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Tag: Akpabio

  • Tinubu, Akpabio, Saraki, others for award

    Tinubu, Akpabio, Saraki, others for award

    Politicians, current and former officials, have been pre-selected as nominees for the premier edition of the Book of Records, to be unveiled at a high-profile event in August. 

    Speaking on the initiative, Oke Epia, chief executive officer of OrderPaper Nigeria and convener of ICONS programme, said: “The ICONS of the Fourth Republic honours the best of the best—leaders whose work deepened our democratic experience and strengthened national development. These are individuals whose service must not only be celebrated but preserved.”

    He explained that each nominee has been pre-selected through a rigorous, non-partisan, evidence-based vetting process, rooted in OrderPaper’s decade-long commitment to legislative accountability and civic engagement.

    “ICONS of Fourth Republic is more than a celebration—it is a national chronicle of excellence, service, and leadership,” he said.

    READ ALSO: States seek $500m World Bank’s facility to tackle poverty

    On the list is President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and First Lady, Remi Tinubu, Eleven governors; Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa, Bassey Otu of Cross River, Mohammed Bago of Niger, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, Douye Diri of Bayelsa, Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, Ademola Adeleke of Osun, Uba Sani of Kaduna, Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi, and Monday Okpebholo of Edo.

    Twenty-one incumbent senators have also been listed, including Orji Kalu, Ibrahim Dankwambo, Yahaya Abdullahi, Simon Lalong, Aminu Tambuwal, Adams Oshiomhole, Seriake Dickson, Aliyu Wamakko, Mohammed Goje, Adamu Aliero, Enyinnaya Abaribe, Abdulaziz Yari, Gbenga Daniel, Haruna Manu, Idiat Adebule, Ikra Bilbis, Abdulhamid Madori, Abubakar Bello, Abba Moro, and Ipalibo Harry. Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. (Prof.) Julius Ihonvbere joins the list from the 10th National Assembly.

  • Tinubu, Akpabio, 24 Govs receive Eno to APC

    Tinubu, Akpabio, 24 Govs receive Eno to APC

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday formally received Governor Umo Eno to the All Progressives Congress (APC) with the promise to integrate Akwa Ibom State into the centre of national politics and development.

    Also on hand to welcome Eno to the APC was the National Chairman of APC Abdullahi Ganduje and the leadership of the National Assembly led by the Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

    At least 24 Governors of the ruling party among others including those of Cross River, Imo, Kwara, Kogi Jigawa, Delta, Edo, Ebonyi, Lagos, Ogun, Sokoto and Ondo among attended the grand reception of Governor Eno to the APC.

    Addressing the crowd at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, venue of the event, Tinubu said Eno will not regret joining the APC, adding the expectations of the governor for Akwa Ibom will be met.

    Represented by the Vice President Senator Kassim Shettima, the President said that the APC is committed to its own.

    “We are here today because we understand the fundamental truth that for any political party, the most enduring power does not come from division, it comes from unity of purpose.

    “This friend we seek is not found in standing alone, nor in fighting amongst ourselves, but in standing together. And that strength grows with every voice that joins this cause. That is how we move forward, not by clinging to what divides us, but by running around what leaves us. 

    “We are here because we believe in building bridges, not walls, in mending fences, not erecting new ones. And above all, we are here because we know that the political party is more than a political party is its people. The people are the party. 

    “I’m telling you this, Your Excellency Pastor Umo Eno, because I want you to know that President Tinubu is a bridge-builder, a democrat. And so your decision to come home to the APC is one that you will never regret. 

    “Mr. President, ask me to assure you personally, no one will question your place here. The party is your home. You will not be humiliated. You will not be forsaken. We are your brothers and sisters in the high tide. 

    “We rise with the low ebbs, we ride together, and we rise together, and we protect those who put us through fire and plot. That is why, ten years on, despite all odds, we remain the party to beat,” he stated.  

    Akpabio congratulated Eno for joining APC, saying that the development was a clear signal that the remaining states of the Southsouth will soon join the ruling party.

    He maintained that Tinubu was a sincere and compassionate leader who will deliver on the expectations of Akwa Ibom people regarding the realization of Ibom Deep Seaport and other key infrastructural projects.

    Akpabio said, ‘What is happening is not just political movement, it is political maturity; not just a generational responsibility, but the language of statesmanship and because you have been faithful with a little entrusted to you, your step is ordered by God. 

    “You have placed the unity and progress of Akwa Ibom State above party lines,  you have chosen partnership over partisanship. So to the men and women of Akwa Ibom State who have followed you diligently in this defining moment,  our leaders, our thinkers, our patrons, i say to you welcome home to the progressive family.

    “We are not just here in numbers you are not coming to add to the number of progressive members but you are going to add value to the progressive family. 

    “You are bringing capacity to bear because you are a performing governor, the entire state is with you, the house of assembly is with you, all the local government chairmen are here, all the stakeholders are here, then who are those that would have caused trouble there is none, they are not here. 

    “So let us now move from mere handshake to hard work, from celebration here we are going to move to collaboration, the path ahead may be steep but the reward is certain so long as we work together, so long as we speak together, and so long as we move together.

    “We are here coming to you the APC with loyalty with competence, and with strategic importance to our youth who are living in this country, and we will insist respectfully that our state be given its rightful place in our national equation.

    “So our dear president, we plead with you that you extend your grace and support to the request that the governor will make including the deep sea ports so that we can develop our blue economy, lead to empowerment of our youths and the elevation of our women across board,” he stated. 

     Ganduje said the movement of Governor Umo Eno into the party was from  national political isolation to political relevance.

    Ganduje said the movement of South-South governors into the APC was a signal that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu policies were inclusive and worth aligning with. 

    Read Also: Defection to APC by Gov Eno is good thinking

    He assured Governor Eno that with his movement to the APC, President Tinubu would begin to implement programmes that would solve the environmental problems in the state and region  as well as provide employment opportunities for the youths. 

    “Today is a historic moment because the governor has decided to join our party with these millions of followers including all his political party structures. You are most welcome to a progressive party.

    “In fact from your antecedent, from your disposition you are a progressive governor. We welcome you for coming home. Those that he met in the party, don’t regard him and his followers as newcomers. No, regard them as your brothers and sisters who went for sabbatical leave and now decided to come back home because they are progressive and they are meeting progressive party followers.

    “We assure him that our party believes in internal democracy. Our party believes in progressive ideas. Our party believes in discipline. Our party believes in orderly progresses. Our party believes in overall development of democracy. 

    “So you are most welcome into our party. We have to acknowledge Mr. President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. People are coming into our party, our political agenda, our renewed hope agenda for the South-South geopolitical zone is working,” he stated. 

    Eno said he took a risk to abandon the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to join the Senate President, Godwill Akpabio in the APC so as to secure the Ibom Deep Seaport,  adding that the movement was from a position of strength. 

    He stated that he was willing to face the political storm ahead as long as he secures the Ibom Deep Seaport for Akwa Ibom, and reassured the people that he would remain a governor for all despite party affiliations.

    He added that the emphasis of his government is the implementation of the ARISE agenda, and urged all factions within the APC to sheathe their swords and close ranks to reunite the party and move it forward. 

    “Let me reassure all Akwa Ibomites that regardless of my political alignment, I will remain a governor for all Akwa Ibomites as we continue to implement progressively the Arise Agenda, which is our social contract with the Akwa Ibom people. 

    “Today, your Excellencies, we step out bold, fearless, brave, courageous, and happy. For this is an uncommon but progressive move, from a position of8 strength. 

    “For we are not afraid of the future, nor afraid of the storms ahead. As I’ve been taking a good decision, we have taken a risk by joining our son, the distinguished Senate President, to work with him and to deliver our President in 2027,” he stated. 

  • Security beefed up in A’Ibom as Tinubu, Akpabio set to receive Eno to APC on Saturday

    Security beefed up in A’Ibom as Tinubu, Akpabio set to receive Eno to APC on Saturday

    Security has been heightened in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, ahead of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit for the grand reception of Governor Umo Eno into the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Saturday.

    The event, to be held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, will be hosted by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, alongside the APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje.

    Dignitaries expected at the high-profile reception include members of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, the APC National Working Committee, party chieftains, and key political stakeholders from across Nigeria.

    Governor Eno officially defected to the APC on June 6, 2025, during a ceremony held at the banquet hall of the Government House, Uyo, in the presence of the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma.

    The planned reception was confirmed in a statement issued by Aniekan Umanah, chairman of the media & publicity subcommittee for the event.

    “The All Progressives Congress (APC) is pleased to announce that all is set for the grand reception of the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, Ph.D., and his team into the APC.

    “The historic event is scheduled to hold on Saturday, June 21, 2025, by noon at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.

    “His Excellency, Alhaji Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the National Chairman of the APC, will formally receive Governor Umo Eno and his team into the party, following an official presentation by the Akwa Ibom State APC Chairman, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo.

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    ‘The event will be graced by the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, and Leader of the APC, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, who will officially welcome Governor Eno into the progressive fold.

    “Also expected is the Chief host and President of the Senate, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio GCON, whose presence will further underscore the spirit of unity and political alignment between Akwa Ibom State and the Federal Government. This moment marks a significant milestone in fostering collaboration for the progress and prosperity of the State.

    “Other dignitaries expected include members of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, the APC National Working Committee, senior party chieftains, and key political stakeholders from across the country.

    “The APC warmly invites traditional rulers, political leaders, women and youth groups, and all citizens and residents of Akwa Ibom State to be part of this historic celebration.

    “Come and join us in giving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Senate President, and other distinguished guests a rousing welcome as we celebrate unity, progress, and the rising hope of Akwa Ibom State under the APC”, the statement added.

    Meanwhile, the state commissioner of police, Baba Azare, disclosed that adequate security is being put in place for the event.

  • Akpabio lauds Tinubu over bills establishing three tertiary institutions in S’East

    Akpabio lauds Tinubu over bills establishing three tertiary institutions in S’East

    President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has commended President Bola Tinubu for signing into law three bills for the establishment of three federal tertiary institutions in the South-East.

    The institutions are College of Education, Bende, Abia; Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Item, Bende, Abia and Federal University, Okigwe, Imo.

    Akpabio made the commendation in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Eseme Eyiboh.

    The president of senate also praised stakeholders in both the House of Representatives and the Senate for their steadfastness and support for the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of the Tinubu administration.

    Akpabio extolled the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu for sponsoring the two of the bills.

    He also commended the Deputy Whip, Sen. Onyekachi Nwebonyi, Deputy Minority Whip, Sen. Osita Ngwu and Sen. Patrick Ndubueze for their co-sponsoring the bills.

    He said that the three institutions aim to provide quality education, research opportunities and cater for the educational needs of the South-East geo-political zone and healthcare delivery to advance knowledge.

    Read Also: Oke Ogun APC leaders back Tinubu for second term

    Akpabio said that the establishment of the institutions would mark significant milestone in promoting development in the zone.

    “I applaud President Tinubu for his inclusive leadership and commitment to the development of the South-East zone and efforts to heal the deep-seated wounds of the past.

    “The establishment of these institutions will go a long way to remove the nagging feelings of distrust and socio-economic marginalisation among the people of the zone.

    “I call on the great people of the South-East to continue to key into the renewed hope agenda of the present administration and position for strategic and progressive alliance with President Tinubu,” he said.

    Akpabio noted that continued support of the South-East to the Tinubu’s administration would attract more dividends of democracy to the zone.

    (NAN)

  • Flooding: Edo to under study Wike, Akpabio model

    Flooding: Edo to under study Wike, Akpabio model

    Edo State government has inaugurated a team of experts to visit Rivers and Akwa Ibom states to study flood control strategies adopted by both states to tackle flooding.

    Recent rainfall caused heavy flooding in most parts of Benin City, the state capital.

    The team was tasked with revisiting strategies adopted during the administrations of Nyesom Wike and Godswill Akpabio.

    Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, in a statement, said the approach premised on learning from working models, and replicating tested solutions that delivered real results for the people.

    Itua noted that the two tates’ models were acknowledged for transforming some of Nigeria’s most flood-prone areas into States with efficient flood management systems.

    He said the models stood as credible blueprints for what is possible in Edo State.

    READ ALSO: Why it is hard to remarry after Ibidunni’s death – Ituah Ighodalo

    According to him, “With the rainy season already tilting towards its peak, the timing of the exercise is strategic. It provides the experts with a unique opportunity to observe and assess the true extent of flooding in real time across Benin City and other vulnerable parts of the State.

    “The focus will be on understanding the terrain, existing drainage infrastructure, and recurring flashpoints of overflow and erosion.

    “Their findings and recommendations will be submitted to the Governor for thorough evaluation and subsequent implementation.

    “Similarly, private and commercial houses built along waterways will be demolished by the administration to pave the way for proper surface and underground drainages, especially in Government Reservation Areas in Benin City.

  • Akpabio to receive prestigious Nigeria Golden Hearts Award in UK for legislative leadership

    Akpabio to receive prestigious Nigeria Golden Hearts Award in UK for legislative leadership

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio is set to be honoured at the 2025 Nigeria Golden Hearts Awards International, scheduled for September 14 at the Hilton Leeds City Hotel in the United Kingdom.

    The award recognises Akpabio’s outstanding leadership and transformative impact on Nigeria’s legislative process and national development. According to Festus Odunze, Executive Director of the awards, the event celebrates excellence and unsung heroes whose work drives national progress.

    Senator Akpabio’s nomination specifically applauds his role in fostering unity within the National Assembly, promoting effective lawmaking, and ensuring legislative stability under his leadership.

    His tenure has been marked by the successful navigation of political diversity and the passage of key legislation critical to economic reform, social development, and governance.

    Read Also: Akpabio lauded for strategic leadership, national consensus building

    A strong ally of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Akpabio has played a key role in aligning the Senate’s efforts with the executive’s vision for national growth. His emphasis on constructive dialogue and diplomatic leadership has significantly reduced legislative gridlock, building greater confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

    This year’s award ceremony, themed “Celebrating the Giant Strides of Unsung Heroes,” will also spotlight Akpabio as the cover personality for the 9th edition of the ‘Nigeria Golden Hearts Magazine’, reinforcing his prominence and the widespread acknowledgement of his contributions.

    Other honourees include Governor Alex Otti for his reformative governance in Abia State, Abigail Marshall Katung, Leeds’ first African mayor, and Ebonyi State First Lady Mary-Maudline Nwifuru for her efforts in gender equity and healthcare.

    The event will also serve as a platform for strengthening ties between Nigerian leaders and the UK-based diaspora community.

    Senator Akpabio’s recognition at this international forum is a well-deserved acknowledgement of his unwavering dedication to national service and his remarkable ability to ensure a stable and productive National Assembly, truly making him the golden heart of Nigeria.

  • Akpabio lauded for strategic leadership, national consensus building

    Akpabio lauded for strategic leadership, national consensus building

    President of the 10th Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has been lauded  for strategic, inclusive, and results-driven leadership since assumption of office in marking two years since June 13, 2023.

    The Special Assistant, Media to the President of the Senate, Jackson Udom, in a commemorative reflection titled “Akpabio: Diary of a Legislative Czar in the Red Chamber,” lauded Akpabio’s commitment to national consensus building for the development of the country.

    Udom chronicled the achievements of the Senate President over the last 730 days, highlighting his role in stabilizing the Red Chamber, strengthening the legislative institution, and contributing to key national reforms.

    “Senator Akpabio has demonstrated exceptional leadership, navigating complex legislative terrain with finesse and clarity of vision. His ability to balance competing interests, unite political factions, and drive forward the agenda of national development is a testament to his strategic insight,” Udom said.

    He noted that from the outset, Akpabio’s emergence was not without challenges as he faced resistance from within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and skepticism from the opposition. 

    However, he said, backed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC leadership, Akpabio built the consensus needed to clinch the Senate presidency and immediately swung into action to reconcile various camps.

    He pointed out that one of the most contentious issues facing new Senate leaderships, the sharing of committee positions, was deftly handled. 

    Udom noted that Akpabio oversaw an inclusive process that ensured equitable distribution of chairmanships and deputy roles across party lines, preempting the friction that had undermined previous sessions.

    “With deliberate strategy and tact, he ensured that no senator or bloc felt left out. That spirit of inclusion has engendered stability and unity in the Red Chamber,” Udom noted.

    He said under Akpabio’s leadership, the Senate has passed several impactful legislations, including the 2025 Appropriation Act. He also played a key role in rallying legislative support for the removal of fuel subsidies, a policy long considered necessary but politically risky.

    Read Also: Democracy not gifted by military, but reclaimed by Nigerians, says Akpabio

    Udom described Akpabio’s role in the subsidy removal as a reflection of his courage and clarity in governance

    “Rather than shy away from the policy, he stood with the executive, articulating the economic rationale and bringing the Senate along in support,” he said.

    He added that beyond that, Akpabio’s Senate has prioritized laws and policies that promote economic growth, infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and national security. 

    His leadership style, Udom said, has helped improve budget performance and foster accountability across government agencies.

    Recognizing the country’s complex security landscape, the Senate under Akpabio approved significant budgetary increases for the military, police, and intelligence community. 

    These moves, Udom said, underscore the Senate President’s commitment to national stability and security.

    “Akpabio understands that a secure Nigeria is the foundation for development. His support for security reforms and funding demonstrates this understanding,” he said.

    He said in terms of oversight, the Senate has adopted a more proactive stance, demanding efficiency and transparency in public spending. 

    Udom credited Akpabio for pushing the Senate to go beyond rubber-stamping to meaningful engagement with Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

    One hallmark of Akpabio’s leadership, Udom said, is his openness to the public and the media. 

    He said through regular briefings and statements, the Senate President has kept citizens informed about the Senate’s priorities and positions on critical issues.

    “Akpabio has made efforts to demystify the Senate and restore trust in legislative processes. This is vital in bridging the gap between citizens and their representatives,” he noted.

    According to Udom, what has emerged over the last two years is “The Akpabio Model” which is a framework built on four pillars: strategic vision, inclusive leadership, transparency, and effective communication.

    He said future presiding officers and legislative leaders would do well to study and emulate this model.

    “Senator Akpabio has shown that with vision, patience, and tact, a Senate can be both productive and peaceful. He is not just presiding over lawmakers; he is managing a national institution in the service of democracy,” Udom stated.

    He said as Akpabio’s tenure progresses, attention is shifting to what legacy he will leave behind.

     For now, Udom said, the Senate President remains committed to deepening democratic values, promoting good governance, and delivering legislative backing for President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    “The last two years have shown what is possible when leadership rises above politics and focuses on nation-building,” Udom said.

  • Democracy not gifted by military, but reclaimed by Nigerians, says Akpabio

    Democracy not gifted by military, but reclaimed by Nigerians, says Akpabio

    The leadership of the National Assembly has reflected on 26 years of unbroken democratic governance and resolved to double down on the delivery of democratic dividends to Nigerians.

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House of Representative Speaker Abbas Tajudeen spoke for the federal lawmakers during yesterday’s joint sitting.  

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu got a request from the lawmakers that the Parliament should henceforth be used as platform for the delivery of the State of The Nation address.

    Speaker Abbas made the request and Akpabio turned it into a motion which was unanimously adopted by the lawmakers.

    Akpabio said: “Mr. President, the Speaker has moved a motion that you should make the State of the Nation Address to the nation from the National Assembly a yearly affair especially on June 12 and it has been seconded by the Senate President.”

    As the lawmakers unanimously adopted the motion, Akpabio told President Tinubu to consider the request while also paying tribute to him for being the first President to deliver the State of the Nation Address to the nation through the parliament.

    Akpabio described President Tinubu as a symbol of democratic resistance and a veteran of Nigeria’s democratic trenches, declaring that his presence at the National Assembly on June 12 was not only historic, but deeply symbolic.

    The Senate President said Tinubu’s journey from exile and activism to the presidency was a living proof that the sacrifices of June 12 were not in vain.

    He said: “Your Excellency, your presence here rekindles the memory of a long and courageous journey marked by struggle, sacrifice, and an unyielding belief in the ideals of democracy.

     “You are not just the President of Nigeria today, you are a symbol of democratic resistance.”

    Akpabio relived how the June 12, 1993 presidential election won by Chief M.K.O. Abiola, was annulled on June 24, plunging the country into turmoil.

    “What followed was a dark chapter. Protests erupted. Many paid the ultimate price. Some fled. Some were jailed. But a few stood firm. You were among the few. When others chose silence, you chose courage,” he said.

    Akpabio told the packed chamber that Nigeria’s democracy was not gifted by the military, but reclaimed by the people, through blood, sweat, and bold resistance.

    He said the commemoration of the Day was not a ceremonial event, but a reminder of the fire that forged the country’s democratic identity.

    Abbas restated the need for the administration to redoubles efforts despite its landmarks in just two years in office, saying “it was not yet Uhuru”.

    Read Also: Natasha: Appeal Court strikes out Akpabio’s motions, slams ₦100,000 fine

    The Speaker drew the attention of the President to the need to revolusionalise the nation’s power sector to operate optimally.

    He informed the President of the resolve of the National Assembly to give Nigerians a people-oriented Constitution by December 2025 and providing constitutional backing for 35 per cent affirmative action.

    He said: “While we celebrate our successes, we remain acutely aware that it is not yet Uhuru.  As we enter the second half of our term, our determination is unequivocal: to expedite and finalise the constitutional amendment process by December 2025.

    “Some of our priorities include special reserved seats for women, formal constitutional roles for traditional rulers, and legal backing for a 35 per cent affirmative-action gender policy.

    “We appeal to the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum and the Progressive Governors’ Forum to advocate for these essential reforms at the state level. Mr. President, I would be remiss in my responsibility to you if I concluded my brief remarks without also offering some useful recommendations on the way forward.

    “You have demonstrated remarkable resolve in removing the fuel subsidy and allowing the Naira to float. Now, we require an equally decisive intervention in our power sector.

    “While progress is evident, it is time to ‘wave your magic wand’ once more: to break the cycle of underperformance by shifting from an over-reliance on thermal and hydro-electricity to a diversified energy mix.

    “We must embrace renewable and clean energy sources, such as solar, wind, and even nuclear, to ensure a reliable and sustainable national grid. If anyone can do this, Mr. President, it is you.”

    He said developing the solid minerals’ sector is essential for Nigeria’s economic diversification, saying “while we have some existing geological data, it lacks the precision and quality needed to support large-scale exploration.

    He said the House will soon commence an urgent review of the 2007 Mining Act to allow subnational entities to operate within the profitable limits of the law while enhancing oversight and mitigating security risks.

    “If pursued with discipline and clarity, these reforms will position solid minerals as a strategic pillar of our national economy,” he said.

    Abbas said the President’s visit to the National Assembly reaffirmed the vitality and resilience of the nation’s democratic institutions.

  • Ex-Minister urges Akpabio to support Eno’s inclusive politics

    Ex-Minister urges Akpabio to support Eno’s inclusive politics

    Elder statesman Chief Nduese Essien has urged the Senate President Godswill Akpabio to support Governor Umo Eno’s politics of inclusiveness in Akwa Ibom state.

    Essien, a former Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, said Akpabio can do that by giving appointments, empowerment and political opportunities to members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

    He said he had no political affiliation with any party and could not have defected with Eno from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as insinuated in some quarters.

    The former Chairman of the Southsouth Parliamentary Caucus in the National Assembly, said he was in support of the Governor’s defection to the APC, hoping that the movement will be beneficial to Akwa Ibom state.

    “Let me also highlight that even before his defection, Pastor Umo Eno had shown an admirable level of maturity in navigating party lines.

    “He supported the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the APC for a second term, despite being a PDP Governor. 

    “These actions, while controversial to some, were calculated to ensure peace, stability, and strategic alignment for the benefit of Akwa Ibom State.

    “Sadly, such magnanimity has not been reciprocated by the Senate President or his political machinery. Appointments, empowerment programmes, and political opportunities have remained exclusive to APC loyalists, leaving out PDP members and even those who have chosen neutrality for the sake of peace. This lack of inclusion has continued despite the governor’s overt gestures of goodwill and cooperation,” he said.

    On his rumoured defection to the APC, Essien said: “I wish to address the political conversations following the recent defection of our Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). 

    “The event, which I attended in solidarity with the Governor as an elder statesman and an indigene of Akwa Ibom State, has led to several misrepresentations in the media and on social platforms. Someone have falsely claimed that I have joined the APC.

    Read Also: Akpabio to wife on birthday: be assured of my love forever

    “Let me state without ambiguity: I have not defected from any party to another.  My attendance at the event was not a declaration of political affiliation but a demonstration of support for the governor, who has shown a rare level of maturity and inclusiveness in governance. 

    “Since my decision not to contest for any elective office at the age of 70 in 2014, I have chosen to function purely as an elder statesman—offering advice, promoting peace, and standing for what is just and equitable in our state and country.

    “Let me also make it abundantly clear that Governor Umo Eno’s defection is his personal political decision, backed by his constitutional right and informed by what he must have considered the long-term interests of Akwa Ibom State”

    However, the elder stateman said it was wrong for the Governor to coerce members of the State and National Assembly to defect to the APC with him.

    “These elected officers are operating on a separate and independent mandate and should be free to take their decision,” he said.

  • Akpabio to wife on birthday: be assured of my love forever

    Akpabio to wife on birthday: be assured of my love forever

    There were praises, exchange of gifts, cutting of cake, among others yesterday in Uyo.

    It was during the ceremony marking the 54th birthday of the wife of the Senate President Mrs Unoma Akpabio.

    Senators, top government officials in Akwa Ibom State and the Federal Government, key private sector players and others, who turned out to honour Mrs Akpabio.

    Among the guests is Africa’s richest man Dr. Aliko Dangote, children and grandchildren of the celebrator.

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio sounded poetic in an emotional tribute. He said “be assured of my love forever.  My dear wife, words cannot describe my joy as you add another year to your age today.

     “Your life is replete with positive impact on humanity. Your love for fellow women, children and the less privileged in our society will continue to be celebrated. 

     “You made my tenure as Governor of Akwa Ibom State exceptional when as the First Lady of the State 2007 – 2015 you initiated numerous programmes through the Family Life Enhancement Initiative (FLEI) which changed frowns to smiles on the faces of thousands of Akwa Ibom people. Your good deeds especially your humility in the service of our women, children and the vulnerable shall never be forgotten.

    “Even out of office as the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, you have continued to impact lives through numerous empowerment initiatives, medical outreaches and other interventions like building houses for widows and the vulnerable.

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     “My family is blessed to have a God-fearing wife/mother like you,” he said. 

    Senator Akpabio expressed profound gratitude to his wife for her unwavering support to him, their children, and the people of Akwa Ibom, and presented her with a special birthday card, offering heartfelt prayers and goodwill messages.

    Dr. Dangote described Mrs Akpabio as a role model and commended her significant contributions to national development through various empowerment initiatives.

    Deputy Whip of the Senate, Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, described Mrs Akpabio as a prayerful and supportive woman who has been steadfast in her support and encouragement of her husband’s political journey and leadership.

    Mrs Akpabio thanked the husband for his love and support for her over the years of their marriage.

    “Thank you my dear husband for your love and for always supporting me. Thank you for loving me. I want to reassure you once again of my love, support and loyalty to you,” she said. 

    She expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the guests for their unwavering support, prayers and goodwill.