Posted by Ubong ASSAM Jnr., PH.


Following the proclamation of elections and the publication of guidelines for Local Government elections by the Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission (AKISIEC), a frontline Chairmanship aspirant for Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government, Obong Nsikak Oku, popularly known as G4, has issued a call for a public debate among all aspirants for the third tier of government, particularly those vying for Local Government Chairmanship.

Exchanging views with Journalists and Bloggers on Friday in Uyo, the State capital, Obong Oku emphasized the necessity of the debate in light of the significant developmental strides made by Governor Umo Eno across the state.

He asserted that the governance at the local government level, which is closest to the people, must be led by individuals who are fit in character and possess the requisite leadership qualities, rather than by mediocrities who might hinder the Governor's efforts within their localities.

His words: "The remarkable development in the State under the able leadership of our dear Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, underscore the importance of having competent leadership at all levels of government.

"It is imperative that the third tier of government, which directly interfaces with the grassroots, be managed by individuals who are fit in character and possess the requisite leadership qualities; those who are not only qualified but also have a clear vision and actionable plans for continued progress, and are ready to key into the ARISE agenda."

However, the call by the former oil and gas magnet for a public debate comes amidst concerns over impositions and plans by certain stakeholders to marginalize deserving aspirants in favour of less competent individuals.

The philanthropist believes that a debate will provide a platform for each aspirant to showcase their capabilities and articulate their plans for their respective local governments.

This, according to Obong Oku, is crucial in ensuring that the electorate can make an informed choice about who is best suited to lead.

"Leadership of a local government is a serious endeavour, akin to what we expect in a more advance societies. So, the public debate will serve as a litmus test and will help reveal the true capacity of each aspirant so that the electorate can choose a leader who is well-prepared to serve and uphold the trust of our Local Government Area,"Oku noted.

The entrepreneur, who lavished praise on Governor Umo Eno for his remarkable achievements in just over a year, also committed to advancing the ARISE Agenda.

G4 pledged to ensure that the founding fathers of Ibesikpo Asutan, including former Governor, Obong Victor Attah, Obong T. O. Akpan, the late Effiong Okon Eyo (Eyo Uyo), former Paramount Ruler, HRM Obong Ita Etuk (late), late Air Marshal Nsikak Eduok Rtd, Obong E. E. Akpainyang, Elder Effiong Essien, Bishop Christian Ekong, President of Lutheran Church of Nigeria, along with several others alive and late, who made significant sacrifices for the local government area, receive due recognition and honour.