wondered why elections were not cancelled in Afaha Obong Ward 2 where according to them, it is known that thugs of the PDP carted away sensitive election materials of unit 2, 3, 4 and 7 only to return them at about 2pm of the 24th February, 2019 and a strong petition was served on the Electoral Officer (EO) by the Elders of APC Afaha Obong Ward 1 to that effect.

Group end rally for Udom’s re-election

Group end rally for Udom’s re-election

The support base of the PDP in Eket Urban Ward 3 swelled when more than a hundred members of Mobil Filling Station Volunteers Group for Udom 2019 rounded off her mobilization and sensitization rally for the electoral victory of Gov. Udom Emmanuel and other PDP candidates in the coming polls. 

The group according to her National Co-ordinator Mr. Sunny Ekerete Wilson, averred, Udom has performed exceedingly above expected standards in view of the dwindling finances of the state, especially the financial ingenuity exhibited by him since assumption of office. 

While some state governments are battling with backlog of salaries and pension, Gov. Udom has proven himself as a financial guru in the management of state funds to the delight of opponents. 

He recalled the industrialization pledge had been redeemed with the establishment of numerous cottage industries across the state that has generated much jobs for our teeming youths. The co-ordinator fondly called “Eyen Udom,” emphasized the resolve of the group to undertake streets to streets mobilization and sensitization rally was to keep members and electorates abreast of the latest achievements of the Udom-led administration which has brought untold joy, peace and industrial harmony to the state. 

Akwa Ibom IPAC condemns anti-Igini campaigns ...Restates confidence in State’s REC, INEC

Akwa Ibom IPAC condemns anti-Igini campaigns  ...Restates confidence in State’s REC, INEC ...As party leaders dissociate from protest

Leaders of political parties in Akwa Ibom State, under the aegis of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), have reaffirmed their confidence in the State’s Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mr. Mike Igini, describing the call for his removal as uncalled for and an attempt by one political party to overrule the 59 others in the State.

The State Chairman of Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) and Publicity Secretary of IPAC in the State, Reverend Aniebiet Emmanuel, made the position known while responding to pressmen, after their meeting in Uyo.

Emmanuel said IPAC, after its investigation of the alleged protest by political parties in Akwa Ibom State, calling for the replacement of the Resident Electoral Commissioner in the State, has established that what happened was just a gathering of one political party. Hence, he said, IPAC has resolve that no one political party can take a decision for the entire political parties in the State. 

The IPAC Publicity Secretary further decried the scenario that out of sixty political parties in the State, cook e up a kind of protest against a man who has been ascertained by IPAC, being the umbrella organisation for all political parties and other major stakeholders in party politics, one with the integrity to conduct a free, fair and credible elections.

In his words: “This is uncalled for and as IPAC we rise up against that and we say no. One man cannot determine the fate of all political parties in this State. It is not possible. We are not taking sides with any political party. We are saying that Mike Igini has no question mark, as far as the 2019 election is concerned”, Rev. Aniebiet Emmanuel said.

Former APC bigwig commends Akwa Ibom PDP for victorious outing during elections

BY ASSAM ABIA

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has been adjudged as the most organized, purposeful and ideologically focused political party in Nigeria, bearing in mind its victorious outing in the just concluded Presidential and national assembly elections. 

Chief Samingo Etukakpan a former chieftain of the All Progressive Congress, APC, Akwa Ibom State, who defected from the party few days to Saturday’s Presidential and national assembly elections, gave the verdict in Eket on Sunday while analysing the result so far gathered from units in the State. 

He congratulated the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Akwa Ibom State for its performance and peaceful conduct during the elections, even when faced with provocative and intimidating actions from the APC. 

Chief Etukapan who delivered his unit in Ward 4 Urban Eket with overwhelming votes for the PDP said he was optimistic that with the result so far gathered, the PDP will be victorious in all the elections in the State. 

Etukakpan, popularly known as “the people’s General of Eket politics” said further that the All Progressive Congress, APC, Akwa Ibom State, was an emergency conglomeration of desperate politicians who are out for their selfish interest, without having any thinking for the generality of the masses.

Champion Breweries unveils New Magazine

As part of her efforts to keep staff, customers, consumers and the general public abreast of events at the budding breweries,  the management of Champion Brewery, Uyo yesterday unveiled a new all glossory magazine as part of its re­positioning efforts in projecting the brands on the stable of the company into the national and international market.

Addressing newsmen at the company’s premises, the  Managing  Director o fthe Company Mr. Patrick Ejidoh said that the magazine which is a content developed material of all the staff is expected to promote the image of the company and ensure that the brands on the stable of the company remains on the limelight both nationally and internationally. 

He said that in the last two months, the concept for the production of themagazine has been collective with contributions from key stakeholders and heads of various departments of the company and that the magazine titled ”Champion News” is a novel concept that will boost marketing mileage for the company. 

Mr. Patrick Ejidoh re-affirmed that Champion Brewery is now fully resuscitated and fully functional in all capacity with the new caption of its Sazzy Sexy and Sleek looks of the new bottle shape to attract customers.

PDP candidates sweep polls in Akwa Ibom ...as Chris Ekpenyong floors Akpabio

PDP candidates sweep polls in Akwa Ibom ...as Chris Ekpenyong floors Akpabio

BY KENNETH JUDE

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State has swept last Saturday’s Presidential and National Assembly elections.

Its closest rivals, the All Progressives Congress (APC) were the biggest losers in the contests.

The PDP recorded resounding victories at various levels to cement its place as the dominant party in the state.

The Peoples Democratic Party won in all the 31 local government areas in the presidential election, including Ikot Abasi LGA where the APC governorship candidate in the state, Nsima Ekere, hails from. Akpabio also failed yo deliver Essien Udim for Buhari.

In the race for Akwa Ibom North East Senatorial district, Bassey Albert of the Peoples Democratic Party defeated his opponent, Bassey Etim of APC.

OBA, a returning Senator, polled a total votes of 147, 731 to defeat Bafil who scored 60, 930 votes.

Mrs. Akon Eyakenyi of the Peoples Democratic Party upstaged Senator Nelson Effiong in the Eket Senatorial district race.

Governorship Candidates in Akwa adjudge Saturday’s Election most free, transparent

Governorship Candidates in Akwa adjudge Saturday’s Election most free, transparent

Governorship Candidates in Akwa Ibom State, have declared that Saturday’s Presidential and National Assembly elections conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is acceptable and meet the criteria of being free and transparent.

The declaration was made in a communique issued and signed by the Governorship Candidates on Monday.

The candidates under the aegis of Forum of Governorship Candidates in Akwa Ibom State (FORGAK), expressed satisfaction with the commitment made by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, political parties, security agencies and various entities on the electoral process.

Gov. Udom Emmanuel not providing soft-landing for the defeated Senator Godswill Akpabio

Gov. Udom Emmanuel not providing soft-landing for the defeated Senator Godswill Akpabio

Our attention has been drawn to a malicious propaganda in the social media platforms by Senator Akpabio’s media hirelings that having been roundly rejected by the people of Akwa Ibom State North West Senatorial District in his bid for re-election to the National Assembly, that he has negotiated a soft landing with Governor Udom Emmanuel.

We wish to tell the good people of Akwa Ibom State and indeed the world that this is FALSE and a LIE FROM THE PIT OF HELL.  Governor Udom Emmanuel is happy that the wishes of the people of the Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District have been BOLDLY expressed through their votes and is particularly glad to note that the devious and devilish plans by enemies of our State to truncate our democratic process and the wishes of the people have been mightily resisted.

Governor Udom Emmanuel looks forward to working with the soon-to be- Senator (Engineer ) Chris Ekpeyong as he works to advance the welfare, development, peace and prosperity of the good people of Akwa Abasi Ibom State.

Arrest, prosecute Akpabio now, PDP urges IGP ...As party alleges plans by the ex-governor to set INEC Offices ablaze

BY KENNETH JUDE

The Akwa Ibom State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of Senator Godswill  Akpabio for several offences including violation the electoral act.

The party says the former governor who announced himself winner of Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial election held last Saturday contravened Section 27(2)(e) of the Electoral Act which provides that the Returning officer shall announce the result and declare the winner at the Senatorial Collation centre

In a press statement in Uyo on Monday, Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Comrade Ini Ememobong, said the former governor had held a party in his Ukana residence on Sunday where he reportedly declared himself winner of the Senatorial poll in violation of known laws.

The statement which reads in part says: “we call on the Inspector General of police to immediately arrest Senator Godswill Akpabio for conduct likely to breach public peace and violation of section 27(2)(e) of the electoral act. He should be prosecuted immediately so that upon conviction,the provision of Section 123(4) of the electoral act will be activated.

The party also alleged that Senator Akpabio has been making frantic efforts to upturn the results of Ikot Ekpene Senatorial district which, from the nine local government areas released so far, shows that the former governor is trailing the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Chris Ekpenyong, by over 50, 000 votes.

According to the PDP spokesman,  “the truth is that collation of results have been done in 9 out of 10 local government areas areas in Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District and three out of four of the House of Representatives seats declared by INEC as having been won by the PDP with a wide margin of more that 60,000 votes. The only LGA left is Essien Idim, which INEC is currently working on.”

NGO condemns sponsored protest against A’Ibom REC

The recent calls by the oppositions political party in Akwa Ibom State, the All Progressives Congress, APC for the redeployment of the Residence Electoral Commissioner, REC, Mr Mike Igini has continued to suffer massive condemnations from individuals and civic society organizations. 

The recent condemnation is coming from the Network Advancement Programme for Poverty and Disaster Risk Reduction (NAPPDRR), an NGO in the State.

The group, in a statement signed by the President, Al Mustapha Emem Edoho and made available to journalists in Eket who described the the call for redeployment of the Residence Electoral Commissioner as uncalled for, going by his previous track records of excellent, credible and peaceful conduct of elections across the States in the country.