Birthday: Uyo Lawmaker CAPO Gifts Loyal Supporter New Car, Business Support to others

••• Rallies Support for Tinubu, Akpabio, Gov Eno

It was a different kind of celebration in Uyo on Wednesday as the member representing Uyo State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon Uwemedimo Asuquo, turned his birthday into a moment of appreciation by gifting a new Toyota car to a long standing supporter. 

The beneficiary, Comrade Daniel Dominic Okon from Eniong Offot Village in Offot Clan, is said to have stood firmly with the lawmaker for over eight years, mobilising support for the party and its leaders across Uyo Local Government Area.

In the same vein, Mr Sabbath Inyang Udoh and Mr Anthony Charles Akpan received Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira each as Business Support.

Presenting the car keys and documents at their residence, on behalf of the lawmaker, his wife, Mrs Idongesit Uwemedimo, described Comrade Okon as a loyal and committed supporter who is very brilliant and has remained consistent, committed, faithful and honest in promoting the political ideals of her husband and the ruling party, APC.

She noted that Okon, a student of Guidance and Counselling at the University of Uyo, has also played a key role in rallying support among students for Governor Umo Eno and the All Progressives Congress, adding that his dedication deserved recognition.

Mrs Uwemedimo noted that her husband had, over time, extended similar support to other constituents who have since turned such gestures into means of livelihood, using the vehicles for commercial purposes to sustain their families, and assured that the lawmaker will continue to reward loyalty and dedication to the APC and the leadership of Uyo under Prince Enobong Uwah, stressing that the mandate entrusted to him will always be matched with tangible and people oriented impact.

Earlier, Hon Asuquo, popularly known as Capo, thanked the people of Uyo for turning out in large numbers to celebrate with him, commending their steady support for the leadership of the State capital under Prince Enobong Uwah.

He used the occasion to highlight achievements of the APC-led government and called for sustained support for the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, as well as Governor Umo Eno.

The lawmaker urged his constituents to remain united and committed, noting that continued support would attract more development to the state.

In their separate remarks, leaders from across the clans in Uyo Local Government Area praised the lawmaker’s performance in lawmaking, representation and oversight, saying he has raised the standard of representation in the constituency.

They declared their support for the second term ambitions of President Bola Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno and Hon Uwemedimo Asuquo, while also backing the return of Senate President Akpabio.

The event ended on a celebratory note as friends, associates and supporters offered prayers for the lawmaker, Uyo and State leadership and joined in marking the occasion.

Ifim Ibom Ibibio Advisory Council Hails Gov Eno On Appointment of Chancellor and Vice Chancellor For AKSU

 

The Ifim Ibom Ibibio Advisory Council has hailed Governor Umo Bassey Eno for the reappointment of His Eminence, Ntenyin (Dr.) Solomon Daniel Etuk, JP, CFR, the President General of the Akwa Ibom State Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers, and Oku Ibom Ibibio, as the Pro-Chancellor of Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU).

The Advisory Council, composed of critical elders and leaders of major socio-cultural bodies in Ibibioland, also commended the governor for appointing Professor Otoabasi Akpan as the substantive Vice Chancellor of Akwa Ibom State University. 

The body, in a congratulatory message signed by Dr Asikpo Essienibok, Chairman, Ifim Ibom Ibibio Advisory Council, while thanking Pastor Umo Eno for his wise decision, said emphatically that "the caps fit the heads" so chosen for the appointments. 

The Council congratulated Oku Ibom Ibibio on his reappointment, stressing that the impact of his outstanding leadership and services to the university, the traditional institution and society in general has been well felt. 

The Advisory Council further wished Professor Otoabasi Akpan an impactful tenure as Vice Chancellor of the state-owned university.

The congratulatory message read:  IFIM IBOM IBIBIO ADVISORY COUNCIL, made up of the critical Elders of Ibibio nationality of Akwa Ibom State and the core leaders of the following known socio-cultural organisations: Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio, Ibibio Elders Forum (Adaha Ibibio), Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio, Ekid Peoples Union, Afid Iwaad Ekid, Ibibio National Union, Mboho Ndito Nsit, Mboho Ndito Ikono/Ini, and Ibibio Academic Roundtable wants to recognise, commend, thank and congratulate our thoughtful Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, PhD, for reappointing Oku Ibom Ibibio as the Pro-Chancellor and Professor Otoabasi Akpan as the substantive Vice Chancellor of Akwa Ibom State University. 

"Thank you, our Governor, the caps fit the heads you wear them."

USPI Takes Blessing Ossom to the Cleaners Over Deceptive Facebook Video

 UYO SENATORIAL DISTRICT PEOPLES' INITIATIVE (YOUTH WING) USPI

PRESS RELEASE

Enough of your Fabricated Ranting: Blessing Ossom Must Stop Exploiting Akwa Ibom Leaders for Desperate Self-Promotion

The attention of the Uyo Senatorial District Peoples' Initiative (Youth Wing) has been drawn to a recent Facebook live video by one Blessing Ossom from Nsit Atai, wherein she made reckless and unsubstantiated claims against the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah.

Ordinarily, we would have ignored what clearly amounts to social media ranting. However, when an individual begins to drag the name of a dedicated public servant into imaginary conversations in a bid to whip up sentiment and manufacture crisis where none exists, silence becomes irresponsible.

We state clearly as follows:

1. The claims attributed to Prince Enobong Uwah regarding alterations to party structure, reduction of names, or manipulation of APC leadership in Uyo Federal Constituency are entirely fictitious. No such conversation, directive, or instruction exists to our knowledge.

2. It is mischievous and dangerous to randomly mention the Governor and the SSG in a manner calculated to suggest division within the APC or a breakdown of trust between the Governor and the Senate President, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio. Such insinuations are false and deliberately provocative.

3. Prince Enobong Uwah remains focused on his statutory responsibilities, which is, translating the Governor’s ARISE Agenda into practical results for the people of Akwa Ibom State. 

4. He is not involved in petty factional politics nor in the sponsorship of disunity within any federal constituency.

5. The attempt to paint the SSG as selfish, divisive, or disloyal is a tired and desperate strategy. It is unfortunate that personal ambition or the quest for political relevance would drive anyone to deploy blackmail and psychological manipulation as tools. We caution Blessing Ossom to immediately desist from this pattern of conduct. Manufacturing imaginary conversations and invoking the names of respected leaders to create controversy is not activism; it is satanic behaviour.

6. Akwa Ibom State has moved beyond the era of bitterness and unnecessary political drama. The Governor, members of his cabinet and stakeholders are working in synergy with His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D and Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON, to strengthen the party and ensure the reelection of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while consolidating gains that position Senator Akpabio favourably for remain his position as the President of the Senate.

7. The peace and unity currently enjoyed within the party and across the 31 LGAs must not be undermined by attention-seeking theatrics. If Blessing Ossom has any grievance, there are established party channels to address concerns. Social media sensationalism is not one of them.

8. We therefore advise her, in her own interest, to stop dragging the name of Prince Enobong Uwah or any other leader into ill-conceived narratives. Prince Uwah should be allowed to concentrate on delivering on the ARISE Agenda of Governor Umo Eno without distraction.

9. Any further attempt to blackmail or malign any dedicated public servant in pursuit of personal relevance will not be condoned. Those engaging in such conduct are advised to desist immediately in the interest of peace, unity, and responsible political engagement.

e-Signed:

Comrade Henshaw Nyong

Publicity Secretary

Uyo Senatorial District Peoples Initiative (Youth Wing)

February 23, 2026.

Avoid Being Used as Instruments of Political Distraction, Youth Leader Advises Etim Ekpo Youths

••• Says Enoidem Too Refined for Brick-Throwing, Assures of SAN’s Renewed Vigour for Tinubu, Akpabio, Gov Eno

Former State Youth Leader II of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Akwa Ibom State chapter, Comrade Usenmfon Uduak Ibanga, has advised youths in Etim Ekpo Local Government Area to resist attempts to drag them into political distractions by individuals who do not mean well for the area, insisting that political relevance is built on genuine achievements, not media noise.

Ibanga, now a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), gave the advice during an enlarged meeting of Etim Ekpo youths. He said the gathering became necessary to remind young people that, as leaders of tomorrow, they must shun acts capable of portraying them as insolent and instead channel their strength and energy toward meaningful developmental pursuits.

He cautioned that allowing youths to be used for divisive political ends could undermine the unity Governor Umo Eno has fostered across the state, as well as weaken the collective resolve to stand firmly in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Governor Umo Eno.

Speaking on recent narratives questioning the political relevance of Emmanuel Enoidem, SAN, Ibanga described the former Senior Law Lecturer as too seasoned and refined to engage in political brick-throwing.

According to the former Chapter Secretary of the Akwa Ibom Youth Caucus and former Dakkada Ambassador, leadership credibility cannot be reduced to social media ranting or sponsored publications, but must be anchored on verifiable service, established structure, and long-standing contributions to society.

The former State Auditor II and member, Caretaker Committee of the PDP, Akwa Ibom State chapter, further described the Senior Advocate of Nigeria as a refined statesman whose pedigree in law, governance, and party administration places him above partisan mudslinging.

Tracing Enoidem’s public service record, Ibanga noted that the legal luminary first served as Chairman of Etim Ekpo Local Government at a relatively young age, later became State Treasurer of the PDP, Commissioner in key ministries, and subsequently National Legal Adviser of the party, where he handled critical legal matters across the country.

He added that Enoidem’s elevation to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) further attests to his professional depth and intellectual standing.

Beyond public office, Ibanga highlighted what he described as Enoidem’s enduring grassroots footprint, including the construction of a world-class hospital with state-of-the-art facilities serving multiple local government areas, provision of scholarships to both indigenous and non-indigenous students across the state, sustained support for youths who now occupy prominent positions in politics, law, and other fields, as well as empowerment initiatives for entrepreneurs, including vehicle donations. He noted that such empowerment efforts continue to date and argued that a leader with such a track record deserves respect.

On the SAN’s recent political alignment, Ibanga said the decision was driven by enlightened state interest and the need for unity rather than personal ambition.

He assured that Enoidem remains undistracted and committed to mobilising support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Governor Umo Eno, stressing that the current political climate calls for consolidation, not division.

“It is unfortunate that some individuals with little to show in terms of tangible achievements are attempting to disrupt the peace established by His Excellency the Governor and the Senate President, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio,” Ibanga said. “As youths, we must resist any attempt, regardless of who is involved, to use us to insult, demean, or attack respected elders. This is not the time to fuel political tension. It is a time for unity, stability, and strategic support for leaders driving development at both the state and national levels.”

He therefore, urged youths in Etim Ekpo to remain focused, refuse manipulation by detractors, and align themselves with mature and responsible political engagement in the interest of the area and the state at large.

APC CHIEFTAIN, JAMES INIAMA COMMENDS A'IBOM WOMEN SENSITIZATION TOUR

 

...hails Move to Curb Voter Apathy

By Henshaw NYONG & Mfonobong Ukpong

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akwa Ibom State, Mr. James Iniama, has described the ongoing statewide Women Sensitization Tour on Civic Responsibilities as a timely and commendable initiative by the state government and the ruling party, the APC.

Mr. Iniama made the remark on Wednesday while speaking with newsmen at Mbak Itam, Itu Local Government Secretariat, on the sidelines of the recently concluded Women Sensitization Tour in the area. The event was led by the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, alongside the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Helen Eno Obareki and other top government officials.

The APC chieftain, an estate surveyor and valuer who hails from Itu Local Government Area, noted that the sensitization exercise was a strategic move to properly enlighten women on their civic responsibilities ahead of the forthcoming elections. He stressed that the initiative would significantly reduce voter apathy and enhance women’s participation in the democratic process.

He noted that grassroots-focused tour would empower women with the necessary information about their civic rights and responsibilities, thereby ensuring greater political awareness and engagement. “There will be no excuses of voter apathy. They won’t say they were unable to vote. I must commend the women for the massive turnout. APC is taking the right step at the right time to sensitize voters,” he said.

Mr. Iniama, a former governorship candidate under the defunct Action Congress (AC), also delivered a goodwill message during the programme held at the council headquarters, where he lauded the initiative and pledged his full support towards the success of the exercise in Itu Local Government Area.

The Women Sensitization Programme with the theme “Women ARISE,” focused on key areas including voter registration, party e-registration, National Identification Number (NIN) enrolment, and cooperative development. These were highlighted as critical pillars for enhanced political participation, grassroots mobilisation, and inclusive growth across the state.

The political heavyweight assured that the people of Itu Local Government Area, whom he described as politically conscious and consistently proactive in civic engagement, would once again take the lead in the 2027 general elections by re-electing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno and all candidates of the All Progressives Congress. 

He maintained that Itu people have always been number one in political participation and would demonstrate that strength at the polls through massive support for the APC.

Uyo Federal Constituency 2027: Group Insists On Ibesikpo Asutan

 

••• As Former Lawmaker Declares Stand on Equity, Fairness, Justice

As preparations gather momentum for the 2027 general elections, political groups, organisations and concerned electorates across Akwa Ibom State have begun setting the record straight on zoning, unity, equity and fair representation within various constituencies.

One of such groups, the Atai Uyo Progressives Forum, insists that the agitation for the Uyo/Ibesikpo Asutan/Uruan/Nsit Atai Federal Constituency seat is anchored on fairness, unity, equity and justice, stressing that the time has come for Ibesikpo Asutan to produce a Member of the House of Representatives.

Recently, the group paid a courtesy visit to a former member representing Uruan State Constituency, Hon. Kufre Etuk, Ph.D, to further advance its position.

Responding, the APC chieftain in the state, Hon. Etuk, PhD assured the delegation that as an ardent advocate of fairness, equity, justice and good conscience, Ibesikpo Asutan—being an integral part of Atai Uyo—should not be denied representation after 24 years of supporting others.

The former lawmaker argued that since the creation of the federal constituency, the other three local government areas have taken two turns each, adding that 2027, morally and in all honesty, should complete the cycle in favour of Ibesikpo Asutan.

He stated that denying Ibesikpo Asutan the opportunity to produce a representative after decades of patience would amount to continued marginalisation and an affront to the principles of equity and unity upon which the constituency stands.

Etuk also recalled how voters protested in 2011 by supporting Emmanuel Ekpenyong (TEMPO) of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) when Nsit Atai was denied its turn, leading to the loss of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He cautioned that history could repeat itself if the APC’s internal democracy and processes are not strengthened to prioritise unity, justice, equity and fairness.

Speaking on behalf of the group, its Chancellor, Pastor Joshua Basil, popularly known as Joe Pastor, pledged continued and steadfast support for Governor Umo Eno, whom he described as a father to all, a leader who abhors injustice and a man of God whose governance philosophy is rooted in fairness, equity and inclusiveness.

He expressed confidence that the Governor’s leadership style and moral authority would continue to promote justice and balance across all local government areas, noting that the group’s demand aligns with the values of equity and unity championed by the current administration.

Also speaking, the Progenitor of the group, Comrade Udeme Smith, declared that for 24 years—from 2003 to 2027—Ibesikpo Asutan has waited patiently for a representative who genuinely understands and represents its interests at the National Assembly.

“Our time has come. We are not asking for more; we are demanding a competent and reputable representative from Ibesikpo Asutan with proven experience and integrity. We will not stop the negotiation,” he said.

Smith warned against political manipulation, inducement and what he described as attempts to mortgage the future of the constituency through “peanuts” and compensations, insisting that such tactics would no longer succeed.

He cautioned political actors who, according to him, have benefited from the marginalisation of Ibesikpo Asutan to desist, noting that the people are now alert, organised and determined.

“When your grass becomes green, beware of green snakes. Those who have fed on our marginalisation should beware. Ibesikpo Asutan will no longer be silenced by peanuts or mere compensations. We are watching—systematic but resolute,” he warned.

The group stated unequivocally that 2027 is non-negotiable for Ibesikpo Asutan, urging unity among stakeholders and warning against internal sabotage driven by selfish ambitions.

The meeting climaxed with prayers for a smooth political transition in 2027, as the group declared support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Senator Aniekan Bassey, representing Uyo.

“This is a call. 2027 is the turn of Ibesikpo Asutan to represent Uyo Federal Constituency, and we shall stand by it without remorse. Only enemies of our progress will oppose it. No one should toy with our right,” the group declared.

REVEALED! Why Ikono Impeachment Plot Crashed: Records Clear Chairman, Expose Councillors’ Real Grievances

Fresh findings have uncovered why the impeachment move against the Chairman of Ikono Local Government Area, Rt. Hon. (Engr.) Oto-Obong Okon Essien, failed to gain traction, with official records and investigations discrediting the allegations raised by some councillors.

Checks by our correspondent revealed that claims of unpaid salaries and entitlements were unfounded. Payment records examined by our investigative team showed that councillors’ salaries and statutory allowances had been fully settled, leaving no outstanding arrears to justify the impeachment notice.

On allegations relating to the purported arrest of councillors, findings indicate no breach of the constitution or abuse of office. Law luminaries consulted maintained that councillors, like other citizens in the Country, are subject to lawful arrest and investigation where necessary. Our paper however gathered that there was no evidence linking any security action to directives from Engr Essien.

The allegation of spending without budgetary approval also failed our team's scrutiny. Investigations found the claim lacking specifics, with no figures, dates, payment vouchers or audit queries provided to support it. Financial records reviewed did not reveal any infraction attributable to the chairman.

In the same vein, claims that funds were withheld for constituency projects were contradicted by budget realities. Sources at the Council Secretariat confirmed that several constituency projects captured in the 2025 national budget were rolled over to 2026 due to non-release of funds, a situation not peculiar to Ikono and which has not formed grounds for impeachment at other levels of government.

Beyond the disputed allegations, findings showed that the Ikono Council Boss, Engr. Otobong Essien has recorded innumerable life touching projects. The Chairman, our correspondent observed, has advanced work on a modern administrative complex for the local government, which has addressed the long-standing absence of a functional council secretariat since the creation of Ikono in 1976.

In sports development, the paper gathered that the chairman has sponsored the Elegant Angels Football Club, which represented Akwa Ibom State at the Senate President’s Cup in Abuja and emerged champions last year.

Agricultural intervention has also recorded visible results, with over 100,000 tubers of yam cultivated, leading to a bumper harvest and positioning Ikono as an emerging yam-producing area in the state.

Economic empowerment programmes under the Ikono SME Empowerment Support Programme (ISEP) further showed that 53 youths received ₦200,000 business grants each through a process reportedly endorsed by all 12 councillors. In addition, 200 rural women were trained in cosmetology, issued starter packs and supported through five production centres across Ikono South, Middle and Ediene Itak zones. More than 70 elderly residents also benefited from welfare support and health insurance coverage.

Investigations however revealed that the political standoff stemmed from alleged disagreements over financial demands. Sources alleged that some councillors demanded ₦20 million as a condition for passing the 2026 budget, a request the chairman reportedly declined, citing fiscal discipline and public accountability.

It was further gathered that the same councillors are yet to retire imprests and other funds accessed since February 2025, despite requesting detailed income and expenditure records from the executive arm.

Records reviewed also showed that the 8th Ikono Legislative Council has enacted no bye-law and held fewer than eight sittings this year, raising questions about its legislative output.

Meanwhile, some council staff, who spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not authorised to comment publicly, said, impeachment threats usually surface every January, emphasizing they are driven largely by the personal interests of some councillors. They described the latest move as a recurring distraction rather than a reaction to any real failure in governance.

They further alleged that councillors had, in December last year, received substantial funds from the Chairman for yuletide activities in their respective wards, but none carried out the Christmas engagements for their constituents. According to the sources, the current tension escalated after the Chairman again provided funds and directed the councillors to return to their wards to mobilise and register members for the ongoing APC revalidation exercise, a move they said some councillors opposed while allegedly demanding additional financial inducements, with threats of impeachment if such demands were not met.

The staff warned that repeated impeachment threats could weaken the credibility of the legislative council, stressing that governance in Ikono should be guided by due process, accountability and the overall interest of the people, not selfish motives or the copying of unhealthy political practices from a House of Assembly in one of the States in the South South.

Meanwhile, further checks pointed to alleged political backing behind the impeachment push, with sources identifying some political stakeholders linked to the councillors involved. The Leader of the Council, Hon. Saviour Ebong, was said to enjoy the support of his godfather; a former Senator, a relationship sources claimed may have emboldened his stance, particularly as efforts to douse tensions were reportedly absent from the Senator. In Ukpom Ward 5, Hon. Obong Akpan, tagged the leader of G-10, was alleged to be backed by the immediate-past former House of Representatives member, who played a decisive role in his emergence. Obong Akpan, at the time of filling this report, was still a member of the PDP.  Another kingpin in the 'Chairman Must Go' group is Hon. Christopher Udo of Ward 2, who was also linked to the backing of the SSA to the Governor on Petroleum Matters, who according to sources, has yet to openly intervene or mediate. Similarly, Nsikak Udo of Ward 4 was alleged to be supported by the immediate past Transition Committee Chairman of Ikono LGA. Sources maintained that the weight of these political ties may have stiffened resistance and complicated efforts at reconciliation. 

However, efforts by our investigative team to reach the political heavyweights mentioned yielded limited response. Only the immediate past Chairman responded, expressing surprise at being linked to the alleged plot. He dismissed the claims, insisting that he would not undermine the same office he once occupied, and maintained that since leaving office he has remained a private citizen. He further stated that he has no interest in destabilising the council or plotting the downfall of any individual, stressing that he stands to gain nothing from such actions.