Senate Retreat: Confronting Nigeria's Setbacks for Comebacks

By Joseph Atainyang

The recent address of the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, during the retreat in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, resonates with a resolute call for optimism and belief in the greatness of the Nigerian nation. The uncommon transformer highlighted the need for a collective effort to address the setbacks that have hindered Nigeria's economic growth and stability. The harsh econimic realities faced by Nigeria have not been a sudden thing. The protracted issue has been based on a number of policies by leaders from time immemorial.

The removal of the oil subsidy by the President Bola Tinubu's administration, has been the boldest decision in recent times. This has been so adjudged because of the high level of fraud that a few privileged Nigerians had indulged in, to the detriment of the whole nation. This article delves into the importance of facing these challenges head-on and proposes strategies for instigating the much-needed comebacks that can bring lasting relief to the Nigerian people.

Of course, no one can think of a solution without first accepting a problem. From the beginning of time, solutions could only be thought of, when there were problems to solve. In this case, accepting that Nigeria has a huge challenge, hasn't attracted any pretence. Truth is, leadership at various stages in the country, were instituted to solve problems. No one could jump from their private homes to attain political relevance, if there were no issues to address. They first acknowledged peculiar challenges of the various sections of the country, and offered themselves as being competent to handle the situations.

Akpabio was guided by this knowledge when he pointedly announced that the nation's setbacks were setups for comebacks. His words, "Your Excellency, my distinguished colleagues, I believe that the doors of the Senate should be open to all Nigerians, except pessimists. The Senate Chambers is a place for optimists who believe that no matter the darkness of the clouds which hang over our nation, there are silver linings. The Senate has no place for people who whine or do not believe in the greatness of our country. The hallowed chambers of the Senate is for those who believe that every setback in our country is a setup for a comeback."

Whether it be economic hardships, security threats, or corrupt practices, it is essential to confront these issues with unwavering determination. Of course, Senator Akpabio could have been a secret reader of Thomas Sterns Eliot who went 'wild' against the proponents of spontaneity in the assemblage of poetic lines. Eliot held that writers of poetry were rather guided by intelligence, and not emotions, while crafting the powerful lines of poetry. Indeed, the President of the Senate was guided by intelligence and superior logic when shared his thoughts at the event. As Senator Akpabio rightly pointed out, "the Senate must be a haven for optimists. We must foster a positive mindset that believes in the potential for improvement, even in the face of adversity." In other words, each setback should be viewed as an opportunity to learn, adapt, and emerge stronger.

Also, Nigeria's diversity is a tremendous asset that, when harnessed effectively, can fuel her comebacks. The Senate must ensure that it represents the interests of all Nigerians, irrespective of background or political affiliation. By embracing diversity, inclusivity and a sense of unity among citizens can be engendered. The next critical area, where comebacks are necessary, is the Nigerian economy. Diversifying our revenue streams, promoting local industries, and investing in critical sectors such as agriculture and technology, will strengthen our economic resilience. From the body language of Mr Akpabio, it seems the Senate is ready to lead the charge by enacting legislation that fosters economic growth and attracts both local and foreign investment.

Meanwhile, tackling corruption and insecurity are very key to the mission of rescuing the nation. Corruption has been a significant setback for Nigeria's progress for almost a century. To achieve comebacks, the Senate must intensify efforts to fight corruption at all levels. Implementing stringent anti-corruption laws, holding public officials accountable, and promoting transparency within government institutions are crucial steps in combating this issue. Insecurity remains a significant setback for Nigeria's development. The Senate must prioritize efforts to enhance security across the nation. Collaborating with the executive arm of government, community leaders, and security agencies, the Senate can advocate for policies and enact laws that address the root causes of insecurity and ensure the safety and wellbeing of all Nigerians.

Again, investing in quality education and skills development is paramount for our comebacks. An annual budget for year 2024 is all ready announed in the range of N24 trillion. The Senate may have concluded decisions on working out very comfortable budget for the educational advancement of the country. The Senate should prioritize legislations that promote access to education for all, focus on vocational training and technical skills development, and ensure that the curriculum equips students with the knowledge and competencies needed for the modern workforce. Of course, the idea for the training of three million young persons on skills is very much underway. As announced by the federal ministry of Communication Innovation and Digital Economy, 30 thousand young persons are being registered for the first set of the training. The programme tagged, 3 Million Technical Talent Programme (3MTT), is a critical part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at building Nigeria's technical talent backbone to power our digital economy and position Nigeria as a net talent exporter.

Furthermore, to facilitate comebacks, investment in infrastructure is crucial. The Senate should work towards a robust infrastructure development plan, prioritizing the construction and maintenance of roads, railways, ports, and power generation projects. Improved infrastructure will attract investments, stimulate economic growth, and improve citizens' quality of life. This is part of their oversight function which would definitely be smooth because the federal ministry of Works is manned by Senator David Umahi, one of theirs who has a track record of performance and would be ready to walk the talk.

In addition, effective governance is central to achieving comebacks in Nigeria. The Senate must collaborate with the executive branch to enact laws that promote good governance, transparency, and accountability. Stringent oversight on government agencies and officials will help combat corruption, ensure efficient service delivery, and create an enabling environment for comebacks.

Ultimately, to realise comebacks in Nigeria necessitates collaboration and partnership between the Senate, the executive branch, civil society organizations, and the private sector. By forging alliances and fostering dialogue, we can tap into collective wisdom and resources to address the challenges that have impeded progress.

Apparently, the call by Senator Godswill Akpabio for comebacks in Nigeria, should serve as a clarion call for all Nigerians to rally together in confronting our setbacks. By cultivating optimism, embracing diversity, and focusing on critical aspects such as economic resilience, security, education, and infrastructure development, we can propel our nation towards sustained growth and stability. The Senate must lead the way by implementing robust legislative measures and ensuring accountability at all levels. Together, we can overcome our setbacks and pave the way for a brighter future for Nigeria.

Joseph Atainyang is a journalist and a public affairs commentator.

NIGERIA’s SENATE: BUILDING STRONGER INSTITUTIONS THROUGH INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION


By Edward Usoro

In a remote part of a tiny province in Canada, Herbert Marshall McLuhan saw the future. It was in 1964. Then, the world was still half-blind and too utopian. “I have a vision of the world as a global village, a world without boundaries”, he announced, casually.

The simplicity of the pronouncement made many dismiss him as a mere dreamer. Today, the concept of “global village” which was then about the potential influence of television, computers, and other electronic information sources in shaping societies and modern life, has metamorphosed in various spheres.

But, in essence, the term has succinctly proven one thing. That people, the world over, can and are interconnected - through politics, social relations, the use of new media technologies and other means of interconnectivity. These have materialised in areas like culture, trade, information, transportation, communication, job opportunities, improved standard of living, modernity, etc.

Today, like Li Keqiang, the former Premier of the People's Republic of China, once said: “We live in a global village. No country can live in isolation from others, like Robinson Crusoe.” Jackie Chan, the famous actor agreed, when he said: “We live now in a global village and we are in one single family. It's our responsibility to bring friendship and love from all different places around the world and to live together in peace”.

It’s based on the above summations that Nigeria’s Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has been seeking international cooperation with some advanced countries. Although he has received many foreign partners in audience since he assumed office, the latest meeting with the Charge D' Affairs for the US Embassy and his team, offered Nigeria a chance to push for building stronger institutions.

Akpabio had used the occasion to call for better collaboration between Nigeria and the United States, particularly in the area of capacity building for the legislators. Indeed, from the standpoint that Nigeria’s presidential system of government is evidently drawn after the American method, there’s need to learn from experience. Nigeria’s 25 years of civil rule stands to gain a lot from America’s uninterrupted 240 years of democracy.

Interestingly, the Senate President was neither asking for financial aid, nor debt rescheduling. His request was targeted at building a stronger institution for the country, an aspect which the United States is strongly known for. “Please link us properly with your Congress and the Democratic Institute in the US for us to have proper training and retraining in order for us to build capacity for our legislators in general... Not just in the Senate; not just in the House of Representatives but across the nation,” Akpabio said.

Through such solicited cooperation, hitherto stranger nations are already turning into “a global village.” To avoid becoming a dejected island onto itself, Nigeria must be part of that quest, which ultimately engenders peace and faster development.

Foreign relations, according to experts, encompass all acts that affect relationships between one country and another. While, in most countries, the leading role of the executive in the field of foreign policy is clearly constitutionally established, the legislature has a sizeable chunk of responsibility in bringing this to bear.

In Nigeria, the National Assembly wields a considerable constitutional power over the country’s foreign policy. To be clear, there are specific and general constitutional provisions that subject executive action to legislative approval or scrutiny. For instance, the president, experts argue, cannot without the endorsement of the National Assembly declare war against another country. Nor can he deploy the armed forces on combat duty outside Nigeria without the Senate’s express approval (Section 5(4), CFRN, 1999). A recent instance was when the 10th Senate voted against the option of mobilising military troops to intervene in Niger Republic’s coup crisis.

Indeed, many of the items over which the National Assembly exercises legislative competence are matters which have direct or indirect implications on the country’s foreign relations. Thus, according to J. O. Arowosegbe and R.O. Akomolafe, both of Osun State University, “whenever the National Assembly legislates on any of these items, it thereby makes its contribution to the nation’s foreign relations policy.”

Some of the items on the exclusive purview of the National Assembly are arms, ammunition and explosives; aviation; awards of national honors and decorations; borrowing of money within or outside Nigeria for the purpose of the federation or any state; citizenship, naturalization, and aliens; copyright; customs and excise duties; deportation of persons who are not citizens of Nigeria; diplomatic, consular, and trade representation.

Others include: exchange rate control; export duties; external affairs; extradition; immigration and emigration from Nigeria; maritime, shipping and navigation; nuclear energy; passports and visas; trade and commerce between Nigeria and other countries, etc. Expectedly, collaboration with a country like the USA is bound to expose our national lawmakers to proper handling of legislations concerning those issues.

As earlier stated, the envisaged cooperation is likely to strengthen Nigeria’s institutions, starting with the legislature. It is strongly argued that without effective, accountable and inclusive institutions in a country, there can be no progress in the delivery of even essential services such as health, education, clean water, sanitation and transportation, among others.

Nations with stronger institutions are more progressive than those with stronger individuals. Most advanced democracies are synonymous with strong political, social and economic institutions.
As noted by Monsur  Muritala in the Punch Newspaper of August 8, 2023, it was only under strong institutions that the United States could survive, recently, when the former President Donald Trump tried to manipulate them for his political gain.

In agreement, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, in Vanguard (online edition of Jan 14, 2021) said:
“Trump employed a multi-faceted d strategy to retain power, attempting to use the executive, the legislature and the judiciary, all to no avail. Under the Constitution of the United States, the Vice President is an officer of the legislative branch as the President of the Senate.
Trump had attempted to use Pence’s position in the Senate to discard the electoral votes required to make Biden the next President. However, Pence insisted that he did not have the powers to throw out the electoral votes as Trump had wanted”.

Drawing a parralel between Nigeria and the US, Babalola, SAN, added: “... it is clear that the United States has political institutions which are bigger than any of its elected representatives, one which cannot falter to threats, intimidation or coercion even from the sitting President. This, however, is not the case in Nigeria.” Through the cooperation envisaged by the 10th Senate, the eyes of many Nigerian politicians are likely to open against selfish antics that only compromise the sustenance of democratic values and cultures.

Moreover, such international relations could help the National Assembly to assist in shaping the nation’s foreign policy through legislation. Experience, it is often said, remains the best teacher. And, to know more, you must be humble, committed and dliligent enough to seek knowledge wherever it may be found.

According Ruth Brooks, a state’s foreign policy reflects its values and goals, and helps drive its political and economic aims in a global space. A nation’s foreign policy typically works in tandem with its domestic policy. Together, the two policies work to strengthen the country’s position both within and outside its borders.

Today, Nigeria’s National Assembly, under the watch of Senator Godswill Akpabio, stands at the threshold of history, as it paves the path towards building stronger institutions in the country, through international collaborations.

Usoro, a public affairs commentator, writes from Lagos.

10th SENATE, BEHAVIORAL CHANGE AND NIGERIANS’ WELFARE

By Edward Usoro

On its inauguration, Nigeria’s 10th Senate made a solemn but profound declaration: it's activities shall lift the masses from the dust! Nigerians had heard similar pledges before. So, following years of unfulfilled promises and dashed hopes, few took notice. It was just another political talk, some sneered.

But some keen observers and political pundits are often alert to such crucial pledges. They quickly recorded it for future checks as Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s undertaking rang clear.
“To the Nigerian people, I say this: your dreams, your aspirations, and your well-being will be at the heart of everything we will do in this Senate,” he said.

True, few months into the legislative calendar, the dreams and aspirations of Nigerians may yet have been met. But, it’s easy to note the focused attention to the people’s well-being by the Akpabio-led Senate, already.

Before now, the national legislature had often been accused of being selfish and merely focusing on playing politics. However, the recent people-focused orientation of national lawmakers signals a positive behavioral shift by the 10th Senate. This has taken long in coming!

Akpabio himself had hinted on the need for such needful social development, when he addressed participants at the National Policy Dialogue, on August 15,2023. His call was for a behavioral change among politicians, as a perfect solution to tackling the protracted issue of corruption.

For long, corruption has been blamed as the bane of Nigeria’s economic, political and social growth. The implication, therefore, is that a conscious shift from it can influence the fortunes of Nigerians, positively! If, for instance, the penchant for profligacy, selfishness, nepotism, overbudgeting, wastages, diversion of funds and outright pilfering of government funds are reduced, the derivatives can be targetted at projects and programmes directly beneficial to the masses.

The recent removal of the fuel subsidy, which had long drained the nation’s resources into private pockets, is a case in point. Although its sudden implementation has brought unforeseen hardship, the plans for the effective utilisation of the proceeds, if adhered to, herald new hopes.

Already, the resolve for positive change by the 10th National Assembly, particularly the Senate, is finding expression in people-focused motions and other legislative enterprises. As noted by one observer, some of the key initiatives from the national lawmakers are aimed at addressing the people’s welfare as well as “pressing economic challenges in the country”.

For instance, the Senate recently moved to fast track legislations towards the implementation of the new minimum wage, which President Tinubu recently announced. The aim, without doubt, is to improve the living standard of workers and cushion the rising level of poverty in the land.

A few weeks back, the Senate had given a speedy nod to the president’s request for about $800 million loan facility, meant to check the excruciating effect of the fuel subsidy removal. This Senate, in the words of Akpabio, is “the last hope of the common man”!

It’s gratifying that the Senate’s welfarist gesture isn’t limited to Nigerians within the country. The Red Chamber, very commendably, extends such move to those in the diaspora, too. Aside many other unreported efforts, Akpabio’s Senate recently intervened in the unfortunate issue of some Nigerians, who were either killed, bodily harmed, incarcerated or displaced in far away Ethiopia.

Frowning at the alleged inhuman treatment of Nigerians and the implied disrespect for Nigeria’s global stature by Ethiopia, the 10th Senate initiated a thorough investigation into the matter. That‘s a Senate actively alive to the nation’s expectations!

While always honest in admitting the deplorable state of the economy, the current senate is often quick to assure the masses of a better tomorrow. In the words of Akpabio, “...the Executive Arm is steering our country through turbulent waters”, assuring that: “The mark of a great sailor is not how he fares in calm waters; it is in how he powers through the rough seas.”

So far, such assurances of a positive behavioral change and people-oriented Senate seem to be building new confidence for President Bola Tinubu’s government. In consequence, fresh hopes are brewing while old ones are gradually renewing.

*Usoro, a public affairs commentator, writes from Lagos.

AKPABIO’S SENATE AND HOPE FOR THE FUTURE.

By Edward Usoro

From inception, only a tiny few doubted his competence, capacity and candour! Yes, his reputation for diligence, hard work and achievements precedes him everywhere he goes. Still, on June 13, 2023, during his inauguration as President of the 10th Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio’s humane side remained a well-kept secret.

But recently, the compassionate spirit that earned him the tag of “Ubok eno-eno” (Caregiver) broke free during the screening of the last set of ministers. A nominee had slumped and the Senate chamber was thrown into a panic. Some senators were frozen in shock.

But before the paramedics were summoned, Akpabio, from years of humanitarian services, pulled from his cap, like a magician, an immediate remedial measure to revive the man. “Water, water, water! Bring sugar; give him water and sugar,” he was heard shouting. Some medical expects later commended his proactiveness, which obviously saved the day, as the affected nominee was said to have suffered from exhaustion.

Almost everything about Akpabio is “uncommon.” The way he has marshalled the activities of the 10th Senate has silenced earlier critics. From his appointments, composition of committees, coordination and direction of sessions, etc, Akpabio has shown class and capacity.

His efforts at uniting the senate has also been commended by many. For him, his colleagues are his friends; their welfare and wellbeing must not be toyed with. From day one, he acknowledged that he is “one among” the senators and has worked cordially with them all, irrespective of party affiliation. “I’ll be a Senate President that will stand for all,” he pledged at inauguration. For Akpabio, there’s no dividing line between those who supported him and those who didn’t.

Even his inaugural speech shocked many with its soothing content. That was where he clearly outlined his blueprint. Peace, unity and glamour grew within the senate a few weeks later. With him, there is no dull or tensed moment as he defuses anxieties with a tinge of humour.

The Senate President is very conscious and in tune with the current realities in the country. Thus, his focus on ensuring legislations that will help ease the economic and social burdens of Nigerians. Yes, he promised us that “the 10th Senate will do national duties.” He also assured that the Senate, under his leadership, will tackle the numerous problems facing us headlong. In his words, “we’ll look into the existing laws to ensure they are fit for purpose…we’ll try our best to make laws that will move the nation forward and encourage foreign direct investment into the country.” So far, objective analysts say he has walked the talk.

We are all aware that the country has been grappling with a lot of difficulties and that the economy requires renewal and revitalisation. Akpabio’s 10th Senate admits that, too. It’s often said that the first step to solving a problem is the admission that it exists. That signals an unpretentious disposition towards changing a deplorable status quo. To Akpabio: “The Senate is about Nigeria and Nigerians. And so long as the policies that come to this chamber concern the empowerment and upliftment of Nigerians, we shall dwell and deliberate and then have robust debate on them, with public hearings.”

From his days as the Governor of Akwa Ibom state, Akpabio has always delivered quality leadership. Hence, he earned the sobriquet of an “uncommon” leader through all his public assignments. So, when he told the nation that he will bring about “uncommon changes,” many believed him because his track records are there for all to see. “Whatever will happen here (Senate), we will think Nigeria and we will make a very big (positive) difference,” he assured. The Senate, undoubtedly, demonstrated that a few days later. When the President requested approval towards obtaining $800 million to cushion the effect of fuel subsidy withdrawal, he got it with speed. That was in line with the senate’s avowed determination to support policies that would ease the burden on the masses.

So far, the current Senate appears clearly people-oriented. It started with a promise never to betray its mission, which include renewing hope, revitalising the Nigerian economy, working closely with the executive to better the lives of the people. It also pledged to deal favourably with gender matters; issues concerning persons with disabilities and the vulnerable population in the society; promotion of positive engagement of the youths, among others. Irked by the disturbing involvement of youths in vices like Boko harm insurgency, unknown gunmen, etc, Akpabio’s senate has promised to draw up legislations to help create jobs, thus check insecurity.

Working with the Executive arm, the senate, says Akpabio, is poised to expand the revenue stream across the country, so that debts can be tackled. Understandably, when debts are defrayed and the cost of servicing reduced, funds can then be channelled into productive ventures that will be of greater benefits to the greater majority. It was to this that the Senate President referred when he promised to support the Tinubu-led government to ensure that Nigeria produces what she consumes. Clearly, when put into the expected action, the nation stands to gain a great deal in productivity and prosperity.

Environmental issues and sustainable growth also fall into the priority scale of the 10th Senate. Akpabio, to underscore the commitment of his leadership, focuses on providing the required legislative framework to help government anchor its policies and programmes. In other words, the senate engages in, supports or promotes all activities that will yield enormous benefits for the masses.

With the way he has handled the Senate’s affairs, so far, within the last four months, Akpabio has used the National Assembly to raise more hope for a greater Nigeria. Clearly, his proactive Senate is gradually building greater hope for the future. And, the days ahead promise more glorious prospects!

*Usoro, a Public Affairs analyst, writes from Lagos.

Gov Umo Eno, Akwa Ibom PDP Celebrates Atiku's Efforts in Exposing Tinubu's Alleged Fake Certificates

In a recent turn of events, Pastor Umo Eno, the Akwa Ibom PDP Governor of Akwa Ibom State and the Akwa Ibom chapter of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) found themselves in high spirits as they celebrated former Vice President Atiku Abubakar's efforts in uncovering what they claim to be fake educational certificates allegedly belonging to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The revelation has sparked hopes among Umo Eno and many others in the State, as they anticipate a favorable outcome for Atiku in the legal battle against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The Governor and the Akwa Ibom PDP, known for its strong political stance, did not shy away from expressing their jubilation over Atiku's role in bringing this matter to light.

The controversy surrounding Tinubu's educational qualifications emerged as a significant topic of discussion, not just within political circles but also among the general public. Atiku's involvement in the matter has added a new dimension to the ongoing debate, raising questions about the authenticity of the certificates presented by President Bola Tinubu.

In a stakeholders meeting held yesterday, the governor, Umo Eno expressed optimism about Atiku's chances of winning the legal battle against Tinubu as the Chicago University released Tinubu's academic records. According to Umo Eno, "Atiku Abubakar's commitment to truth and justice gives us hope. We believe in his ability to navigate the complexities of this situation and bring about a resolution that upholds the principles of fairness and transparency."
He also thanked the US judiciary for not cutting through corners to hide Tinubu's records despite monetary advances made by the President.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the entire nation watches with bated breath, anticipating the outcome of this high-profile case. The Akwa Ibom PDP's support for Atiku Abubakar reflects the broader sentiment among citizens who value honesty, integrity, and transparency in the political arena.

In the coming days, the nation will witness how this unfolding drama shapes the future of the individuals involved and the impact it has on Nigerian politics as a whole.

Faces behind the vexatious Akwa Ibom Traditional Rulers Bills exposed - Photo

AKS Governorship Tribunal: The Compromised Tribunal Saga

The recent developments in the Akwa Ibom State governorship election petition tribunal have raised concerns about potential compromise. It has been reported that the panel, consisting of three judges have been compromised.

Sources from the Majesty Realms Hotel in Ewet Housing Estate, where the justices are staying in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, have informed us of a serious dispute among the judges regarding the distribution of funds. Although we cannot definitively confirm the involvement of the lady judge on the panel, who is rumored to be the daughter of the President of the Court of Appeal. The lady’s commitment to collaborate has not been ascertained at the time of filling this report

Our sources at the hotel have also confirmed a heated altercation between the chairman and another justice on the election tribunal panel over the division of money allegedly offered by the Akwa Ibom governor to influence the judgment.

Following their heated dispute, members of the tribunal opted not to use the official vehicles provided for transportation. Instead, they resorted to individual Bolt app services, a departure from their usual practice of traveling together.

In a concerning development, there are monetary inducement surrounding the controversial TRC bill amendment, with the Paramount Ruler of Nsit Ibom implicated as a key figure.

Our Source confirmed that he has been acting as a spiritual advisor to the government on election matters, conducting rituals across the state, invoking supernatural forces (Ikpaisong) to support their cause.

The most recent ritual reportedly aimed to hinder the petitioners heading to the appeals and Supreme Court by draining their financial resources, potentially undermining their ability to pursue their cases. This involvement is seen as an attempt to solidify his permanent chairmanship of the Akwa Ibom traditional council, securing his role as the guardian of the deities and ensuring their favor for the embattled governor.


In a previous publication, we had predicted the likely direction of the judgment to be expected by the petitioners. Thus far, our predictions seem accurate, as the panel has used the doctrine of estoppel to dismiss the case of the NNPP candidate, despite a similar premise used by the presidential election panel to allow Atiku and OBI to challenge the certificate falsification case brought against President Bola Tinubu.

These developments indicate a potential pattern in the tribunal's pronouncements on similar petition cases. It is worth noting that these cases are likely to reach the Supreme Court, as the parties who lose at this level are expected to pursue justice further, specifically at the Court of Appeal.

We will continue to protect our sources' anonymity as we anticipate more dramatic events unfolding in connection with the distribution of these funds. One thing remains certain: these cases are on a trajectory toward the Supreme Court, as parties seek justice at every available avenue.

©️ Independent Reporters

JUST IN: AKWA IBOM STATE GOVERNORSHIP TRIBUNAL COMPROMISED

It can be recalled that all the Parties went to the tribunal on the bases of fake and falsification of WEAC result by the the PDP candidate.

The political parties that filed a case at the tribunal include the NNPP, APC, YPP ADP. According to reports available by our correspondence, all the cases will be thrown out as the judgement has been compromised with financial inducement.

On this note, we, the Independent Reporters want to inform the general public that the Akwa Ibom State Governorship Tribunal Judgement has been Compromised, as Umo Eno reportedly dolls out 2bn to the tribunal Judges.

It is reported by our source that Umo Eno, the incumbent PDP Governor of Akwa Ibom State, has paid a staggering 2 billion Naira to the judges who are set to deliver a verdict on his WAEC certificate forgery case scheduled for Friday, September 29, 2023.

The information was reportedly confirmed by Akwa Ibom State's Commissioner for Environment, Mr Uno Uno, according to our government house source. The substantial sum of money was channeled to the judges through the Tribunal Chairman on September 26th 2023. Our Source also reported that the money has so far been moved from Uyo to Lagos, through the Tribunal's chairman surrogate and was initially conveyed to the chairman through Uwem Stephen Okoko, CEO Hensek Integrated Services.

This transaction was closed out in a meeting on the night of 26th September 2023, and in attendance in this top secret meeting were Umo Eno's legal team members, the Governor himself and the commissioner of Environment as mentioned above.

In the meeting held in Uyo, it is reported that the Commissioner for Environment, the Governor and others present appeared to be in high spirits, celebrating that they have successfully influenced the Tribunal's judgment in their favour.

It is in the light of this that we will like to remind the Tribunal about similar actors that were corrupted by the same government and their fate today. Akwa Ibomites should not be surprised if the panel decides to deliver this judgement virtually because of the anticipated reaction in the State should they go ahead to deliver the wrong judgement.

As the situation unfolds, the public's faith in the judiciary's ability to administer justice impartially hangs in the balance.

©️ Independent Reporters

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JUST IN
Akwa Ibom Traditional Rulers In An Illegal Move To Seek Godswill Akpabio's Support For Umo Eno

In a recent development, traditional rulers from Akwa Ibom State are reportedly making arrangements to meet with former Governor Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President. The purpose of this meeting is said to be pressing for his support for Umo Eno, the current Governor of Akwa Ibom State, who is facing a legal battle over his educational qualifications.

It is reported that Frank Archibong has given 5 million naira each to some key elders and paramount rulers in the State to be part of the team that will be meeting Akpabio in Abuja to seek his support for Umo Eno.

Rumors surrounding the potential financial incentives and political maneuvering have raised questions about the integrity of this endeavor.

The alleged plan also includes the offer of a substantial sum, approximately 10 billion Naira, to Godswill Akpabio in exchange for his support. Additionally, there are whispers of significant monetary contributions to individuals within the presidency, all aimed at persuading the President to intervene in Umo Eno's certificate forgery case which judgement is expected soon, with a promise that he will decamp to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Recalled we have reported before now that Umo Eno had dolled out $500,000 to the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Mr. Femi as an intervention fee to seek the president's favour over his case which has been tagged by pundits as a "Bad case".

Let's watch as things unfold.

©️ Independent Reporters

EXPOSED 💥
Udom Emmanuel's Plot with Senators to Impeach Akpabio, as Umo Eno Offers $500,000 to Seek Tinubu's Favor

It has been reported that former Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel is involved in a political alliance with certain senators from the 10th Senate in a potential move to impeach Senator Godswill Akpabio. In a recent meeting held in Abuja, Udom, along with Senator Yari and other senators discussed the possibility of impeaching Akpabio, whom Udom perceives as a threat to his political future, according to our source who pleaded anonymous.

It's worth noting that Udom Emmanuel has reportedly employed various tactics to hinder Akpabio's political career, particularly in his bid for the 2023 Senatorial Election. Despite Udom's efforts, Akpabio emerged victorious in the election, defeating Emmanuel Enoidem, whom Udom used against Akpabio.

Following the election, Udom made efforts to prevent Akpabio from becoming the Senate President. Akpabio was invited by the EFCC immediately after the election, leading him to leave the country under the guise of a medical vacation. These actions, according to reports are attributed to Udom Emmanuel's plots against Akpabio.

It's worth recalling that in 2015, Senator Akpabio supported Udom Emmanuel's gubernatorial bid, helping him succeed as the Governor of Akwa Ibom State. However, in recent years, their relationship appeared to sour, with Udom petitioning Akpabio to the EFCC. This strained relationship ultimately led Akpabio to defect to the APC in 2018.

Feeling concerned about the influence a Senate President wields, Udom Emmanuel has initiated discussions with fellow Senators who did not endorse Akpabio's Senate Presidency bid. Their talks revolve around strategies to potentially impeach Akpabio.

In a related report, the current Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, has been rumored to have offered $500,000, facilitated through Onofiok, to Femi, the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu. This alleged payment is supposedly made to seek President Tinubu's intervention in his certificate forgery case, which is nearing judgment. Umo Eno is also rumored to be considering defection to the APC, according to a leaked conversation.

Governor Umo Eno has faced a series of legal challenges concerning his academic records, which are prerequisites for holding the office of Governor. The YPP Gubernatorial candidate, Bassey Albert, filed a petition alleging that Umo Eno's WAEC certificate, used to qualify him for the election by INEC, is forged. Both parties are currently in court, awaiting judgment. In light of these legal challenges, Umo Eno appears to be seeking presidential intervention to avoid potential removal by the Election Tribunal.

As events continue to unfold, pundits observe that both Udom Emmanuel and Umo Eno are displaying signs of heightened desperation in their political careers, while society closely watches their actions.

©️ Independent Reporters.

UNIUYO AND DESPERATION TAKEN TOO FAR AT THE AKWA IBOM GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION TRIBUNAL

Our intelligence had confirmed that the last has not been heard of the efforts of the University of Uyo to cover up for the embattled governor of Akwa Ibom State.

At the court session this morning, our sources had confirmed their plans to mutilate, remove or delete the records of Mr Daniel Akpan, a star witness of the prosecution.

All the files of Mr Daniels Akpan have been seized by the school (UNIUYO) administration on the orders of the VICE Chancellor, Prof. Ndaeyo Nyaudo just like they did to the records of the embattled 4 credit in 4 sittings Governor, Eno Umo Bassey after the CTC was obtained last year.

Their plans this time around is to wipe out all payment records of the PW with the University of Uyo Micro Finance bank which has been confirmed.

Also they have brought in a manual Excel sheet without the Daniel Akpan’s details as the payroll of the university but this is an act of desperation since they cannot delete the information in the IPPIS having tried and failed. Remember our sources confirmed that the Benue lady in the Accountant General's Office had actually refused to be paid to play.

Also as part of their desperation, they have also co opted a security personnel in the University Mr Nse Okon Udoh through the Chief Security officer to appear before the tribunal and claim the staff number of Mr Daniel Akpan PW as his own.

Another woman Ms Grace Okeke is also fronted to lay claim to Mr. Daniel Akpan’s IPPIS number in the university so you will wonder and confirmed that what UNIUYO led by the VC cannot do does not exist in a bid to justify the disbursement of 75Million naira paid out just for this dirty plot.

When the matter came up this morning for the defense to call their witnesses to close their case, they rather call for immediate adjournment till 3pm to better coach their collaborators on how to respond to the petitioner. The lead Counsel to the defense Mr Paul Usoro, a former Nigerian Bar Association president, the Chief architect of this fraudulent defense of a clear act of criminality was seen personally tutoring their latest collaborators and doctored witnesses.

Like we always say, the last has not been heard from this band of desperados. Information reaching us today also is the fact that they are now approaching the CBN to see if they can find a willing collaborator to help them delete Mr Akpan's record in the IPPIS payment instructions since they have have succeeded this morning in changing his IPPIS to Grace Okeke.

Wonders, they say shall never end .

Re: GOVERNOR UMO ENO & UNIUYO FAILED ATTEMPT TO BRIBE THE IPPIS DIRECTOR IN ABUJA.

A few days ago, based on intelligence information, there was an article in circulation on the plan by the University of Uyo administration of Prof Ndaeyo, in collaboration with Gov Umo Eno, to mutilate, delete in part or whole of the Employment information of Mr Daniel Akpan, a subpoena star witness for YPP at the AKS governorship election tribunal. From our source, the Governor of AKS had approached a certain lady from Benue state in charge of the IPPIS platform in the office of the accountant general of the Federation, with an offer if only she would collaborate and help delete Mr Daniel Akpan’s information from the IPPIS digital platform which was deployed to forestall these kinds of activities of forgery. This attempt was rejected by the lady despite the huge sum of money offered to her by the governor, who went there in the company of a failed senatorial candidate of the PDP in the last election. She, however, advised that they go back to the University of Uyo to see what they can do since, according to her, they had deleted the staff records from the pay and nominal roll.

Our source also shared information on the plan by the school authority to delete the Employment record of Mr Daniel Akpan, the subpoenaed witness from the University of Uyo who certified the academic records of Gov Umo Eno by moving Mr Linus Okoko from the post of acting Registrar to Director HR in the University a month ago for sole purpose of ensuring that these records be totally removed, deleted or mutilated from the payroll and nominal roll, hoping they will succeed at bribing the people at the IPPIS to delete his records from the payment platform at the office of the Accountant General of the Federation and now that they have failed and not succeeded. Their desperation knows no bounds, and they are running out of ideas.

As part of this plot, the legal team of the embattled governor has subpoenaed the director of HR University of Uyo, Mr Okoko, on the instruction of the Vice Chancellor Prof Ndaeyo as a witness to testify in support of the Governor on the case of certificate falsification at the tribunal.

The good thing about all this is that these people are not finding willing collaborators anymore at this point, but our ears and eyes are on the ground to track their next move, as we know that we haven’t heard the last of the plans of the Prof Ndaeyo led University to protect the embattled stooge of the just forgotten former Governor Udom Emmanuel.

A petition is already being forwarded to the Federal Ministry of Education, the Office of the Accountant General and the NUC to investigate this manipulation and falsification of staff records by the Prof Ndaeyo-led management of the University of Uyo.

Cantonese:
But Bassey Akran was sent to jail. How’s he at the tribunal?

Which jail was he sent to? Can we see a picture of him in jail?

EXPOSED: UNIUYO PLOTS TO ERASE TRIBUNAL WITNESS EMPLOYMENT RECORDS


Findings have revealed plans by the management of University of Uyo, UNIUYO to eliminate the employment records of a star witness, Daniel Akpan at the ongoing Akwa-Ibom State Governorship Election Tribunal sitting in Uyo.

Akpan, an administrative officer of the University had during his testimony at the tribunal stated that Governor Umo Eno’s West African Examination Council, WAEC certificates for 1981, 1983 and 1998, as well as the Remita Retrieval Reference (RRR) receipt for the payment of the certification and other documents invalidating Eno’s university credentials were certified by him.

Young Progressives Party, YPP, Governorship candidate, Senator Albert Bassey Akpan is challenging Governor Eno’s victory at the poll on several grounds including that he (Eno) never graduated from University of Uyo as stated in his credential on INEC form.

To prove his case, Senator Akpan obtained a certified true copy of Eno’s files in UNIUYO which was endorsed by Danie Akpan.

But before Daniel Akpan’s testimony at the tribunal, the university’s Director of Academic Affairs, Dr Ime Akpabio had told the panel members that he (Daniel Akpan) was not a staff of the university and could not have endorsed the CTC of Governor Eno’s controversial school records which indicated that the governor was expelled from UNIUYO

Daniel Akpan however shocked the tribunal when he presented his employment letter, salary payment and promotion slip to show that he is indeed a staff of the university .

Immediately after his testimony, there were failed attempts by security personnel reportedly acting under the instruction of the state government to arrest the witness and coarse him to recant his testimony.

Daniel now lives in fear of his life but since his testimony, there has been an uneasy calm in the university over the damage that his revelation would cost Governor Eno and the university management.

This platform reliably gathered that UNIUYO management is now doing everything possible to eliminate Daniel Akpan’s records in the university.

Although the plot might just be a futile effort as the IPPIS which contains Daniel Akpan employment records is a national platform, a reliable source close to the university authority told this platform that the university is working on a new plot to cover its track.

The source said: “Just like they made sure Mr Umo Eno’s file in the school records is no where to be found, they are now planning to mutilate, pilfer and remove parts if not all the records in Mr Daniel Akpan’s employment file to eliminate proof that he is an employee of the University.

“This scheme by UNIUYO to protect a criminal act they should show high disciplinary standard against and an unwarranted move to deprive a staff of all employee evidence in a bid to seal their support contract with Umo Eno has yet reduce the competency and disciplinary standard of not only the VC, but the entire staff involved in the scheme.

“This University has been known for discipline and one man’s greed should not ruin that standard,”

Expressing concern over the plot, another staff of the institution who did not want his name revealed said: “Mr Daniel’s employment file and documents should be complete, intact and untouched as this will further expose the institution to the limelight for indiscipline and setting standards for criminality.”

YPP Candidate, Sen. Albert, Tenders WAEC Certificate to Election Tribunal

...Affirms With WAEC On Chronicling Of Names on Certificates

The Candidate of the the Young Progressives Party (YPP) in the 2023 Governorship election in Akwa Ibom State, Senator Albert Bassey Akpan, has tendered his WAEC certificate to the election tribunal sitting in Uyo.

At the resumed hearing on Thursday, Senator Albert affirmed to the court that his surname, Akpan, is the first in chronicling of his name by the West African Examination Council certificate of 1989, which he sat for.

The YPP's candidate's testimony is in correlation with the position of Barr. Adekanbi Olaolu, a senior staff of the West African Examination Council and subpoenaed witness, who told the court last month, the examination body usually chronicles the name of a candidate for its examination, beginning from the candidate's surname.

Counsel to the second respondent (Eno, Umo Bassey), Paul Usoro (SAN) during cross examination asked the witness (Sen. Albert), if he has met anyone with the name 'Bassey, Umo Eno', before.

Responding, the YPP candidate told the court he has not met 'Bassey, Umo Eno', but has met 'Eno, Umo Bassey', and the two are different individuals.

Recall WAEC had in June tendered a results listing of candidates for Victory High School, Ikeja, with the name 'Bassey, Umo Eno', as candidate with number '15520232'. Olaolu had also told the court the examination body depends on what individual candidates submit to them through their respective institutions, while admitting it is not the duty of the body to determine which is the surname of a candidate.

Olaolu, while testifying, asserted that candidates who sat for WAEC examinations however have a window to reconcile their names through a well spelt process, of which the PDP candidate (Eno, Umo Bassey) failed to leverage on.


A certified true copy of records with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) affirmed that the candidate of the PDP (Eno, Umo Bassey) swore to an oath confirming his surname as 'Eno', on his form EC9 with INEC, as against 'Bassey', which appears on the controversial 1981 certificate he submitted to the election umpire.

Counsel to the 1st (INEC) and 3rd (PDP) respondents, Abdullahi SAN and Oyetibo SAN, respectively, also cross examined the YPP candidate on the same subject, to reaffirm the petitioner's earlier position.

The petitioners closed their case, while the court asked the respondents to prepare for their defense.

The case was adjourned to Monday 10th July, 2023 for the respondents to commence their defense.

UMO ENO FIGHTS DIRTY

~MISSING $600,000 Bribe money: Police declared Nonso wanted as ordered by Umo Eno.
Nonso is the PA to late appeal court judge that dropped dead unceremoniously yesterday.
Following the dead of Justice Agbo, Calabar Appeal Court Judge, it is reported that over $600,000 is missing in his house where he and his PA, Nonso stays by those that probably brought the money.

Agbo was in the news a week ago for allegedly collecting a bribe of $600,000 from Umo Eno and Udom Emmanuel for those that may not know.

At the time of this report, incidents surrounding his death are not yet revealed. Nonso, his PA at the moment has not been able to explain where the money ($600,000) that was reportedly given to him in the house is. His only response is that he gave the money to his Boss, the late Agbo and don't know currently where the money is kept. Immediately news filtered out about the sudden death of the Judge, the team that actually reached out to the judge with the bribe frantically made the move to retrieve the said money but met an unrepentant Nonso .

According to our source, Mr. Umo Eno in a reaction has urged the police to get Nonso arrested so as to get the money from him for a good percentage of the booty.
Nonso in the other hand according to our source has vowed to speak to the public if his life is continuously put at a risk and threatened. “The evil that men do, lives after them”.

One month after the impeachment of Christopher Nelson George as the APC Chapter Chairman in Oruk Anam, the party ward and chapter executives convened a meeting at the Party's Chapter Secretariat in Ikot Ibritam, Oruk Anam Local Government Area on June 29, 2023. The meeting's agenda consisted of a single item: the presentation of the Acting Party Chairman.

Hon. Augustine Maurice was announced as the newly appointed Chapter Chairman.

The meeting witnessed a strong turnout, with the Chapter Youth Leader, all chapter ward leaders, the Chapter Women Leader, and nine out of thirteen Ward Chairmen from the Local Government Area in attendance.

Christopher Nelson George was impeached based on a letter signed by nine out of the thirteen ward chairmen. The allegations against him included corrupt practices such as embezzlement of party funds, high-handedness, anti-party activities, and other offenses that contravened the ethics, code of conduct, and rules and regulations of the Party.

During the presentation of the Acting Chapter Chairman, Hon. Augustine Maurice, the party executives in the chapter and ward legels expressed their disappointment with the previous Chapter Chairman's actions.

In his acceptance speech, Hon. Augustine Maurice expressed gratitude to the party Executives in the Chapter. He pledged to make every effort to propel the party forward, emphasizing that the mistakes made by the impeached Chapter Chairman would not be repeated. Additionally, he thanked the stakeholders and supporters of the party for their role in the emergence of His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio as the Senator representing Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District. Hon. Augustine Maurice also extended congratulations to Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON, for his emergence as the Senate President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, while offering prayers for success during his tenure.

An Elder Stateman of the party, Chief Ikpong-Ifono in his speech noted that the act of selecting the new Acting Chapter Chairman is not borne out hatred for the impeached Chapter Chairman, Christopher Nelson George, but as a rule in line with the Party's constitution to select new leaders while the former one is found guilty of some unacceptable practices in the party. He also pray for the success of the newly appointed Acting Chapter Chairman.

84 remaining students of the 481 beneficiaries of the Senator Bassey Albert scholarship scheme are in joyous mode, following the release of N3.1milion by their benefactor for the payment of their second-semester tuition fees and stipend for the 2021/2022 academic session.

Head of the scholarship management team, Dr. Unyime Okon said that about 70% of the students are from the Medicine and Surgery of the Faculty of Basic Medical Studies, Pharmacy, and Faculty of Engineering of the University of Uyo.

He also stated that students from the University of Calabar, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Akwa Ibom State University, and Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osura, are also part of the beneficiaries.

“47 of the 84 current beneficiaries are expected to graduate by the end of the current semester, with the remaining 37 students to complete their respective programme by the end of the 2022/2023 academic session,” he stated.

The scholarship scheme was launched in January 2016, and 41 beneficiaries have graduated with first-class honours, and more than 300 with second-class upper-division honours in different fields of endeavour.

Senator Albert has expended over N150 million on the program since its inception in 2016.

Appeal moves to Supreme Court

Contrary to false narratives that the Appeal Court sitting in Calabar, Cross River State on Friday ordered the rearrest of the Young Progressive Party, YPP, Governorship candidate in Akwa-Ibom state, Senator Bassey Albert, a certified true copy of the court judgment made available to Frontier News revealed that the court didn’t make such an order.

Delivering judgment on the matter, a three man panel, led by Justice Raphael Agbo instead softened the punishment imposed on Senator Albert by giving him an option of a fine as an alternative penalty to the seven years of jail time imposed on him by the trial court.

Further softening the sentence imposed by the Federal High Court, the appellate court also ordered the Senator to make restitution of the sum of N240million to the Federal Government but that the restitution shall not be a prerequisite for his release from the correctional facility.

A copy of the judgment reads “Upon reading the record of Appeal herein transmitted on December 29, 2022, and briefs of argument filed and exchanged by both parties.

“And after hearing . E. Iheanacho Esq.;(Asst. Commander, EFCC) for the Respondent. Appellant being absent and unrepresented.

“It is hereby ordered : That pursuant to the power of this court under section 15 of the Court of Appeal Act, 2014 as amended, the plea of the appellant is hereby acceded.

“That the appellant is hereby sentenced to 7 years imprisonment on all counts of charge, with an option of fine to wit, one Million Naira fine on each of the counts of the charge.

“That the condemnation of the appellant to the restitution of 204million Naira or to remain in prison custody by the trial court maintained as issue six is resolved in favour of the appellant.

‘That consequently, the appeal succeeds only to the extent that his conviction stands, to serve the term of seven years with respect to each count of the charge with the terms of the sentence running at the same time, or to pay a fine of One million each on all the counts of the charge. –

‘That this appeal succeeds in part.”

Frontier News reliably gathered that Senator Albert’s legal team immediately proceeded to the Supreme Court after the Appeal Court judgement.

The Appeal Court sitting in Calabar has relieved Senator Albert Bassey Akpan (OBA) of a politically-motivated burden of going to prison and paying a restitution of N204 million to the state government.

Justice Agatha Okeke had on December 1, 2023 sentenced OBA to 42 years in prison, for allegedly receiving car donations from a friend, Olajide Omokore, while as a retired commissioner in Akwa Ibom State.

He was also ordered to pay N204 million to the state government for what EFCC alleged as corruption.

However, in a judgement on June 23, 2023, the Appeal Court said “that pursuit to the power of this court under section 15 of the Court of Appeal Act, 2014 as amended, the plea of the appellant is hereby acceded”.

According to the enrolled order, the court said, “that the condemnation of the appellant to the restitution of 204 million naira or to remain in prison custody by the trial court is not maintained as issue six is resolved in favour of the appellant”.

While however stating that the appeal succeeded in part, there was no part of it that ordered that OBA should be arrested, contrary to skewed reports suspected to have been sponsored by agents of the state government.

Pundits are however curious as to the interest of Akwa Ibom State Government in the matter, as it was learnt that its agents immediately applied for the Certfied True Copy (CTC) of the judgment, even when they were not a party to the case.

Some observers have however argued that the AKSG shenanigan in sponsoring false representation of what happened in court is meant to divert attention from their poor outings and failings at the tribunal.

It can however be recalled that on the day OBA was convicted, the state government, then headed by Udom Emmanuel, provided the vehicles that conveyed the EFCC officials around and even detailed a photographer to take the senator’s pictures from the courtroom to Ikot Ekpene Correctional facility.

Senator Akpan, dissatisfied with the judgement of the lower court, on December 29, 2022, approached a Vacation Court in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, presided over by Justice S. I. Mark of the Federal High Court and secured a post-conviction bail on health grounds.

He subsequently approached the Appeal Court in Calabar to appeal against his conviction and sentensing by the lower court.

OBA’s legal team immediately moved from Calabar to the Supreme Court to file further appeal.

Akinboboz:
😂 😂 😂, incredible, corruption everywhere, even pastor dey bribe his way out, God go see matter judge shaa.

No be small thing o

Problem looms in Uniuyo
...As Umo Eno, Enoidem demands for refunds of money paid to stop Daniel Akpan from testifying.

The University of Uyo (Uniuyo) is facing a major problem as Umo Eno’s team has allegedly demanded for refunds of money paid to stop a key witness from testifying at the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Uyo.

The witness in question, Daniel Akpan, has been at the center of an ongoing caseinvolving Senator Bassey Albert, who is challenging the credibility of Umo Eno as the governor of Akwa Ibom State, arguing he was expelled over forgery of educational qualifications.

According to sources, the Vice Chancellor of Uniuyo was allegedly given the sum of 500 million naira to share among the management of the school and also to buy out Daniel Akpan, the key witness.

The payment was allegedly made by some members of Umo Eno's team of legal practitioners, who were seeking to get rid of evidence related to Umo Eno's expulsion from the university.

However, the deal did not go as planned, and Daniel Akpan ended up testifying against Uniuyo in court. As a result, barr Emmanuel Enoidem and others allegedly involved in the deal are reportedly now demanding a refund of the money paid to the Vice Chancellor.

Dr Ime Akpabio, who had earlier testified for Uniuyo, claiming that Daniel Akpan “is non-existent”, is reportedly crying foul that he was only given 3 million naira by the VC ,out of the 45 million naira that was supposed to be his share.

This development has raised serious concerns about the integrity of Uniuyo and its testimony at the ongoing tribunal. It is unclear how the university will respond to these demands for refund, and what impact this will have on the case going forward.

The situation has also sparked outrage among members of the public, who are calling for a thorough investigation into the matter. Many are concerned that this incident is just a tip of the iceberg, and that there may be other instances of corruption and malpractices taking place behind the scenes.

At this point, it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold, and some pundits have called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the alleged demands for refund of the money paid to the school in a bid to conceal evidences concerning the expulsion of Umo Eno, his fake WAEC certificate scandal and also the deal to stop Daniel Akpan from testifying.

Tuesday, June 20, 2023, was a day Pastor Umo Eno and his legal team never saw coming. At the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Uyo, they probably thought they had everything under control, until it was time for the petitioner to call the first witness for the day.

As the subpoenaed witness, Daniel Akpan, walked into the Witness Box, heads turned and curious looks traveled across the courtroom. Initially, the reality did not register on them even when the witness removed the facemask, which he used to disguise himself for fear of physical attack from unknown persons, who had been threatening him on phone. The first real shock came when the petitioner’s lead counsel explained who the witness was. That was when Umo Eno’s legal team led by Paul Usoro, SAN, went into an abrupt consultation. Suddenly, there was tension and pandemonium in the air!

Minutes later, all the respondents’ lawyers started protesting. They claimed they were not given enough time to study the witness’s written statement on oath. According to them, it was served on them that morning. Some even sought to block the witness from testifying.

But their protests gathered no moss. There was no way the tribunal could stop the witness from testifying, since he was there at the instance of the court (subpoenaed). The highest they could get was a 30-minute “stand down” of the witness, to enable the respondents’ lawyers study the said document. Meantime, another matter between Akan Udofia and Umo Eno, with Senator Albert Bassey as the 4th respondent, was called to fill time. The stand down for the initial 30mins took over 1hr 45min which according to our source Paul Usoro told Gov Umo eno during a telephone conversation outside the tribunal that the case will not go on until a confirmation from the university of the witness identity and status .

*Umo Eno’s Team Rattled *

From the moment Umo Eno’s legal team realise who Daniel Akpan was, they became disoriented. In the middle of another ongoing matter where Akan Udofia was the petitioner, Paul Usoro, SAN, excused himself, went outside and spent over an hour on phone calls. Consultation with members of his team continued, when the court declared a recess.

Umo Eno’s team was rattled because they had, a week earlier, pushed the narrative that Daniel Edet Akpan was “non-existent.” In fact, on June 16, 2023, they featured a witness from the University of Uyo, Dr Ime Akpabio, who arrogantly argued that there was no person named Daniel Akpan in the university. He claimed to have conducted a staff audit, in his capacity as the Director of Academic Affairs, submitting that Daniel Edet Akpan “does not exist”!

Yet, 52-year-old Mr Akpan, happens to be the staff who endorsed the Certified True Copies (CTC) of Umo Eno’s academic credentials, which Senator Bassey Albert is currently using in his petition against INEC, Eno and PDP.


*Defence Demolished*

In terms of physical might, Daniel Akpan looks innocuous. In fact, “innocuous” was the word Raji, SAN, used to introduce him to the tribunal. But Akpan’s mere appearance in court, even without any testimony, demolished the foundation of Umo Eno’s defence. Apparently, all they relied on was the hope that either Daniel Akpan did not exist or had died.

In fact, Akpan’s emergence in court clearly portrayed Dr Ime Success Akpabio as a liar. And a liar on oath which in law automatically renders his testimony useless . Even as a Reverend gentleman, Akpabio boldly held the Bible, looked at it closely and lied on oath. Interestingly, he exuded much airs while declaring the documents presented by the petitioner as “fake”. Then, he boastfully claimed that those documents had impugned his integrity and that of the university.

Yes, Mr. Akpan further demolished the respondents’ defence when he tendered several documents to prove that he is not just alive but a bona fide staff of Uniuyo. Led in evidence by Tunde Falolan Esq, Mr Daniel Akpan submitted his letter of employment, last promotion letter from the university , as well as pay advice covering 2021 up to May 2023 from the university. Although he identified his IPPIS number as TI148213, he admitted he did not know it was about. “The makers are in a better position to explain,”he said to the amusement of the audience.

As expected, the respondents’ counsels fought back. Employing the art of intimidation, bullying, cajoling, ad hominem fallacy, among others, they tried to unsettle the witness by derailing his focus. But the resolute man remained alert.

He carefully identified all the documents which UNIUYO had certified through him, including Umo Eno’s WAEC certificates for 1981, 1983 and 1998, as well as the Remita Retrieval Reference (RRR) receipt for the payment of the certification.

Asked if he certified the documents in his capacity as a staff of the university, Mr Akpan answered in the affirmative. He went on to affirm that he was assigned from the office of the registrar to certify Umo Eno’s academic records. According to him Mr AniediAbasi Udofia was the registrar, then.

On cross-examination, Akpan said part of his job schedule as an Admin Officer includes receiving documents for the office of the registrar as well as certifying documents that may be assigned to him by the Registrar.

He said after the applicant paid to the university, he was assigned to certify Umo Eno’s records as was customary.

*Chasing the Shadows*

Apparently flustered by the confidence of the witness, the respondents’ counsels tried to portray him as incompetent and incapable of occupying the office of an Admin Officer. Offiong Offiong, SAN, counsel to the 1st respondent (INEC) tried putting Akpan on the spot but failed. When Offiong, SAN, tried a narrative that it was the sole job of the Admin Officers to draft letters for the Registrar to sign, Daniel Akpan disagreed. Rather, he corrected the counsel that the Registrar may assign any officer under him or her to draft any such letter.

Next, the lawyer tried shaking Akpan by going on personal attack. He questioned why the Admin Officer’s salary did not change even after promotion, but Akpan told the court that it was only the university that could answer that since he was not the one paying himself. The lawyer’s aim was probably to prove that Akpan’s promotion letter was fake, but he got a firm and sharp civil servant to contend with.

To ridicule him or shake his confidence, the respondents’ lawyers asked Akpan the full meaning of CONTISS (Consolidated Tertiary Institution Salary Structure). They also asked him to spell “Administrative Officer” and “Quantity Surveying”. But Akpan was unfazed. The ones he knew, he answered. And those he wasn't sure, he honestly said so. For instance, on CONTISS, he confessed: “I am just hearing from you now the full meaning of CONTISS.” His candidness was well received as the court went down in laughter, apparently also helping to ease the building frustration on the respondents’ counsels.

The Admin Officer admitted that he was employed in 1998 as a Clerical Officer with SSCE, but was later promoted after he studied and obtained B.Sc in Quantity Surveying from Uniuyo in 2021.

When Offiong Offiong , SAN, suggested that he was not an Admin officer because his salary on the pay slip did not reflect what was on the promotion letter, Mr Akpan said he was not the one determining his pay.

According to the Federal civil servant, who said he once headed the Records Unit, he was posted from the Registrar’s office to the Faculty of Environmental Science in April 2023.

Tayo Oyetibo, SAN, taking his turn, tried to rattle Akpan, but received a lesson, instead. He has mistaken the number “2016” to mean the year Akpan was issued the staff identity card by the university. But, the Admin Officer sharply corrected him twice that the number represented his Staff Number; whereas he got his ID card in the year 2020.

Then, Oyetibo, counsel to 3rd respondent (PDP), thinking he had made another potentially destabilising discovery, announced gleefully that the date on Akpan’s promotion letter was a Friday. He however got a witty answer that left him ruffled. “My letter of promotion is not a lie. If December 18, 2020 on the letter wasn't Wednesday, then it is the university that lied, not me”, said Akpan.

*Threats to His Life*

Daniel Akpan proved to be a very consistent witness. Every efforts to derail him failed. Once he made a statement, he stood by it, no matter how the respondents’ lawyers tried to trick him by asking the same questions in different ways.

If he had gone through terrible emotional and psychological stress, he did not let it show on his mien. Thus, he shocked the court when he revealed that he had been on the run because of persistent threats to his life.

According to him, he could not inform the university when he was served with the court summons because he was not sure who to trust. “The reason I didn't report to the university is that I got several phone calls from unknown persons telling me that I signed documents against Umo Eno, and if I come to work, I will see something. So, I stopped going to work since June, for security reasons, ” he added.

That threat to life obviously followed the witness to the tribunal as information filtered in during the session that stern looking security personnel were mobilised and detailed to arrest him once he stepped out of the court.

The petitioner’s counsel, Raji, SAN, then sought the protection of the tribunal for the subpoenaed witness. ”There are reports that there is a van waiting to arrest him once he steps out of court”, he told the panel. However, the tribunal mere ordered the witness not to step out of the courtroom.

When the tribunal adjourned about 7pm, a horde of policemen and army personnel cordoned off the entrance of Wellington Bassey Way, searching every inch of every vehicle for Daniel Edet Akpan, a fellow who had a week earlier been declared “non-existent”. Every one was held hostage by the security and killer-squad suspected to have been deployed to kill and maimed Akwabomites by the police commissioner Akwa ibom state on the orders of Gov Umo Eno but for the intervention of the Senate President and the Inspector General of Police .

Dpen11:
The sit is becoming hot

Yes o

...REQUESTS DISBANDMENT OR RELOCATION OF TRIBUNAL TO ABUJA.

Senator Albert Bassey Akpan, the governorship candidate of the Young Progressives Party (YPP) in the last election, has petitioned the Chief Justice of Nigeria and the President of the Court of Appeal, to relocate the Governorship Election Petirion Tribunal sitting in Uyo to Abuja, following threats to his life, those of lawyers as well as his witnesses.

Senator Akpan, popularly known as OBA is before the tribunal as a petitioner in EPT/ AKW/GOV/01/2023, between him & Anor. V. INEC & 2 Ors., and 4th Respondent in Mr Akanimo A. Udofia & Anor. V. INEC & 4 Ors.

In the petition, a copy of which was also sent to the Chairman of the tribunal sitting in Uyo, OBA’s lead counsel, Ahmed Raji SAN, said the request for relocation was compelled by a number of “unsavoury life-threatening” experiences which his client, the lawyers and witnesses have gone through, particularly after the proceedings of 20th June 2023.

The petitioner said: “It is very clear to us that our lives are no longer safe in Akwa Ibom State. This has completely eroded the possibility of having a just, safe and fair trial in Uyo”. He also suggested that the tribunal should be disbanded.

He specifically blamed the June 20, 2023 attack by a combined team of police and army on Umo Eno, the current Governor of Akwa Ibom State, who is a party the Petitions above.

He recalled to their Lordships that initially, the petitioner had tried persuading Mr Daniel Akpan (a staff of the University of Uyo) to testify “but he repeatedly declined, on the ground that his life was under threat by some unknown persons, who claimed he ought not to have certified the academic records of Eno Umo Bassey-the Governor Akwa Ibom State. The life threats were so much, that he had to move his family from Uyo”.

“On this premise, the Petitioners were compelled to have sub poena served on him. He was invited to testify in Court and give evidence as to whether he is a staff the University of Uyo, who certified the Academic records of of Eno Umo Bassey, indicating that he was expelled from the school, because he had no verifiable results from the West African Examinations Council
(WAEC).”

“During the proceeding of 20th June 2023, the said witness - Daniel Akpan, was still resisted from testifying, by unknown men and supporters of Eno Umo Bassey. As a proactive measure, the Petitioners had to apply for additional reinforcement and security personnel, to secure the perimeters, both for the witness, himself and his team of lawyers”.

OBA’s lawyer, however regretted that even after he appealed for some protection for the witness, the tribunal “appeared to downplay the importance of the life of Daniel Akpan, who came to testify, in honour of the sub poena.”

The petition contiuned: “While the said witness was in the Witness Box, he complained to the Honourable Tribunal, that he had been receiving several calls by unknown persons, warning him not to give evidence at the Tribunal. He equally complained to the Honourable Tribunal that these persons threatened to kill him; and for this, he solicited protection from the Court. Unfortunately, the Tribunal rebuffed this complaint, perhaps because he was perceived to be a helpless common man”.

“As a follow up to the anxiety of Daniel Akpan, I passionately appealed to the Honourable Tribunal for a covering Order in his favour. I respectfully urged the Honourable Tribunal to make a covering and protective Order, that nobody should arrest or whisk away the witness because he appeared to give evidence, in the name of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (sub poena)”, the petition added.

A shocked gallery of spectators watched in amazement on June 16, 2023, as Pastor Umo Eno disowned his WAEC result, which he had all along claimed was the qualifying document he used to gain admission into the University.

According to the Notification of Result, purportedly issued on 05/03/1999 from the Nov/Dec 1998 Senior School Certificate Examination, Eno had four ‘Credits’ in English Language, Christian Religious Knowledge, Geography and Economics; with ‘Good’ in Commerce.

However, at the resumed hearing at the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal in Uyo, his lawyers held onto the 1981 and 1983 WAEC certificates, particularly after a senior legal officer of WAEC, Barr. Adekanbi Olaolu, said they had no record of Eno’s 1998 certificate to present. “We do not have anything for 1998 because there was no unique identification number in form of the school name or centre identification number,” he submitted.

That revelation apparently destabilised and forced Umo Eno’s legal team to reconsider their arguments before the tribunal, thus subsequently building a narrative around the 1981 and 1983 WAEC certificates as their client’s basic academic qualifications.

Even more shocking was that a few days after the sitting, our reporter stumbled on another WAEC result at the tribunal, this time for 2002, purportedly belonging to Umo Eno.

According to a very reliable source, the University of Uyo front-loaded a supposed “Certificate Screening/ Verification” form after the WAEC’s subpoenaed officer gave evidence. In the document, Uniuyo claimed Eno was cleared with the 2002 WAEC result during his final year.

The latest result, we further gathered, was used to “remedy” the 1981 and the 1983 results because both could not meet the required five credits.

However, pundits wondered how one candidate could use three different results for the purpose of an admission, whereas the maximum accepted by the National Universties Commission (NUC) are results from two sittings.

Moreover, it flies against reason and known standard for someone to be admitted with a different set of credentials only to be cleared for graduation with a completely different entry result.

As it stands, the implication of the latest 2002 WAEC result is that Umo Eno had already been admitted before he sat for the examination. “How then could the university clear him with the said 2002 WAEC result? This is scandalous! What did they use to admit him, for God’s sake?” queried an angry retired educationist, Mrs Anges Effiong.


1981 & 1983 WAEC Results Missed The Mark

On scrutiny, the 1981 and 1983 WAEC certificates, which Umo Eno depended on for his salvation before the tribunal, fall below the mark.

According to Dr Ime Akpabio, the Director of Academic Affairs of the University of Uyo, Umo Eno used a combination of his 1981 and 1983 WAEC results to gain admission into University.

However, a cursory appraisal of the two results leave much doubts as to how the student could have been admitted with less than five credits, against standard practice.

Specifically, in the 1981 result, Eno had ‘Good’ in Religious Knowledge, ‘Credit’ in Economics, with ‘Pass’ in Chemistry and Agricultural Science. In 1983, he had ‘Credits’ in English Language, Literature in English, Government and Economics. There was no entry for Mathematics.

Clearly, according knowledgeable academic experts, a combination of the two results could not give Umo Eno the required subject scores to deserve an admission into any university, since the standard has always been ‘Credit’ in five subjects. In fact, a combined reading of the two results produced only four subjects, instead of the usually required five-subject entry qualification.

Umo Eno & Name Listing Conflict

Distabilised by the revelation from WAEC, Umo Eno and his team have since dumped the 1998 certificate and switched their focus to the 1981, 1983 and very recently, 2002
WAEC results. However, their hope of building a credible defence hit the rock, when Barr Olaolu informed the tribunal of discrepancies in name listing on the documents paraded by the 2nd respondent (Umo Eno).

Led in evidence by the petitioner’s lead Counsel, Ahmed Raji, SAN, the WAEC official disclosed that the name of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the 2023 Governorship election in Akwa Ibom State, was not on their listing for their May/June Examination in 1981.

When Raji (SAN) asked the witness to confirm if the name ‘’Eno Umo Bassey’’ was in their records for the May/June 1981 examination as candidate, Olaolu responded by disclaiming the said candidate. He further confirmed to the court that the name on their record for the year and examination diet was “Bassey Umo Eno,’’ with candidate number 15520 and the serial number on the listing as 232.

According to him, while the 1981 certificate was issued in the name of “Bassey Umo Eno,” the 1983 certificate had “Eno Umo Bassey.” In his words: “The arrangement of names in Exhibit P10.2 (1981 Certificate) is not Eno Umo Bassey. The arrangement of names in exhibit P10.3 (1983 Certificate) is Eno Umo Bassey”.

The implication is that the two certificates do not belong to the same person. Olaolu also told the tribunal that while WAEC applies the names as received from the students or the schools, he was however aware that the standard practice is to write surnames first.

WAEC’s position over the confusion in Umo Eno’s name listings in the two WAEC certificates (1981 and 1983), means that the examinations body has absolved itself from any wrongdoing, thereby leaving the student to face the consequences of his mistakes.

Assuming the two WAEC certificates for Bassey Umo Eno (1981) and Eno Umo Bassey(1983) happen to being to the same person, it however cannot be combined to gain admission into any higher institution, since by law they belong to separate persons.

Although Barr Olaolu said there are procedures for correcting such an error, observers said Umo Eno probably left his chances a little too late. There are clear evidence that he submitted the two certificates, with the distinctly confusing names to the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC), thereby misleading the electoral umpire into clearing him for election.

WAEC Doesn’t Issue CTC for Misplaced Certificates

Before June 16, 2023, Umo Eno had tried convincing the court and the public that he possesses a valid 1998 WAEC certificate. However, when challenged to produce a copy, he flaunted a certified true copy (CTC) of the said certificate instead, claiming the original was misplaced. He even pleaded same in his written address to the tribunal in response to a petition by the YPP Governorship candidate, Senator Bassey Albert.

Yet again, such tissue of lies was smashed to pieces by the testimony of the subpoenaed WAEC official, Barr Olaolu, who told the tribunal that they do not issue CTC for misplaced or damaged certificates.

Rather, according to him, WAEC encourages candidates to apply for “attestation” of their original certificates in event of loss or damage. He also noted that WAEC provides room for candidates to remedy other challenges that may arise through a process outlined by the examination body. Observers however noted that even if such chances exist, Umo Eno did not take advantage if it.

A Misnormer: Two Results, One Registration Number

Another critical aspect of Umo Eno’s WAEC certificates has been the identical candidate numbers (15725119) for 1983 and 1998 WAEC results.

But the WAEC official told the court that “the Council can't issue two different certificates with same candidate number for a candidate. I have never seen a situation where a candidate will have the same candidate number in two WAEC certificates.”

The implication of the WAEC revelation for Umo Eno is that either his 1983 or the 1998 WAEC certificate is fake, perhaps the reason his legal team tried to abandoned one.

UNIUYO’s Act Foretold

Before the University of Uyo was subpoenaed to testify at the tribunal, the media was abuzz with reports of clandestine meetings between the Government House officials and the university staff.

First, there was the alleged plan to burn the Admin Block in an attempt to cover up Umo Eno’s documentation irregularities.

At one of the meetings, the school authorites were allegedly offered a huge sum as gratification allegedly for the doctoring of Umo Eno’s documents in the school record, the certified true copies (CTC) of which our reporters had obtain from the tribunal, already.

“Initially, the VC was offered N500 million. Then it was raised to N1billion naira, but it was supposed to be disguised as a donation for the development of the school,” one report had said.

Credible sources were quoted as reporting alleged plans to cook up another file for Umo Eno, using Dr Ime Akpabio, the Director of Academic Affairs and Records of the University.

A few days to Dr. Akpabio’s testimony before the tribunal, another report emerged about a hurriedly convened meeting between about 18 officials of the university and Umo Eno on June 7, 2023, at the Government House, where they were placed on oath not to disappoint the respondent.

The university administrators, including Dr Akpabio, were allegedly offered about N10million each to generate a new academic file for Umo Eno. Apparently, what played out at the tribunal on June 16, 2023, confirmed those reports!

saintkeppy:
I always say that the case before The Tribunal sitting in Uyo is very weighty, it will be hard for Governor Eno to scale through.

Very true

...His Convoy Attacked on Return from Governorship Election Tribunal

Reports emanating from the venue of the Governorship Election Tribunal at Welling Barracks Road, indicates that security operatives have blocked the convoy of the candidate of the YPP, Governorship candidate, Senator Albert Bassey Akpan, while leaving the premises of the tribunal.

Senator Albert appeared as a witness in the case he instituted against the PDP candidate, Eno Umo Bassey, Tuesday.

As of press time, his convoy was under heavy attack by a combined team of security operatives allegedly under the instructions of the State Government.

Eye witness report confirms that the entire area has been riddled with teargas and massive gunshots, as residence scamper to safety.

More details coming...


Watch the video::

https://fb.watch/lhG8H9jlXN/?mibextid=qC1gEa

as Uniuyo Staff Earlier Declared Non-existent Appears as Witness at Tribunal

The legal team of Pastor Umo Eno was rattled at the Governorship Petition Tribunal for over one hour following the appearance of a subpoenaed witness, a staff of the University of Uyo, who had earlier been declared non-existence by the institution.

Mr. Daniel Edet Akpan, who was subpoenaed by the court, is the Uniuyo staff who endorsed the Certified True Copies (CTC) of Umo Eno’s academic credentials, which Senator Bassey Albert used in his petition against Eno.

Contrarily, when the Director of Academic Affairs of the university, Dr Ime Akpabio, appeared as witness in the court on June 16, 2023, he claimed that Mr Akpan who signed the CTC copies was non-existent as a staff of the institution.

At the resumed hearing on June 20, 2023, Mr Akpan’s appearance in the court shocked the defendant’s counsel such that their lead counsel, Paul Usoro SAN excused himself and went outside, ostensibly to study the witness’s written address.

The court, which subsequently announced recess for 30minutes eventually resumed after over an hour, to examine Mr Akpan’s evidence.

Led in this evidence by Tunde Falola, Mr Daniel Akpan tendered his letter of employment, IPPIS letter as well as pay advice covering 2021 to May 2023 from the university to establish that he is a bona fide staff of the institution.

The witness carefully identified all the documents which UNIUYO had certified through him as well as the Remita Retrieval Reference (RRR) receipt for the payment of the certification.

Asked if he certified the documents in his capacity as a staff of the university, Mr Akpan answered in the affirmative. He went on to affirm that he was assigned from the office of the registrar to certify Umo Eno’s academic records. According to him Mr AniediAbasi Udofia was the registrar then.

On cross-examination, Akpan said part of the job schedule of an Admin officer includes receiving documents assigned to him for the office of the registrar and can also certify documents assigned to him from the Office of the Registrar.

Asked who drafts letters for the Registrar, he said the Registrar can assign anyone in his office for the assignment.

He told the court he rose as a Clerical Officer to Admin Officer, after he studied Quantity Surveying at the University of Uyo.

When Uwemedimo Nwoko suggested that he was not an Admin officer because his salary on the pay slip did not reflect what was on the promotion letter, Mr Akpan said he was not the one determining his pay.

According to him, he was posted from the Registrar’s office to the Faculty of Environmental Science in April 2023.