2019: IPAC Holds S'South/S'East Inter-Party Dialogue in Uyo

...As Udom, Okowa Advocate Free, Fair Election.

Michael Ufot

As Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) South-South and South-East zones, engaged Governors, political leaders and party chairmen from the eleven states of the zones in an inter-party dialogue against the forthcoming general election in 2019, Governors of Akwa Ibom state, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, and Delta state, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa have called for free, fair and credible election that would give the country Nigeria good image in Africa and the world at large.

The Governors made the calls while addressing Stakeholders, Political leaders and Executive Members of IPAC from the two zones during an inter-Party dialogue organised by Inter-Party Advisory Council, South-South/South-East Zones held yesterday at Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort, Uyo.

Speaking, the Akwa Ibom state Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel thanked IPAC for uniting the two political zones to speak in one voice, noting that the move will contribute in no small measure to the growth and advancement of democracy in Nigeria.

"Understanding that democracy thrives in plurality, the Inter-party Advisory council has found the need to contribute through this forum to the growth and advancement of democracy. This make IPAC a partner in the great task of strengthening our democracy. You have consistently looked beyond party line and promoted the larger interest of Akwa Ibom people and Nigeria at larger." He said.

Governor Emmanuel who was represented by his Special Adviser on Political/Legislative Matters and Water Resources, Barr Ekong Sampson, mentioned that the dialogue has offered yet another opportunity for the two zones to examine ways of harnessing their vast potentials in the complex milieu the country presents, expressing hope that IPAC would explore an approach towards a strong economy in a democracy that protects the basic rights and freedoms of the people and the rule of law.

On his part, the Delta state Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa represented by his Senior Special Adviser on Political Matters, Chief Festus Ochonogo appluaded IPAC for the initiative, saying that dialogue is the only way out to ensure proper transformation, development of human resources and dividends of good governance.

"We need dialogue to refine the entire political structures in the two zones, and i specifically thank IPAC for taking this bold step in strengthening our democratic system." He added.

Dr. Okowa who doubled as the Chairman of the occasion, expressed confidence that the dialogue will further challenge Nigerians across the geo-political zones to defend democracy and build strong institutions and national cohesion , reiterating that strong and dependent institutions make democracy formidable and productive. He called on other bodies and organizations at both governmental and non-governmental to take a cue from the initiative to help build a virile and model democracy for Nigerians.

In his opening remark, the chairman of the South-South/South-East Zones of IPAC, Xst Amb. Martins Inyang boasted that IPAC has accomplished its core mandate of ensuring unity among political parties in the zones, stating that the occasion was to dialogue the way forward for political stability in the two zones.

He thanked the Governors and major stakeholders for honoring the invitation, assuring that with their useful engagement of ideas, the zones would have greater political benefits in the nearest future.

Other speakers were the IPAC National chairman, Hon. Mohammed Nalado, Hon. Emeka Okafor IPAC Chairman, South-East, Traditional Rulers from the eleven states, among others.

High points of the event was the presentation of award of Excellence to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, presentation of papers, cultural displays among others. The event continued on Saturday 28 July 2018.

Eket Fed Constituency Hopeful, George, Lauds Udom on Projects, Security, Ors

Michael Ufot



A former Vice Chairman of Onna Local Government area and Eket federal constituency hopeful in the 2019 general election, Hon. Vincent George has commended Governor Udom Emmanuel's leadership acumen especially in the area of industrialisation, adequate security, job creation and youth inclusiveness among other achievements in the last three years in office.


Hon George gave the commendation while fielding questions from journalists at the Uyo township stadium when he led his teaming supporters to pay solidarity to the Governor on the occasion of the 2018 Democracy Day celebration yesterday.


According to him, the Governor has done enormously well by turning the state into an industrial hub in just three years, assuring that in eight years with Governor Udom Emmanuel, Akwa Ibom will becomes a permanent destination of choice in Nigeria.


The Eket federal constituency hopeful lauded the Governor for his prompt payment of workers' salaries, adequate security response, improved power supply, good road network, and for creating an enabling environment for investors to come into the state.


He however pleaded that the Governor should continue till 2023 so as to complete his good works for the people of Akwa Ibom state.


Hon George who promised youth inclusiveness and active engagements in lawmaking at the green chambers, assured that he will consolidate only on the good foundation laid by his predecessor if elected to better the lots of his constituents.


He called on his constituents to see him as a messenger of peace and hope that will deliver the dividends of good governance and quality representation promptly and as when due.


Meanwhile, The Eket federal constituency hopeful was accompanied by major PDP stakeholders, women and youth groups, and other supporters to the event.

Mkpat Enin PDP Chapter Exco Passes Confidence Vote on Otobong Ndem -Declares Support for His Future Political Aspirations

Chapter executive of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Mkpat Enin local government area has passed a vote of confidence on the Member representing Mkpat Enin State constituency in Akwa Ibom state House of Assembly, Hon. Otobong Ndem.


The decision, according to them, was borne out of the unquestionable performance and antecedence of the lawmaker in the last two and a half years in office.


In a letter signed by the chapter officials, the PDP acknowledged with great delight the numerous life-touching projects and friendly disposition of Hon. Ndem, specifically in funding party programmes in Mkpat Enin, building of Asan Ikpa Ibom, building of four class room blocks in Primary School Ibotio, solar water projects in Ukam and Ikot Ekpaw.


Other life-touching projects include electrification project in Ikot Ekpenyong, Nya Odiong and other communities in Ibiaku clan, payment of school fees to students in tertiary institutions and Nigeria Law schools, facilitation and provision of transformer in Ikot Akata, Nya Odiong and Ikot Abasi Ufon, donation of 14 motorcycles to 14 ward chairmen to enhance rural campaigns, empowerment of 168 youths of Mkpat Enin and many other anticipated projects.


The party officials moved a vote of confidence on the lawmaker and promised their unalloyed loyalty and support for the lawmaker in his future political aspirations.


They noted that since one clan had already held the House of Assembly seat for two terms, Ikpa Ibom must be given a chance to complete their tenure as the largest clan in Mkpat Enin local government area.


It will be recalled that 14 PDP ward chairmen in Mkpat Enin, Councillors, Elders and youth bodies had already passed votes of confidence on Hon. Otobong Ndem and also endorsed him for a second term in office.

BARR. OTOBONG BOB:THE MAN MOST SUITABLE FOR NSIT UBIUM STATE CONSTITUENCY JOB

By John Ernest

''It is towards the man with proven capacity to catch it that the entire community pursues its fleeing cow''. Ancient African proverb'

The above wisecrack depict accurately the strategic place of the import of the combined effects of skill/competence, diligence and suitability on service delivery, and why, over time, sages have always place due diagonal, these criteria in their choice of those to put in strategic places in lieu of effective community service. In far more ways than one, the above wisecrack, just as its import, refers to Barr. Otobong Effiong Bob as an administrator, politician and community leader etc.

Barr Otobong, a political enigma, the masses favourite, political sought- after, crowd-puller, strategist and systems analyst was called upon to hold the baton of power ''to represent Nsit Ubium State Constituency in the hallowed Chamber of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly 2019'  because they were thrilled, fulfilled and satisfied with his style of personality.

Again, as the man at the helm of private affairs, he proved his mettle, thus, walking his way seamlessly into the hearts of Nsit Ubium people who saw him as a gifted leader not a self-styled one. With the cooperation of his teeming supporter's and followers who were all delighted to work with him, he will bring to bear his astute leadership qualities, all arising from his non-draconic leadership, his sense of humour, ability to tolerate and spirit of cooperation that was (and still) well embedded in him.

Apart from the fact that he has not been into politics, Barr. Bob has spread his spirit of love beyond his immediate environment. He never allow ethnic consideration to becloud his sense of reasoning. His crystal-clear style of leadership is  appreciated by all those imbued with a sense of purpose and truth like him.

Today, his teeming supporters, political faithfuls and admirers are calling on him to start dusting the grounds of Nsit Ubium State Constituency

Speaking of antecedents, the people of Nsit Ubium Local Government wants him as a result of his father's pedigree as somebody you can trust to make things happen and put things right for Nsit Ubium constituents. Barr. Bob is a different personality, a leader that is always listen to your plight, offer advice and proffering solutions. Life is not all about money as some political leaders often misconstrue the presence of people that comes around them with coming to beg for money.

I want to appeal to fellow party members in Peoples Democratic Party family and Nsit Ubium people  to give Barr. Otobong Effiong Bob  all the support he need succeed as his success will not only be for the good of party members but for the generality of Nsit Ubium State Constituency.
#IStandWithOEB2019
#IStandWithNsitUbiumChoice2019

Ikot Ekop Youth Leader, Orok Donates Sporting Equipments To Communities

...Stresses needs for massive voter's registration

The youth leader of Ikot Ekop community in Mkpat Enin Local government area, Comrade Nsidibe Orok has donated five sets of Jersey and other sporting equipments to the three major units of Ikot Ekop and a nearby community in the area.

The decision according to him was to add meaning to grassroots sports as well as motivating talented players to realize their dreams.

Comrade Orok who made the donation during the 2017 "yearly Ikot Ekop Unity football competition" last Christmas stressed that the sporting equipments was out of his benevolent to add colour to the competition which according to him was rare in the history of sports in the area.

His words "we have four football teams from the three units of my village and for over a decade now, our players have been struggling to hire Jersey for the competition, so this time I decided to change that by donating these four sets of Jersey to the four teams and one for  Ikot Akpabio our nearby village. It is to the glory of God. It is my little way of saying thank you for the confidence you have in me...."

Comrade Orok recently urged his community to embrace the voter's registration exercise to enable them have voice in the 2019 general election.

However, the Chairman of the 2017 sports committee, Reverend Philip Phillip lauded the youth leader for the gesture, describing it as rare in the history of the community.

He commended him for extending the magnanimity to other village, noting that the donation has ignited the spirit of oneness, unity and love in the community. Meanwhile, Atan team won the trophy back-to-back.

AKHA 2019: Nsit Clan Elders Back Otobong Bob

No sooner had the Elders of Ubium South affirmed the candidature of Barr. Otobong Bob as their candidate to represent Nsit Ubium state constituency in the state house of assembly come 2019 another confirmation of same by Elders of Nsit clan is to let the world know that Barr Otobong Bob ambition is elders of Nsit Ubium dicision.
The stakeholders have in their sense of wisdom converged and give a nod to the political move of a young and vibrant law maker whose knowledge and experience in the field of law is not demeaning.

 In a stretch of time, the dream of barr. Bob as candidate to represent Nsit Ubium State constituency come  2019 has been caught in the web of mass acceptance given the unfolding experiences where Elders are seen acknowledging the move far and wide in Nsit ubium.

 Barrister Otobong Bob's political ambition is teeter on the edge of unlimited progress given the weight of support witnessed. To this end, the process of selecting leaders in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area worth credence as the people are always consulted beforehand  and the quality of leaders produced is meritorious.

The projection of Barr. Otobong Bob as candidate for the position by the Elders of Nsit clan is yet another warning to seemingly political contenders, and to notify that Nsit Ubium Elders have thrown their weight of support on Barr. Otobong Bob in his effort to represent the good people of Nsit Ubium in on the floor of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly 2019.

 This unanimous move by the elders of NSIT Ubium has gone a long way to set Barr. Otobong's political record straight by overwriting and expelling the alleged rumor of Imposition of candidate against the people' s will and interests.

It's now conspicuous that The Elders of Nsit clan have decided to hang divergence political interests in Nsit Ubium state constituency in the balance of popular interest so that the air of peace experienced in this political space would persist.

Not withstanding the waves of opposition and propaganda against the noble person of Barr. Bob in the current political race, it is hopeful that the shall be jubilation and shout of joy in the camp of his (Barr. Otobong Bob ) supporters.

Nsit clan elders are;

- Rt. Hon. Barr. Onofiok Luke, speaker Akwa Ibom State House Of Assembly.
- His Excellency, Amb. Sam Edem, political leader, NSIT clan.
- Hon. Udemeobong Sylvanus Bassey, executive   chairman NSIT ubium local government council.
- Obong Nse Akpaeno (osibe).
- Elder/ Mrs Nse Ekefre
- Dr Aniefiok Edem.
- Obong Friday Akpan.
- Obongawan felicitas Usoro.
- Mr. Joe Ikpak .
- Hon. Ubong  Effanga.
- Hon. Inyang Anyang.
- Obong David Udo UMANA.
- Hon. Sylvester Udo.
- Hon. Charles udo Ebuk.
- Mr/ Mrs Ibanga Brownson etc.

Therefore, We enjoin the good people of NSIT Ubium to continue to rally support for the actualization of the people's project come 2019.

LONG LIVE NSIT CLAN!!!
LONG LIVE BARRISTER OTOBONG BOB!!!
LONG LIVE NSIT UBIUM STATE CONSTITUENCY!!!
LONG LIVE AKWA IBOM STATE!!!
OEB2019

Buhari's niece, nephew die sameday

The Presidency on Saturday confirmed the death of two members of President Muhammadu Buhari’s extended family in Daura, Katsina state.

A statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Malam Garba Shehu, in Abuja, said the two senior members of the family died within a few hours of one another.

According to Shehu, one of the deceased persons, Hajiya Halima Dauda, was the President’s niece and younger sister to his close associate and nephew Malam Mamman Daura.

Halima Dauda, aged 56, who has since been buried in Daura, left behind 10 children, including one of President Buhari’s Personal Assistants, Mohammed Sabi’u Tunde.

The presidential aide revealed that the burial was attended by a federal government delegation led by the Chief of Staff to the President, Malam Abba Kyari.

Others on the team were the Minister of State, Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika; three Senior Special Assistants to the President, Sarki Abba, Ya’u Darazo and Garba Shehu; the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Amb. Ahmed Abubakar.

Others included the State Chief of Protocol, Amb. Lawal Kazaure, the Permanent Secretary, State House Jalal Arabi, Alhaji Isma’ila Isa and Sayyu Dantata both of them businessmen.

The Buhari family had earlier on buried Hajiya Ai’sha Alhaji Mamman on Friday. She was the wife of the President’s older brother, Alhaji Mamman.

Receiving condolences on behalf of the Buhari family, Malam Mamman, thanked God for the lives of the deceased and all the visitors for sharing the moment of grief with them.

Shehu disclosed that among those received by the family in Daura were the Gov. Mohammed Abubakar of Bauchi State, the Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, EFCC Chairman, Ibrahim Magu and a former Military Governor of Kaduna State, retired Brig.-Gen. Jafaru Isa

Restructuring not solution to Nigeria’s problem – AMORC

 Michael Ufot

The leadership of Ancient Mystical Order of the Rosae Crucis (AMORC) has said agitation by various ethnic groups for the restructuring of the country  is not a panacea to the violent crises in the courtry 

Speaking while declaring open the 42nd Eastern Regional Rotational Conclave (EERC) of the Rosicrucian Order, which ended yesterday in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, the Grand Administrator and President of the order, Dr. Kenneth Idiodi, said disagreements and pockets of violence would still occur, even after the reforms.

He called on Nigerians to turn a new leaf and reflects on the universal love of God for humanity arguing that there no level of restructuring would eliminate minority and majority factor in the nation's political structure 

Idiodi disclosed that the association as a spiritual and mystical organization has been addressing the socio-political and economic challenges which have been responsible for violence in the polity through the channel of prayers and intercessions.

“For decades, we have had cause to engage in metaphysical and spiritual practices which are design to even prevent the onset of violence”, he explained.

Idiodi, who is the Director of the Supreme Board of AMORC, urged Nigerians are able to jettison selfish interests and radiate the universal love of God among populace, irrespective of creeds, religions and other sentiments”.

According to him, the malaise of Boko Haram, herdsmen killings, economic backwardness and corruption would fizzle out gradually, when the good virtues as enunciation by “the Supreme Intelligence” (the God Almighty) were allowed to dictate the thoughts and actions of humanity.

He, therefore, urged Nigerians from different walks of life to ponder on the things that bind them together and not the things that would tends to divide them.

The Grand Administrator of the Order said, " the order as a knowledge-based organization, would continue to propagate the virtues of the universal of love.

"If such attributes of God were allowed to be ventilated sincerely, the country would not be thrown into feuds and killings of one another."

He urged adherents to continue to be in the vanguard of safeguarding the essential characteristics of God and to deploy such values in their quest to make the world “a conducive social and spiritual environment for humanity to attain their spiritual vision and mission on earth”.

Prof. Gabriel Umoh, Aton lodge  Regional Monitor(RM) and Chairman of the Conclave’s Planning Committee, admonished Nigerians to refrain from overheating the polity with hate speeches, but embrace the virtues that promote peace and unity of Nigeria.

“On daily basis, we are inundated with hate speeches, news of violent conflicts, strife and gripping stories of wars. Indeed, it appears, and sadly so, that love seems to be scarce in the hearts of men and women alike”, he noted.

In his goodwill massage the host of the conclave and Grand Councillor of the order, Obong Ime Obot sad the conclave theme,"The soul's Immortality and Universal Love" is relevant and timely.

"The conclave is coming at a time like this when humanity appears to be at a cross-road in its spiritual evolution

AKSG appeal against Court Judgment in favour of 6,000 students

Michael Ufot

AKWA Ibom State government has appealed against the judgment of the High Court of Etinan Division which ruled that state government should pay damages to the 6,000 students of the defunct college of Agriculture, Obio Okpa, who were denied graduation certificate after graduation.

The court ordered the Akwa Ibom state government pay the sum of N1million and N500.000 for the HND and OND graduates respectively as damages.

In a landmark judgment delivered by Justice Pius Odiong, in December last year, the lower court had ruled in favour of the students directing the state government to pay the affected students damages for the wasted years and losses incurred.

The state government, in a notice and grounds of appeal filed in the Court of Appeal Calabar, Cross River State, through Justice Bassey J. Ekanem, Esq is seeking an order of the court to set aside the judgment of the lower court.

Justice Odiong in his judgement had held that “as duly admitted students of the now defunct Akwa Ibom State College of Agriculture, Obio Akpa, who paid all their due school and other sundry fees up to date; attended all required lectures; wrote and passed all prescribed examinations; and fulfilled and met all prescribed conditions for graduation from the college, the plaintiffs, as of right, were entitled to be awarded their respective certificates in both the National and Higher National Diploma levels of the college.

However, state government in its five grounds of Appeal, argued that the four appellants in the suit No. HU/70/2010, were not vested with the responsibility of issuing any certificate to the Respondent.

“The governor of Akwa Ibom State, Commissioner for Agriculture, Commissioner for Education and the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice none of the Appellants were vested with the responsibility of issuing any certificate to the Respondent. The college being corporate person was vested with such responsibility.

“The College being a corporate body with perpetual succession had a legal personality of its own and was responsible for any of its action or inaction. It had its own life and any decision taken by the said college was not directed by any of the defendants”.

The counsel to the respondent, barrister Ada Okonkwo, filed a cross appeal asking the court of Appeal, Calabar to increase the award of damages to N5million to HND graduates and N2.5million to OND graduates as against the award of N1million and N500.000 respectively which she stated is grossly inadequate to assuage the losses of the students considering the academic expenses and  wasted years

Substandard tyres accounts for 5,288 road crashes In Nigeria --DG SON

Admin.

UYO-THE Director-General of the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON), Mr. Osita Aboloma, yesterday raised the alarm that the country is flooded with expired and substandard tyres which is responsible for most road crashes.

 He said over 5,288 road crashes recorded between 2011 and 2015 across the country in the last four years came as a result of substandard tyres.

Speaking yesterday at a one-day Sensitization Workshop, tagged, “General Sensitization, Increase Awareness on Substandard Tyres" organized by Scorecard Ventures Limited,  at Entry Point Hotel & Suit Ltd, Uyo, Akwa Ibom state, Aboloma said "between 2011 and 2015 alone, not less than 5,288 road crashes across the country were recorded as a result of substandard or expired types". 

The DG who was represented by the Regional Coordinator, South-South, Mr. Papanye Don-Pedro assured that his organization would not fold its arms allow the trend to continue.

According to him everything has been concluded to clamp down the marketers of the product to save the country from the frequent road carnage arising from it.

 He said, “Since the exit of local tyres manufactures like Dunlop and Michelin, this market has opened up access to tyres importation and sadly, substandard and expired tyres by greedy businessmen who compromise on quality and standards for monetary gains at the expense of the lives of Nigerians.".

"Our lives and safety firstly as human beings is paramount and should be placed above all business gain. We must resist actions that make nation a dumping ground to all substandard goods."Aboloma warned.

In his remarks, the Akwa Ibom state Coordinator, Mr Dauda Mshelia, said the sensitization campaign became necessary to educate dealers on the danger of selling substandard tyres to the public.

He disclosed that the organization will soon embark on enforcement of offenders to rid Nigeria markets of Substandard and expired tyres.

AKHA 2019: Ibiaku Clan Elders, Youths beg Otobong Ndem to contest for second term

By Paulinus Nnah

As calls for re-election in next year’s State Assembly election of the current member representing Mkpat Enin State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly AKHA), Hon. Otobong Ndem, continue to mount, the elders and leaders of various gender and status groups in Ibiaku Clan in Mkpat Enin LGA have turned out in numbers to register their demand for adoption of the serving House member to be returned for second term.

The event which was organized by the political leader of the clan, Mr. Martins Ikono in his Mkpat Enin residence on Thursday, January 18, 2018, also witnessed an overwhelming and unanimous support by the stakeholders for a standing and institutionalized two-term zoning arrangement for the House of Assembly slot in the LGA.

Mr. Ikono, while setting the tone for the meeting, reminded the people that a two-term representation precedent was set during the turn of Ikpa Ikono Clan through the representation of the immediate past House member from the clan, Rt. Hon. (Barr.) Ekong Sampson, adding that it will only be fair and rancour-free for the arrangement to go round all other clans of the area.

He, therefore, expressed gratitude to the people for the large turnout in response to his call, especially now that the people needed to take a positive stance regarding the State House of Assembly race in 2019 which he described as a “two-edged sword”.

Speaking further, Martins Ikono explained that the elders and leaders of the clan should choose between contesting for the slot with the incumbent, Hon. Otobong Ndem, who hails from Ikpa Ibom Clan, which is one of the two most powerful clans in Mkpat Enin economically, politically and in population, and which would most likely crash out; and allowing Hon. Ndem to stay his second term and then smoothly hand over for Ibiaku Clan to take its turn in 2023. “We cannot and will not afford to make any mistake in this issue now which will affect our children and our children’s children negatively politically,” he said.

Also speaking on the occasion, Chief Eseme J. Akpan called for a deeper consideration on the issue at stake, noting that Ibiaku Clan lacked the political capacity and numerical strength to attempt to contend for political positions with such mega clans such as Ikpa Ibom and its sister mega clan of Ukpum Minya.

He cautioned the people against any resolution that would tend to put the clan at loggerheads politically with Otobong Ndem in particular and Ikpa Ibom Clan in general, saying “if that happens, we are very likely going to fail because of their numerical strength will simply overwhelm ours.

“The only favourable step left for us to take right now is to cooperate with Ikpa Ibom Clan at present so that we will also win their cooperation when it will be our turn in 2023 in the House of Assembly slot.
“What I am really saying here is that when Ekong Sampson from Ikpa Ikono has done his tenure in the House twice, it will be foolhardy to start an unnecessary fight, because the person that has followed suit is Hon. Otobong Ndem, and he must be allowed to also do his two terms in order for fairness and justice to be done in the matter. By this, Ibiaku Clan will enjoy a smooth take-over when its turn comes.

“For me, there is wisdom in trying to negotiate with a mega clan like Ikpa Ibom instead of attempting to gear up for a fight with them.”
Chief Eseme Akpan bemoaned the lack of presence of Ibiaku sons and daughters in any of the notable political positions in the state, elective or appointive, adding that he was ready “body and soul” to append his signature in total support for second term bid of Hon. Otobong Ndem.

Evang. Emmanuel Eshiet, on his own part, while adjudging the discourse as “apt and critical” expressed satisfaction over the calibre of the stakeholders that were present at the event, saying “they have a track record of being truthful whenever the need would arise. These are those that are always after the betterment and the overall interest of our clan.

“I was there when Ibiaku adopted that Otobong Ndem should do two tenures” in the state assembly slot.

He, however, stated that there was nothing wrong for anyone to vie for any elective position at any time, but that it is one thing to run for an elective office, but that it is another for the one to get the people’s mandate, while urging discussants to respect the position put forward by the clan’s political leader, Mr. Martins Ikono, and so toe his direction on the issue.

Evang. Eshiet, therefore, called on all present to take the outcome of the meeting to all nooks and crannies of Ibiaku Clan in order for wide consultation embarked upon by the incumbent House member in the clan to be justified, while noting that Hon. Ndem has since been enjoying the support of the people who have been calling for his re-election to the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly at different fora.

Speaker after speaker, the gathering witnessed a corroboration of views in support of the Ibiaku Clan to stand for zoning arrangement of two-tenure per slot and to queue behind Hon. Otobong Ndem in his re-election bid come 2019.
In his vote of thanks, Dr. Friday Akpabio appreciated the frankness demonstrated by the people during the deliberations, stressing that there would have not been any need for any argument over the issue since a two-tenure precedent has been set in the re-election of Rt. Hon. (Barr.) Ekong Sampson into the state Assembly, hence the need for all major stakeholders to brainstorm on the issue as early as now.

He reassured that the next meeting would be enlarged and would incorporate the royal fathers and other major stakeholders from the clan.

The following stakeholders were present at the event: Mr. Martins Ikono, the political leader of Ibiaku Clan; Dr. Friday Akpabio, Mr. Sam Umoeyo, Chief Eseme J. Akpan, Evang. Emmanuel Eshiet, Hon. Ikpa, Deac. Usen Ikpe, Prince Atah Patrick Ememe, Comrade Ubong Ekott, Comrade Ubong Ememe, Comrade Ubong Ekarika, Comrade Joseph Ekim, Mr. Monday Isong, Comrade Okon Akan Essien, Mr. Essien Udo Efit, Ms. Etop David Sam, Mr. Udo Raleigh,  Chief Udo Udo, Prince Sunday S. Akpan, Mr. Okon Akpan Udo-Inyang, Mr. Usoro Dan Ufot, Ms. Itoro Henry, Comrade Daniel Ukpong, Engr. Enobong Ukpong, Madam Grace Okon, Hon. Christian Jumbo (Leader of Mkpat Enin Legislative House), and a host of others.

AKHA 2019: Nsit Ubium declares support for Otobong Bob

***He will soon be presented to the Caucus
***Senator Effiong Bob is Nsit Ubium Political leader

By John Ernest

Barr. Otobong Effiong Bob, a leading Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly member hopeful in the upcoming February 2019 general elections under the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is gradually making political waves to clinch the Nsit Ubium state constituency seat.

The momentum was further intensified yesterday in Ikot Ekwere Ubium venue of where political bigwigs, stakeholders, movers and shakers converged to reiterate their stand on the choice of the legal practitioner, whom they equally adopted as their sole house of assembly candidate before marketing him out to the entire people of Nsit Ubium.

The meeting which was presided over by Mr. Friday Udo Dick and Barr. Victor Bob maintained that Barr. Otobong Effiong Bob is their only candidate for Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly seat 2019.

The people noted that distinguished Senator Effiong Bob has Laboured so much for the peace and development of the local government, and he still be the political leader of Nsit Ubium Local Government. Stressing that the people of the area should be able to protect and nurture what they have.

Speaking, Barr Victor Bob stated that he is in full support of Otobong Bob for the position, adding that soon Barr Otobong Bob will be presented to Nsit Ubium Caucus, stressing that government is democratic government saying that whoever is contesting have the right to do so.

Victor Bob called for the same cooperation the local government had during December 2nd election in the State which led to the emergence of the current council chairman and vice.
"But as for this time in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, it is the turn of Ubium North to produce the next House of Assembly member.
Ubium North under the leadership have met at wards level and Ubium North as a whole and the elders of Ubium North has accepted that Barr. Otobong Effiong Bob will be the next House member and so shall it be". Victor Bob declared.

He said that he did not stepped down, but he had to respect the authority. Adding that if you don't respect the authority you are in trouble. Barr Victor pleaded with  the people to remember that after politicking brotherhood will still remain. He urged them to respect elders.

Ibiaku Youths pass vote of confidence on Otobong Ndem

Youths of Ibiaku clan under the auspices of Ibiaku Clan Youth Congress, have passed a vote of confidence on the member representing Mkpat Enin State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Otobong Ndem.

The vote of confidence was contained a letter signed over 13 members of the group. A part of the letter reads;

“Therefore, Ibiaku Youth Congress without any fear of equivocation is in tune with the rest of the well-meaning Mkpat Enin people who have found satisfaction in the representation of the serving member representing Mkpat Enin State Constituency, Hon. Otobong Ndem and we remain equally satisfied with commitment of our fellows from the other clans in Mkpat Enin to support Ibiaku clan for House of assembly after Ikpa Ibom which is currently occupying the office.

“Ibiaku Clan Youth Congress understands the need for political cooperation as necessary premise for peace and sustainable development.

In conclusion, the youth leaders within Ibiaku Clan hereby pass a vote of confidence on Hon. Engr. Otobong Ndem and resolve to support his re-election into office in view of his high-performance index in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and we remain with adding faith that come 2023 the entire Mkpat Enin people will, doubtless, reciprocate this gesture by throwing their full support behind Ibiaku Clan for Mkpat Enin State Constituency seat”.

The group further other prominent groups in Mkpat Enin to condemn the recent unguided statement by the member representing Ikot Abasi Federal Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Francis Charles Udoyok, where he said that he has zoned the Mkpat Enin State Constituency seat is to Ibiaku Clan.

The youths noted that Udoyok’s careless statement has only complicated issues for Ibiaku Clan, adding that Francis Udoyok lacks the locus standi to make such proclaimation.

UDOM IS PASSIONATE ABOUT AKWA IBOM STATE –EKONG SAMPSON

...reassures continuous synergy among the three arms of government
By: Edifon Abasi-Obot

Amid challenges of the dynamics of economy that sometimes confront full implementation of budgets, the passionate commitment of Governor Udom Emmanuel for Akwa Ibom State has been identified as a factor that will enhance the implementation of the 2018 budget in the State.

The Special Adviser, Bureau Political/Legislative Affairs and Water Resources, Rt. Hon. (Barr.) Ekong Sampson made the projection while fielding question with the media after, presenting the 2018 budget estimate of his bureau to the House Committee on Appropriation and Finance at the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly. Accompanying the Special Adviser were: the Permanent Secretary of the Bureau, Elder Nse Edem, Acting MD of Akwa Ibom Water Company, Barrister Aniefiok Ukpe, GM of AK-RUWATSAN, Mr. Idongesit Ido and Management Staff of the Bureau.

Expressing confidence in the economic proficiency that would be wielded by the Governor in implementing the State 2018 budget in 2018, Ekong Sampson stated thus: “a lot of variables and undercurrents are involved in the budget mechanism, principally in the vagaries of the economy, but we have a governor who is passionate about Akwa Ibom State. I can say this anywhere that Governor Udom Emmanuel is passionate about Akwa Ibom State and really would work very hard to implement the budget as passed by the State House of Assembly.”

Barrister Sampson lauded Governor Udom Emmanuel’s commitment to political participation in the previous year, affirming that the Governor has taken Akwa Ibom State to a new level of political participation, where a larger segment of the people is involved in the governance matrix and everybody is seen as a stakeholder in the process of governance. He noted that the Governor has done well in uniting the State through balanced spread of infrastructure.

Giving a recap of advocacy projects driven by the Bureau in 2017, the Bureau boss said, in respect of political affairs, the Bureau has been driving a lot of advocacies, getting Akwa Ibom people to be involved in issues of population, like the pre-census activities, the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), the National Identity Management Scheme (NIMS).

 Ekong Sampson said his Bureau has worked very hard to broaden participation in democracy, promoting the advocacy that everyone should have the voter’s card and also get members of their families to register for it. He said that without the voter’s card people cannot really affect the undercurrent in governance or be true participants in the polity.  “Everybody, once you are 18 years, you are eligible, get your voter’s card. That is when you are a proud participant in the polity”, Ekong Sampson stressed.

In respect of water, he said the Akwa Ibom Water Company and AK-RUWATSAN has been have repositioned for greater efficiency in water management, in the urban and rural areas of the State respectively.

We also work very hard to sustain the idea that governance is for everybody and that everybody should own up the government, see government as theirs and help to protect infrastructure, drive investments and support the government of Governor Udom Emmanuel who has shown a lot of innovations in governance, Ekong Sampson added.

Barrister Sampson said with the proposed N2billion expenditure of his Bureau for 2018, the State is expected to take these advocacies to the next level. Given the build up toward the 2018 population census, the 2019 elections - considering the fact that democracy is a very expensive enterprise, especially in a developing democracy like Nigeria, and a range of other activities, what we need in Akwa Ibom State is a level of enlightenment for the political class and the public; we need to educate our people about the proper parameters of political engagement, then we would have deepened democracy in the State.

Earlier, while presenting an estimate of N2bn for the broad spectrum of activities of his Bureau in 2018, the Special Adviser appreciated the cooperation and commitment of 6th Assembly towards the Akwa Ibom project, maintaining that his Bureau and the State Legislature were working on the same template in political affairs. He particularly thanked the chairman and members of the committee and declared that his Bureau will continue to work together on a range of issues to properly engage the people.

The Special Adviser pledged his Bureau’s commitment to work hard to sustain the existing harmony between the Executive and Legislature, as well as the Judiciary, adding that, as key drivers of democracy, it is critical that these arms of government work for the common good of the State, because at the end of the day what matters is the larger interest.

The Chairman, House Committee on Appropriation and Finance, Rt. Hon. Usoro Akpanuso in his response, commended the Special Adviser for the achievements so far recorded in the State through advocacies by his Bureau and for outlaying the policies of his Bureau of 2018 clearly.

The Committee Chairman tasked the Bureau boss to also take up the responsibility of educating the Akwa Ibom public, to arrest the spate of activities of hoodlums in the polity and to train the mind of Akwa Ibom youths on how to go about politicking within the confines of the law.
Akpanuso said State House of Assembly was willing to partner the Bureau in creating a political orientation for younger politicians in the State, including the councilors who have just been sworn in.