Wednesday 31 January 2018

I CAN'T DO ANYTHING FOR ESSIEN UDIM BECAUSE AKPABIO HAS DONE EVERYTHING -NSE NTUEN 

I CAN'T DO ANYTHING FOR ESSIEN UDIM BECAUSE AKPABIO HAS DONE EVERYTHING -NSE NTUEN 

Eneh John

The member representing Essien Udim state constituency in the House of Assembly, Mr. Nse Ntuen, says he cannot do anything for his Essien Udim people because, the Senate Minority Leader, and Former Governor, has done everything for them.

Nse Ntuen, who is a former council Chairman in the local government, has hidden under the covers of Akpabio, to hide his non performance. 

Sources who quoted Nse Ntuen, said, he has vowed never to do any constituency briefing and empowerment, even if he goes to the House of Assembly ten times, or hold any political office, because, what Akpabio has done even in the senate, is enough for them. 

Recollect that, recently, the Senate minority Leader had commissioned projects across his Ikot Ekpene senatorial district, after organizing a constituency briefing and empowerment last year. 

Tuesday 30 January 2018

Eket Political Leader endorse Nsidibe Akata

A front line aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in the forth coming general elections into the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Eket State constituency, Dr Nsidibe Akata has received the blessing of the political leader of Eket, Chief Nduese Essien. 

The former minister and two term member of the House of Representative said that Dr Akata is not just qualified and competent for the position but is favoured by the zoning principle of the PDP. 

He poured encomiums on the aspirant and subscribed him as an intelligent and highly educated young man who when given the opportunity will make Eket proud in the State House of Assembly but advised him to consult widely as other aspirants are also in the race. 

“The Peoples Democratic Party under governor Udom Emmanuel adheres strictly on zoning and I think Okon-Eket geo-political zone has the turn to present aspirants to the party unless there are cognate reasons to do otherwise”, Chief Essien said. 

Christians should have Faith in the Lord -Marshall Bassey

The custodian lord of the throne of the Spiritual Kingdom Church of Christ, His Lordship (Obong) Marshall Edidem Bassey has used the church founder’s day to advice Christians across the globe to be steadfast and continue to have faith in the vineyard despites challenges experience would succeed.

The custodian lord of the throne, His Lordship (Obong) Marshall Edidem Bassey stated this in his address during the celebration of the church founder’s day held in the church headquarter in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area.  

Said Christian should always focus on God as far as the issue of faith is concern, his father has exhibited the gesture despite the challenges he experience, open up how his father came into the ministry and tribulation, temptation and especially where he steadfast and experience adjective poverty without giving up understanding through faith his destiny despite deny came through while denied by education in some quarters even when he tried all his best over the passion he had for education but the development he pass through made him finally established the Spiritual Kingdom Church of Christ. Showcase his calling.

Obong Emmanuel Ukpong Udo: the hope of Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency

Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country. This was a statement made by the 35th President of United States of America, John Fitzgerald Kennedy when he challenged his countrymen to live for public good. 

This has been the mentality and lifestyle of Obong Emmanuel Ukpong-udo, the indefatigable political leader of Ikono popularly called MACAIRE
On July 18, 2015 the people of Ikono Local Government Area unanimously mandated Obong Emmanuel Ukpong-udo to be their political leader and proffer leadership direction for the development of Ikono. This safety expert cum politician willingly obliged to serve his fatherland.

As the political leader of Ikono, Obong Ukpong-udo has provided direction for the people of Ikono and restored the glory of Ikono as the cradle of Ibibio Nation. Politically, he has instilled stability and decorum in the politics of Ikono Local Government Area. He has given the youths opportunity to contribute their quota in the development and advancement of the area. This has brought peace to bear in Ikono Local Government Area which was before his emergence an area known for political instability. 

NSE carpets Udom over non patronage, congratulates new SSG

NSE carpets Udom over non patronage, congratulates new SSG
The Uyo branch of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, (NSE), has called on the Secretary to the Akwa Ibom State Government, Dr Emmanuel Ekuwem, to leverage on his well-deserved appointment and give Engineers in the state the much desired inclusiveness which had been lacking since the inception of the present administration.

The chairman of the branch, Engineer Mfon Udoikpong made the call in a congratulatory message to the new SSG.

Udoikpong said the appointment of the new SSG “could not have come at a better time than now, when the state is in dire need of industrialization and technological development, given your pedigree, strength of character  and experience in public administration.

The NSE boss lauded Gov Udom Emmanuel for appointing one of its own as the State’s scribe and pledged their readiness to contribute their quota for the government to succeed.

Gov. Udom Emmanuel and sustenance of peace in Akwa Ibom State

BY IMO BEN

As experiences have shown over the years, it is always during the build up to the general elections in Nigeria that all manners of schemes are hatched to flare up sentiments for the purposes of instigating disaffection and promoting political intolerance. These condemnable acts which are deliberately done to undermine the security and peaceful co-existence of our law-abiding citizens, usually force us to look up to the state governments for succour and protection.

Fortunately, since the emergence of Deacon Udom Emmanuel as the Governor of the Akwa Ibom State, this God-fearing leader who treats the welfare and security of his people as cardinal items of his administration has ensured that there has been comparatively relative peace in the State, which without doubt has made it one of the most peaceful environment in Nigeria to live and do business.

Why we can’t supply water to consumers - MD

BY EMMANUEL AKPAN

The Managing Director of Akwa Ibom Water Company Limited, Barr Aniefiok Ukpe has given reasons why the agency can no longer supply water to its consumers in Akwa Ibom people.

Barr Ukpe said the reason is because of the massive road constructions that is going on in the State, saying that most of the pipelines that were laid have been destroyed.

The MD while speaking with THE INK last week in his office, said another reason the State is expirencing shortest of water is that the existing infrastructures that were put in place by previous government, had decade and for the past eight years the government has done nothing about in reviving them.

Ini PDP receives boost as Asuqwo Inyang declares membership *Gov’s Aide Charge Party members on steadfastness, resilience

The People Democratic Party (PDP) in Ukwok Ward 10, Ini Local Government Area last weekend received another boost as a recently retired Chief Superintendent of Police, Mr Asuqwo Inyang declared membership into the Party.

At a brief reception ceremony organized last Saturday and attended by the Stakeholders, Elders, youths and the leaders of the party in Ward, the ward Chairman, Mr Moses Ime Akpan appreciated Mr Asuqwo Inyang for joining the PDP which according to him, his emergence will contribute immensely toward the development and building of the party in the ward, Chapter and State.

He asserted that, he was happy to see the likes of Mr Inyang whom according to him has grown to the pick of his carrier in the Nigerian Police and retired with good health, clean records and is still young and active, saying that as a father of the party in the ward, that he will lent the necessary supports to Mr. Inyang to succeed in his political carrier.

Mbo ex - Chairman commends Gov. Udom over appointment of SSG

Mbo ex - Chairman commends Gov. Udom over appointment of SSG
The immediate past transition chairman of Mbo local government council, Hon. Mfon Bassey has described the recent appointment of Dr. Emmanuel Effiong Ekuwem as the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, as very symbolic and strategic which the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Udom Emmanuel deserves commendation.

Adding his voice in commending the Governor, the ex-chairman said, with the appointment, Governor Udom Emmanuel has proven that he is a fatherly figure who wants equity and fairness in the political arrangement in the State, because the position of the SSG has elevated the involvement of Oro nation in the politics and administration of the state. This he said has given the people of Oro nation a sense of belonging.

He also described Dr. Ekuwem as a very worthy son of Oro nation, who according to the ex-chairman is humble and intelligent enough to work comfortably with the State Governor to translate the vision of the administration to achieve its desired goals.

UN POLAC Constitutes Advisory Council, Inaugurates Chapter Presidents

UN POLAC, an International Peace Advocacy Organization has put machinery in motion towards repositioning the group and expanding its advocacy programs in the State this year by constituting an Advisory Council, also swearing In new Chapter Presidents.

Declaring open the first 2018 general meeting of the group, the Director General, Obong Dr. Halo B. Eton, praised members for their selfless services in the past years and appealed to them to key into the new dispensation which he noted is aimed at creating greater awareness and opening vistas of understanding of the aims and functions of the group particularly to those who are yet to comprehend the philosophy of UN POLAC.

Dr. Eton showered encomiums on some Chapters for their extraordinary performances and advised others to sit up as he envisaged a rejuvenated and purposeful leadership among the new Council and Chapter Presidents.

2019: Ediene Youths drum support for Emmanuel Udosen

Youths of Ediene Clan in Abak local government area under the umbrella of “Ediene Trusted Youths” have persuaded the immediate past Transition Committee Chairman of Abak, Dr. Emmanuel Udosen to contest for the Abak State Constituency Seat in Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly come 2019.

A statement issued at the end of the general meeting of the organization which took place last Friday at Government Primary School, Ediene I and signed by the Chairman, Mr. Utitofon Victor Obot, Vice Chairman, Elder Imo Sunday Japhet, Secretary, Mr. Emmanuel Sunday, Woman Leader, Mrs. Eno Inen among others, the youths said the decision to persuade Dr. Emmanuel Udosen to contest for the House of Assembly Seat was based on his antecedent and excellent track record.

The Ediene Youths in the statement pointed out that while serving as the Transition Committee Chairman, Dr. Udosen recorded remarkable achievements. They expressed the hope that with such record of achievements if he eventually accepts to contest for the Assembly Seat, Dr. Udosen would set a record in the history of representation in Abak State Constituency.

Nurses charged to promote professional ethics

The chairman of national association of Nigerian nurses and midwives (NANNM), Comrade Patrick Odu has advised nurses in Nigeria and Akwa Ibom state in particular, to extend care to everybody including the poor in the rural areas.

He gave the advice Thursday at the playground of University of Uyo teaching hospital during the new year get together of the branch. The event chaired by ENT  consultant, Dr.  Victor Ette,who jovially refered to himself as an ‘associate nurse’ because of his wife being a nurse, also featured send forth of six retired senior nurses and launch of a maiden  magazine called ROSTRUM.

The NANNM chairman who expressed happiness for being associated with the magazine, advised the editorial team headed by one Mrs Edith Akpan to ensure that they sustain the publication in view of its importance. He called on the retirees not to see their retirement as an end, but an opportunity to contribute more to the  noble profession of nursing unsupervised.

Rev. Fr. Christian Usungurua should be celebrated - Umoh

The Assistant Coach of the State-owned Female Football outfit, Ibom Angels, Coach Aniekan Umoh has congratulated the Chaplain, St. Barnard Army Chaplaincy, Ibagwa, Abak, Rev. Fr. Dr. Christian Usungurua on his appointment and subsequent inauguration as the Chairman Attitudinal Re-orientation Committee in Abak local government area.

Coach Umoh who spoke with our reporter shortly after the inauguration, described the appointment as meritorious and well-deserved, stressing that as a highly-revered man of God, the Catholic Priest will use his position to change the attitude and mindset of the youths and the entire people of Abak for positive venture.

The football tactician hinted that people like Rev. Fr. Dr. Christian Usungurua should be celebrated as according him, the Catholic Priest has touched many lives positively, rendered selfless services to humanity as well as propagating the gospel thereby winning more souls for Jesus Christ.

Abak main park committee pledges support for Imoh Williams

The Chairman, Abak Main Motor Park Committee, Mr. Anietie Simeon has said that members of the committee will work together with the Executive Chairman of Abak local government area, Hon. Barr. Imoh Williams to enable him succeed in the task of taking Abak local government area to the next level of development.

Mr. Simeon who spoke with our reporter yesterday at Abak, expressed gratitude to God for making it possible for him to be appointed as the Chairman of Abak Main Park and thanked the Executive Chairman, Barr. Imoh Williams for finding him fit to occupy the office.

The Park Chairman promised to emulate Barr Imoh Williams who he said has good plans and vision for Abak local government area. “The Executive Chairman, Hon. Barr. Imoh Williams has good plans for Abak. 

Paul Bassey has taken Akwa United to greater heights - Coach Umoh

Akwa United Flies Dana for League Matches
A football tactician in the state, Coach Aniekan Umoh has said that the appointment of a seasoned sports administrator, Elder Paul Bassey as the Chairman of Akwa United Football Club about two years ago was the best thing to happen to the State-owned Premier League Side.

Coach Umoh who is the Assistant Coach of Ibom Angels Footbal Club of Uyo, noted that Elder Paul Bassey has used his wealth of experience to transform Akwa United and has taken the team to greater height.

He said during the tenure of Elder Paul Bassey as the Chairman, Akwa United last season finished 4th on the Premier League table, the best in their history and has also won the AITEO Cup, thereby becoming the first team in the Country to win the competition which was formerly known as “Federation Cup”

The Ibom Angels Assistant Coach saluted Elder Paul Bassey for new innovations being introduced into the team. He described the handing over of the team into the hands of God before the commencement of the league season as highly commendable. “There is nothing you can do successfully without God.

Black Friday: Fuel Station guts fire, injures many in Mbierebe

Black Friday: Fuel Station guts fire, injures many in Mbierebe
BY KINGSLEY UDUAK

It was a black Friday last        weekend in Mberiebe Obio, Uyo where a popular fuel station namely GWT PET LTD, situated opposite Mbierebe Obio Market gutted   by  unsuspected inferno, which led to a stampede leaving many injured.
The inferno which started at about 5:13pm lasted till 11:00pm, according to eyewitness  was  caused by a little spark in a Petrol tanker that was driven to the fuel station so as to deliver petrol for commercial reasons.

THE INK gathered that it took an assiduous effort of the Akwa Ibom State Fire Service Team to put off the inferno after exhausting not less than two tankers of water and the incident had caused traffic jam on Aka Etinan Road and  Ring Road Junction since security agents from the Nigerian Police   Force stopped  motorists from plying Mberiebe Obio Road to Etinan Local Government Area.

According to a trader who sell Onions in the  Makert, Mrs Glory Udo Attah said, “It was around some minutes  past five that a certain tanker just arrived inside the filling station. So we heard shout, later I ran and left my goods when I saw how fire was burning the tanker, driver and the conductor who was trying to jump out of the tanker”.

Hypestation Young Persons/Man of the Year Awards holds Wednesday

The role of the youths in any society that needs to develop cannot be overemphasized and that is why Hypestation Nigeria through its annual award event or Young Persons of the Year Awards, celebrates their effort for creating impact in their immediate communities for sustainable development through leadership, creativity/innovation, community/social development.

Since the inception of this project in 2015, 8 young persons in total have been enlisted as “Hypestation Young Persons of the Year”. From just being an online review and award for young people in Akwa Ibom who have achieved, excelled in their various fields of endeavours and also impacted their immediate environment, it has moved to making its debut outing as an event.

This move is to solidify our commitment to show how much we appreciate hard work and selfless service community development of individuals, especially by the young.

2019: OBA walks tight rope …Akpabio, Nelson Effiong face hurdles

2019: OBA walks tight rope  …Akpabio, Nelson Effiong face hurdles
BY KENNETH JUDE

Senator Bassey Albert’s quest for another shot at the Senate may have hit the rocks following the indication by Hon. Kufre Etuk of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to run for the position in next year’s polls.

This more was revealed during a breakfast meeting organised by Hon. Kufre Etuk held in Uyo at the recently for the people of Atai Uyo.

In a gathering that was well attended by political heavyweights from the four local government  areas of Uruan, Uyo, Ibesikpo and Nsit Atai comprising Atai Uyo, Hon. Etuk, noted that there is need to ensure equity and justice in the power sharing formula in Uyo federal constituency. The former member of the 

Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, stressed that it’s time for oppressors to desist from their actions for the peace and growth of the constituency.
According to him, political parties do not change people but it’s the people that bring development. 

“No political party can change anybody. A bad person in APC will never become a good person in PDP and vice versa,” he stated.

“2018 Akwa Ibom State Budget Proposal is over-ambitious” - Civil Society Group

The proposed “2018 Budget of Consolidation on Industrialization” for Akwa Ibom State which stands at N651.5billion has been described as “the most bloated budget in the history of the state”. 

In a statement released today by a leading Civil Society Organization, Policy Alert, and signed by its Acting Executive Director, Tijah Bolton Akpan, the group asked the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly to “cut down on the budget size because the performance of the capital budget in the past few years has been unimpressive”.

The statement noted: “Among the important indices that should inform growth in budget size are improved year on year capital budget performance, population growth and the general growth of the economy. It is clear from any cursory examination that Akwa Ibom State’s capital budget performance has been unimpressive in recent years at between 30 to 40 percent. 

Ikot Ekpene Federal seat: Essien Udim Youths blast Emmanuel Akpan picks Nsikak Ekong

BY KINGSLEY UDUAK

In every political setting both in Nigeria and the world at large, there is always a system  of agreement  when power is pursued and executed . This agreement is commonly unconstitutional however, it is a strong method for the prove of  growing polity .

In Nigeria today it is popularly known as zoning system. This system has helped greatly  for the peace of  Nigeria’s nascent politics.

Surprisingly, most political office holders at assuming office maybe because of the common human greed will want to  destroy the zoning system  to the detriment of  aspiring candidates who are eying their offices.

Some of these politicians will want to  be in office  for more than the agreed zoned  tenure, while some will wish to stay in  office forever.

Effiong Bob accusers are on assumption – Anietie Akpan

It is sad that some miscreants would venture to suggest that Senator Effiong Bob, FCIArb, had a hand in the arrest of one Blessing Mbakara for the kidnap of one Mrs. Ekaette Uboh of Ikot Esen - Ubium in Nsit Ubium LGA. That is rather a silly assumption. The truth is, if having carried out their investigations, the police find Blessing Mbakara culpable, shouldn’t the law take its course?

It is funny how Nigerians expect the police to do a good job, but when it affects their interest, they want it to be otherwise. 

Three or four months since the woman got missing, is it not time to expect results from the police? Now some miscreants are tying the police arrest of Blessing Mbakara to her declaration of interest in the House of Assembly seat come 2019. How irresponsible of them! If it is true that she is responsible for the disappearance of the woman, was she wanting to evade justice by her declaration?

Akwa Ibom renaissance declares support for APC * demands slots for FG appointment

The leadership and members of Akwa Ibom Renaissance, a socio political group, comprising of about five thousand members spread across the 329 wards in the state have pledged their unalloyed loyalty and support  to  President Muhammadu Buhari led administration as well as vowed to mobilize and support the political party in forthcoming elections.

In a communique made available to newsmen after an enlarged meeting of the body held in Uyo,  the Chairman, Mr. Anthony Bassey and Secretary, Barr. Udeme Ekott commended the Presidency for revamping the country’s ailing economy, anticorruption fight and other social ills in the polity.

The organisation also thanked the President for the appointment of over 28 sons and daughters of Akwa Ibom into various federal boards and paracatals but pleaded that the youths should be considered in subsequent appointment. 

Transport Stakeholders to Udom: Sack Orman Esin now ...Accuse Commissioner of double standards

BY KENNETH JUDE

Miffed by his meddlesomeness, stakeholders in the transport sector have called for the sack of Commissioner for Transport and Petroleum Resources, Mr. Orman Esin, over what they described as his incompetence to run the ministry.
They made their position known to newsmen in Uyo at the weekend.

The stakeholders decried the fact that Orman Esin has sidelined them in the affairs of the ministry of transportation in the state especially as regards the management of motor parks.

They faulted the recent news making the rounds to the effect that a new tax regime will be in place beginning Monday, 29th January. According to them, they argued that  in as much as they agreed to some changes to be effected in the tariff rate, they never consented to whatever the Commissioner published in the media.

Reeling out the figures, the stakeholders said that for the purposes of registration, they agreed that the sum of N24, 000 should be paid by commercial bus owners, N17, 000 for taxi operators and N3,500 for tricyclists (keke operators). They noted that there was no provision for renewal in the agreement hence condemned in its entirety, the recent publications in the media credited to the Commissioner.

They described the publication as a misrepresentation and distortion of facts that contradicts the agreement reached between the Ministry of Transport and Stakeholders in the transport sector.

Gov. Udom’s administration will sustain Agricultural Development in Akwa Ibom - Ufot Ebong

The Senior Special Assistant to Akwa       Ibom State Governor, Mr. Ufot Ebong has urged Akwa Ibomites who are land owners to come forth and partner with the Akwa Ibom Enterprise and Employment Scheme,(AKEES) in terms of agriculture to develop their lands.

He spoke with our Reporter in Uyo, against the backdrops of doubts in the minds of some persons who felt the program was not real.

Ufot Ebong stated that, there are farms across the states, with Akwa Ibomites bring trained on tomatoe farming, concumber, bitrus, and other crops. 

The SSA stated that, there are some farm soils that are limed, to aid the growth of farm produce. According to him, the water reservoir used for irrigation process, is also used for fish farming, which its manure helps the growth of the vegetables.

Akwa Ibom Information Ministry to spend N1.8Billion in 2018

Activities of the Ministry of Information and Strategy in Akwa Ibom State for the 2018 fiscal year will focus on the propagation of Governor Udom Emmanuel’s achievements based on his Five-point Agenda of Wealth Creation, Infrastructural consolidation and expansion, job creation, economic and political inclusion as well as poverty alleviation.

This achievement according to the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Charles Udoh would only be made possible if the ministry is able to access the required funding for the prosecution of the outlined programmes and projects in the information sector. An estimated sum of N1.8 billion is the amount proposed by the ministry for this purpose.

Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Charles Udoh made the disclosure on Thursday while defending the fiscal estimate of his ministry for 2018 before the House of Assembly Committee on Appropriation and Finance. 
The Information boss explained that of the total estimated budgetary provision, the repositioning of the non functional Government Printing Press is to gulp, N50 million, while the Akwa Ibom Newspaper Corporation would require N50 million for its projects and programmes for the year which includes, the construction of administrative block as well as capacity development for staffers of the newspaper house.

Political Affairs Boss challenges Groups on innovations

...as IMA commences Monthly Solemn Assembly, vows to sustain Round Table discourse

Ibom Mega Alliance (IMA), a foremost sociopolitical group in Akwa Ibom State, has been commended for working beyond traditional political flanks to strengthen the fabric of governance in the State through innovations. Accordingly, political groups in the State have been challenged to come up ideas and innovations that that would chart a course for good governance in the State.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Political/Legislative Affairs and Water Resources, Rt. Hon. (Barr.) Ekong Sampson gave the charge during the maiden edition of the monthly solemn assembly of Ibom Mega Alliance at IMA House in Uyo.

The Special Adviser lauded the group for its demonstration of peculiarity and trail blazing innovations that will enable the government to succeed. He said with the current inclination in world, every successful administrator now in the global milieu is measured on the scale of innovations that he brings to bear in governance. This, he affirmed, Governor Udom Emmanuel has demonstrated.

Budget Defense: A’Ibom State Fire Service got zero allocation from Govt in 3 years

...Lawmakers express worry over sorry state facilities at fire stations

Members of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Committee on Appropriation and Finance where on Wednesday shocked when a startling discovery of the sorry state of affairs at the state owned Fire Service was brought to the fore during the ongoing budget defense exercise by Ministries, Department and Agencies of Government, MDAs at the House of Assembly.

Reviewing the performance of the fire service in 2017 and previous years, Chief Fire Fighter in the state, and Acting Director of Fire Service in Akwa Ibom State, Engr. Ubong Umoh told the lawmakers that for the past 3 years, nothing was released in terms of funding to the service by the government.

Defending the 2018 budget of the state fire service before the House Committee on Appropriation and Finance, Engr. Umoh who briefed the lawmakers on the sorry state of affairs in the fire service, also disclosed that in 2017, the Akwa Ibom State Fire Service received zero allocation. When asked by the legislators the efforts he had made to draw government’s attention to their plight, the Chief Fire fighter said “We have sent several Memo’s to the Governor.”

Friday 26 January 2018

ONNA TO GET FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

ONNA local Government Area may soon get a Technical Federal College of Education, courtesy the member representing Eket federal constituency Mrs. Owoidighe Ekpoattai.

THE INK gathered that a private member bill which is sponsored by the legislator had passed through her second reading.

The bill seeks to establish a FEDERAL COLLEGE OF  EDUCATION(TECHNICAL )AT ONNA.

The Bill is marked 2018 (HB 1304) and has been described  as a milestone by opinion moulders who say if it sails through, it will touch lives in the federal constituency and beyond.

And will Aldo strengthen the Educational development of the constituency nay Akwa Ibom State.

Wednesday 24 January 2018

COE Provost continues  attacks on Udom *faults mode of contract Award in Institution 

The Provost of Akwa Ibom State College of Education Afaha Nsit, Prof Mathew Ekpo despite saying in a cover-up media chat last week in UNIUYO that he is not against Governor Udom Emmanuel over the weekend took the State Chief Executive to the cleaners.

In a discussion with some top management staff of the institution, the administration maintained that his grouse with the Governor are the State Government’s seeming abandonment of the repair and construction of roads in the institution and also the manner in which contracts are awarded to contractors who came in to execute the jobs without recourse to the management and leadership of the school.

A member of staff of the college who was privy to the discussion informed THE INK that Prof Ekpo stated that, it is funny, sad and ridiculous that for the State College of Education, the Governor upon awarding of contracts had seriously schemed out the management of the institution so much so that these contractors don’t even have time of management.

Our source maintained further that the Provost’s anger is partly because these contractors treat them (management) with disdain making it difficult for management to contribute and or seek explanations on the structural arrangements of certain infrastructures renovated and or constructed by the contractor.

The Provost, THE INK understands believes that this pattern of contract award by the State Government robs the institution of a money making opportunity thereby allowing him and members of his management team appear like figure heads in an institution led by him.

THE INK gathered that the Provost while confiding in some members of his management team says he has no regret visiting Obong Nsima Ekere. Our reporter was informed that the College of Education Provost had stated emphatically that if the contract for works done in the college was awarded by Nsima Ekere’s NDDC, that management staff of the institution would have greatly benefitted in terms of sub contracts and finances. He is set to have expressed worry over how the government reacted when the news of his visit to the MD/CEO of NDDC was leaked.

The Provost is said to have maintained that whoever is monitoring him is wasting his or her time adding that he has visited Nsima Ekere and so?

But to assuage the feelings of government, the Provost had in a certain office in the University of Uyo, according to sources hosted an interaction with members of the press where he urged the people to discountenance the news and information that he is against Udom Emmanuel.

Many reliable sources from the College of Education faulted Prof Ekpo saying that the Provost if at all he is sincere didn’t need to address the press outside the College premises. They maintained to THE INK reporter that all is not well in the institution following disagreements and infighting among the different Associations in the campus.

Meanwhile, THE INK can report matters quite frankly that the provost is worried that he hardly assesses the financial figure attached to the budget estimated for the college and this our reporter understands contribute to a greater extent as to why the Provost is not at ease with the leadership of Governor Udom Emmanuel. Those who work with Prof Ekpo say the Ikot Abasi born university Don does not spare a thought in taking a swipe at Udom in his secret talks with people.

 

Monday 15 January 2018

UDOM APPOINTS EKUWEM SSG

THE Akwa Ibom State Governor Mr. Udom Emmanuel has approved the appointment of Mr. Emmanuel Ekuwem as the new SSG.

THIS appointment is contained in a release signed by the commissioner for Information and Strategy Mr. Charles Udoh.

The release appreciates the services of Etekamba Umoren to the State and welcomes Dr. Ekuwem on board.

The appointment takes immediate effect.

Thursday 11 January 2018

YOU ARE A LIAR, Ibibio Elders tell Akpabio.

Elders of Ibibio nation under the ageis of Uyo Senatorial District Elders have taken former Governor Godswill Akpabio to the cleaners describing his sermon of All is not well in Ikot Ekpene senatorial District as a big lie and a cover up to the atrocities the ex Governor committed against Ibibio people while in government.

In a very long communique issued and signed by Idongesit Nkanga, Ekpe Atakpo, Nseabasi Akpan, Effiong Bob and many others, the group noted that the administration of Governor Udom Emmanuel have been very fair to Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District owing to the many infrastructural Renaissance witnessed in the area as well as the accompanying appointments of sons and daughters of the area into positions in the state Exco and beyond.

Ibibio elders however frowned at the question of how many percent of Akwa Ibom budget will accrue to Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District and warned Akpabio from making comments capable of creating ethnic crises in the state...

Below is the full version of the communique
COMMUNIQUE ISSUED BY UYO SENATORIAL DISTRICT LEADERS FORUM FOLLOWING A MEETING HELD IN UYO, AKWA IBOM STATE ON JANUARY 7, 2018.

Our attention has been drawn to a statement credited to the Senate Minority Leader, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, in various national and state based newspapers and other media platforms, wherein he claimed among other things that Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District is marginalized by His Excellency, Governor Udom Emmanuel. Having objectively reviewed the social, economic and developmental realities in Akwa Ibom state before May 29, 2015 and the prevailing situation in the state occasioned by the performance of Governor Udom Emmanuel since his inauguration, we rise to declare that:

There is no truth in the allegations made by Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio: rightly, they are calculated statements of calumny, blackmail and arm-twisting. The claim by Senator Akpabio that projects he initiated in Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District have been abandoned by Governor Udom Emmanuel is not thoughtful.

It heightens the growing public concern about his selflessness and offends the sensibilities of the people in other senatorial districts who live with the relics of various uncompleted yet continuing projects including, the Terminal Building at Ibom International Airport, Ibom Tropicana Hotel, Ibom Specialist Hospital, Eket-Etinan Road, ItakOkoita-Use Ikot Amama Road, etc, left by Senator Akpabio despite the favourable resources he received during the eight years he served as the Governor of the state.

Reality must admit that Senator Akpabio in the eight years as Governor of the state did not even complete and commission one kilometre of road in the core oil producing areas of the state where Governor Udom Emmanuel comes from. It is also pertinent to state that even the Four-Point Sheraton Hotel at Ikot Ekpene which was commissioned by the former governor cannot be called an abandoned project. His Excellency, Governor Udom Gabriel Emmanuel has not abandoned any uncompleted project he inherited from Senator Akpabio’s regime; all such projects are being prudently funded and meticulously implemented as funds become available.

This is evidenced in the recent release of funds to Julius Berger for the ongoing construction of Uyo-Ikot Ekpene road project among others, despite the receding national economy and diminishing resources to the state. As a response to Senator Godswill Akpabio’s demands namely “…let us have something from the senatorial district to use in talking about election; to use in convincing the people to stand by us”, we make bold to state that in addition to ongoing genuine efforts to complete uncompleted projects and even execute new ones in line with his administration’s focus, Governor Udom Emmanuel has magnanimously given more quality and choice appointments to Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District than any other senatorial district in the state.

These include; the Deputy Governor; Secretary to the State Government (SSG); Attorney General & Commissioner for Justice; Commissioner for Education; Commissioner for Women Affairs; Commissioner for Youths and Sports; Commissioner for Science and Technology; Commissioner for Rural Development; Commissioner for Labour, Manpower Development & Cooperatives; Commissioner for Local Government & Chieftaincy Affairs; Senior Special Assistant (SSA), Bureau of Technical Services and Due Process; Chairman State Universal Basic Education Board; Chairman, Ibom Power Company; Chairmen and Members of other key boards and commissions; Senior Special Assistants on Inter-Ministerial Jobs in the state; Senior Special Assistant on Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and a large retinue of prime Senior Special Assistants; Special Advisers, Personal Aides and recently, the National Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) etc. Even the Ministry of Commerce and Investments which was occupied by our late Sister Prof. Eno Ikpe is now being supervised by a Commissioner from
Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District.


We note that the poser by the immediate past governor of Akwa Ibom state and Senate Minority Leader, Senator Godswill Akpabio, in quote: “in the 2018 budget, what is the percentage for Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District?”, is, sadly, less than a sincere demand for the rights of the people of Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District which have already been appropriately accommodated in the 2018 budget. It is more a part of the well-known behind –the-scene efforts to accomplish his ulterior motives.

For the avoidance of doubt, we hereby state categorically that there is no misunderstanding or problem between Ibibio and their Annang brothers as Senator Godswill Akpabio is attempting to create. It is ironic and unfortunate that the same Senator Godswill Akpabio who is a beneficiary from the age-long unity and togetherness existing in the state that is now fanning the embers of discord and disunity to advance his selfish interests. In the interests of peace and unity For the avoidance of doubt, we hereby state categorically that there is no misunderstanding or problem between Ibibio and their Annang brothers as Senator Godswill Akpabio is attempting to create.

It is ironic and unfortunate that the same Senator Godswill Akpabio who is a beneficiary from the age-long unity and togetherness existing in the state that is now fanning the embers of discord and disunity to advance his selfish interests. In the interests of peace and unity, the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District should caution Senator Godswill Akpabio to desist from making unfounded utterances intended to create ethnic conflicts in Akwa Ibom State to serve his personal benefit. We encourage Senator Godswill Akpabio to respect conventions, values and principles that would sustain the prevailing peace in the state and allow the sleeping dog to lie.

Wisdom dictates that anyone who lives in a glass house should not throw stones. We debunk and disagree totally with the insinuation made by Senator Godswill Akpabio that “all is not well” and declare boldly that it is well with us. We are strongly persuaded that despite Senator Akpabio’s declared fears and, uncertainty in the “route” he will take in 2019, it is well, and shall, indeed, be well with Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom state and His Excellency, Governor Udom Emmanuel.

Finally, we hereby reiterate our loyalty, commitment and overwhelming support for the re-election of His Excellency, Governor Udom Gabriel Emmanuel as the Governor of Akwa Ibom state for a second term come 2019. It is mandatory and the resolve of Uyo Senatorial District Leaders Forum (USDLF) to strongly continue to support His Excellency, Mr. Udom Emmanuel to complete his two–term tenure so that the Governorship position returns to Uyo Senatorial District come 2023.

For and on behalf of Uyo Senatorial District Leaders Forum:

TENSION AS UDO EKPENYONG AMBUSHES AKPABIO.

The last may not have been heard of the fall of the former commissioner for LG and Chieftaincy Affairs as the Ukanafun born politician has restrategized to mount a high powered opposition against Senator Godswill Akpabio's reelection in 2019.

THE INK was informed that Udo Ekpenyong had held a kitchen meeting with some of his loyalists who feel betrayed by the unceremonious relief given to Ekpenyong by Gov. Udom Emmanuel on the orders of Godswill Akpabio.

To this end, THE INK was informed that Udo's men had maintained that Akpabio needs to be cut to size especially as he is gradually growing to become a monster of some sort in Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District.

Few of those who attended the meeting cutting across the Ukanafun/ Oruk Anam federal constituency told THE INK last evening in a location in Uyo that opposition against Akpabio's return to the senate will be intense especially as the Ex Governor had openly fight Udo Ekpenyong embarrassingly out of office. Those who understand the politics of the area maintained that Udo Ekpenyong who was working assiduously for Udo Emmanuel felt betrayed and jilted that he could not be protected against the pawns of Akpabio.

But the former commissioner it was gathered had realized that his colleagues in the Exco had intervened on his behalf and that it was Senator Akpabio who opposed his return even after much begging.

Udo Ekpenyong had however consulted other major players of politics in his federal constituency and constitute a fraction that will frustrate Akpabio's return bid to the Senate.

Udo Ekpenyong's group understands that if they consult and retain the confidence of Ikono-Ini Federal constituency, it therefore means that the move against Akpabio will reach a lasting limit.

A former commissioner from Ukanafun said, even though Akpabio enjoys the popularity of the people, his actions in recent times has proven to the world that he needs yo be tamed otherwise he will constitute a nuisance to the society of politics in the senatorial District.

Amongst those Udo Ekpenyong expects to use towards prosecuting the operation stop Akpabio 2019 include; Anny Asikpo from Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, Chief Saviour Udoh, Obong Christopher Ekpenyong, Mr. Jack a former transition Chairman in Ikono Local Government Area amongst others

UDOM'S EXCO SPLITS OVER NWOKO'S DEFENCE OF AKPABIO

THE INK newspapers can report on matters of fact that not less than ten members in the Akwa Ibom State Executive Council have expressed displeasure with their colleague Barr Uwemedimo Nwoko over his defence of Akpabio when he mentioned to the media that the senate minority leader was not properly briefed on the strides of Governor Udom Emmanuel in Ikot Ekpene senatorial District.

A commissioner from Uyo senatorial district view Nwoko's comment as unceremonious and highly clannish.

He maintained in a meeting to his kinsmen that the position made by Uwemedimo Nwoko is highly provocative and added that Nwoko would have done well by shutting up and allowing the matter to die a natural death.

The commissioner had submitted that Akpabio is not God and inasmuch as the former Governor was highly instrumental to the success of Governor Emmanuel at the polls that the ex Governor should not make unguarded utterances that are capable of throwing the state into a line of chaos and ethnicity.

THE INK gathered from a very reliable source that some commissioners had maintained that Nwoko acted contrary to common sense and political protocols by taking over the duty of the Commissioner for information.

They however queried why Nwoko had not been speaking in defence of Government only to appear for a defence of Akpabio because of what they maintained as promoting ethnic interests.

THE INK gathered furthermore that Uwemedimo Nwoko's defence of Akpabio rather than ameliorating the problematic situation in the state as caused by Akpabio's all is not well swang song is exposing the tension and in fighting the State Exco have been known for overtime.

Another commissioner from Annang nation while pleading not to be named for fear of being given the Udo Ekpenyong treatment described Nwoko's defence as imbeccillic saying as Attorney General Uwemedimo Nwoko should have explored his knowledge towards ensuring that Udo Ekpenyong was nor relieved of his duties.

He maintained that where Nwoko failed to intervene, he lacks the morals to speak in defence of Akpabio whose action he described as clearly mischievous.

A ranking commissioner in the state Exco added his own that Akpabio feels because he was the forerunner for Udom to emerge as a Governor that he can talk and untalk Udom. According to him, Akpabio needs to be schooled on how not to be a predecessor.

The Dean of Commissioners Glory Edet could not speak on the temperament of his colleagues but her mien indicates that she has a herculean task to assuage frayed nerves even as staff of her ministry confided to THE INK reporters that the woman appear to have been under intense pressure reconciling her colleagues.

The commissioner for Information Charles Udoh refused further comments on the matter obviously an indication that he is not happy with political developments in the State Exco.

Wednesday 10 January 2018

Akpabio/Udom face-off: Assam Assam blasts Akpabio

A former commissioner for Justice and Attorney General of Akwa Ibom State Chief Assam Assam has fallen on former Governor Godswill Akpabio describing him as an ungrateful fellow who seeks to capitalize on fathom cases to score cheap political points.

Assam in a statement made available to newsmen and published virally online poured cold water on Akpabio's summation on Uyo Ikot Ekpene road saying if Akpabio was honest, that he would have completed the Ikot Ekpene Uyo road.

Assam maintained by inference that rather than cast aspersions on Udom that Akpabio should be grateful that the state Governor is the wedge between Akpabio and jail.

He promised that since Akpabio has opened up for war against Udom, that he should be ready to be exposed where his atrocities against Akwa Ibom People will be exposed.

None of Akpabio's aides were willing to comment of Assam Assam's expose. As at time this news was published. 

Assam press statement below 

AKWA IBOM: AN ERA OF POLITICAL SOPHISTRY  -Chief Assam E. Assam (SAN)


This is the wee morning of January 2018, and the political storm in Akwa Ibom State is already brewing. In this state, the electoral process is always rancorous but here the vista seems to be differently contrived. The new vista of which I speak is a threat by a Senator to truncate the second term ambition of a sitting Governor if he fails to address a ‘perception of the marginalization of his people.’! This Senator is a former Governor of the State who at one time was thought to be speaking for the whole state but now speaks for a section of it, and by himself deliberately abandons the platform of leading the State, which he had hitherto claimed. Chief Franklyn Isong in his very erudite contribution to the political development has dwelt extensively on this and so I decline any further adumbration.


 

The Vanguard Online, reported on the 1st of January 2018 as follows:


 

“AHEAD of the 2019 general elections in the country, former governor of Akwa Ibom State and a serving senator, Godswill Akpabio, has given conditions under which he will support incumbent Governor Udom Emmanuel’s second term ambition. Speaking at the annual get-together organized by the deputy governor, Chief Moses Ekpo, to fete the people of Ikot Ekpene senatorial district, Akpabio insisted that he would only support the governor for a second term if perceived current marginalization of his senatorial district was addressed, warning that the era of ‘carry go’ politics was gone and charged the governor to brace up for the big task. ---- He lamented that some of the projects embarked upon by his (Akpabio’s) administration including the multi-million naira Four points by Sheraton Hotel at Ikot Ekpene and the dualized Uyo-Ikot Ekpene road, had been abandoned by governor Emmanuel, noting that the completion of the projects would form part of the recommendations for his re-election in 2019 ---- Akpabio asked and charged the governor to remove the wedge that stifles development in his zone or be prepared to face the consequences of such action in 2019.”


 

From the story, which has not been refuted, to my knowledge, the perception of marginalization stems from the non completion of the Uyo-Ikot Ekpene Road and the non utilization of the Hotel at Ikot Ekpene. Let me quickly say that non completion of projects in the first term of Governors in Akwa Ibom State has never been a condition precedent to re-election. If it were, the first victim could have been Godswill Akpabio himself. I will come to that anon. What is pertinent at this point is to go back memory lane, recalling those fantasy projects that Governor Akpabio would reel out at press conferences, birthday parties, wedding receptions, airport chance meetings  etc etc  as having been completed and commissioned by his administration and for which he was severally nominated for performance related awards. The endless list always had these projects he now claims are yet to be completed. This hotel, Akpabio commissioned on the 26th of May 2015 with so much fanfare, as ‘Four Points by Sheraton’, an international hotel brand with beds etal was uncompleted? Could ‘Four Points by Sheraton’ lend its name to this monumental fraud without any consequences? Now that this has been placed in the public domain by the distinguished senator himself, it may be worthwhile to seek the truth, using other avenues.


 

 The Uyo-Ikot Ekpene Road, project, a 25 kilometer road awarded in February of 2012 to Julius Berger at an undisclosed cost, was to be completed within 12 months. The project was not part of the State’s appropriation for 2012. It was only after its award that as usual, a supplementary appropriation bill was sent to the House of Assembly. Which meant, other projects, as we shall soon see, in the approved budget for the financial year had to be ignored for the funding of this all important project. However, as usual, one lane of the dual carriage road was commissioned by the said senator, when he was in office as Governor. If this project was so dear to the Senator’s senatorial district, that he could hold the current administration responsible for not completing it, how come that for two and a half years after the award of the contract and the payment of huge sums normally attributable to JB contracts, the project was abandoned by Governor Akpabio himself? And if there is anything I can swear to is the fact that Akpabio had one of the most efficient Works Ministry; so what was the problem that needed to be fixed within 30 months of Akpabio’s administration which was left for the next administration, if the completion of the project was of such monumental value to him?

 


I know Akpabio well enough to say that if this project was important to his people, as he claims, he could have done everything within his executive powers to complete it, and it is on record that this is the ONLY uncompleted infrastructural works in the Senator’s district, taking into consideration the avalanche of multi-billion naira projects that the Senator, as Governor contrived for his district.

 


It is however instructive to note that the first and flagship project of Akpabio’s Administration was the TROPICANA PROJECT in Uyo, a complex that was to have a five star hotel, a shopping mall, a cinema complex, a conference centre for 5000 persons, a wet and dry park (said to be designed after a facility in Dubai) etc. In an extensively publicized contract signing agreement in July of 2007, the project which was to be completed in thirty months was at a cost of N33,000,000,000.00 (thirty three billion naira). Don’t forget this was in 2007 and as we speak I doubt if anyone knows the cost of this project.  At the same time, he awarded the contract for the design and construction of Abak-Ikot Ekpene and Afaha Obong –Etim Ekpo Roads in his aforesaid senatorial district. The wisdom of the road projects could not be questioned. They were roads which had become a nightmare and like a lot of roads in other senatorial districts were in great need of construction. The fact that the Governor started with his district drew no ire or condemnation from any body. It was a necessity. The said roads were completed within record time but the TROPICANA PROJECT in Uyo, outside the Governor’s community, was not completed within the 8 years of Akpabio’s administration nor has it been completed. Yet the Uyo people did not give the completion of the Tropicana as a condition precedent to his re-election.

 


In fact, to further rubbish the TROPICANA PROJECT, while the hotel in the project was nearing structural completion, Governor Akpabio abandoned it to build the hotel in Ikot Ekpene, two years to the end of his administration, in order that his community would not be marginalized. At the end he left Akwa Ibom State without a functional hotel. Could it not have made sense to complete one before starting the other.

 


The distinguished Senator made no bones about the development of his community. I use community in a very limited sense, not in the wider perspective of the senatorial district, which he claims to speak for. The Senator’s district is divided into three contiguous areas. The old Abak Division, the Ibibio Local Government Areas of Ikono and Ini and the old Ikot Ekpene which is his immediate constituency. Akpabio as governor built no road, bridge or notable infrastructural facility in Ikono and Ini the Ibibio Local Government areas of his senatorial district. NONE. All the projects in Abak were designed to channel development or traffic to Essien Udim and Ikot Ekpene, the immediate constituency of the Senator. Let me cite just a few.

 


The Uyo-Abak dualized road with a two hundred meter bridge emptying into a single carriage Abak-Ekparakwa road was designed to ensure that the Prisons in Abak was relocated to Essien Udim as a part of the prisons relocation exercise of the Akpabio Administration. The dualized Abak – Ikot Ekpene Road complete with street lights and drainage; the Afaha-Obong Etiim Ekpo Road which links the Etim Ekpo-Ika Road to Ukana East in Essien Udim Local Government Area the immediate ward of the distinguished senator; the Ikot Ekpene prisons relocation exercise on the pretext that it was within the immediate precincts of the city centre. While this argument may be correct, the senator, while Governor completely forgot or did not know that outside Ikot Ekpene and Abak Prisons, Eket prisons, which was the first in the state was within the immediate precincts of the city centre too but it behoved the Governor to construct an ultra-modern prison in his village. The Ikot Ekpene city centre is today a model in city reclamation programs in Nigeria. The entire roads in the town is asphalted with drains in the most qualitative way. Then the hotel, the first of its kind in the state though designed without an industrial kitchen and a conference centre and without the inputs of the brand whose imprimatur was used to commission it on the 26th of May 2015. Even the much vaunted fly-overs built in Uyo are all directed at traffic to Ikot Ekpene. The ever busy and traffic ridden Aka Road enjoys a remodeled roundabout and deserved no fly-over because it did not lead to Ikot Ekpene.  The Federal Government needed to cite a polytechnic in the State, HE took it to his village. To now accuse Udom Emmanuel of marginalization of his people makes the senator come across as a selfish, self conceited bigot. This a classic case of calling a dog a bad name to hang it.

 


When the Senator’s story broke, I was worried that maybe because Akpabio, during his administration did nothing of any substance in Eket Senatorial District, Udom Emmanuel may have decided to pay him by the same coins. I went with my friends from the district on a two day visit to Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District and this is what I found, by myself: the current government has completed a seven kilometer road with two bridges measuring about 50 meters in span from Nto Edino to the Abia State town of Ekwereazu. The administration has also completed a five kilometer road leading to the School of Arts and Science in Ikono, beautifully finished with drains and outfalls; and in Ini Local Government Area I saw a road project at Odoro Ikpe heading to Arochukwu, which was not motor able when I recently visited to commiserate with my friend who was bereaved. In the Ukanafun – Oruk Anam axis, I saw ongoing works on the 25 kilometer stretch road leading from Ikot Ekaide to Ikot Okoro and another project from Ikot Ibritam to wherever, I would not know. The Akwa Ibom State University Obio Akpa looks like Ikot Ekpene township – all the internal roads are asphalted. On the personnel in the State Executive Council, until now, the senator’s district has ten out of 20 members of the State Executive Council including Udo Ekpenyong, who the Governor recently sacked to please Akpabio. How do you spell MARGINALIZATION?

 


I hold the opinion that Senator Akpabio was not really intending to complain about uncompleted projects in Ikot Ekpene. He intended to send a message to Governor Udom Emmanuel that he has an alternative to him as the Gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party come 2019 elections. For me and a host of people who already know this for a fact he did not need to use tribal sentiments to buttress that point, though generally he has difficulty in thinking before speaking. In my earlier memorandum to the distinguished senator

 

 

I had assured him that no reasonable person would take his assurances of support for Udom as a statement from the scriptures because of his antecedents in such matters. He did not deny that assertion though I had a visitation which I could not fail to ascribe to that memorandum. One of his goons even pretended to insult me for calling his god by its name. But I still hold that view.

 


Why should my views on the matter change? No reason! Throughout Akpabio’s eight years in office no access road was constructed to any part of Eket Senatorial  District, where the entire revenue of the state comes from and someone is talking of marginalization! The Uyo-Uya Oron Road was abandoned; the Etinan-Eket Road was abandoned and as for Ikot Abasi Federal constituency, no effort was made to provide any infrastructure. Even the Eket to Ibeno road project, which was part paid for by ExxonMobil, was truncated by the Akpabio administration using all sorts of subterfuge until reason prevailed during this Government.

 


But to think that it is Akpabio who should threaten the Governor, publicly, is preposterous. According to the statement, there will be consequences if the Governor fails to abide his instructions! Hawk-wash. I am certain the senator did not mean that. I know that his supporters have always insisted that they will show Udom at the end when that time comes. But what has the young man really done to deserve the venom that is spewed to malign him on a daily basis. For me and those of us who are without the inner caucus of Government and have never been invited to the PDP’s caucus meetings even though eminently qualified, the opportunity to err views is said to be denied. But for Akpabio who sees the Governor at will, why the public vilification when you can discuss except the intention is to achieve an ignoble end.

 


The point is not lost on me, that all these may be because of the character, mien, carriage and natural attributes of Udom Emmanuel. I did warn him and even if he did not believe me then he does now, that Akpabio will try a last minute gambit on him. I also tried to persuade Akpabio not to be so completely predictable. But each day I find myself battling to resist the truth. But as the Efiks say “truth is like a goat-head; it cannot be lost in the soup pot and you cannot swallow it with your ball of foofoo’.

 


I think the main reason for the apparent disdain with which Akpabio treats Governor Emmanuel is because of all the Governors in Nigeria, Emmanuel is the only one who has not embarrassed his predecessor, particularly the self-styled godfathers. Governor Emmanuel has a permanent place in his public utterances for Senator Akpabio. He refers to him as his mentor. And he means it. He uses every opportunity to extol the virtues of his predecessor and squirms at criticisms of him. He struggles with excuses for him even in the face of very obvious gaffes. He does not leave anyone in doubt that he has a lot of respect for the Senator. What he has not done and will not do and perhaps that is what Senator Akpabio expects him to do, is to make a molten image of him to be worshipped as part of the State’s Calendar of events. But the Senator is not cut in that mold. He deploys any and every opportunity to let his audience know how he brought Udom and made him Governor and how Udom has not lived up to his bidding; putting it most urbanely.

 


A lot of people have spoken to me and feel angry that the Governor is exhibiting a great weakness in making himself Akpabio’s whipping object. They opine that what Akpabio, as Governor resisted most of all was control. They testify to the fact that Akpabio would not let his predecessor into the Government house and insulted and abused him whenever possible and generated enormous hate against Obong Attah. They feel that Governor Emmanuel must assert himself and paddle his boat. It is their opinion which I subscribe to, that remote control is good for electronics only. They believe that respect being reciprocal, and having not been reciprocated Governor Emmanuel has no business humiliating himself just to please a man who will never be pleased.

 


I know both gentlemen well. I am certain they too know each other well. They are in a position to evaluate each other’s strength and weaknesses. But to take an adult for granted is to take a risk. As adults in politics they can sort themselves out. My unsolicited advise to Udom is not to pretend to be me or somebody else. He has to continue to be himself, respectful, urbane, humble and focused. You know why Akpabio encouraged you above every one else to succeed him. It was because he believed you had integrity, and could enhance the development of the state based on the model he had set in the state. However, do not copy your predecessor’s model completely particularly the model which ensured that the development of the state should start from the home of the Governor and where possible other communities should be sacrificed for the sake of satisfying the Governor. Be generous in your disposition and accommodate those from without your family.

 


To Senator Akpabio, don’t forget the story of the frog and the snake, both of them are being advised by their mothers. Udom may not be that completely humble person you think he is and your insults could colour his attitude. You may be under estimating him. Do not forget the story of Nebuchadnezzar the King who played god. Your memory cannot fail you so fast that you cannot recall that you left office as governor with over N500 billion in debts and sundry financial commitments, N83 billion of which was due to Julius Berger, your choice contractor alone, in spite of the huge financial resources at the time. As you may recall, the situation was so bad that Julius Berger dared to lock up the Stadium for non payment of outstanding debts sequel to a crucial international football engagement. This is not to mention the cost of maintaining the stadium which you negotiated at the unbelievable sum of N600 million per annum for the same Julius Berger.

 


I will urge you not to exert too much pressure on your successor. The weight of the pressure may be too heavy and if he drops the pot it will break and spill its contents and that which you tried to hide may become public knowledge. As you well know, one man cannot be the sole custodian of the puerile game of blackmail. That others do not play it does not mean it is not available to them. The more you publicly malign him, the more people want to find out the history of your relationship and the revelation of what cover he has given you these past years become apparent. They even come to admire and respect him, leaving someone else the scoundrel.

 


I had in my earlier memorandum to you urged that you try not to be remembered as the father and mentor of political sophistry and double speak in Akwa Ibom State. You are still young. You can still change. But the first sign of change will be when you learn to think of what you want to say and its consequences before you speak. It is becoming a gaffe too many, dear Senator. In that same memorandum I told you that when you moved the motion for Udom Emmanuel’s second term in the PDP caucus meeting in Uyo, you intended to ensure that Udom was relaxed while you truncate his bid. You now deploy excuses to do so but have voiced no reason. Please do not be so predictable. Try and prove me wrong this time distinguished Senator.

 


 May the truth always prevail. Anwe Akpa Senyi!

 

 

Ambassador Assam E. Assam, SAN.

Abugh Ekid; Nkuku Idua; Adaha Ekid Afaha; Ada Idaha ke Efik Eburutu.

January 8, 2018.