WORLD HUMANITARIAN DAY: NORSEMEN VISIT IK PRISON, DONATE EDIBLES, TOILETRIES OTHERS

As part of events to commemorate the 2018 world Humanitarian Day, members of De Norsemen Kclub Incorporated (DNKI), Akwa Ibom State Chapter have donated edible items as well as disinfectants and toiletries to inmates of the Medium Security Prison in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area. This was preceded by a thanksgiving service at the Living Faith Church(Winners Chapel) Itiam Edem Akai Assembly.While presenting the items to the prisoners on Sunday, 19 August 2018, the Guv'nor, DNKI, Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Dr. David Umoh stated that The World Humanitarian Day is set aside by the United Nation Organization to honour humanitarian personnels and charity workers who paid the supreme prices in the line of their charitable duties. He noted that as an organization whose motto reads; "service to humanity" the Norsemen Kclub remain committed to serving the society and giving hope to the hopeless and defenseless.Dr. Umoh said the sharp increase in the population of young men and women serving in different prisons accross the nation is worrisome and advised the inmates to be of good behaviour while serving their respective terms and ultimately come out of the correctional facility reoriented and avoid acts that could redirect then to similar confinements in future. He observed that a complete rehabilitation is the only way to speed-up re-integration process when they eventually walk free.Similarly, the Secretary of the organization in Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Joseph Emah noted that irrespective of what led to their incarceration, the most important thing is for them to use the period they would spend in prison for sober reflections and look up to God for strength and courage to surpass their present condition.
A Deputy Controller of Prisons Mr Stanley Njoku who was on hand to welcome members of DNKI to the facility also received the items on behalf of the inmates and thanked the organization for the donation. Also, an inmate who spoke on behalf of the rest, thanked members of De Norsemen Kclub for their benevolence and for remembering those living behind bars. He used the opportunity to appeal to the Judiciary and State Government to be merciful and grant some of them reprieve.
Items donated include; Bags of garri, rice and salt, cartons of pastas, bathing soap and washing detergents, as well as several litres of disinfectants and tissue papers.

WORLD HEALTH DAY CELEBRATION: De Norsemen Kclub Urge AKS Govt to Assent To Pending Health Bills

(L-R) Director Audit and Tenders board, DNKI, Mr. Jones Akpan; Immediate past Intl. President of De Norsemen KClub, Chief Dr. Tony Eteng; AKS/South-South Chairman, NMA Dr. Aniekeme Uwah and The Guv'nor DNKI, AKS Chapter, Dr. David Umoh. During the free medical screening exercise organized by Denorsemen Klub Incorporated to Mark the 2018 World Health Day Celebration in Uyo

The Guv'nor of De Norsemen Kclub Incorporated (DNKI) Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Dr. David Umoh JP FCAI, has called on the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel to validate health Bills  passed by the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly (AKHA) since 2017. The call was made, during a one day free medical screening exercise organized by the organization, to mark the 70th World Health Day Celebration on Saturday.

Dr. David Umoh, a medical doctor, said the ratification of pending health Bills would further enhance primary health care delivery and complement the administration's laudable effort in raising the standard of secondary health care facilities across the State.  He declared that De Norsemen Kclub Incorporated, has joined the WHO's call on leaders to live up to the Sustainable Development Goals, set in 2015 to ensure 'Universal Health Coverage For everyone, everywhere' which is the theme of this 70th year anniversary. He said there is need for government to do more to ensure that every one, every where should have access to basic and affordable health services.

He urged the Akwa ibom state Governor to give more attention to the primary health care system, and assent to the 'Bill for the Establishment of the Akwa Ibom State Primary HealthCare Development Agency' and 'A Bill for the Establishment of Akwa Ibom State Health Insurance Scheme', passed by the AKHA last year..

Deworming of Children by the Guv'nor, DNKI, AKS Chapter, Dr. David Umoh

The Immediate past International President of DNKI, Chief Dr. Tony Eteng, who was the Chairman of the occasion, commended members of the organization in Akwa Ibom State, for putting together the exercise, noting that giving back to the society is one of the fundamental tenets of the Social Charity organization' whose motto reads; 'Service To Humanity'. Another member of the organization, Mr. Jones Akpan said the important of early diagnosis in disease management cannot be overemphasized and commended those who took advantage of the rare opportunity to know their health, free of all charges.

The guest Speaker at the event, and Chairman, Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Akwa Ibom State/South-South, Dr. Aniekeme Uwah, commended the Guv'nor and members of De Norsemen Kclub, for organizing the free medical exercise for residents of Akpasak estate Community and said NMA is ready to collaborate with De Norsemen Kclub, in the sustained campaign for the provision of essential and affordable health care.

Participants at the one day free medical screening exercise

One of the beneficiaries of the free screening exercise and a member of the Akpasak Estate Landlords Association, Mrs. Mary Edem Akpan, applauded the leadership and members of De Norsemen Kclub, for being good neighbours, adding that the event is the first of its kind in that neighborhood. She said she will be glad to witness more of such gesture.

Services rendered at the event include; Blood pressure measurement, deworming of children  aged between 1-12 years, Blood sugar check, HIV counseling/testing and urine analysis.  

AKAN OKON SUES FOR UNITY IN ITU ...Urge Party Faithfuls To Support Udom's Reelection

Patrick Antia

Following the official flag-off of campaign activities and the  presentation of flags to Chairmanship candidates, by the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State. The State's Commissioner for Housing and Special Duties, Mr. Akan Okon has urged citizens of Itu Local Government Area to shun divisive acts capable of hindering the implementation of development policies in the area.

Mr. Okon made the remarks on Thursday at Barr. Etetim Onuk's residence - venue of the reception - after the latter was presented the symbolic flag to represent the PDP in the December 2 Council polls. He said no community can achieve much if its constantly plagued with rancor and disunity.

"For the years the locust has destroyed, its time to replenish. In Itu, we will join hands and make our Local Government better and stronger. I believe things are getting better, but we must all join hands and be united for these to be achieved". He said.

The Itu born politician charged the crowd to remain resolute in their support for the PDP, tasked everyone to contribute their quota towards the success of the party in the forthcoming Local Government elections and Governor Udom Emmanuel's reelection.

Earlier, the PDP standard bearer in Itu, Barr Etetim Onuk said the time has come for Itu to take its rightful place in the society, he also stated that his administration shall be guided by no other principle except; equity and love.

"The glory of our fatherland must be restored; I, the Vice Chairmanship candidate and all 10 councillorship candidate of the PDP have resolved to work in unison, and with God on our side, we shall succeed together, in this quest to rebuild our beloved Itu". He declared.

The Vice Chairmanship Candidate; Mrs Emem Ekpanya who also spoke with our reporter corroborated Onuk's submissions, she maintained that as worthy lieutenants, the Chairman's effort towards the growth of Itu shall be complemented by myself and the Councillors.

ITU PDP CANDIDATE PROMISE TO REACTIVATE BURSARY AND SCHOLARSHIP SCHEME ...As Students Group Sponsor Printing Of Campaign Posters

By Patrick Antia

The Chairmanship candidate of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Itu Local Government Area, Barr Etetim Onuk has restated his desire to reactivate the payment of bursary and grants to students studying in institutions of higher learning.

Onuk made made the promise last week, while addressing  students of Itu extraction, under the aegis  of Itu Student's Worldwide; who were on a solidarity visit to his Campaign organization's liaison office in Uyo. He also pledged to set up an effective scholarship program aimed at supporting deserving and brilliant students of Itu - at all level - in their academic pursuit.

"The future of Itu rests on these young shoulders, and education is the bedrock of capital or human development, hence our policy - as contained in our 13 point agenda - to support students in their scholarly endeavors. Your vision is in tandem with mine, so your visit serves as a reminder to my pledge." He said.

The PDP flag bearer who charged them to spread the message of peace and love also advised them to study diligently and stay of cultism and every other crime. He warned them not to indulge in the aforementioned act, as it would be a license to self destruction. He thereafter promised that apart from consistent disbursement of academic grants like bursary and scholarships, his administration would seek ways to engage the unemployed youth, with a view to empower them sustainably.

Mr. George Akpan, the PDP Councillorship candidate for ward 5 in Itu Local Government Area and one time Vice President of Itu Students 'Worldwide' applauded their kind gesture towards Barr. Onuk's political ambition and reassured them that with Onuk in charge, the students of Itu will no longer be denied bursary, scholarships and study grants.

In an address read by the the President , Itu students 'Worldwide', Comrade Abraham Umoh, the group said Barr Onuk's emergence is 'divine' and stated that the December 2 Local Government elections shall be a walk over for him and the People's Democratic Party In Itu Local Government, as the partyy has fielded credible and generally accepted candidates.

The group described Etetim Onuk as one who has the interest of his people at heart, offered to be part of his electioneering campaign team and promised to mobilize support for all the PDP candidates in Itu. They used the opportunity to intimate the Itu Liberation Campaign organization that they are all members of the Student's wing of the Intensive Transformation Union (I.T.U.) and formally presented copies of campaign posters sponsored by Itu Student's Worldwide.

Members of the student group who witnessed the event include:  Abel Simon Akpan, Chapter President Uyo City Polytechnic;  Enameti Usenata Udo, Direcor of Sports Worldwide; Comrade Happiness Emmanuel Eyibio, Vice President Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic (Akwapoly)/ Welfare officer Worldwide: Mfonobong Bassey Udang, Director for Protocol Worldwide; Victor Ekong, Chapter President Akwa Ibom State College of Education Afaha Nsit and Udok Udok Iwatt, Secretary Worldwide.

Others are , Idongesit Asuquo Effiong, Financial Secretary Worldwide; Abasiakan Udi Chapter President Akwapoly/ Vice Chairman ii Worldwide; Itoro Akpan, Chapter President, University of Calabar and Oduduabasi Isaac, Chapter president, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike.

LG POLL: ITU MONARCH URGE CANDIDATES TO BE UNITED

By Patrick Antia

The paramount ruler of Itu Local Government, His Majesty, Edidem Dr. Edet Akpainyang has advised candidates from the area, vying for positions on the platform of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in the December 2 elections to remain united and continue working as a family and put the interest of the Community first.

The Traditional ruler made the declaration on Friday at his palace, when the PDP Chairmanship candidate in the Local Government, Barr. Etetim Onuk led every other candidate of his party in the area on a courtesy visit to him.

Edidem Akpainyang who commended the candidates for deeming it fit to seek the blessings of the royal fathers applauded their oneness. He said the importance of peace, love and unity amon them cannot be underestimated. He advised them to replicate same attitude if they eventually make it to the Council, adding that its the panacea for a better and stronger Itu Local government.

Earlier, Barr. Etetim Onuk who spoke on behalf of the candidates said the visit was meant to intimate the Traditional rulers of their achievements so far and brief them on future plans. He opined that as loyal citizens of Itu, they owe the royal fathers that obligation and reiterated their resolve to build a fairer and egalitarian society.

Barr. Onuk who stated that they could not have continued without seeking the support and blessings of the traditional rulers, pointed out that the importance of maintaining close links with the traditional stool cannot be overemphasized. He promised to ensure his team remain bonded by love, mutual respect and equity.

Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the council and clan head of Itam Clan, Etebom Donald Uboh commended the candidates vying for the respective positions that make up the third tier of governance, describing their visit to the palace as a ' a wise move and warned against infighting which he said could derail the budding relationship among the PDP candidates in Itu.

The high point of the event was the prayer session, where the traditional rulers prayed for God's protection, guidance and wisdom for the candidates in their respective endeavors.

Others who witnessed the event include; The Vice Chairmanship Candidate, Mrs. Emem Ekpanya, The Director General, Itu Liberation Campaign Organization and former Vice Chairman  of Itu Local Government Area; Hon. Victor Nyong.

Councillorship candidates who attended the events are, Helen Nta, ward 1; Felix Okokon Andem, ward 2; Ifiok Ekpenyong, ward 3; Ime Victor Etim, ward 4; George Akpan, ward 5 and Bokime Ededem Udo of ward 6.

Others include, Peace Okokon, ward 7; Otobong Ekong, ward 8;  Bassey Bassey, ward 9 and Inibehe Nyong of ward 10.

A'IBOM GOVT. WADES INTO GRIEVANCES OF IBOM INT'L. STADIUM HOST COMMUNITIES

Akwa Ibom State Government has set up modalities to address the discontentment raised by the host communities of the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

The Commissioner for Housing and Special Duties Mr Akan Okon, announced this during a meeting with representatives of the communities held at the Conference Room, Ministry of Housing and Special Duties, Uyo.

The meeting which had in attendance Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Charles Udoh and his counterpart in the Ministry of Lands and Town Planning, Arch Ime Ekpo, deliberated extensively on the disaffection expressed by the host communities of the International Stadium.

Speaking, Mr Akan Okon who blamed the communities for embarking on the protest described the action as unnecessary explaining that issues raised by the communities would have been addressed if they had approached the government through appropriate channel.

He however warned against a repeat of the mob action saying that it could have degenerated to alarming proportion if hijacked by miscreants and reminded the community leaders of their role in ensuring peace in their domain.

The Special Duties Commissioner spoke of the Stadium as a critical national infrastructure which should be valued, protected and presented, assuring the catchment communities that they would be integrated in the general maintenance and provision of security in the edifice.

On the flooding which he said was a spillover from the retention lake and bad roads in the area, Mr Okon said that the Ministry of Works had come up with a design for controlling the flood and explained that people of the area would soon witness a new lease of life as the drainage project would soon commence.

Also speaking, Mr Charles Udoh, urged the communities to always reach out to the State Government through available channel of communication, adding that the State administration under Governor Udom Emmanuel prioritizes the interest of its people.

Mr Udoh noted that the Stadium which has boosted the economy of the area and by extension the state should be valued by the beneficiaries.

The Information boss lauded the village heads for their promptness​ in handling the protest assuring that government would not renege on its promise to the people .

In his contribution, Arc. Ime Ekpo, noted that government cannot fulfil it obligations to the people in a single swop and pointed that government’s sincerity was already demonstrated in the equitable payment of compensation before the commencement of the stadium project.

He assured the communities on government's resolve to complete every project initiated and called for calm on the part of the communities maintaining that the state administration was committed to addressing their challenges.

Leaders of the host communities including legal adviser of Obio Etoi, Barr. Friday, Uyo Political leader / Transition Council member, Pastor Ime David and Uyo Youth Caucus Chairman, Mr Idorenyin Umoh enumerated their challenges to include incessant flooding, lack of maintenance of the retention lake, poor accessibility to the communities during events at the stadium, security risk associated with impassable roads in the communities, non inclusion of youths in the security and maintenance of the stadium.

They however thanked the State Government for the prompt response to their complaints and promised to cooperate with the contractors in the intervention project earmarked for execution.

It would be recalled that youths in the host communities of the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium (The Nest Of Champions) had, on Wednesday, 4th October 2017, took to the street in protest of environmental despoliation and other issues in the area.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Special Duties, Engr. Effiong Efiakedoho Heads of Directorate of Housing and Special Duties, Village Head of Obio Etoi, Obong Ezekiel I. Ekott, Village Head of Obio Offot, Ete-idung Cyril A. Umanah and youth leaders of the host communities were also in the meeting.

I'll Run An All Inclusive Government - Etetim Onuk

Barr. Onuk

By Patrick Antia

The Chairmanship candidate of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Itu Local Government Area, Barr. Etetim Onuk has pledged to run an all inclusive administration when elected Chairman of Council. He made the remark on Wednesday in Ikot Annie Itam, during a twin Thanksgiving/victory march organized by the women prayer wing of Itu Liberation campaign organization and the Executives and members of PDP in ward 6 of Itu Local Government Area.
Onuk who used the opportunity to thank the women for their prayers and support prior to the party nomination exercise also expressed gratitude to members of the People's Democratic Party for believing in him. He promised to make the party proud, pointing out that their sacrifices shall not be in vain.

"I am humbled by the honour accorded me today by my people, i thank you all for supporting me, and i commend the organizers of both events. I will never fail Itu people , i know the expectations are high, but i promise to do my best for the good of the Local government. I call on every one who vied for positions in the just concluded PDP primaries to join force with whoever emerged as the flag bearer and build a stronger party and Local Government." He said

The Ikot Annie Itam born legal practitioner who was accompanied by all 10 PDP councillorship candidates in Itu, admonished the youth to strive to be self reliant, he also advised them to remain law abiding, maintaining that active engagement of the youth - which form part of his cardinal policies, will go a long way to curb crime and other social vices.

The Coordinator of the women's prayer wing of the campaign organization, Mrs. Itoro Bassey Bassey Uduhu who said the women toured the 10 wards of Itu, praying for the success of their principal, thanked the Almighty God for his grace and mercies.
While thanking God for taking the organization this far, Mrs Uduhu reiterated the women's resolve not to relent in seeking God's guidance and protection. She thanked the women for the commitment and consistency.

On behalf of all the PDP Councilorship candidates in Itu Local Government Area, Mr. George Akpan who is the party's representative for ward 5 said, The thanksgiving could not  have come at a better time, stating that a grateful heart pleases God.

According to George Akpan "Barr. Onuk has started well, the cordiality between us, the Chairman and Vice Chairmanship candidate is an indication of the fruitful year ahead, he is a team leader, we (the councilors) are ready to deliver our respective wards to the PDP and build a better Itu."

Mr. Joseph Ekwan, an elder of the Party in the ward, who spoke on behalf of other stakeholders said they will remain supportive and advised him to ensure he complies with his campaign promises when elected.

The trio of Mr. Edem Bassey Ukud, Mr Ndifreke Umoh and Amadi Asukwo Ema; Ward Chairman, Vice Chairman and youth leader respectively, poured encomium on Barr. Onuk and disclosed their readiness to ensure total victory for the party at all levels.

Others who graced the ocasion include; The Chairman of the Itu Liberation Campaign organization and former Vice Chairman of Itu Local Government Area, Hon. Victor Nyong, Secretary of the organization, Hon. Affia and Chairman Ikot Annie Village Council, Evang. Ime Peter Akpan, amongst others

The Councilorship candidates who attended the events are; Helen Effiong Nta, ward 1, Felix Okokon Andem, ward 2, Ifiok Ekpenyong, ward 3, Ime Victor Etim, ward 4, George Akpan, ward 5, Bokime Ededem Udo, ward 6, Peace Okokon, ward 7, Otobong Ekong, ward 8, Bassey Bassey, ward 9 and Inibehe Nyong of ward 10.

EKERE HAS BROUGHT JOY, HOPE TO AKWA IBOM PEOPLE - Victor Attah

(L-R) Mrs. Ekere, Obong Victor Attah and Obong Nsima Ekere

A former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Obong Victor Attah, has reviewed the achievements of Mr. Nsima Ekere, the Managing Director of the Niger Development Commission (NDDC) in the last eight months and declared that he has brought joy and hope to the people of Akwa Ibom State.

Speaking at the thanksgiving service of Mr. Ekere and his family at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Ikot Abasi on Sunday, Obong Attah said the NDDC boss had done the state proud.

“This thanksgiving is not just ordinary thanksgiving. You can see the outpouring of support for a man who has successfully restructured NDDC. Akwa Ibom people are very proud of him. Akwa Ibom people say Nsima Ekere has brought a lot of joy and hope to the people,” he said.

The Leader of Ibibio Nation reasoned that having done well at NDDC, Mr. Ekere could be entrusted with more responsibilities.

His words: “Nigeria is talking about restructuring today. If Nsima Ekere can successfully restructure NDDC, there is every possibility that he can restructure a few more institutions.”

Obong Attah suggested a reception for Mr. Ekere by Akwa Ibom people, saying, “I want to appeal to Akwa Ibom people. He has come here to thank God by himself. We must call him to appreciate him.”

Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State, who was accompanied by the President of Akwa Ibom Community in Jos, eulogized Mr. Ekere as a true friend and brother and prayed God to continuously bless him and his family.

The National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, represented by the Deputy National Chairman (South), Engr. Segun Oni, congratulated Mr. Ekere and his family for his success story at NDDC and expressed optimism that the NDDC boss will completely turn round the commission.

The Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, represented by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Niger Delta, Senator Patrick Nwaoboshi, said Mr. Ekere’s thanksgiving service symbolized unity in the country as it brought together Nigerians from across ethnic and partisan lines.

The service was attended by the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Pastor Usani Usani, the Minister of State, Prof. Claudius Daramola, the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Mr. Agboola Ajayi, the representatives of the Governors of Bayelsa, Delta and Imo States, Senators and Members of the House of Representatives, a cross-section of the political class in Nigeria, monarchs, clerics and captains of industry, among others.

Ekere will have occasion for another thanksgiving – Methodist Prelate

NDDC MD, Obong Nsima Ekere (L) and the Methodist Prelate, Dr. Samuel Uche(R)

The Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Dr. Samuel Uche, has commended the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mr. Nsima Ekere, for deeming it necessary to hold a thanksgiving service to appreciate God for his blessings on his life and prophesied that he will have another cause for thanksgiving.

“Your thanksgiving shows you are a child of God,” Dr. Uche said in his sermon at the thanksgiving service held at Government Field, Ikot Abasi. “It shows that you love God, that you put God first and that you revere God. You will have occasion to gather again for another thanksgiving. I don’t know what God will do.”

He described the thanksgiving service as unique and epochal and lauded Mr. Ekere for recognizing that “nobody holds any position except God ordains it.”

The Prelate expressed the belief that the NDDC boss will perform creditably, meticulously, diligently, transparently and studiously.

“I believe that you will not disappoint Nigerians, Akwa Ibom people and Mr. President,” he said. “I am sure you will do well. I will be on your neck to ensure you do so.”

Dr. Uche advised the NDDC boss and the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs to do a comprehensive survey of the Niger Delta region to determine the infrastructural and other needs of the people of the region.

He called on the National Assembly to appropriate enough funds for the NDDC to develop the nine member-states evenly.

Dr. Uche prayed for President Muhammadu Buhari’s quick recovery and condemned those wishing the President dead.

His words: “People wishing the President dead are wicked. Why should you wish a fellow human being dead? When I see some fellow Bishops talking against the President, I pity them because they are jobbers. The Bible says you should pray for those in authority. There is a place of punishment for those who refuse to change and a place of blessing for those who change.”

The Prelate disclosed that he was one of those that supported the change mantra in 2015 because of the level of impunity and corruption in the country and prayed for the change to be quicker.

He accused “disgruntled and cantankerous politicians” of inciting ethnic hatred in the country and predicted their doom if they refused to change.

Dr. Uche, however, supported calls for restructuring of the country to ensure the practice of true federalism.

ILLEGAL ARREST AND TORTURE: AK High Court Slams .5 Million Naira Fine on Police

An Akwa Ibom State High Court, Sitting in Ikot Ekpene Judicial Division has awarded the sum of =N=500,000 (Five hundred thousand Naira) in favour of Mr. Nkereuwem Thomas Edet, (a.k.a. Napper) of Ikot Ambang, Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area, for gross violation of fundamental human right and denial of right to personal liberty and dignity of his person.

Delivering judgment in the case with suit number HT/FHR.36/2014, instituted against; Inspector Celestine Okpara (IPO-SCID-Uyo), DSP Julian Onita (OC, DS-SCID-UYO) and the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State; 1st, 2nd and 3rd respondent respectively, Justice Joy I. Unwana, declared; "that the arrest, torture and detention of the APPLICANT, NKEREUWEN THOMAS EDET  from the 4th day of July 2014, beyond the period allowed by law is unlawful and constitute a violation of APPLACANT'S right to personal liberty and right to dignity of his person."

The court also restrained the respondents from "further acts of violation of the applicant's right on account of the compliant in this suit." The Court awarded the sum of N50,000.00 (Fifty thousand Naira) against the 1st respondent in favour of Mr. Nkereuwem Edet as the cost of litigation.

Speaking with newsmen last week, Napper said he is glad that the Judiciary has lived up to expectation and has proven to remain the unbiased umpire and only hope for the common man, he particularly thanked God for seeing him through the travail and commended his legal team, friends and relatives for their support.

"I was always harassed, intimidated and molested by the police, particularly those from the Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) headed by Julian; they would fabricate baseless and spurious allegations against me, arrest, torture and extort hundreds of thousands of Naira from me." he declared.

Edet, an Elder of The Mount Zion Full Gospel Church and Managing Director of St. Agnes Mortuary Services and St. Agnes Hotels Limited, both in Ikot Ambang, disclosed that he had been arrested, detained and tortured up to five times, by the police on trump up charges, said he had no choice but to seek redress in a competent court, to avoid the ceaseless invasion of his business premises and private abode and put a stop to the brutal extortion by the policemen whom he alleged took advantage of his physical disability.

SOLDIERS ARREST 17 SUSPECTED MILITANTS IN OKU IBOKU

By Patrick Antia

 

Nigerians soldiers stationed at Ayadeghe in Itu Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, have apprehended 17 suspected militants from Ikot Offiong in Cross River State.

The soldiers were said to have also recovered many sophisticated arms and ammunition from the suspects.

Our correspondent learnt that the arrest and recovery of the weapons followed a raid on militants' hideouts, along the bank of the river in the disputed area.

The suspected militants, said to be aged between 26 and 40 years are alleged to be responsible for incessant raid on the coastal community of Oku Iboku, whom they have been locked in an age long boundary dispute.

A resident of Ayadeghe, Mr. Okon Edet, told our correspondent that the suspected militants were later conveyed in military trucks, escorted by heavily armed soldiers over the bridge towards Calabar.

Items said to have been recovered from them include many 2 grenade launchers, 36 guns including Kalashinkov rifles, pump actions, double barrel guns and two big ghana must go bag, filled with different calibres of ammunition and assorted charms.

Due to the sophisticated arms cache, many now suspect them to be hired militants from Delta, Bayelsa and Rivers State.

Assistant Director, Public Relations Brigade 2, Nigeria Army, Mr. Umar Shuaib, when contacted, said he would get back to our correspondent.

NO RESTRICTION OF MOVEMENT DURING ENVIRONMENTAL SANITATION

His Excellency, Gov. Udom Emmanuel has approved that while the monthly environmental sanitation exercise goes on tomorrow Saturday April 29, 2017, there will be no restriction of movement.

This is to allow students all over Akwa Ibom state participate fully in the scheduled nationwide mock JAMB examination.


Signed
Charles Udoh
Hon. Commissioner
Information & Strategy

The Untold Story of Akan Okon's Attack on Itu Lawmaker *Shelve your Governorship ambition till 2023, Itu youths to Akan Okon

Akan Okon

By Emmanuel Offiong

The last has not been heard on the latest crisis brewing in Itu Local Government Area following  the aftermath of the failed attempt by the Commissioner for Special Duties and Housing; Mr. Akan Okon, to impose his crony, one Victor Edem Akpan alias vikolo, as the Youth Council Chairman of Itu Chapter of the Akwa Ibom State Youth Council.

Trouble started when the Member representing Itu state Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Prince Idongesit Ituen drew the attention of Governor Udom Emmanuel to the fact  that, the youths of Itu were not comfortable with the choice of the said Victor Akpan as the chairman of the Itu Chapter of the youth council.

Governor Emmanuel, our government house source revealed - instructed Mr. Akan Okon, who unilaterally handpicked Mr. Victor Akpan from Prince Idongesit Ituen's ward 8, to go back and consult with Prince Ituen and other stakeholders and resolve the controversy.

Our Source who pleaded anonymity disclosed that, Prince Ituen insisted that Victor Akpan is not a popular choice and he was therefore rejected, leading to the emergence of the more popular Comrade Idongesit Bassey Tom, from the same ward 8, in Itu Local Government Area. This twist did not go down well with Mr. Akan Okon, who in his disappointment with Governor Udom Emmanuel mobilized his proxies and sponsored  media attacks on Prince Ituen, with some hirelings going online to blast Prince Idongesit Ituen a fraudster, blackmailer and calling him all manner of names.

Reacting to an online news item titled,"you are a pathological and congenital traitor, liar and blackmailer - constituent blasts Idongesit Ituen." A youth activist from Itu, Comrade Unyimeobong Essien dismissed the report as a failed attempt to malign the integrity or tarnish the reputation of the Itu born lawmaker. Mr. Essien told our reporter that it was clear even to the blind that Mr. Akan Okon and his disgruntled cohorts who are desperate to build political structure for his pet governorship project, deployed some cheap blackmailers to spread damaging lies against the highly respected and principled Itu lawmaker.

Other sources also confided in our reporter that, Mr. Victor Akpan lost out because, Itu people see him as a cursed fellow. One Etim Bassey revealed that that every one from Afaha Ube Itam (the village where Victor Akpan hails from, in Itu) are aware that his late father who was a nitive doctor cursed and disowned him until his death because of his rebellious and criminal tendencies. Mr. Bassey also disclosed that, he was previously arrested and remanded for gun-running and during that period, he lost 2 of his children and said such person with a dark background should not lead the youths of Itu.

Every attempt to get the Itu born lawmaker speak to us on the issue, could not materialized as the person who picked his call said he was busy attending a meetings and committee functions, Prince Ituen is the Chairman House Committee on works and Transport.

Meanwhile, a Socio political group Itu Mandate Group (IMG) has slammed Mr. Akan Okon, fingering him as the big masquerade behind the serial blackmail unleashed on Idongesit Ituen. In a rejoinder signed by the President of the group, lambasted Akan Okon to desist from his subversive tactics and focus on his job as a commissioner or risk being resisted by the good people of Itu.

IMG pledged their total support to Governor Udom Emmanuel, until 2023 and while pledging to re-elect him in 2019, advised Akan Okon to suspend his subtle campaign for Governorship until 2023, when it will be the turn of Uyo Senatorial District to produce the governor.

The IMG However passed a vote of confidence on Prince Idongesit Ituen and charged him to ignore the antics of disgruntled people and continue representing Itu people effectively. The group congratulated Prince Idongesit Ituen on the  Constituency road maintenance project, and for sponsoring the Akwa Ibom State Road Traffic Management Bill, which just passed the second reading and the Successful conclusion of the Akwa Ibom Community Shield (the biggest football competition in the state), which was sponsored by him, and many other achievements which we will celebrate in another outing.

INFO BOSS HARPS ON FRUITS OF GOV EMMANUEL’S ADMINISTRATION

The Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr. Aniekan Umanah has enlisted the construction of 150km of roads, eleven bridges  as well as the numerous industrialization projects fast gaining momentum in the state as good fruits of the Governor Udom Emmanuel-led administration.

Mr. Aniekan Umanah made this known in a keynote address presented at the opening of 2016 annual synod of Methodist church, Nigeria, Diocese of Nkek Abak, held recently at the Cathedral of Redemption, Ikot Okoro road, Abak.

The Information Boss who was speaking on the theme, “chosen to bear fruits”, drawn from John15:16, said the dividends of democracy enjoyed by the people of the state, including the sustained free and compulsory education policy, the free medical services and the poverty alleviation and empowerment programmes are eloquent testimonies of fruits of a good government.

Umanah

Mr. Umanah further enlisted the emergency intervention on gully erosion along Calabar- Itu road at Enen Atai and at school of nursing, Anua, the facelift to st. Luke’s hospital, Anua, construction of Gynecology block as well as rehabilitation of the children and male wards for the people of the state as the numerous good fruits of Governor Udom Emmanuel.

The Commissioner who mentioned the ten year old blind boy who regained sight recently with the free surgery of FEYReP as an added booster of the fruits of the present government, emphasized that good fruits only come out from good trees stressing that the fruits enjoyed in the state attest to the good leadership of Governor Udom Emmanuel.

He urged all Christians to strive to bear good fruits in their different callings, career pursuits and life endeavours, reiterating that, God abhors lack of fruits in His children as illustrated by the story of the fig tree recorded in Mark 11:12 – 14.

Mr. Umanah however disclosed that, fruits in Christians manifest not only in the physical, with such measureable indices like development, growth, expansion, improvement in condition or standard of living, elevation in academic or political ambition and indeed in promotion generally, but also in the spiritual realm as Christians are a composite of the physical body and the spirit.

The Commissioner therefore admonished Christians to abound in fruits of the spirits which are; love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance, as recorded in Galatians 5:22-23.

While congratulating the church for the success of the 2016 synod, he urged delegates to take out time to pray for the leadership of the State and the country at large for sustained good governance, reiterating that, the church is a dependable partner in the development of the society.

Present at the occasion were the Bishop of Methodist church, Diocese of Nkek Abak, His Lordship Rt. Rev. Simeon U. U. Ekpo, the Lay President, Elder Engr. Akhemini E. Udom and the Synod Secretary, Very Rev. Emmanuel U. Akpan, among others.

AK SPEAKER COMMENDS RETIRED PERMANENT SECRETARIES

The Speaker, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Onofiok has commended retired Permanent Secretaries in the state for the labour of love which they exhibited while serving in the Civil service.

Receiving the retired technocrats, Monday in the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Luke,  who acknowledged the various  roles played by the retired Permanent Secretaries during the struggle for state creation, said  members of the House are willing to tap from their wealth of experience, and also enjoined them not to relent in their support to  the government of Mr. Udom Emmanuel.

While thanking  them for the visit, the Speaker assured of the preparedness of the assembly to assist them in their secretariat project, and assured that government will look into their demands for harmonization of pension  . He appreciated them laying a solid foundation for the growth of the civil service in the state, and enjoined them to support the industrialization programme of the present administration in the state to enable it succeed.

He pledged the continuous support of the legislature to the other arms of government in the state, assuring that the assembly remains people oriented and will never derail in its avowed commitment to always be on the side of the people.

Earlier, the leader of the delegation, and President, Association of Retired Permanent Secretaries, Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Francis Ikpe, said he and members of the group were in the assembly to show solidarity with the leadership of the House, and commended the Speaker for effectively piloting affairs of the House.

“The role of the assembly over which you preside is enormous and challenging; especially in the consideration and passage of legislative bills into laws which finally help in stabilizing the polity”.

“Furthermore, the association is rest assured that with your wealth of experience over the years in legislative issues, your election as the Speaker, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly is well timed and merited. In retrospect, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has earned the enviable record of being one of the best, if not the best rated house of assembly nationwide, in terms of decorum, stability functionality and responsiveness to public interest and well beign”.

Present during the visit were, Hon. Mark Esset, Hon. Otobong Jonathan, Chief J.J.Obot, Elder. O.E.Akpan, and Obong Edem Akpainyang