The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • Gov Eno for excellence award in Ghana

    Gov Eno for excellence award in Ghana

    The Millennium Excellence Foundation (MEF) has announced Akwa Ibom Governor Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, will be honoured with the prestigious Lifetime Africa Achievement Prize (LAAP) in Governance and Public Service.

    The announcement was contained in a statement by Insah Iddrisu, Director of Communications for the Millennium Excellence Foundation on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 in Accra , Ghana. 

    The statement said the award will be presented  to the Governor and other top Africans on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at a high-profile ceremony at the historic Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, Ghana. 

    The event will be hosted by His Royal Majesty, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene and Life Patron of the Millennium Excellence Foundation.

    The LAAP is one of Africa’s most distinguished recognitions, awarded biennially to outstanding individuals and institutions that have made exceptional contributions to leadership, governance, and continental development. Governor Umo Eno is being celebrated for his transformative and inclusive governance, with a strong emphasis on rural development, agriculture, tourism, and social welfare, all of which have significantly improved the quality of life in Akwa Ibom State.

    His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II praised the governor’s leadership style, noting that “Governor Eno’s commitment to uplifting lives through innovative governance has made him a model of sub-national leadership in Africa. His inclusive political approach and dedication to excellence endeared him to our Continental Selection Board.”

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    Other distinguished laureates for the 2025 LAAP include H.E. John Dramani Mahama,  President of Ghana; H.E. Carlos Vila Nova, President of São Tomé and Príncipe; Pedro Santos of Angola, Kone Dossongui of Côte d’Ivoire, and Koffi Djondo of Togo. Several global dignitaries are expected at the event, with Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria.

    Nigeria’s previous recipients of the Millennium Excellence Awards include President Goodluck Jonathan, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Tony Elumelu, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and Professor Wole Soyinka.

    The Millennium Excellence Foundation, founded in 1998 by Ambassador Nana Agyeman Prempeh (Ashim Morton), is committed to celebrating African excellence in leadership, peacebuilding, education, and sustainable development. Its inaugural awards ceremony took place in the year 2000.

    Governor Umo Eno’s recognition marks another milestone for Akwa Ibom State on the continental stage, affirming his administration’s far-reaching impact in public service.

  • Enwan killing: Edo artiste, Zunday, cries out for justice

    Enwan killing: Edo artiste, Zunday, cries out for justice

    Nigerian music artist, Ajakaiye Sunday, popularly known as Zunday, has raised his voice in grief and outrage following the tragic killing of a young boy in his hometown of Enwan Community, Akoko Edo Local Government Area, Edo State.

    On May 3rd, 2025, officers from the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), reportedly from outside Edo State, stormed the peaceful community and shot dead a young boy, the only child of his parents. No explanation was provided, leaving a shattered family and community in mourning.

    Zunday, in a recent statement condemned the act as a national disgrace and expressed his heartbreak not just as a public figure, but as a son of the soil.

     “That child was not just a victim; he was his parents’ entire world,” he said. “Now, they are left with nothing but pain, and we are left with fear—fear of kidnappers, fear of robbers, and now, fear of those meant to protect us.”

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    Zunday called on the likes of Hon. Peter Akpatason, Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole, and all political leaders to intervene immediately, stressing that “the people of Enwan are not only relevant when it’s time to vote.”

    According to the artiste, “This is not just Enwan’s cry—it is Nigeria’s. A country that cannot protect its children is a country in crisis. We will not be silenced. We demand justice.”

    He demanded an immediate and transparent investigation into the killing; identification and prosecution of the officers responsible; a public apology and adequate compensation for the bereaved family; and legal reforms to regulate and restrict inter-state police operations.

  • NBM of Africa hits Edo Govt over demolition of inter’l secretariat 

    NBM of Africa hits Edo Govt over demolition of inter’l secretariat 

    The Neo Black Movement (NBM) of Africa, a Non Governmental Organisation (NGO), has condemned what it described as the unlawful demolition of its International Secretariat at Oba Ewuare II Cultural Centre 7, Arena Way, Amagba, Benin City. 

    It stated the approval of the exercise by  Governor Monday Okpebholo amounts to an abuse of power.

    In a statement by Olorogun Ese Kakor and Chief Kelvin Agbroko, national President and Secretary respectively, the body decried the action of Edo State Government, noting that such unconstitutional and ultra vires decision contradicted provisions of the Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria, considering the fact that the organisation was a duly registered entity.

    According to the body, the provisions of Section 7 of the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025, which the Edo State Government relied upon to carry out the demolition, contravene the provisions of the Constitution as contained in Sections 36, 40, 42, 43, and 44 of the CFRN 1999, as amended as  Section 7 of the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025.

    It reaffirmed that the aspect of the provision relied upon by Governor Okpebholo in ordering the demolition of its international Secretariat was totally in contradiction with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic and therefore null and void to the extent of its inconsistency.

    The statement read in part: “NBM of Africa is a registered Non-Governmental Organisation that carries out humanitarian services. The organisation also protects, preserves, and promotes African culture. It was founded under the principles of Pan-Africanism on 16th October 1977 and registered as a Non-Governmental Organization under Part C of CAMA on 24th February 1994 with registration No. 7729”.

    “The organization has over 200 branches, all in Nigeria and the diaspora. It has its international secretariat at Amagba, Benin City, Edo State. The International Secretariat, which was built over a period of time and completed in the year 2022, comprises a 2000-capacity event center, a 20-room accommodation facility, fully furnished offices, a skill acquisition center, and is fully air-conditioned”. 

    “The secretariat has been functioning with a 250kVA generator to power the entire facility. The amphitheater is a state-of-the-art facility”.

    “The Skills Acquisition Centre is meant to empower over 300 persons annually while it has over 100 employees. The property has been coexisting with neighbors. It has a free entry and exit that is open to members of the public”.

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    “The Edo State Government is a beneficiary of the organization’s humanitarian and charitable services. In February 2025, the organization donated school desks, chairs, doors, windows, and writing materials to 12 primary and secondary schools recommended by the Edo State Government. The schools and pupils are still reeling from the benefits of the humanitarian gesture of the organization”.

    “On Wednesday, 30th April 2025, the Edo State Government mobilised bulldozers and its staff to the international secretariat of the organization to carry out the demolition of the entire building without prior notice”.

    “The team of the Edo State Government that was mobilised to the secretariat was accompanied by fierce-looking policemen and soldiers who provided security cover for the state team that carried out the demolition”.

    “The entire building was pulled down, and the movable properties contained therein were destroyed”

    It added: “The act of the Edo State Government in demolishing the building and the destruction of the movable properties contained therein is totally condemnable”.

    “The act is unconstitutional and ultra vires the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, particularly the relevant provisions of Sections 36, 40, 42, 43, and 44 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended” 

    “It is noteworthy that the provisions of Section 7 of the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025, which the Edo State Government relied upon to carry out the demolition, contravene the provisions of the Constitution as contained in Sections 36, 40, 42, 43, and 44 of the CFRN 1999, as amended”.

    “We emphasise that Section 7 of the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025, is inconsistent with the provisions of the Constitution of the FGN and therefore null and void to the extent of its inconsistency”.

    “The organisation is exploring all legal means to remedy the wrong and seek redress over the unjustifiable and barbaric actions of the Edo State Government”.

    “NBM of Africa is a law-abiding organization with over three million members, including senior citizens, professionals, captains of industry, businessmen, civil servants, and politicians”.

    “The organization does not accommodate or harbor criminals. The Neo Black Movement is not a criminal organization. We have repeatedly informed the public that the Neo Black Movement is not Black Axe and has never been known as Black Axe; thus, the name should not be used interchangeably with Black Axe. The Neo Black Movement (NBM) of Africa is not a cult group. The organization is a body dedicated to African unity”.

    “The organisation has carried out over six thousand humanitarian services around the world, which includes visiting and distributing palliatives worth one hundred and fifty million naira to victims of the flood disaster that ravaged thirteen states in Nigeria in 2023, namely Edo, Imo, Anambra, Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, Abia, Kogi, Kaduna, Benue, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, and Nassarawa states”.

    “In 2022, the sum of two million naira was also given to the victims of the St. Francis Catholic Church terrorist attack at Owo, Ondo State. In 2024, the organization visited the Okuama IDP camp situated at Ewu, Delta State, where the sum of two million naira and palliatives worth over fifteen million naira were given to the victims”.

    “In 2024, the organisation visited and shared palliatives worth over fifteen million naira and a cash donation of five million naira to the Maiduguri flood victims”

    “The people of Edo State have always benefited from the organization’s humanitarian gestures. We know that the actions of the Edo State Governor to demolish the international secretariat of our organization have a political undertone, and we totally condemn his actions because they are unconstitutional. 

    “Sadly, the NBM leadership observes with dissatisfaction that, to date, His Excellency Monday Okpepholo, the Executive Governor of Edo State, is yet to provide any credible and persuasive reasons within a legal ambit justifying the malicious demolition of the organization’s International Secretariat”.

    “The Neo Black Movement (NBM) of Africa as a legal entity and a law abiding organization will use any legal means within its reach to seek justice; hence, the organization has filed a case of fundamental right action at the Federal High Court in Benin against the Edo State Government”. 

  • Arenyeka urges defectors to collect APC membership cards

    Arenyeka urges defectors to collect APC membership cards

    By Sunday Apah 

    A chieftain, Chief Solomon Arenyeka, JP, has commended the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State, led by Chairman, Elder Omeni Sobotie, for the directive on immediate and unconditional registration of all newly defected members from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) across the State.

    Arenyeka, in a statement signed by his Media Assistant, Olorogun Sunday Apah, called on all party faithful, stakeholders and supporters—especially those who recently joined the APC during the historic political realignment of April 28, 2025—to proceed without delay to their respective wards to collect their membership cards and complete the registration process.

    He said:  “I wholeheartedly commend the leadership of the All Progressives Congress in Delta State, particularly our State Chairman, Elder Omeni Sobotie, for his decisive directive mandating the immediate and unconditional registration of all newly defected members from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) across the state.

    “The bold move is not only timely but also a clear testament to the new spirit of inclusion, unity, and political maturity that now defines our great party under the able leadership of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.

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    “In light of this directive, I call on all party faithful, stakeholders, and supporters—especially those who recently joined the APC during the historic political realignment of April 28, 2025—to proceed without delay to their respective wards to collect their membership cards and complete the registration process.

    “Your full participation is critical as we build a party structure that is broad-based, inclusive, and ready to deliver on the RENEWED HOPE & MORE AGENDA for all Deltans.

    “We will consolidate this new era of political cooperation and shared vision for development.” 

    Arenyeka urged all party faithful, old and new, to continue to uphold the values of unity, loyalty, and progressiveness that define us.

    “Let us work in unity to strengthen our structures at all levels and prepare for the great task ahead,” he said.

  • Oil spill ravages Rivers community

    Oil spill ravages Rivers community

    An oil spill, reportedly caused by the activities of vandals, has devastated the Ikata community in Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State.

    Executive Director of the Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC-Nigeria), Fyneface Dumnamene Fyneface, confirmed the incident on Monday.

    According to Fyneface, the spill occurred in the early hours of the day along a 14-inch pipeline right of way operated by Renaissance Africa Energy Company Ltd (RAEC). 

    The company recently acquired the assets of Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) in a $2.4 billion divestment deal.

    Fyneface said members of Advocacy Centre’s One Million Youth Volunteers Network of Human Rights Defenders and Promoters in the Niger Delta, as well as those under the auspices of its Crude Oil Spill Alert System (COSAS) in the area, reported the spill to the centre. 

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    He said the spill point, suspected to be third-party interference was seriously spilling crude oil into the environment and destroying the ecosystem in the surrounding area.  

    He said that the visit by his group’s volunteers in the area to the spill site showed that the vandals allegedly excavated the ground and vandalised the 14-inch pipe along the Okordia-Rumuekpe pipeline right of way.

    He said the compromised section was spewing crude oil into the environment and called on the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) to carry out a joint investigation visit (JIV) to determine the actual cause of the spill and invoke the relevant section of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), 2021, to hold the alleged perpetrators to account.

  • APC congratulates Enyiekere over inauguration as chairman NASS Service Commission

    APC congratulates Enyiekere over inauguration as chairman NASS Service Commission

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) Media Network has congratulated Chief Saviour Enyiekere on his inauguration as chairman of the National Assembly Service Commission.

    The APC Media Network also commended the Senate President Godswill Akpabio for facilitating the appointment, adding that Enyiekere’s appointment will positively impact the NASS Commission.

    In a statement by its Director-General, Otuekong Iniobong John, the group described Enyiekere as a thorough-bred administrator and politician.

    The APC network said it is excited because Dr. Enyiekere is the first Southerner to hold the prestigious position since its creation in 1990, marking a historic development for the governance history of the Nation.

    The statement reads in parts: “This momentous occasion marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s legislative framework, and we are confident that his leadership will herald a new era of progress and effectiveness in the administration of the Commission.

    “We sincerely appreciate the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, for facilitating this well-deserved appointment. We celebrate and identify ourselves with Senator Akpabio’s visionary leadership and commitment to excellence. His dedication to promoting deserving individuals to positions of authority is a hallmark of his exemplary leadership. 

    “Rt Hon Chief Saviour Enyiekere’s academic and professional journey has been impressive. He began his education at St. Patrick’s Primary School in Urua Inyang, before advancing to the Queen of Apostles Seminary in Afaha Obong, located in Abak Local Government Area for his secondary studies. 

    “He pursued higher education at the University of Calabar, where he earned a PhD in Environmental Science and Protection, showcasing his commitment to academic excellence.

    “Dr. Enyiekere’s dedication to learning and professional development is further exemplified by his recent honor as a Fellow of the Institute of Criminology and Strategic Studies.

    “As a devout Christian and a committed member of the Full Life Christian Center, Dr. Enyiekere embodies the values of integrity, service, and community engagement.

    “Additionally, he holds a First Class traditional title “Atai Nturukpum Ikpaisong Annang” in Annang land in Annang land, signifying his deep-rooted connection and contributions to his community.”

    The statement added: “Dr. Enyiekere has a rich political background that includes serving two terms as the Chairman of his home Ika Local Government Council. He has also held key positions such as Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, a member of the Akwa Ibom Road Maintenance Agency, and Deputy Chief of Staff to the Senate President.

    “Dr. Enyiekere’s professional experience also includes his stint at the Security Printing and Minting Company in Lagos, where he likely honed his skills in security protocols, financial management, and operational efficiency.

    “This experience will undoubtedly serve him well in his new role as Chairman of the National Assembly Service Commission, where security, confidentiality, and efficient management of resources are paramount.

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    “His diverse background and expertise will enable him to navigate the complex demands of the Commission with ease and effectiveness. 

    “Given his extensive experience in national assembly bureaucracy and administration, combined with his administrative acumen and strategic insight, we have every confidence that Dr. Enyiekere will elevate the Commission towards greater accomplishments.

    “We believe that his appointment will play a crucial role in enhancing the functionality and efficiency of Nigeria’s Legislative Service Commission in the years ahead. His commitment to modernizing the operations of the Commission, improving staff welfare, and optimizing legislative services will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact”.

    “As a distinguished grassroots politician, Dr. Enyiekere is set to contribute significantly to the All Progressives Congress in Akwa Ibom State, adding immense value to our party’s initiatives and goals”.

  • Group kicks over demolition of NBM of Africa secretariat in Benin

    Group kicks over demolition of NBM of Africa secretariat in Benin

    A group, South-South Professionals & Transparency Initiative (SSPTI), has condemned the demolition of a multi-purpose secretariat complex reportedly built at an estimated N1.5bn belonging to the Neo-Black Movement (NBM) of Africa in Benin over alleged war against criminal elements in the State.

    In a statement by its Chairman, Dr. Ugochukwu Alozie, the body described the decision as vindictive and  outrageous, considering the fact that there was nothing incriminating or illegal that had been reported or said to have been associated with the very building.

    SSPTI called on the members of the Neo-Black Movement (NBM) of Africa to explore all available legal means in seeking compensation from the Edo State Government, noting that through a court of competent jurisdiction the body can be sure of getting justice that would compel the government to pay for the act.

    Governor Monday Okpebholo on Friday morning led his team to destroy some perceived hideout of criminals in the state, including a place the military had rescued some kidnaped victims held against their wish to learn internet frauds and other crimes.

    The Governor led his team and security operatives to the NBM multi purpose national Secretariat located at Oba Ewuare ll cultural centre No 7 Arena way Amagba, in the heart of Benin city and ordered demolition of the structure based on the allegation that it was being used as criminals hideout.

    The Secretariat was made up of a state-of-heart 2,000 capacity hall used as an event centre,a skill acquisition centre in addition to 20 tastefully furnished room accommodation for hospitality purpose, with a standard indoor swimming pool, a relaxation lounge, 250 KVA generator and other indoor appliances.

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    According to SSPTI: “Our grouse to the action of the Governor is that he failed to take the battle to the individual houses of these perceived political opponents but preferred to unleash the act of oppression against a collective body who have done him no harm or disturbed his government in any way. 

    “We even have it on good authority that the members of NBM of Africa, recently carried out some Corporate Social Responsibility (CRS) in 12 secondary and primary schools in Edo state, where they donated furnitures, writing materials, school desks and chairs to selected government schools to assist the poor pupils and students to settle into serious academic sessions, as part of an effort to giving back to the society”.

    “This is the same set of people the Governor decided to demolish their buildings all because he wanted to get even with some perceived political opponents in the state. 

    “Consequently, we want the members of NBM of Africa, to proceed to court so as to get justice over Governor Monday Okpebholo high handedness and arbitrarily use of power to oppress a group whose members have proven to be responsible and cultured in the society.”

  • CSOs, lawyers demand impartial probe into Kyari’s tenure as NNPC boss

    CSOs, lawyers demand impartial probe into Kyari’s tenure as NNPC boss

    A coalition of lawyers and civil society organisations has pledged to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation into the tenure of former Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari.

    The group, operating under the banner of Guardians of Democracy and Rule of Law, raised concerns over alleged efforts to derail investigations into the mismanagement of over $4 billion allocated for the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s refineries.

    In a statement jointly signed by Barrister Aminu Bello, Secretary General, and Rotimi Adeyemo, Director of Publicity, the coalition alleged that attempts were being made to silence them through intimidation, bribery, and the use of impostors posing as rival coalitions.

    “Let it be known that we will not be bought, bullied, or silenced. The attempt to pressure us into withdrawing our petition has failed. The strategy has now shifted to creating confusion using impostors and faceless coalitions. This too will fail,” the group declared.

    They questioned how such a huge sum could have been spent on turnaround maintenance while the nation’s refineries remain inactive.

    “It is baffling that over $4 billion was claimed to have been spent on turnaround maintenance, yet our refineries remain dormant. Where did the money go? We have a duty to ask these questions, and we won’t stop asking until answers are provided under oath,” the statement added.

    The group had earlier submitted a petition to the Minister of Finance, demanding the establishment of a judicial commission of inquiry into the matter.

    “The damage is clear. Over $4 billion was allegedly spent on fixing refineries that are still far from functional. Crude-for-cash arrangements continued to put Nigeria at a disadvantage, with the nation losing the upside from trading its crude,” the statement added.

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    “These were not just policy errors — they were systemic betrayals of public trust. No responsible nation allows such weighty financial irregularities to go unchecked. We are calling for the immediate constitution of a judicial commission of inquiry led by retired justices of impeccable character to investigate this criminality.

    “The millions of Nigerians who depend on affordable, functional fuel deserve the truth. Their hard-earned money should not be squandered under the guise of maintenance that never occurred.”

    Insisting they are undeterred, the lawyers and CSOs warned that the protest movement will not only continue but escalate to major cities across the country, including Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Kaduna, if the federal government fails to act.

    “We are prepared to mobilise thousands more. This campaign will spread to every zone of the country until the government establishes a credible, independent panel to probe the NNPCL under Kyari. We have the stamina, and we have the support of the Nigerian people.”

    They also challenged investigative journalists and media professionals to independently verify the condition of the refineries and document the truth for the world to see.

    “We invite the media to visit Kaduna, Warri, and Port Harcourt refineries. Nigerians deserve to know what $4 billion was allegedly spent on. If nothing has changed, then someone must be held accountable — not tomorrow, but now.”

    The group urged President Bola Tinubu to set up an independent commission of inquiry to probe the alleged misappropriation of funds at NNPC

    “Mr President, you should set up an independent commission of inquiry and send a clear message to Nigerians and the world that your government does not tolerate impunity. The time is now,” the statement added.

    The coalition commended citizens, civil society partners, and members of the public who have amplified their call for accountability, saying their solidarity has strengthened the push for justice.

  • Lawyers march for return to democratic governance in Rivers

    Lawyers march for return to democratic governance in Rivers

    A group of lawyers, known as Lawyers in Defence of Democracy, has taken to the streets to demand the restoration of democratic governance in Rivers State. 

    The group is calling on the United States and the international community to pressure the Federal Government to rescind its decision to suspend Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Rivers House of Assembly.

    The lawyers, led by their Country Director, Barr. Uche Chukwu Udeh Sylvester, argued that the declaration of a State of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu is unconstitutional. 

    In a letter to President Donald Trump, they urged him to intervene and pressure the Nigerian government to restore democratic rule in Rivers State. 

    They argued that the suspension of Fubara and the Assembly is a brazen attempt to undermine constitutional order.

    The lawyers also condemned the National Assembly for ratifying the President’s decision, describing it as an assault on democracy.

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     They asked Tinubu to reconsider his stand and allow Governor Fubara to continue his work as democratically elected governor of the state.

    “In an era where democracy is supposed to reign supreme giving democracy dividends to the masses, we have found ourselves at a crossroads, a sober moment of reckoning where constitutional order is being tested most brazenly,” the letter said. 

    “This could only have happened during the days of military juntas but we are not under the firm grip of a military dictatorship. At the moment, the country is being governed under a constitutional democracy that operates a presidential system of government.

    “President Bola Tinubu should not have taken the decision because democracy is a learning process, and the judiciary has demonstrated the capability to resolve issues.

    “The president should have allowed the various state organs to resolve the issues. It is not worthy that until recently, there was a crisis of local government administration in Osun State, which has not led to a declaration of a state of emergency.”

  • Etteh hails Gov. Eno’s endorsement of Tinubu, Akpabio as bold, visionary move

    Etteh hails Gov. Eno’s endorsement of Tinubu, Akpabio as bold, visionary move

    The member representing Eket/ONNA/Esit-Eket/Ibeno Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Okpolupm Etteh, has applauded Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom state for what he described as a bold and statesmanlike endorsement of President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Obot Akpabio.

    In a personally signed statement released to the press, Etteh praised Governor Eno’s public show of support for the federal leadership, calling it a “courageous endorsement” that signals a strong commitment to the peace, unity, and sustainable development of Akwa Ibom.

    “This deliberate alignment with the central government represents a bold, pragmatic, and visionary step that transcends partisan lines,” Etteh stated. “It is a clear demonstration of your unwavering commitment to the unity, progress, and prosperity of Akwa Ibom State and her people.”

    He further commended Governor Eno for recognising the strategic value of collaborating with the Tinubu administration, stressing that such synergy is crucial for unlocking federal opportunities to fast-track infrastructure, social services, and economic growth in the state.

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    “Your statesmanship sends a strong message of maturity in governance and deep concern for the welfare of our citizens,” Etteh said. “This posture inspires optimism that Akwa Ibom will benefit immensely from greater synergy with the Federal Government, particularly as our illustrious son occupies the No. 3 position in this Government.” the statement stressed.

    The federal lawmaker also took the opportunity to praise Governor Eno’s inclusion of Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, a son of the state and the current President of the Senate, in his political alignment. 

    He described the gesture as not only symbolic but a demonstration of goodwill and unity among Akwa Ibom’s political leadership at the national level.

    “Your support for Senator Akpabio is a reaffirmation of the value of homegrown leadership and collective responsibility in the pursuit of a better future for Akwa Ibom,” Hon. Etteh added.

    Hon. Etteh pledged his unwavering solidarity and continued partnership with Governor Eno in the collective effort to drive the development of Akwa Ibom, expressing gratitude for the governor’s willingness to place the interest of the state above partisan boundaries.