Cries of Injustice: Ibesikpo Ward 5 Faces 7 Decades of Exclusion from Chairmanship

 

As the people of Akwa Ibom State prepare to elect leaders at the grassroots level in the forthcoming local government elections, all is not well for Ibesikpo Ward 5 in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area.

To this end, the ward has raised alarm over what they describe as a deliberate and brazen marginalization in the chairmanship seat, potentially resulting in a 72-year wait before they would have the opportunity to produce a chairman.

Our investigations revealed that only Ibesikpo Wards 4 and 5 have been left without producing a chairman for the local government, and the upcoming elections were expected to favour these two wards. 

Many aspirants from Ward 5, having invested considerable resources in consultations and preparations, were shocked to discover that a group of leaders in the Local Government, three days ago, surreptitiously re-zoned the chairmanship seat, effectively sidelining their ward. 

This move, according to an enlarged group of leaders in the area, is perceived as a maneuver by the clandestine group to install a puppet and crony in a position of authority over the entire local government. 

In their effort to seek justice and fairness, the people of Ward 5, known for their strong support of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) since 1999, organized a peaceful demonstration at the residence of the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Nsikan Linus Nkan.

The placard-carrying protesters, including youths and women, on Saturday, voiced their grievances and highlighted their loyalty to the PDP. They emphasized that their ward has produced capable leaders who could bring unprecedented development to all 12 wards of Ibesikpo Asutan if given the chance to serve as chairman.

The demonstrators appealed to Commissioner Nkan and other people-centric leaders in the area to intervene and rectify the situation, stressing that without them speaking the truth at this time, Ibesikpo Ward 5 might have to endure the skewed arrangement that would see the 12 wards taking turns every six years, effectively ensuring that no one from Ward 5 would be alive to witness their turn 72 years later.

They also used the occasion to pledge their continued loyalty to the ARISE agenda of the Umo Eno administration, while appealing to him to intervene and stop what they described as the daylight robbery of their rights for the sake of posterity.

Okoho Village Head Risks 2 Years in Prison for Illegal Self-Installation as Clan Head

The Village Head of Okoho Village in Itu Clan, Obong Etim Edet Okon Ekpo, is facing serious legal trouble following allegations of illegally installing himself as the Clan Head of Itu Clan without the necessary official recognition from the Governor of Akwa Ibom State as required by law.

However, if found guilty, the Village Head could spend up to two years behind bars.

It is alleged that on May 30, 2024, Obong Etim Edet Okon Ekpo, in conspiracy with several Village Heads in Itu and a few individuals, declared himself the Clan Head of Itu Clan. This illegal installation, carried out without the approval of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, was widely publicized on social media.

Section 37 of the Traditional Rulers Law of Akwa Ibom State clearly states that any person who installs themselves or another as a Clan Head without official recognition from the Governor is guilty of a felony. The penalty for such an offense includes imprisonment for two years. 

The law reads in part: "A person who purports to install another person; or allows himself to be installed a paramount Ruler, a Clan Head or a Village Head without first obtaining official recognition in writing is guilty of a felony and liable on summary conviction to a fine of Ten Thousand Naira or imprisonment for Two years."

In addition to the illegal self-installation, the paper reliably gathered that Obong Etim Edet Okon Ekpo also set up a juju shrine and made sacrifices with a live cow on the same day. This act has been widely condemned by residents, who argue that the shrine was inappropriately established in a compound not belonging to the supposed worshipper.

Meanwhile, our newspaper can authoritatively report that a petition has been filed against Obong Etim Edet Okon Ekpo, and it is expected that he will soon appear in court to face charges. Legal experts suggest that if he is found guilty as alleged, he could face the maximum penalty stipulated under Section 37 of the Traditional Rulers Law.

According to legal experts, the move to prosecute the self-installed Clan Head and his cohorts is seen as a critical step in upholding the rule of law and maintaining the sanctity of traditional leadership processes in Akwa Ibom State. Authorities are urged to act swiftly to ensure that justice is served and the integrity of the traditional institution is preserved.

A law luminary in the State, E. A. Bassey Esq., opined that the traditional institution is awaiting the court's decision, adding that it will set a significant precedent for similar cases in the future.

Lagos-Calabar highway: S’South section begins August as FG suspends new roads

 

The Federal Government has commenced the construction of the South-South axis of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway just as it suspended new road projects.

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, declared that the Federal Government would not embark on any new road project in 2025, citing paucity of funds.

He said this during the stakeholders’ engagement on the proposed alignment for section 3A – 38km of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, which took place at the Transcorp Hotel, Calabar, on Sunday.

The stakeholders’ engagement was a follow-up to the one held earlier on Saturday in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Umahi explained that the Federal Government would rather concentrate on inherited projects and the three legacy road projects of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Bola Tinubu administration.

Legacy projects

The legacy projects include the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway –a 1,000km highway connecting Sokoto to Badagry passing through seven states and connecting to the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway at Ahmadu Bello Way, Lagos; the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway – a 700km coastal highway connecting from Lagos State to Cross River State through eight states; and the Calabar-South East-North Central-Apo Abuja 477km Superhighway, connecting Calabar to Ebonyi, Benue, Kogi, and Nasarawa states and terminating at Apo in Abuja.

He explained that construction works at the Calabar end of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway would commence in August.

The minister said, “We will not be embarking on any new road project in 2025. This is because of the paucity of funds. We would rather concentrate on inherited projects and the legacy projects of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. These projects are dear to the President and he is desirous of delivering on these projects.”

The minister also reiterated the ultimatum issued to contractors handling government road projects that they either sit up or lose their contracts.

Speaking during the presentation of the routes of section 3A and the Trans-Africa Highway traversing Cross River through Ebonyi, Kogi, Nasarawa and Abuja, Umahi expressed dismay at the slow pace of work on the Akwa Ibom and Cross River-Calabar-Itu section awarded to three contractors.

Reiterating his earlier ultimatum, Umahi said, “If Julius Berger (Plc) fails to return to the site at the expiration of the seven-day ultimatum issued today (Sunday), we will terminate the contract. Sermatech Limited, an indigenous contractor, did a better job than Berger.

“Sustenance is based on the improvement of our roads. Contractors are playing tricks on our road construction; if we put one kobo in his hands he must give us an affidavit. The contractor must put his feet on the throttle. If you are climbing the hill, will you remove your leg from the throttle? No.”

He warned contractors who think it was s ‘business as usual’ when handling government projects that the old order had changed, insisting that no amount of lobby would save them if they failed to perform.

He reiterated the resolve of the Tinubu administration to complete all inherited road projects and the three legacy road projects under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He added that other projects related to the three legacy projects would be assessed to know the extent of work and what needed to be done.

Umahi said “Construction will begin on the two sections of the road in Cross River State and one section in Akwa Ibom State simultaneously.

“After this stakeholders’ engagement, we get the design and start the procurement. We are very sure that in August, construction will start in this state.

“I will not allow construction to start only from Akwa Ibom, but ensure that construction starts in three sections –  two in Cross River and one in Akwa Ibom states, respectively.

“The projects are going to have a rail track; We started with the tracks in the the middle in section two, but we have redesigned it to have the tracks by the side.”

Umahi craved the support of relevant stakeholders in the state to ensure a seamless execution of the project.

The minister eulogized the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Basset Otu, for his cooperation with the Federal Government on the road projects.

The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Peter Odey, pledged further cooperation and collaboration of the state with the Ministry of Works in delivering the road projects on schedule.

The state Surveyor-General, Patrick Bassey, called for a robust collaboration amongst stakeholders, asking that no Certificate of Occupancy should be issued on the project route.

Stakeholders, including prominent traditional rulers, former deputy governors, politicians, religious leaders and other leaders of thought, solicited the Federal Government’s intervention on other important and key roads in the state, stressing that such an intervention would open up the state for economic prosperity.

The members of the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Works accompanied the minister to the engagement.

The minister gave a breakdown of the project phases in Uyo a day earlier.

He said, “We are here to introduce sections three and four of the famous Lagos- Calabar Coastal Highway. We started and awarded section one which started in Lagos and terminated at the deep port in Lagos which is at 47.4km.

“There is section two that is starting at Lekki Deep Sea Port and taking it to the famous Dangote Refinery. Section three has 27 km on Akwa Ibom land, 38km on Cross River State. While section four is entirely on Akwa Ibom, that is 80km, when you add 27 km and 80km, you have 107km. So, you are benefiting from maximising this coastal highway.

“When we complete the procurement process and award sections three and four, work will start in many sub-sections of this section all at the same time.

“Tinubu is a man who matches his words with actions. So, we are happy with the level of commendations and support we received from Nigerians and so many benefits of the coastal highway.”

Speaking at the event, the Senate President, Senator, Godswill Akpabio, expressed his appreciation to the President for listening to his plea to start sections three and four of the coastal highway in Cross River State to Akwa Ibom.

He called on the Akwa Ibom State governor to give maximum support to the Federal Government.

FG begins N150bn loan disbursement July

The Federal Government on Thursday said the disbursement of N150bn loans to micro, small and medium enterprises and manufacturers would commence by the end of July.

It also disclosed that 60 per cent of the proposed one million beneficiaries of the Presidential Conditional Grant had received a financial grant of N50,000 without repayment obligations in the 774 local government areas of the country.

The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anite, revealed the latest information in a post via her official X handle on Thursday.

In December 2023, the Federal Government unveiled the Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme as part of the Presidential Palliatives Programme aimed at supporting businesses to navigate the economic crunch caused by government policies.

The fund dedicates N75bn to MSMEs and another N75bn to the manufacturing sector.

The minister noted the government is well aware of the current business climate and created the fund to help Nigerian businesses navigate the harsh economic conditions.

She said, “To all applicants of the Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme who are yet to be paid, thank you for your continued patience. The disbursement process is still ongoing, and we have allocated about 60 per cent of the 1 million grants.

“You can track the number of beneficiaries per LGA paid so far on grant.fedgrantandloan.gov.ng/learn-more/dis.

“We are also at the final stages of vetting for the MSME and Manufacturing loans. Applications remain open, and disbursement will begin by July ending.”

She thanked applicants of the Conditional Grant Scheme who are yet to be paid for continued patience, stressing that her team have worked tirelessly to ensure this process is fair and accurate.

Reacting to complaints by aggrieved applicants, she explained that the selection was not based on who applied first but on random computer-generated selection.

She stated that the ministry had hoped to complete all 1 million disbursements by now; however, the process has been delayed due to issues such as incorrect or missing data, duplicate applications, and spurious entries.

Stay clued to Afe Mbono for more updates!

LG ELECTIONS: I WILL NOT BUY FORM FOR ANY ASPIRANT - GOVERNOR ENO

...reaffirms stance on party position on zoning, women inclusion

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has clarified his stance on strict adherence to zoning permutations of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and women inclusion in the upcoming local government council elections, stressing that no one will be compensated for any unnecessary expenses incurred while defying the party's position.

The Governor therefore, dismissed the speculations that he will purchase forms for favoured candidates or prevent certain candidates from vying for offices in the elections as a misrepresentation, stating clearly that he will not purchase nomination form for any candidate but will support whoever the party's internal arrangement favours.

Governor Eno made the clarification while speaking at the 70th birthday celebration of a foremost Oro political leader and women right advocate, Ikpoto Okon Osung, at Emerald Event Centre, Uyo.

In his words: "Someone said I have begun buying forms. I never said I am buying forms for anybody. I only said before you buy your forms, check where zoning favours because I will not hereinafter, be told that there were some aggrieved people who bought forms and I should come and refund money. I am not stopping you from buying forms. But I am only telling you that I will support the party's decision."

Furthermore, on the issue of inclusion of women, the Governor said the PDP in Akwa Ibom State see the women as very loyal and valuable components of the party and the society at large, hence will not leave their fate hanging in the upcoming election.

He reaffirmed that women will be supported to produce six of the 31 Chairmen, and some vice chairmen, but that no particular local government area have been earmarked for women.

"We have women that have been with us for years, and we all know the truth that if you don't deliberately give them opportunity, the men will over-run them. These women are very loyal people. We will intentionally include women in the things we are doing. It is an intentional move. 

"The truth is that, such is the position of the party. I am only conveying the position of the party as the leader of the party in Akwa Ibom State," he said.

Felicitating the celebrant, Ikpoto Okon Osung, on his 70th birthday, Governor Eno expressed his high regards for his honesty and integrity, acknowledging the significant role he played during the gubernatorial campaigns.

"Life in the 70 years of our dear Ikpoto has been one driven by purpose. The purpose to provide selfless service, a life of deep convictions, following the dictates of one's conscience and adhering strictly and totally to the concept of right and wrong.

"This ennobling ideal you have championed in the last seventy years has distinguished you as one of our highly respected States-men whose voice is respected and admired deeply and profoundly. So I am proud to call you my friend.

"As you turn seventy years today, I wish you God's continuous blessing, good health, and happiness and strength so that you can continue to avail us of your wise counsel," he added.

Ikpoto Osung was the former Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission and former Chairman of Oro Think Tank, a foremost sociopolitical group and opinion bearer for the five LGAs that make up Oro Nation.

Earlier in his remark, Ikpoto Okon Osung, thanked the Governor and the various personalities in the State for honouring him with their presence and urged the people to foster a spirit of unity and harmony, devoid of ethnicity, religious differences and political affiliations.

Dr. Patrick Umoh: ONE YEAR OF TOP-NOTCH REPRESENTATION

                    ✍️ Henshaw NYONG

When the renowned American author; Ann McGee-Cooper, said, "The true heroes of the new millennium will be servant leaders, quietly working out of the spotlight to transform our world," she may have been prophesying about Dr. Patrick Umoh, the member representing Ikot Ekpene/Essien Udim/Obot Akara Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

Through my investigation and the testimonies of his constituents, I have uncovered a representative who genuinely embodies the spirit of service and tirelessly working to enhance the lives of those he represents.

Therefore, as Dr. Umoh marks his first year in office today, it provides an opportune moment to spotlight his outstanding commitment to effective and effectual representation. As you scrutinize his one-year scorecard, you will undoubtedly agree with his constituents that his performance has been truly remarkable. The lawmaker has indeed made a lasting impact on his Federal Constituency, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of those he serves. Let's see!

1. Facilitating Employment Opportunities: 

Dr. Umoh, who is the Chairman, House Committee on Monitoring and Evaluation of Implementation of Legislative Agenda, has achieved a remarkable milestone by facilitating the employment of seven constituents in the Federal Civil Service. Amidst the alarming rate of unemployment, securing a Federal Civil Service job is a coveted achievement, and Dr. Umoh deserves accolades for directly tackling unemployment and providing stable career paths for the initial six constituents, with promises of more to follow soon.

2. Inclusive Engagement and Immediate Support

Investigations and testimonies from his constituents proved that the Knight of St. John's International, stands out as the first representative to engage directly with family heads, physically challenged individuals, and women within the constituency, spending over N3.5 million on the spot. This engagement was further complemented by his diligent distribution of Federal Government palliatives to those in need.

3. Empowering Youth through Cooperative Societies:

Recognizing the significance of youth empowerment, Dr. Umoh has taken a proactive step by establishing cooperative societies specifically for young people, each receiving a startup capital of N1 million. This initiative not only promotes entrepreneurship but also encourages self-reliance, empowering the younger generation to take charge of their economic future.

4. Legislative Excellence:

With an impressive record of over fourteen bills, numerous motions, and petitions to his name, the brilliant parliamentarian has showcased exceptional legislative prowess and an unwavering commitment to advocating for the needs and concerns of his Federal Constituency. His dedication to effective representation and transformative leadership has left an indelible mark on the lives of the people; young and old.

5. Rewarding Loyalty and Hard Work:

Dr. Umoh has established a reward system to acknowledge and appreciate the dedicated efforts of his constituents and team members. This gesture has not only motivated his people to strive for greater heights but also demonstrated Umoh's candid appreciation for their tireless efforts. His Director General, who recently received a new Car to aid his movement as well as those who work closely with the lawmaker and many others, can attest to his gargantuan milk of human kindness and philanthropy.

6. Festive Generosity and Community Appreciation:

During Christmas and Easter, Dr. Umoh undertook a tour of appreciation across the three LGAs of his Federal Constituency, where he distributed a total of N6 million in cash and over a hundred bags of rice to select groups. These he did to strengthen community bonds and as well spread festive cheers.

7. International Representation:

As a first-term member, Dr. Umoh has already represented the Nigerian House of Representatives at the British House of Commons. His active participation on this international platform is an eloquent prove of how he is incredibly astute, intelligent and dedicated to robust representation and legislative oversight.

8. Setting Educational Precedents:

Within his first 100 days in office, Dr. Umoh set a commendable example by paying bursaries, a move that was quickly followed by other rewarding and people-centric programmes. As a former lecturer who highly values education, he further proved his commitment to educational support and development.

9. Agricultural Training and Support:

Recognizing the importance of agriculture in the current economic situation, Dr. Umoh spearheaded an initiative to empower over 50 constituents with specialized training in cocoa planting. Each participant received a grant of N100,000 to support their agricultural endeavours.. This proactive approach not only enhanced the livelihoods of the beneficiaries but also contributed to the overall development of the agricultural sector in the Federal Constituency.

10. Business Grants for Supporters:

Dr. Umoh has demonstrated his commitment to economic empowerment by awarding business grants to numerous dedicated supporters, enabling them to turn their entrepreneurial aspirations into reality. These grants have not only transformed the lives of the recipients but also contributed to the overall economic growth and development of the constituency, as these ventures create jobs, stimulate innovation, and foster a spirit of entrepreneurship.

A PROMISING FUTURE

Indeed, Dr. Patrick Umoh's achievements within just one year have dwarfed many, and as Ann McGee-Cooper quoted above, he quietly worked to transform his constituency. 

However, Dr. Umoh in a recent interview said he is grateful to his political leader and mentor, Distinguished Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, President of the 10th Senate, for paving the way, showing the way, and guiding him along the way.

Umoh's first year in office has indeed exemplified effective representation at its zenith, and I am sure everyone is eagerly anticipating the continued positive impact of his representation in the years to come.

Rep Uduak Odudoh: ONE YEAR, GARGANTUAN ACHIEVEMENTS

 

By Henshaw NYONG

As the 10th National Assembly celebrates its one-year anniversary today, it is an opportune time to spotlight the outstanding legislative accomplishments of those who have made a significant impact. Among them is the Rt. Hon. Uduak Alphonsus Odudoh, the Member representing Ikot Abasi/Mkpat Enin/Eastern Obolo Federal Constituency and Deputy Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Maritime Safety, Education, and Administration. 

A closer examination of Rep. Odudoh's remarkable first-year record reveals a legislator who has distinguished himself from the ranks of mere bystanders, whose voices are only heard when it's time to vote 'Aye' or 'Nay'. With a storied background in local governance, having served as a Councillor and House of Assembly member, Uduak Odudoh has consistently demonstrated his unwavering commitment to advancing education, security, economic growth, and the well-being of his constituents.

The impressive accomplishments of this shining star include, but not limited to: sponsoring four outstanding and significant bills, moving seven pivotal motions, and presenting three critical petitions before the House. 

BILLS SPONSORED AND CURRENTLY SCHEDULED FOR 2ND READING

* Federal Colleges of Education Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.972)- First Reading, 23rd November, 2023.

* Public Officers Protection Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.973)- First Reading, 23rd November, 2023.

* Hire Purchase Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2023 (HB,974)- First Reading, 23rd November, 2023.

* Army Colour (Prohibition of Use) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB 975)- First Reading, 23rd November, 2023.

MOTIONS MOVED AND DULY REFERRED TO RELEVANT HOUSE COMMITTEES FOR FURTHER LEGISLATIVE ACTIONS:

* Need to increase Maritime security personnel in Coastal Areas of Akwa Ibom State- 12th July, 2023

* Matter of Urgent Public Importance on the ongoing flood Ravaging Iko Town and Okoromboho Communities in Eastern Obolo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State- 19th July, 2023.

* Matter of urgent public importance on the current flood Ravaging Ikot Obiokoi and Ikot Akpaden Communities in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State 26th July, 2023

* Motion on the need to increase monthly allowance of national youth corps members to reflect the current economic reality of the nation- 5th October, 2023.

*  Rehabilitation and Maintenance of Abandoned Abak-Ekparakwa-Ete-Ikot Abasi Federal Road in Akwa Ibom State.- 7th October, 2023.

* Urgent need to stop the Continuous Killings of fishermen by pirates terrorising waterways in Akwa Ibom State.- 10th October, 2023.

* Need to investigate the non remittance of due taxes by NNPCL into the Federation Account.- 18th July,  2023.

Need to Commence the Construction of the approved Naval Barracks in Essene, Ikot Abasi Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State- 8th February, 2024

* Non-compliance with Corporate Social Responsibility obligations towards Oil-producing communities by ExxonMobil Company Limited in Akwa Ibom State. - 21st May, 2024.

PETITIONS LAID AND REFERRED TO REPS PUBLIC PETITIONS COMMITTEE FOR INVESTIGATION

* Petition Against Nigerian Military Pension Board on the inhumane treatment of Mr. Alban Francis,- 5th October, 2023.

* Petition to Investigate the activities of Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (HYPPADEC) and New approach to Rural programme on Skills Development Limited for Financial misappropriation and Possible Fraudulent Activities Perpetrated,- 19th October, 2023.

* Petition Against the Mismanagement and Refusal to serve on Dr. Usoro Innocent, his Statement of Account by Sterling Bank - 11th April, 2024.

Oh, I almost forgot! Hon. Uduak Odudoh's exceptional performance has earned him widespread recognition as a champion of his people's interests in the National Assembly. The Essene born lawmaker has distinguished himself as one of the most accomplished members among the 360 representatives. 

As our proverb goes, 'the cock is known in the morning by its crowing', Hon. Uduak Odudoh has unequivocally separated himself from the ranks of underperforming legislators with his impressive one-year record. He has brought joy and pride to the people of Ikot Abasi/Mkpat Enin/Eastern Obolo Federal Constituency and Akwa Ibom State at large. 

And if this is just the beginning, one can only imagine the greatness that lies ahead in the remaining years of his tenure. Ete, take a bow!!!