A’Ibom State at 28: The journey so far BY UBONG INYANG

BY UBONG INYANG

September 23rd is always remembered by Akwa Ibomites both young and old because it was on this day that our dear state was created and despite our language, cultural and political differences, we still remain a strong and undivided unit. It is even popular among pupils in schools because it forms the lyrics of one of their marching songs. The creation of the state marked the climax of a long and sustained struggle for a separate state by the people from Cross River State.
What became known as Akwa Ibom State today was formerly a part of the old Eastern Region of Nigeria. Following the 1976 creation, it became part of Cross River State before a further restructuring of the Nigerian Federation saw the birth of Akwa Ibom through the promulgation of Decree 24 of1987 by the then military head of state General Ibrahim Babangida.