Tuesday 26 February 2019

Ibibio Caucus in APC shun Nsima Ekere

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
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

Samingo Etukakpan - 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

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
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
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

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

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. 

Labour Party has not endorse Ekere - State Chairman

Labour Party has not endorse Ekere - State Chairman
Labour Party has not endorse Ekere - State Chairman

The State Chairman of Labour Party,  Akwa Ibom State Comrade Ukeme Kongkor has declared as a baronial lie a statement fabricated by one Elder Utip Etiebiet, who he described a well known imposter in the state and published on the Friday 22nd February, 2019 edition of ‘The Eye Newspaper’ claiming that Labour Party has endorse the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

Comrade Kongkor who made this statement in a press release made available to newsmen in the state, stated that ordinarily, he would not have liked to join issues with Elder Utip Etiebiet, the former state chairman of the party considering the issue surrounding his unfortunate sack from the party in the state but this, according to him,  became necessary considering the misleading nature of the message contained in the said report.

He stated unequivocally that the charade performed by Elder Etiebiet and his cohorts do not in anyway, reflect the position of Labour Party in Akwa Ibom State, that labour party has not endorse the candidature of Obong Nsima Ekere, the APC candidate in the March 2019 gubernatorial election in the state and that Elder Etiebiet is an imposter who was shown the exit route of the party due anti-party activities such as this.

According to him, Elder Utip Etiebiet was relieved of his duties as the state chairman of the party in the state by a letter dated 4th July 2018 and signed by the National Chairman of the party Alhaji Abdulkadir Abdusalami as such, do not have the right to convene a meeting, preside over a meeting, or make decisions on behalf of the Labour Party in the state.

ISDAN Chairman vows to vote Udom Emmanuel, Udeme Otong

The Chairman Inter State Drivers Association of Nigeria (ISDAN), Abak Chapter, Elder Friday Udo-Obot has promised to mobilize electorates to vote and return Governor Udom Emmanuel back to the Hilltop Mansion for a second term.

Elder Udo-Obot who spoke with journalists after casting his vote for all the PDP Candidates, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Dr. Chris Ekpenyong and Elder Aniekan Umanah during last Saturday’s election in his unit at Midim, expressed satisfaction with large turn-out of voters for the election.

Elder Udo-Obot who is the Chairman, Abak-Aba Bus Park, pointed out that as a strong member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he will work hard to ensure that the party clinch all the seats.

He called on the people of the state to vote for Mr. Udom Emmanuel during the March 9, gubernatorial election so that more achievements could be recorded in the state.

Elder Udo-Obot also promised to mobilize support for the PDP Candidate for Abak State Constituency, Elder Udeme Otong.

The PDP Chieftain used the occasion to congratulate Governor Udom Emmanuel on the formal inauguration of Ibom Airline.

My Victory will energize USD for Udom – OBA

My Victory will energize USD for Udom – OBA
My Victory will energize USD for Udom – OBA

Reelected Senator for Akwa Ibom North East Senatorial District, Obong Bassey Albert, has said his victory in last Saturday’s election, will energize Uyo Senatorial District for the reelection of Governor Udom Emmanuel on March 9. 

Senator Albert disclosed this shortly after he was declared winner of Akwa Ibom North East Senatorial District at the collation center, Ikot Akpan Abia, Uyo, Monday. 

“We are grateful to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State for his support morally and otherwise, and we want to assure him that this a prelude and a stepping stone to his own reelection. We have been fired up to deliver the Governor in Uyo Senatorial District. Now that the people have spoken, Nigerians should know that Akwa Ibom is not a flashpoint as widely claimed.

“This election was about God and man, i must confess that God has showed himself extremely very strong in the affairs of Akwa Ibom. It is not about me. It is about the people. They have spoken and I have heard. I can assure that I will create more impact in my second term. I seize this opportunity to thank God Almighty and the people of Uyo Senatorial District and my great party (PDP)”, he said. 

The result as announced by the returning officer, Professor Idara Akpabio, revealed Senator Albert, who is the Chairman Senate Committee on Gas in the 8th Senate, polled 147,731 votes to defeat Bassey Etim of the APC, who amassed 60,930 votes. 

Reacting to the result, Chairman of the PDP, Akwa Ibom State, Obong Ekpo, said the party looks certain to sweep all National Assembly seats in the State and send a string signal ahead of the Governorship election.

“I am so excited and thankful to God and the people for choosing the PDP. We have two Senator already declared already, and we are sure by today the remaining one will be declared. We have swept the House of Representatives. This goes to show that the PDP is a religion in Akwa Ibom as we say always”, Ekpo harped.

Also reacting to Albert’s victory, Secretary of the Divine Mandate Campaign Council, Prince Enobong Uwah, said the success recorded in the Presidential and National Assembly elections by the PDP will propel the party to victory in the Governorship and State Assembly elections.

Earlier, result of Uyo Federal Constituency was announced at the same venue, as the incumbent House of Representatives member, Dr Michael Enyong was declared winner, having scored the highest number of votes.

Friday 8 February 2019

Latest Edition of THE INK NEWSPAPER, UYO, AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA

Latest Edition of THE INK NEWSPAPER, UYO, AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA
Latest Edition of THE INK NEWSPAPER, UYO, AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA

Do not insult Governor Udom again - Onofiok warns Akpabio, APC ...As Etinan declares Udom Governor come 2nd March

Do not insult Governor Udom again - Onofiok warns Akpabio, APC ...As Etinan declares Udom Governor come 2nd March

BY ABASIFREKE OBOT

The Speaker of  Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and Member representing Nsit Ubium State Constituency, Rt. Hon. Onofiok Luke has challenged and warned Senator Akpabio and his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), putting it point blank, “Do not insult the Governor again and do not send media hirelings.”

The PDP candidate, Etinan Federal Constituency, who gave the warning on Tuesday at the Campaign rally of His Excellency, Deacon Udom Gabriel Emmanuel which took its turn in Etinan Local Government Area, dared, “Any day I hear them insult Governor Udom again, I will drop it. I had listened yesterday, they didn’t insult him. Otherwise, I would have dropped another one on this podium.”

Luke, who frowned over the demeaning utterances of the opposition party against the Governor, hinted that his ears are down in utmost readiness to hear the opposition spew reckless speeches at the person of the Governor, adding, “People cannot behave as hypocrites. Our responsibility is to tell the world the truth”. 

He made it known to the people that the State and the South South as a whole is on the top hate list of the APC, stressing that those from the South South who have been opportuned by providence to represent the people have shortchanged the interest of the people for their personal interest.

While he advised the people against throwing their support and votes behind the opposition, whom he noted have used their symbolic broom to sweep away the prosperity of the State, he expressed optimism that  Governor Udom will return to the Hilltop Mansion come 2019. 

“I am convinced that Governor Udom by the Grace of God will return as Governor because he is defending our interest and the interest of the masses,” he said.

Also speaking, the Chairman of Etinan, Hon. Cletus Ekpo enumerated some of  road construction projects embarked upon and completed by the  Governor to include:The Ekom Iman road to Etinan Circus; from Etinan Circus to Uwa Ndon and Eket.

On the health and eductional sector, he lauded the Governor for the Army Science School and the General Hospital in Etinan. He told the Governor not to be frightened because the people will deliver him and he will return Governor come 2nd of March.

Rt. Hon. Inemesit Itina, the Chapter Chairman, maintained, “We are satisfied with all he have done for us. He has made us proud, we have no regrets lending him our support. We have enough to point our fingers to what he has done for us.”

On behalf of the youths, Comr. Ndanti, who noted that he was convinced the emergence of the Governor marked the beginning of a new era for the people, commended the Governor for appointing the youths of the area into different government offices, emphazing that 95% of the youths have been appointed.

 While declaring their absolute support for the Governor, he assured the youths will resist any form of intimidation by the opposition and will defend their votes.
On the part of women, The Chapter Woman Leader, Ekatte Enoch added, “We are women of courage, we are ready to defend our votes even if it’s now, we are set. We will support you to emerge as governor as well as other candidates of the party.”

The State Party Chairman, Obong Paul Ekpo who also hails from Etinan reiterated, “PDP is one and we are intact in Etinan.” He assured the governor that Etinan is no opposition zone and the people, because of his landmark phenomenal strides in the area, will vote him into power.

Reminding the people of the party’s choice candidates, he said, “We have five elements which is, on the 16th of February, we will vote for Atiku Abubakar,  for Senate, we will vote Obong Bassey Albert and then  Barr. Onofiok Luke. On the 2nd of March, you will vote your brother Gov. Udom Emmanuel and also vote for Hon. Dennis.”

Governor Udom Emmanuel used the opportunity to thank the people for their support and assurances to deliver him at forthcoming gubernatorial elections, assuring the people that when next he visits the area, he together with his team will come for thanksgivings.

Briefly on the standards of his strides in the area, Governor  Udom stated satisfactorily, “The best Technical College in Akwa Ibom State is in Etinan, precisely Mbioto 2 and it is well equipped. The only Nigerian Army Science School is in Etinan. The best General Hospital in Nigeria that attracted even the Vice President to come and commission it, is in Etinan.”

He pledged that on completion of the ongoing bridge construction project in  Ekpene Ukpa, the bridge will not march any standard obtainable in Nigeria. He urged to keep faith with the party, promising that he will consolidate on his good works in the area when he returns as governor.

Government to award contract for renovation of Ibeno General Hospital

Government to award contract for renovation of Ibeno General Hospital

BY ABASIFREKE OBOT

Akwa Ibom State Governor and PDP gubernatorial standard bearer for the forthcoming elections, Deacon Udom Emmanuel has assured indigenes of Ibeno of the renovation of the Ibeno General Hospital, noting that before 2nd of March, he will award contract for the project.

Gov. Udom gave the assurance on Wednesday during his campaign rally at  Ibeno Local Government Secretariat, where his campaign team together with the indigenes of Ibeno converged.

The governor, who expressed great concern over the poor state of the hospital and the nuisance it turn  for the people, stated he will ensure that the best ultra modern medical facilities are fixed in the hospital in order to give it a new phase and promote standard health delivery.

Gov. Udom, who also told the people convincingly that he will rewrite the conventional story about their age long negligence in the plans of government and put the area in the world map, guaranteed the people that it is only his party that will instruct and command the relocation of the Department of Petroleum Resources based in Lagos to Akwa Ibom State, stressing, “DPR has no business in Lagos. DPR has business in Akwa Ibom State.”

AKSG takes over community schools in Eastern Obolo

AKSG takes over community schools in Eastern Obolo

BY ABASIFREKE OBOT

In continuous commitment of the Akwa Ibom State Government  to improve the quality and affordability of  education in the State, the Governor, Deacon Udom Emmanuel has announced plans by the State Government to takeover some community schools in Eastern Obolo Local Government Area.

Gov. Udom made the announcement on Thursday at St. Silas Primary School, Okoroete, Eastern Obolo Local Government Area, when his campaign team visited the area.

“I have been made to understand that there is a lot of community schools in Eastern Obolo.In order to enjoy the free and qualitative education, we will look for community schools with good attendance so that we could take over as Government, where we will provide free education and also pay WAEC fees for the students of Eastern Obolo, “ he said. 

The Governor, who thanked the heaving audience for their huge turnout, addressed with ardent concern the health sector of the area when he lamented over the stress faced by the women living across the riverine community during delivery, promising government’s intervention in order to reduce mortality rate menace to the barest minimum.

Oron Union Youths wing honours Gov Emmanuel with Excellence Award

In view of his outstanding dexterity in governance, the youths of Oro Nation under the Umbrella of Oron Union Youth wing have honored Governor Udom Emmanuel of AkwaIbom Statewith an Excellence Award.

The honour was conferred on Governor Udom Emmanuel during the 2019 Oro International Youth Summit held at Oro Civil Center with the theme: Effects of Electoral violence on youth Development.

Governor Emmanuel who was ably represented by the State Commissioner for Transport and Petroleum Resources, Rt. Hon. Orman Esincommended the youths of Oro Nation for honoring him, describing the award as a clear acknowledgement of numerous achievements of the present administration.

The Governor who disclosed that he has two term plans for the State and particularly Oro Nation, stated that processes were underway to upgrade the Maritime Academy of Nigeria to a degree-awarding institution.

Governor Emmanuel hinted that the appointment of an Oro son into the State Executive Council as Secretary to the State Government was a demonstration of love for the Oro People assuring the Oronians of better days ahead with him on the saddle till 2023.

Former TC Boss mobilizes Kinsmen for Ekere/Akpabio’s visit

As the Obong Nsima Ekere’s Campaign Train berth in Abak this Saturday, a former Transition Committee Chairman of the area, Dr. Emmanuel Udosen has mobilized the people of Midim Clan in particular and Abak in general to come out en masse to welcome the All Progressives Congress (APC) Governorship Candidate, Obong Nsima Ekere, and APC Candidate for Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District, Senator Godswill Akpabio to the area.

In a well-attended meeting which took place at his residence in Abak, Dr. Udosen extolled the qualities of the immediate past Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Managing Director, describing him as a seasoned administrator, a renowned politician and a God-fearing personality who has the interest of the state at heart and would take the state to greater height if given the opportunity.

2019 elections: Monarch caution politicians * warn against violence

Following the current trending political  issues in the country and Akwa Ibom State in particular, politicians have been warned against over heating the polity which may leads to violence and political crisis in the State.

Chief (Dr.) Edet Effiong Uko, a renowned traditional medicine Doctor from Obio Etoi Village in Uyo Local Government Area stated this last weekend at his palace.

He said the recent seeming rumbling in the polity of the State involving the defection of the Sen. Godswill Akpabio, has been allow to raised unnecessary tension which according to him, not supposed to be so. Considering the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria, the Monarch said that Akpabio has the constitutional right to join any political party of his choice, saying politics is a game of interest. 

He warned that no one should fan embers of disunity or scuttle the hard earned peace existing amongst the people from the 3 ethnic groups of the State. Adding that Akwa Ibom People are from one stock irrespective of tribes or political affiliations. 

Christian Campaigners of Nigeria endorse Udom for 2nd term ...condemns suspension of CJN

Christian Campaigners of Nigeria endorse Udom for 2nd term
...condemns suspension of CJN

The Christian Campaigners of Nigeria (CCN) has endorsed the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel for second term of his governance.

They also condemned the suspension of Justice Walter Onnoghen, the Chief Justice of Nigeria and the presiding officer of the judicature.

In a communiqué issued and signed by Rev. Ayuba Samuel Kantiok of Christian Campaigners of Nigeria, Rev Bartholomew Agbochenu of Christian Leadership International Political Forum, Rev. Nse Akpan of Christian Spiritual Fathers’ Forum of Akwa Ibom and Rt. Rev. Dr. Manzo Abubakar, the Grand Patron, at the end of the amalgamated meeting of a conclave of Christian organizations held at the conference hall of prelate Mbang’s chapel recently in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, they stated that: “Rising up from an extraordinary meeting of the conclave of Christian organization, to wit Christian Campaigners of Nigeria, in tandem with Akwa Ibom Spiritual Fathers’ Forum and Christian Readership International Political Forum, after brainstorming on critical national issues and the concomitant extensive, intensive and inclusive debate and consultations, also unanimously resolved to confer on his Excellency, Governor Emmanuel Udom as the foremost Governor of Peace award given his large heartedness and commodious governance philosophy in the finest intellectual and best governance traditions”.

2019: Nsima Ekere duped * Loses over 500 million naira to internet fraudsters

2019: Nsima Ekere duped
* Loses over 500 million naira to internet fraudsters
* Aide reveals how APC’s guber candidate fell       into hands of yahoo boys who promised to hack INEC’s website for his victory

The desperate moves by Nsima Ekere to emerge governor of Akwa Ibom State has landed him in the hands of internet fraudsters who have defrauded him of over 500 million naira with a promise to hack the INEC website and push votes in his favour.

THE INK learnt that different groups of persons, mostly young men in their early and late thirties and forties respectively, have been meeting with Ekere on different occasions and have all promised to hack the website of INEC and swing votes his way.

While our source did not reveal who introduced the hackers to the former deputy governor, it is believed that it must have been done by some aides close to Nsima Ekere who, we gathered, are equally working round the clock to manipulate the polls in favour of their principal.

Now, narrate the story of how hackers and internet marauders van sweet tongue people into accepting their plot. It could be recalled that in 2015, the same calibre of persons had reportedly met Godswill Akpabio with similar deal where it was learnt that the then governor had parted with over three hundred and fifty million naira for the job.

NGO declares support for Gov Emmanuel as chieftains dump APC to PDP in Esit Eket

NGO declares support for Gov Emmanuel as chieftains dump APC to PDP in Esit Eket 

As top Stakeholders and Chieftains of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Esit Eket local government area defected to the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP Akwa Ibom, a non governmental organization in the State, the Network Advancement Programme for Poverty and Disaster Risk Reduction, NAPPDRR, has declared its undivided support to the re-election bid of Governor Udom Emmanuel. 

NAPPDRR, in a statement by its President, Al Mustapha Emem Edoho, BoT member, Mr Jubil Uwem Edukere and Director of Public Communications, Mr Unwana Evans, indicates that its decision to support Governor Emmanuel stems from his industrial revolution of Akwa Ibom State,  ongoing Eket urban renewal project and numerous internal road projects in Esit Eket, saying as an NGO, its was part of its duties to support the Governor to complete the numerous ongoing projects across the State for the betterment of the entire Akwa Ibom people. 

Gov. Udom pencils Ini LG top on 2nd term development plan

Gov. Udom pencils Ini LG top on 2nd term development plan
...as he promises on-the-spot Itu-Mbonuso road     construction at release of 2019 guber. Result

BY ABASIFREKE OBOT

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Deacon Udom Emmanuel on Monday promised the immediate construction of the abandoned and poor Itu -Mbonuso road situated in Ini Local Government Area at the declaration of the 2019 gubernatorial result.

Udom made the announcement in Ini Local Government Area during his campaign rally which held at the Local Government Secretariat Ground, Odoro Ikpe.

 ”On declaration of results, rain or no rain, we will commence the construction of Itu-Mbonuso road. I do not mean swearing - in but as soon as the result is declared. I am sure by Sunday 3rd of March the results must have been declared. By Monday, I will mobilize contractors to start work,” he assured.

The governor, who gave a short reference to his developmental strides in the area since his assumption of office in 2015, pointed out that the indigenes had been in total darkness for seven years and their roads rendered impassable due to its sorry state and the failure of the last administration to deliver on its promises to the area.

D.A Governorship Candidate, Deputy commence Free Medical Outreach in A’Ibom, Feb 9

Plans have been concluded by Governorship Candidate and deputy of Democratic Alternative (DA) in Akwa Ibom State to provide free medical services for the people of the oil rich State. 

According to a release endorsed by the Media/Publicity Committee of Attah/Ann Governorship Organization, the exercise will commence, Saturday, 9th February, 2019 at Village Council Hall, Afia Nsit Atai, Nsit Ubium LGA, and services to be provided include eye checks, heart screening, blood sugar, Malaria and typhoid, Body Mass Index, BMI, Ulcer, Hypertension, infections, deworming, HIV test among others. 

Addressing a press conference, over the weekend in Uyo, the State capital, governorship candidate of the party, Mr Johnson Attah who was flanked by his deputy, Mrs Ann Ukpong, said, “the medical outreach is just the tip of the iceberg of the tremendous people oriented programmes of D.A” 

According to Attah, “our government would provide free medical services for indigent citizens of all age, open a space for and ameliorate the excruciating pains of the physically challenged, provide first class security to lives and property of our people, ensure prudent management of Akwa Ibom funds, create jobs for the hitherto unemployed youth and women”, amongst others. 

Ika rejects APC, reaffirms total support for Udom, Ukarakpa, ors

Ika rejects APC, reaffirms total support for Udom, Ukarakpa, ors
...says they cannot be lured into witchcraft, falsehood

BY ABASIFREKE OBOT

Indigenes of Ika Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State , on Friday, reaffirmed total support for Governor Udom Emmanuel, who is also the gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Senatorial Candidate of PDP for Ikot Ekpene, Engr. Christopher Ekpenyong (a.k.a Ukarakpa), and all other standard bearers of the Party in the State.

The people, who made known their stance in Ika Local Government Area during the Divine Mandate campaign rally at St. Patrick’s Primary School, Urua Inyang, said Governor Udom, since assumption of office in 2015, has never lied to them rather, he has kept to all his promises and even beyond the promises.

The indigenes described the All Progressives Congress (APC) symbol, the broom, as a sign of witchcraft, and the party’s promises for the people, which was made through Obong Nsima Ekere and Senator Akpabio when they both occupied the offices of the deputy governor and the governor respectively, as falsehood. 

We are set to receive Gov Udom Emmanuel - Ibiono Ibom Council boss

We are set to receive Gov Udom Emmanuel -  Ibiono Ibom Council boss
BY UNYIME BASSEY

The Executive Chairman of Ibiono Ibom, Rt. Hon. Ekomabasi Akpan     and the entire people of Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area, in warm heart to receive the Divine Mandate Campaign Tour of Governor Udom Emmanuel, on Friday 8, 2019.

The event which is scheduled to hold on Friday, February 8, 2019 at the Council Secretariat Oko Ita, Ibiono Ibom local government area.

The Chairman used the opportunity to invite prominent sons and daughters of Ibiono Ibom, party lovers, Religious and traditional leaders, stakeholders, political leaders, youths, women, past and present political group to come out massively and welcome the Governor and his entourage, adding that the rally in Ibiono Ibom will be best of all rallies.

2019: OBA assures Udom of victory

BY ABASIFREKE OBOT

The senator representing Akwa Ibom North East (Uyo) Senatorial District, Obong Bassey Albert(a.k.a OBA), on Saturday gave his words and core assurance on the gubernatorial bid of Governor Udom Emmanuel. “I swear to God, you’ve won the election,” he assured.

OBA, who spoke with considerable vocal authority at the St. Patrick’s Primary School, Four Towns in Uyo when Governor Udom and his campaign team moved to the area, further assured the governor that no one can stop his return to the Hilltop Mansion.

The PDP candidate for Uyo Senatorial District, standing his grounds on Gov. Udom’s victory declared that on no occasion, again, in the history of the State will individual(s) conspire and determine the fate of the State.

He added that God will establish the political autonomy of the State against one man’s dictatorial dictate and will through Governor Udom’s landslide victory at the March poll.

While the senator stressed that the opposition will bury their faces in shame after the announcement of results, he briefed the people on the sack of Obong Nsima Ekere, who is the immediate past MD of the NDDC, concurring that Ekere together with his entire board of executives was sacked by the President for engaging in fraudulent activities.

Book on Nigerian Civil War for launch in Uyo

Book on Nigerian Civil War for launch in Uyo

A book titled, Biafra War Re visited, authored by a retired General of the Nigerian Army, Okon Okon is billed for public presentation today (Tuesday) in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.

The event, which is expected to be attended by the military and the political classes as well as the academic and the general public, will be chaired by General Anthony Etukudoh, who had once served as Director General of the Standard Organisation of Nigeria, SON.

According to a statement endorsed by Mr Udeme Uyoata, who oversees publicity for the event, the author, who is also a scholar of International Politics and Strategic Studies, “attempts to argue on the logic of war since the dawn of history, surmising it as a recurrent occurrence in the conduct of disputes between geo-political entities”.

Patriots finger Akpabio, Ita Enang in plot against the state

Patriots finger Akpabio, Ita Enang in plot against the state

The Concerned Patriots of Akwa Ibom, a socio-political organization, has fingered out Senator Godswill Akpabio, Obong Nsima Ekere,  Senator Ita Enang and their cohorts as agents of doom who have decided to masquerade themselves in pretence of offering a better alternative to the state.

The group, in a press statement signed by its National President, Chief Peter Ekwere and the Secretary, Dr. Timothy Inyang , and made available to newsmen on Thursday,  accused them of working to disorganize an established peaceful political system in order to actualise their political quest for political power and selfish grip of the economic resources of the state.

The group stated that the level of desperation exhibited by these political disruptors who  have lost reputation in all ways possible,irrelevant in the political chronicle of the state and subservient to the whims and caprices of the party they claim to be fighting for, is most alarming.

Akwapoly Management parleys host communities

Akwapoly Management parleys host communities

The Acting Rector, AkwaIbom State Polytechnic, Dr. Moses Umobong has commended the role played by the leadership of the Polytechnic host communities for the prevailing peace enjoyed in the State  polytechnic in recent times, describing it as a sign of good relationship existing among them.

The commendation was made during a visit to the visit village Councils of IkotOsurua and AtanIkotOkoro in IkotEkpene and EssienUdim respectively by the management of the State Polytechnic as part of the institution’s Corporate Social Responsibilities.

Addressing the village council members, the Ag. Rector, Dr. Moses Umobong applauded the people of the Polytechnic host communities for the love and support shown to the State Polytechnic and the administration of His Excellency, Governor Udom Gabriel Emmanuel. Dr. Umobong stressed the need for sustenance of the prevailing peace in the area in the interest of the students leaving in their respective neighborhoods.