And Igini Stood His Ground

Thisdaylive.com
May 3, 2019 11:58 PM

“When you have a mountain in your path, do not sit down at its foot to cry, but rather, get up and climb it.”

For no reason other than he was just doing his job with dignity, dedication and utmost integrity, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was on a campaign to destroy one of the most respected Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) who was assigned to Akwa Ibom State, Mr Mike Igini. He had become the target of a series of well-orchestrated smear campaigns before the presidential and national assembly elections, and more desperately, before the governorship elections.

His sin was that he would discharge his duties in the just-concluded elections by the book and would not allow the will of the people to be sabotaged by the very people who claimed to have integrity and had branded every other person as corrupt. These pretenders to progressivism and democracy did their background checks on Igini. Their findings? A man whose needs are limited and whose ways are as white as snow. But for the APC, it is never say die! In their evil machinations, they allegedly still made mouth-watering monetary offers to compromise him. But he stood his ground not to do anything that would compromise the will of the people as expressed at the polling units but stolen at the collation centres – where the greatest electoral heist took place all over the country.

Not done, the APC took a strange and unprecedented step. The party of desperadoes approached the court to order INEC to redeploy Igini to another state, just a few days to the governorship election. It was a bizarre move, underlining the desperation that flows in the bloodstream of the party. The bewildered judge refused, saying granting their request would affect the conduct of free and fair elections in the state. Sensing that INEC would not yield to pressure, they resorted to all sorts of scorched-earth tactics. Some INEC offices were razed to the ground by “hoodlums” in the full glare of the security forces that were there to protect them. In other words, they conspired to commit arson against taxpayers’ properties all in a bid to frustrate the conduct of free and fair elections.

You see, in the presidential and the national assembly elections, Senator Godswill Akpabio and the ruling APC lost in Akwa Ibom completely. For that, all hell broke loose. Igini was the cause for not playing ball, so he had to be redeployed to another state before the governorship polls, they had reasoned. A little background is necessary here: Soon after Akpabio defected to the APC, he had boasted that the takeover of the state by the party in 2019 would be as total as the 1940 invasion of Poland by the German dictator, Adolf Hitler. By that declaration, he was serving notice that the elections in the state would be a full-scale war, which his new party must win. “When they asked Hitler’s minister for information how was the war in Poland. He said Warsaw saw war and war saw Warsaw. I will say that in the Ikot-Ekpene arena, when I stepped out, this is my first function after that, Warsaw saw war and war saw Warsaw. We can’t talk politics in the church but in 2019, Warsaw shall see war and war shall see Warsaw. The return will be victory. May God grant us all victory,” he boasted.

Akpabio actually made good on his threat, enabled by federal might, he brought war upon his state using federal security forces to molest and beat up his people. But the people were as determined not to yield an inch of their soil to him or his hirelings. By the time the dust settled, it was the people that won, they had vanquished their delinquent son. It is instructive that the APC went about its campaign to smear Igini without any pretence about its motive. It is a shame that even Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, “a man of God” who should have been more circumspect in his utterances, descended into the gutter in an act of political desperation, contradicting himself in the process.

President Muhammadu Buhari who had sent Osinbajo to represent him at a town hall meeting with elders and stakeholders of the APC in Uyo also stressed it was not possible that Akpabio lost the election in his constituency thus: “Everything stolen would be restored. What happened on February 23 was robbery. The votes of the people were stolen but we are not deterred. The president sent me to thank you today. We are going to make sure that everything that was stolen on the February 23 election would be restored.

“It is not possible that Senator Godswill Akpabio lost. We are in no doubt that Senator Akpabio is the elected senator of Akwa Ibom North West senatorial district. The National Chairman of the party, Adams Oshiomhole and I have been in the opposition for long and we cannot be defeated anymore.”

That was the president speaking through his deputy, a professor of law. Really? Are these people kidding? Who told them that Akpabio cannot lose? I was shocked to hear that those words came from the president. For their partisan interests, these people are prepared to destroy all the institutions of state. It is only when they win that elections are free and fair. Once they lose, they use all sorts of tactics to demonise and arm-twist the institutions into declaring the elections inconclusive, preparatory to another round of barefaced manipulation to ultimately secure victory for the APC.

So in Buhari and Osinbajo’s thinking, Akpabio cannot lose because he is now in the APC, but the Senate President, Bukola Saraki who was a more effective grassroots politician in Kwara State than Akpabio was in Akwa Ibom, could lose because he is in the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)? Who are these people? And where did they come from? We all saw the speed with which the INEC announced Saraki’s defeat in Kwara to the celebratory delight of the APC and their supporters. In contrast, the announcement of Akpabio’s defeat was suspended for more than 24 hours because the powers that be tried everything in their arsenal to save the political featherweight from “uncommon” humiliation. But in Igini, a former Students’ Union President of the University of Benin and a hero of the June 12 struggle, they ran into a brick wall.

Akpabio’s philosophy of “what money cannot do, more money can do it” that has kept him going all these years failed this time. More money could not buy him re-election. Intoxicated by money and power, and crippled by self-destructive arrogance, Akpabio thought that money was everything in life. But he has now found out that “the power of the people is more powerful than the people in power”. Whether he learns useful lessons is left to him. His brother, Rotimi Amaechi, another Buharist, is still out of control in Rivers State. He has levied war on his people. But his time will come no doubt and his people shall deliver themselves. I hope they show him mercy when that time comes.

Igini, thrown up by the unusual electoral cycle, has become the pride and a hero of true democrats, and a villain to desperate power seekers with nothing to offer society other than the elevation of mindless thuggery, serious criminality and breathtaking thievery. We should all stand with him as the enemies of democracy encircle to devour him. We should rise and defend him as a man of real integrity, not the fake integrity being bandied about on behalf of Nigeria’s maximum ruler. This man deserves a national honour. We need people like him to redeem Nigeria, to restore hope to this country that Rotimi Amaechi only recently described as “helpless and hopeless”.

Igini himself put it succinctly when he said that he was not posted to Akwa Ibom to count money but to count ballots. “I have not come here to count money. I only came here to count ballot papers. Those who want me to compromise the process are the ones shouting out there. I can tell you that… those looking for compromise in the process are the ones who are also calling for my removal. Why would you remove a man who says he wants to give everybody equal opportunity?” He wondered.

How many Nigerians can, not only say that, but do it? How many can withstand the temptation of accepting mouth-watering offers by corrupt politicians to compromise the will of the people? How many will not see their sensitive positions as opportunities to make their own killing out of Nigeria? I am beaming with pride, as there is indeed hope for Nigeria after all. I am even more excited that Mike Igini was my classmate in secondary school (Okotie Eboh Grammar School, Sapele), where he was the Punctuality Prefect. I am grateful for the old precious values that were inculcated in us which have prevailed over the reigning evil in the land.

Many of the people in leadership positions today were the vagabonds of their school days; the delinquent ones, the dropouts who forged academic qualifications and lied under oath to climb the ladder of progress. They graduated to be thugs used to disrupt the system, only to further graduate to occupy leadership positions. They have become parents. But what sort of parents are they? Parents who drive to schools with full police escorts, blaring siren, to assault teachers for disciplining their ill-mannered and wayward children? Parents who pay others to writes examinations for their children, and pay teachers to award marks they don’t deserve to them? Yes, these are the parents they have become. They are not ashamed to exhibit lawlessness in their children’s presence. They are not ashamed to exhibit disorderly behaviour in public. Unfortunately, some of these people are the very ones charting the future of this country. From the time they emerged on the scene as lawmakers, governors, ministers, etc, the prognosis has not been good – our country has regressed because they lack the desired vision to lift Nigeria to new heights and new frontiers.

To hold on to power and feather their own nest, they have resorted to all sorts of breathtaking machinations, with the support of thugs and other like-minded individuals with corresponding depravity. They are practically holding our democracy hostage and have sought to destroy anyone that is not like them.

This man, Igini, is the embodiment of those admirable values of the olden days; values we yearn for today; values that he (Osinbajo) constantly preaches everywhere he goes. Igini is not perfect, no doubt, but he represents the ideal character portrait of what Nigeria needs to move forward. It is an irony of immense proportions that a party that claimed sainthood and had at every turn accused others of corruption has done everything that constitute an affront to our precious values of yore.

Information sent in to our news desk has it that he goes about deceiving the people with fake scholarship forms, investigations carried out in the affected churches in Eket, Esit Eket, Uyo, Mkpat Enin, Abak, Ikot Ekpene, Oron, Uruan, Ika, Onna and others and confirmed by some elders of the churches that the whose name is ..............

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Richard Peters

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Micro Finance and Enterprise Development, Mr. Ime uwah has said that Akwa Ibom people will resist all forms of violence planned by some people to cause mayhem in the 2019 general elections. Ime Uwah made the statement during the 5th Annual Diocesan convention of the African Church, Uyo Central Diocese.

He observed that some people are promising to employ violence during the 2019 general elections, and therefore decreed that those promising and planning to carry out violence in the state during the elections will not succeed in their enterprise. He encouraged the people to remain peaceful as peace loving people; while he advised the youths to dissociate from any act that would bring shame to them and members of their families, but should follow the truth and remain straight-forward, in order to attract blessings.

While thanking God for sustaining every member of the church within the year, Ime Uwah enjoined parents to pray for God’s guardian upon their wards, to shield them for falling victims of electoral violence. He acknowledged that the period of elections is always occasioned by untimely death caused by those who are desperate to get power by all means, and however acknowledged that power belongs to God. “It is times like this when we approach elections; that people die without a cause. I believe that power belongs to God and he wielded it to whosoever he pleases”, the Udom’s aide said.

The CEO of Eni Group admonished the people to continually pray for the leadership of the country and state, and charged political office holders and elders to always play by the rule, stand for the truth and defend the truth at all cost. Ime Uwah once again expressed faith that there will be no violence in Akwa Ibom State, come 2019 general elections.

Preaching on the theme of 5th Annual Convention: “Remember me O, Lord”, with the text drawn from Psalms 106:4, the Bishop of Uyo Central Diocese of the church, Rev. James Bamidele highlighted that genuine repentance, humility, Godly living, prayerfulness, faith in God, among other virtues, are keys to experiencing God’s remembrance in the lives of Christians,

Richard Peters

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Micro Finance and Enterprise Development, Mr. Ime uwah has said that Akwa Ibom people will resist all forms of violence planned by some people to cause mayhem in the 2019 general elections. Ime Uwah made the statement during the 5th Annual Diocesan convention of the African Church, Uyo Central Diocese.

He observed that some people are promising to employ violence during the 2019 general elections, and therefore decreed that those promising and planning to carry out violence in the state during the elections will not succeed in their enterprise. He encouraged the people to remain peaceful as peace loving people; while he advised the youths to dissociate from any act that would bring shame to them and members of their families, but should follow the truth and remain straight-forward, in order to attract blessings.

While thanking God for sustaining every member of the church within the year, Ime Uwah enjoined parents to pray for God’s guardian upon their wards, to shield them for falling victims of electoral violence. He acknowledged that the period of elections is always occasioned by untimely death caused by those who are desperate to get power by all means, and however acknowledged that power belongs to God. “It is times like this when we approach elections; that people die without a cause. I believe that power belongs to God and he wielded it to whosoever he pleases”, the Udom’s aide said.

The CEO of Eni Group admonished the people to continually pray for the leadership of the country and state, and charged political office holders and elders to always play by the rule, stand for the truth and defend the truth at all cost. Ime Uwah once again expressed faith that there will be no violence in Akwa Ibom State, come 2019 general elections.

Preaching on the theme of 5th Annual Convention: “Remember me O, Lord”, with the text drawn from Psalms 106:4, the Bishop of Uyo Central Diocese of the church, Rev. James Bamidele highlighted that genuine repentance, humility, Godly living, prayerfulness, faith in God, among other virtues, are keys to experiencing God’s remembrance in the lives of Christians,

By Monday Friday

It is a cardinal sin to use leadership positions to play on the intelligence of the people. I mean the very people that one is representing. But very satanic when the very people can't see clearly the one deceiving them. Some have heard several times, and have seen, but still follow such a person. This is not only satanic, but the height of illiteracy.

I have over the months tried to figure out the rationale behind the decision of Nsima Ekere, MD of NDDC to contest for the state governorship, when he is in charge of well over nine states, with billions of naira accrued to that office.

Someone should help me ask Nsima Ekere what he is looking for in one state when he has nine states to look after. If not greed, what else? If not poor sense of judgment, what else? If not an attempt to defraud the state, what else?

Even in his present position, cases of fake contract papers abound. Issues bordering on debt owed contractors and other fraudulent practices are consistent with his administration.

Apart from this, projects claimed to be handled by the NDDC under Nsima's watch are adjudged substandard, and some abandoned halfway.

Will this not be the same way our state would be handled under his watch, if the mistake is made? God forbid. Akwa Ibom can never make such expensive mistake of voting him into power.

It is also alleged that the delegates list used during the APC primaries was altered by Nsima Ekere despite the agreement reached before the said primaries by other aspirants.

In fact, he is not trustworthy. He lies about almost everything. He plays politics with lives, projects and governance. This is not what Akwa Ibom people want.

In 2019, the task before Akwa Ibom people will be to choose between light and darkness, truth and falsehood, sincerity and lies.

We will choose between a man that wants to defraud us and one that wants to transform the state. We will choose between a man that controls billions of naira and bluntly refuses to execute any project in his state of origin, and one who controls a meager amount of money but execute projects everywhere in the state. We will choose between justice and injustice.

No one should believe Nsima Ekere, for if a man is faithful in a little, he will be faithful in many. He is only out to take the state backward.

We will resist by all means every attempt to take us back to Egypt.

We need Udom Emmanuel, a man who is both focused and accountable to take us to our rightful position, as a people.

Say no to Nsima Ekere and his fraud agenda.

APC SUFFERS YET ANOTHER BLOW AS OVER 500 OF ITS MEMBERS TODAY DEFECT TO PDP IN NSIT UBIUM LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA.

In the wake of the observable gale of defections which has engulfed the Nigeria's political ambience, over 500 members of the All Progressive Congress (APC) have severed ties with it former political platform as they publicly declared interest to join the People Democratic Party in Akwa Ibom State.

The people's Democratic Party from inception ,has been the only political party where political leaders emerged. Even in the face of growing political challenges ,they still have preponderance of supporters and party followers.

The defectors were received by Distinguished Sen. Effiong Dickson Bob and political leader Nsit Ubium local government area along side Nsit Ubium council chairman, the leader of Nsit Ubium legislative council and the Secretary of the council Hon. Aloysius Noah in conjunction with a PDP stalwart, captain Iniobong Ekong (Ikwa affang) .

The event which took place in Ndiya ward also witnessed the presence of Barr. Otobong Bob the PDP flag bearer for Nsit Ubium State constituency come 2019. In his words of admonishment, barr. Otobong Bob expressed satisfaction with the unfolding political event in his constituency . While applauding them on their courage, and also charged the defectors to remain committed to PDP programmes.

Captain Iniobong Ekong who received the defectors thanked them for their courage and confidence reposed on the party as they reigning party in the state.

In his words of reception , the PDP chapter chairman of Nsit Ubium Mr Aniefiok Johnny thanked the defectors for their foresight even as he noted that they are also part an parcel of PDP. He bagged them a warm welcome to the party noting that they will be carried along .

In the same vein, the defectors who discredited APC as a party vowed to work against it as 2019 general elections approaches. They also took time to demonstrate their support for Gov. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel's second term bid as Gov. Of Akwa Ibom State.

#NsitUbiumIsPDP
#PDP!!
#PowerToThePeople

Although we are fighting a battle whose victory had been guaranteed, we're still obliged to ensure that no foothold is left for the enemy.

It is no longer news that the only ship that will guarantee a safe voyage by 2019 and beyond is the umbrella party, The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Every other party is a scam. The PDP is tested and trusted, and will deliver beyond 2019.

In Nsit Ubium state constituency, Barr. Otobong Bob is the man for the job. Having won the party's primary overwhelmingly, it is our collective assignment to protect the mandate and decision of the people by ensuring that the PDP takes the day, not only in Nsit Ubium State constituency, but in the whole state.

All Akwa Ibom sons and daughters must ensure that they are not deceived by the false messages and prophecies of opposition parties. They have nothing good to offer. They only know of violence, hardship, suffering, Hunger, excuses, persecution, etc.

Every hand must be on deck as we deliver Barr. Otobong Bob for Nsit Ubium State constituency, Barr. Onofiok Luke for Etinan /Nsit Ubium/Nsit Ibom Federal constituency and Gov. Udom Emmanuel for his second term as the state chief executive.

This is our collective assignment, and we will stop at nothing until the trio, and other PDP candidates take the day.

The Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) flag bearer for Nsit Ubium State Constituency, Barr. Otobong Bob is one man with the message of hope for all Nsit Ubium sons and daughters. Despite the events that happened, accusations and blackmail, he is still preaching hope. Even when some persons never believed in his capacity to serve the people effectively, he still preached that message of hope.

He has been preaching this message at different platforms that Nsit Ubium shall become great again. This was and has remained his motivation to serve the people.

As a lawyer, he believes in justice and equity. He believes in equal distribution of resources. He believes in fair dealing to all, irrespective of gender, religion and colour. He abhors victimization, oppression and marginalization.

That is why today, Barr. Otobong Bob has urged the people to go to every clan and village, and proclaim that in no distant time, Nsit Ubium shall become great again.

As the 2019 general election is drawing closer, all must vote PDP for the actualization of the good plans packaged for Nsit Ubium people.

We must resist from all fronts any attempt to deceive the electorates to waste their votes for any other party. The people must rise in unison and speak in one voice: Nsit Ubium shall be great again. And this shall be actualized through their total support for the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP), which is the party of hope for all Nigerians.

Let all hands be on deck as we preach Barr. Otobong Bob's message of hope.

Politics is a game of number. In every ideal political situation, majority carries the vote. This means that the person with the highest number of followers takes the day.

To achieve a large following, political parties often front candidates that would be accepted by majority of the people. Anytime a political party presents an unpopular candidate, the party stands to lose to a party with the right candidate. Such candidate is often referred to as marketable candidate.

Truth is, it is not every candidate that is marketable. Electorates consider many factors before they settle for a particular candidate including its marketability. They look at the capacity of the person, his experience, his opinions on certain issues and his manifesto.

In Nsit Ubium state constituency, the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) have given ticket to Barr. Otobong Bob who has been adjudged a marketable political product. In other words, Barr. Otobong Bob is a sure bet for victory for the Peoples Democratic Party. He has a large following, has the capacity to offer effective representation and also has the experience.

Above all, he is so much exposed to political trends in other civilised societies having studied outside the shores of this country and interacted with many capacity builders.

This, however explains why he was widely accepted by the people of Nsit Ubium during the PDP nomination exercise.

The society needs more of Barr. Otobong Bob for resounding victory to be recorded in the party at all levels. This is so because only marketable products move the market.

Keep supporting the Peoples Democratic Party, keep supporting good governance, keep supporting Barr. Otobong Bob.

MY APPRECIATION

On behalf of my pretty wife and son, I am overwhelmed with joy to the Almighty God for His love towards me and my family, particularly for the success of my son's dedication service.

I was surprised and shocked to my bone marrow over the crop of personalities that graced the occasion. And not only that, they stayed to the end and supported me beyond measure. I am still thinking at the moment why they honoured my invitation, considering my position and theirs, however, words are never warm and tender enough to express my appreciation of such a great kindness to us.

I am equally thankful to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of our dear state, Mr Udom Emmanuel for what God is using him to do in this State and for being a caring Governor. Also worthy of note is the immense contribution of the following persons to my life, and family, as they are mentioned here in no particular order: Senator Effiong Bob; Rt. Hon(Barr). Onofiok Luke; Hon. Ephraim Inyang; Mr. Linus Nkan; Hon. Nse Essien; Hon. Frank Archibong; Hon. Enobong Uwah; Hon. Ime Uwah; Rt. Hon. Ime Okon; Hon. Anietie Eka; Mr. Essien Ndueso; Mr. Idorenyin Raphael; Hon. Prince Okon Nsentip; Rt. Rev James Bamidele; Ven. Jimmy Jimmy and all the ministers, Family members; Religious leaders; Media community, social media friends and other concerned individuals. The list is quite inexhaustible.

In any way you have been of immense blessing to me and my family, you are highly acknowledged here.

Thank you for finding time to celebrate with me despite your tight schedule. It has gone a long way to show the level of love, care and regard that you have for me.

I will be eternally grateful to all of you.

Thank you is not even enough. May the Almighty God bless you and reward you accordingly.

I am indeed, grateful.

Rev Richard Peters

Nsit Ubium State constituency: Otobong Edemidiong, Blessing Mbakara sponsored thugs to cause mayhem


The just concluded PDP ward delegates congress held in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area was outrightly peaceful, but some scanty areas witnessed a bizarre volume of violence perpetuated by some unscrupulous elements whose primary motives was to maim, kill and disrupt the exercise in order to suit the whims and caprices of their principal and sponsor.

According to an impeccable source, it was revealed that some political thugs loyal to one Mr. Otobong Edemidiong, an ex-transition Chairman of Nsit Ubium LGA, and Mrs. Blessing Mbakara, an ex-councillor, attacked officials of the PDP and others, after perceiving that a greater percentage of the delegates elected at the Congress, have strong supports for Barr. Otobong Effiong Bob.

The hoodlums were said to have been aggrieved by the prospect of Barr. Otobong Effiong Bob winning the Nsit Ubium State constituency seat come 2019.

Our source disclosed that a meeting was held in Uyo residence of Otobong Edemidiong, where plans to forment trouble during the ward delegates congress was conceived and in the said meeting, Otobong Edemidiong paid each of the thugs the sum of Five thousand naira (N5 000.00) as mobilization fee to execute their ill motives and devilish intentions. The idea of this nefarious activity by Otobong Edemidiong, Blessing Mbakara and their political thugs was to cause trouble so that it would be blamed on the Distinguished Senator Effiong Bob or the leading aspirant for Nsit Ubium State constituency, Barr. Otobong Effiong Bob.

The source maintained that there is a very serious gang up by Mr. Otobong Edemidiong and Mrs. Blessing Mbakara against Barr. Otobong Effiong Bob, as far as the race for the Nsit Ubium State constituency election is concerned. Prior to the ward delegates congress, Mr. Otobong Edemidiong and Blessing Mbakara had collaborated to destroy the campaign billboards mounted by the supporters of Barr. Otobong Effiong Bob.
Having unleashed mayhem during the congress, our source hinted that they met again yesterday to further plan more terror during any upcoming political events.

However, there is this adage that when you see a young boy dancing on the middle of the road, there is an old man in the bush providing the music". Thus, Mr. Otobong Edemidiong and Mrs. Blessing Mbakara have boasted several times and on various fora that some big wigs in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and state government are backing their candidature for the 2019 Nsit Ubium State Constituency, therefore, the thugs can go ahead and cause problems, as they will not be arrested by anybody in the state, or if it eventually happens, the said big wigs will ensure their immediate release.

However, our correspondence contacted Mr. Otobong Edemidiong that there were series of meetings with youths in his residence but he declined to disclosed the nature of the meeting and Mrs. Blessing Mbakara was not available to speak on the matter, as she neither picked their calls nor return same.

NSIT UBIUM STATE CONSTITUENCY AND THE DRAMA OF NOMINATION FORM PURCHASE

Before an aspirant stands for any election, it is required of the person to purchase the nomination and expression of interest forms. It is a basic requirement and not an option. However, in fulfilling such essential step today, many have dramatized it.

In the past weeks, the media have been awashed with pictures of aspirants picking the form, filling same and many more. Again, many have been accompanied by paid crowd and sycophants, in order to show their popularity and acceptability. The issue is, election is not won with this drama, it demands work.

It has also been observed that many aspirants have not picked their forms yet, maybe, as a result of what they foresee to be the outcome of the race. Others have "nicodemously" picked theirs. But for the women, the form is given free, to encourage more participation of women in politics, so this issue is not a big deal for the women.

But my concern is that attachment of victory to a candidate who had been accompanied by paid crowd to the place of purchase of nomination form is very laughable. As a result, many will sleep and relax with the mind that the battle is won.

To me, the battle has just begun. This is when the actual aspirants are known. This is when the sheep is separated from the goats. This is when we know the who is who.

Like some who had not picked the form, this is exactly what will play out at the end of the day. Some will be left behind and only one person takes the day.

As it stands, Barr. Otobong Bob appears to be the most outstanding aspirants for Nsit Ubium state constituency, and probably the one that will take the day. The analysis is simple. The way he goes about his politicking is simple. He doesn't engage in attempting to pull others down like some are doing. He knows what politics is, and focuses on his business and not on other aspirants.

He has carefully played his card well, did thorough consultations, got endorsed by individuals, groups and the electorate. Though he is the most abused State House of Assembly aspirant, he is the most favoured.

Many who have seen the handwriting on the wall have come to queue behind him, while others who are yet to see it, still wander in ignorance. Let those who are yet to join his camp do so while it is still essential.

The dice is cast. The stage is set and the whistle has been blown heralding Barr. Otobong Bob's victory, yak mbre òtungô.

DON'T DISTRACT GOV. UDOM EMMANUEL: A CALL FOR A RETHINKING ON THE ONGOING MEDIA WAR

The once peaceful political enclave called Akwa Ibom has in the past few weeks been submerged in media attacks, name-calling, abuses and politics of calumny, among others. That to me, is not new and was not unexpected. Ours is an enlightened society where democracy is practiced in the real sense of it. The media, particularly the social media have been used and abused by those who feel that freedom of speech also include freedom to spread falsehood and lies against a functional and working government.

In as much as such ungodly and unprofessional practices have placed food on people's tables, I wish to submit that there should be a rethinking on the channelling of media attacks on Governor Udom Emmanuel.

Needless do I need to submerge you with the achievements of the present administration, but let me say without any form of equivocation that Gov. Udom Emmanuel within three years of his stewardship has performed excellently well. There is hardly any community in Akwa Ibom state that has not experienced any touch of the government's developmental romance.

However, it is unthinkable that paid sycophants of opposition parties could launch attacks crowned in falsehood and lies on the Government of the day at the state level, which is known and seen even by the blinds that it's excellently delivering on its campaign promises.

It was Adolf Hitler that said if you go about spreading a lie and falsehood repeatedly, people will one day consider it to be true. But suffice it to say that in Akwa Ibom, enemies would end up spreading naked lies. Naked in the sense that the enlightened people of our dear state had already known the truth. Even if the falsehood is spread for four years, the truth still remains that Governor Emmanuel is the most sincere and dignified Governor that Akwa Ibom ever had.

It is quite preposterous that critics of the Governor are standing on a road constructed by the present administration to say that the government is not doing anything. Oh man, why have you buried your conscience in the mud of wickedness? And why have you sold your soul to the devil.

It is no longer news that some unscrupulous elements have vowed to unleash terror on the land, in order to discredit the government of the day. It is quite laughable. All the cooked plans to use INEC and other institutions of government and purported Federal Might to disenfranchise the people will be resisted accordingly. Akwa Ibom people are not and will never be known for cowardice. We will resist from all fronts. Let the performance of the Governor speak for him.

It is imperative that all progressive minded people adopt the Divine Mandate Agenda, and ensure the spread of development across the length and breadth of our dear state.

Akwa Ibom is our collective Heritage, and will do no one any good to form alliance with the enemies of our destiny and culture to destroy what we have built for posterity.

Let money not blind your eyes and suffocate your conscience from seeing the footprint of our Industrialization Specialist, the Governor.

It might aso interest you to know that if you use your hand to destroy your state, even the gods will not smile at you.

I call on all and sundry to support Governor Udom Emmanuel to complete the myriad of projects he's handling for the overall good of our society.

Enough of this media attacks, let the Governor concentrate!

Richard Peters.
Uyo.

UDOM’S INDUSTRIALIZATION THRUST INTACT, FRUITFUL – AKAN OKON

The Commissioner for Housing and Special Duties, Mr Akan Okon, has said that the industrialization thrust of the Governor Udom Emmanuel’s administration remains unperturbed, intact and yielding unprecedented fruits.

Mr Okon, who made this known at the weekend when he made an unscheduled visit to the site of the ongoing 21-Storey Building Complex in Uyo, reiterated the current administration’s fervent commitment to all its campaign promises with particular emphasis on industrialization.

The Commissioner informed that Akwa Ibom will soon become an industrial hub and investors’ choice destination going by the level of infrastructural development brought about by Governor Udom Emmanuel.

He also hinted that the commercial building, when completed, will be a state-of-the-art facility that will place Akwa Ibom on the center stage in the comity of states.

Mr. Okon further said the Governor’s re-election declaration has on Friday reaffirmed his administration’s drive to provide Akwa Ibom with “all-round superior performance.”

God will never allow their plans to stand in Akwa Ibom State. Rev Richard Peters -08080602197

Yes, I rejected those guys money because they placed it on voodoo because they reached out to me, they are doing everything possible to bribe all the strong supporters of pdp -REV RICHARD PETERS

tit:
DSS owa.
if anybody refuse apc bribe, daura secret service will jump out
meanwhile akpabio has chop buhari dollar

Yes, I rejected those guys money because they placed it on voodoo because they reached out to me, they are doing everything possible to bribe all the strong supporters of pdp -REV RICHARD PETERS

GOV. UDOM EMMANUEL: EFFECTIVELY DOING WHAT HE WAS CALLED TO DO


Revd. Richard Peters


Less than four years into his administration, Gov. Udom Emmanuel has proven beyond doubt that he was really prepared to transform Akwa Ibom state into the state of our dream. What has really left me dumbfounded is his giant strides in almost every sector of the economy and the presence of his administration’s developmental touch in every Local Government Area of the state.

Recently, I embarked on a survey of Gov. Udom Emmanuel’s achievements since assumption of office, and come to the conclusion that he deserves another chance to do more. Our amiable governor is one who doesn’t joke with his promises. I have followed him keenly and discovered that he doesn’t say what he would not do, and doesn’t do what he hasn’t said he would do. This virtue has singlehandedly projected him as a man of integrity.

Lack of integrity remains the bane of leadership in Nigeria. Nigeria is blessed with so many leaders who lack integrity. A greater percentage of those in positions of authority are those who often fail to do what they say. Only a handful of them stand by their confessions, and governor Udom Emmanuel is one of the few.

On Assumption of office in 2015, Gov. Emmanuel vowed to turn Akwa Ibom state into an industrial hub, and has lived up to that expectation. Even when the nation is bleeding severely as a result of economic downturn that hit the nation, Akwa Ibom state is run as if it is operating from another planet, with no trace of the pangs of the economic crisis.

This indeed is the manifestation of the biblical injunction that When men shall say there is a casting down, we in Zion shall say there is a lifting. Even the blind have seen that Akwa Ibom state under the able leadership of Gov. Emmanuel is progressively breaking political barriers and industrial limits.

Another “magic” performed by the present administration that has shocked those within and outside the state is the timely payment of workers’ salaries in the state. Other states are battling with payment of salaries of workers, and have totally ignored any other developmental plans as they are complaining of paucity of funds. In the case of last month, workers in the state were paid even before the arrival of Federal Allocation. This is beyond magic. It is what you get when capable hands are at the helm of affairs.

In less than four years, almost every local government area has had their share of Gov. Emmanuel’s developmental touch, particularly in road construction. Local government areas that had never witnessed any state projects, are heaving a sigh of relieve as Udom in penetrating all nooks and crannies of the state.
His aggressive developmental approach is yielding positively. Every community in the state is seemingly busy with one project or the other.

This is a perfect definition of passion in leadership. The passion and zeal he has for the transformation of the state has failed to let him rest. That is why he is up and doing to ensure that at the expiration of his tenure as the state chief executive in 2023, Akwa Ibom state will become the center of attraction and a reference point, not only for Nigerians, but Africa as a whole.

I therefore enjoin all and sundry to support the Gov. Udom Emmanuel administration to continue in the transformation engagement particularly in the area of establishment of industries, for massive job and wealth creation.
Gov. Emmanuel has brought to bear his wealth of experiences in the management of resources of the state. That is why with or without money, he is busy developing the state. He hardly complains of lack of money to run the state, because he is prudent in circulating money. We wouldn’t ask for more. He has done more than enough, to the amazement of those who never believed in his leadership ability.

One good term deserves another. Let all hands be on deck as we support the development and transformation of Akwa Ibom state, through the magic leadership fingers of Gov. Udom Emmanuel.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the deadline for the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by two weeks.
According to information obtained by MEDIA LINK on Tuesday, the registration will be concluded at the end of August.
The extension is coming a few days after TakeItBack Movement, OurMumuDonDo Movement, as well as the Presidential Aspirants Coming Together (PACT) initiative, and concerned Civil Society Organisations, met with officials of INEC to call for an extension of the deadline to enable more Nigerians participate.

BARR. IME OKON DESERVES MORE



Rev Richard Peters


The popular saying 'One good term deserves another' is beyond a political recitation; It is a statement of fact. Right from Biblical days, people who were faithful in little things were given bigger responsibilities, because there is a guarantee that such a faithful person will perform his assigned duties creditably well.

In our world today, there are still faithful stewards. Although some leaders assumed the status of rulers when they are given the mandate to serve. But a true leader is a steward. One of such persons, who despites his position still sees himself as a steward is Rt. Hon. (Barr). Ime Bassey Okon, member representing Ibiono State Constituency.

Barr. Okon since assumption of office, had not failed to live up to the expectations of the people who gave him the mandate to represent them. Time will certainly fail if I attempt a chronicle or documentary of his achievements within these few years of his stewardship. He has touched lives positively across all the communities in his constituency. His empowerment programmes have engaged both the young and old in businesses that have gone a long way in helping families survive. Those who never had the hope of owning businesses are now proud business owners. Those who would have dropped out of school have received scholarships that will see them through their studentship. Groups and organizations within and outside Ibiono state constituency, have equally benefited from the generosity of Barr. Ime Okon. This, indeed, is leadership. This is effective representation. This is practical democracy.

If our state can boast of ten persons who would tread the same empowerment path as done by Barr. Okon, our society will become Africa's business hub, with thousands of entrepreneurs.

Barr. Ime Okon is a detribalized leader that has spread his tentacles of kindness and generosity to even people outside his constituency. He has become an Iroko tree that has covered many from the scotch of the sun, and from the weakening rain of poverty. His humane disposition has placed him on a platform where he has become the friend of the orphans and helper of the hopeless. This is leadership.

In his modest attempt to serve his people in a more expansive capacity, the people have called on Barr. Okon to represent them at the Federal House of Representatives. This is a higher calling, and I have no doubt that Barr. Ime Okon will render selfless services to his people.

He is an unassuming personality whose ultimate goal is the liberation of his people. Most of his programmes and rhetoric point to the fact that he is interested in building people. A man who builds people, builds the future. A man who builds people builds a nation. A man who builds people, builds a generation. Barr. Ime Okon has chosen to build people.

Let all hands be on deck to support Barr. Okon to build more people in ITU/IBIONO Federal Constituency. With the building plan on his desk at the moment, there is no doubt whatsoever that he is set to transform the lives of his constituents for good.

If he is faithful in a little, there is every tendency that he will be faithful in many. To whom much is given, much is expected of him.

Gov. Udom's victory in 2019 is a battle for USD - Effiong Bob

*Canvasses supports for OBA

*As USD stakeholders meet

By Richard Peters

A Frontline politician in Akwa Ibom State, the Distinguished Senator Effiong Dickson Bob has stressed that the battle for Governor Udom Emmanuel’s re-election in 2019 is basically a battle for Uyo Senatorial District, as it serves as the acid test for power to return to the area in 2023.

Senator Effiong Bob dropped the hint on Saturday during a crucial meeting of Uyo Senatorial District Stakeholders in Uyo.

Speaking to the stakeholders at the occasion, Bob explained that Uyo and Ikot Ekpene Senatorial Districts completed their 8 years tenures respectively, before handing over power to Eket Senatorial District in 2015; adding that the rotation will again favour Uyo Senatorial District in 2023, and any attempt to shift post, will truncate the zoning arrangements. He therefore insisted that the people of Uyo Senatorial District will not give in for anybody or group of persons who attempt to truncate the chances of Uyo Senatorial District clinching the governorship slot in 2023.

Senator Effiong Bob used the occasion to declare his unalloyed support for Senator Bassey Albert Akpan (OBA), Senator representing Akwa Ibom North East Senatorial District. He thanked Senator Bassey Albert Akpan for standing firm in PDP, adding that he (OBA) is a man of character and integrity, who resisted juicy offers and pressures from the powers that be, and has shunned defection to keep the pride of Uyo Senatorial District.

He appealed to those aspiring to go to the Senate in Uyo Senatorial District to hold on for now and support Bassey Albert Akpan for a second term.

In his words: “I speak because I have children, I speak because there’s tomorrow, I speak because there is God. I appeal to those aspiring to go to the Senate, to hold on for now and to support Bassey Albert Akpan for a second term. With the unfolding development in the State, we will need a high ranking member in the Senate in 2019 for the collective interest of Uyo Senatorial District. Please lay down the arms, we will discuss Uyo matter. In politics, there is negotiation, there’s substitution by elimination. We want to face this battle as a body, a people united with the fear of God and hope in God.”

He emphasized on the need for other senatorial aspirants to come together, discuss and negotiate, and prayed for God’s blessings, favour and supports upon OBA, to enable win in his second term bid to speak for the good people of Uyo Senatorial District at the Red Chamber.

In his remarks, Senator Bassey Albert (OBA) assured that he will not betray the trust and confidence the people of Uyo Senatorial District have in him by abandoning PDP for any personal gains. He restated his family's resolve to remain in PDP and to support Governor Udom Emmanuel for a second term.

"No matter the battle, Udom Emmanuel will win the election. God will not share his glory with any man. No man born by any woman can stop the destiny of any human" "I will never disappoint you, Uyo Senatorial District", OBA assured.

The Chairman of the PDP in Akwa Ibom State - Obong Paul Ekpo, the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Onofiok Luke, Otuekong Idongesit Nkanga, Senator Anietie Okon and other top stakeholders of the PDP in Uyo Senatorial District, spoke in unison, encouraging people not to be bothered about the "uncommon defector", adding that they (PDP) will come out stronger.

They expressed optimism that Governor Udom Emmanuel will contest the election and win convincingly without someone claiming credit for it. They said that they're people known for integrity, hence, their stance on the principle of rotation; while they assured Governor Emmanuel their total supports.

At the end of the stakeholders meeting, the people resolved to reaffirm commitment to the unity of Akwa Ibom State as an indivisible entity, made up of three (3) Senatorial Districts: Akwa Ibom North-East (Uyo); Akwa Ibom North-West (Ikot Ekpene) and Akwa Ibom South (Eket), under the leadership of His Excellency, Mr Udom Gabriel Emmanuel, devoid of ethnic colouration and bigotry.

A communique which was issued at the end of the stakeholders meeting reads in part: "Accordingly, the Stakeholders urged all sons and daughters of Akwa Ibom North-East (Uyo) Senatorial District, to continue to mobilize support for Governor Udom Emmanuel’s re-election in 2019 and resist schemes of mischief makers, noting that it is the surest way to guarantee continued peace, development and progress in Akwa Ibom State. The meeting also resolved that power must return to Akwa Ibom North-East (Uyo) Senatorial District in 2023."

RE:
Flashback
NSIT UBIUM LOCAL GOVERNMENT MUST BE FREE FROM SLAVERY AND TOTAL RAPE OF OUR DEMOCRACY INFLICTED ON HER BY SENATOR EFFIONG BOB
Written by Anameme Ubokudom Matabong

We are concerned about a piece of scandalous, preposterous, barbaric and frivolous write-up circulating within the media space credited to one Anamemem Ubokudom from Nsit ubium local government area, designed to denigrate and soil the noble Character of Distinguished Sen. Effiong Dickson Bob in the muds of time.

We find your propaganda ludicrous, derisive and factless despite having spent a considerable amount of time conjuring this write-up which is considered as pure falsehood and mere fabrication with the sole intent of distracting, inciting and disuniting the good people of Nsit ubium local government area .

An old saying goes thus: ''if not for your father would you have known your mother ? '' in other words, but for the sacrifice and doggedness of the likes of Sen. Effiong Bob in Nsit Ubium who have worked round the clock to secure a better future for their people ,would we have had a say politically today?

It is unfortunate and disappointing that your pay masters could misdirect you and leave you in your present state of nocturnal blindness to the extent of trying to rain Sabotage on a man of dignity who has toiled day and night fighting for our political freedom.

You brought your ignorance to the fore when you brazenly mentioned that Sen. Effiong Bob is responsible for underdevelopment in your locality. There is a perceived evidence of primitivity and backwardness in your reasoning when you blame your woes on someone at the affairs of leadership who may have had sleepless nights for your sake.

In your words of resentment and acrimony we sense some elements of incitement when you stooped so low in your endeavor to cause a logger head between Distinguished Sen. Effiong Bob and Rtd .hon.Barr. Onofiok Luke. Apparently, hon. Onofiok Luke who is widely known for his outward virtue of humility and respect for Elders will not want his name mentioned or be used to gain cheap political point.

We challenge you to make available to the public any evidence at your disposal to prove that Distinguished Sen. Bob used the Name of Governor Udom Emmanuel and his wife ,Her excellency Mather Udom Emmanuel to Campaign for his son, Otobong Bob( Esq).

In the wake of this point raised in your unbecoming write up, we deem it necessary to enlighten you that the emergence of Barr. Otobong Bob as an aspirant vying for the legislative seat representing Nsit Ubium State Constituency come 2019, was the decision of the Elders who have approached the father (sen. Effiong Bob) and sought for Barr. Otobong's candidacy for the legislative seat come 2019.
It was after a series of consultations that sen. Effiong Bob finally acceded to the Elders' request before Barr. Otobong Bob was presented to his people who have continued to remain resolute and firm in their project (Barr. Otobong Bob for AKHA 2019).

In this regard, you are unable to convince the ardent public that Sen. Effiong Bob actually imposed his son on his constituents. Considering it carefully, firstly, the Elders approached him, not the other way round-To ask him to convince his son (Otobong Bob) to vie for state house in 2019. Now if you take a good look at the elders' request, you will notice that they didn't say ''come out and be the only candidate '' rather they said "come out and contest" is there any element of imposition in their utterance? No.

Sen. Bob did not assent to the elders' request immediately but in his wisdom, he embarked upon a wide consultation before he finally heeded to the elders' request of allowing his son to join the house of assembly race come 2019.

Anyone who knows the writer :Anamemem Ubok udom, as a university dropout will now see him as a known reprobate who has fallen short of moral rectitude in character and in learning .

Given the forgoing circumstances occasioned by campaign of calumny against the reputation of Sen. Dickson Effiong Bob by some paid writers, we draw the attention of the good people of Nsit ubium locality and the reading public even as we state categorically that:

* Distinguished Sen. Effiong Dickson Bob is not contesting for any political position come 2019.

*That Barr. Otobong Bob ,unlike other aspirants is qualified and competent enough to contest for any political position in Nigeria.

*That never at any time has Distinguished Sen. Effiong Bob imposed his son on his people as alleged because this would amount to subverting the will of the people.

*that the content of the purported writeup evolved from the depth of pure falsehood and deliberate attempt to mock the people's choice of making Barr. Otobong Bob the next house member come 2019.

We call on the good people of Nsit Ubium local government area to discountenance any form of political propaganda masquerading in words of lies and deceit to decimate them, for this people are mere paid writers commissioned to cause mayhem to the political future of our people

OTOBONG EDEMIDIONG,A VIRUS ATTACKING SEN. EFFIONG BOB.

Global Concord blog[quote][/quote][color=#006600][/color][sub][/sub]

I am tempted to join issues today with Otobong Edemidiong, the immediate past transition chairman of Nsit Ubium, one of the aspirants vying for the House of Assembly seat, who does nothing than to sponsor untrained media boys to attack the person of Sen. Effiong Bob.


It is quite unfortunate, what politics in Akwa Ibom State has become ,with the likes of Otobong Edemidiong, who has no good plan for Nsit Ubium.

From what I have followed about the activities of this character called Otobong Edemidiong, his attacks on Sen. Bob, the lies spread by him to the people using online forums, his continued effort to cause a political war between Sen. Bob and PDP, hitting the head of their loyalist together to cause tension, I want to say that he is a deadly virus attacking the progress and peace of Nsit Ubium. Those who allows him to sponsor them for the attacks they are carrying out on the Distinguished Senator, a man who has been a blessing to many on daily bases, should be ashamed of him and themselves, because the good records of Sen. Bob is clear enough for people to see.

The character of this man Otobong Edemidiong can do anything for selfish interests, that is why he does not hesitate in lunching blackmails against Sen. Effiong Bob. Sometimes with a very false story, very fake that even a little child seeing it would know that it is a pure case of blackmail. No wonder it is believed that he dubiously sold out the council's cars using another person's name while as a caretaker committee chairman of Nsit Ubium.

What I still can not understand is why this character, resort to sending untrained media agents to generate false stories against Sen. Effiong Bob. It was reported sometime ago how he diverted the money meant for the constituency project of Sen. Bassey Albert in Ikot Eyo.

How can one explain the fact that Otobong Edemidiong could be paying someone to carry a story that Sen. Effiong Bob has defected from the PDP to APC. This to me was a way out of line, because it was a false story spread by a dubious and stupid mind and a double minded individual, call Otobong Edemidiong.

This is the same man that forged his secondary school certificate and connived with Blessing Mbakara to kidnap a widow in Ikot Essen. When I read the story of how he sponsored a news blog to write about Granville Hotels in Eket, I laughed because he is so daft to understand that Grandville hotel eket is on lease to Mr Usah of Usah Plus services since 2017 and that accordingly the leasee is responsible for everything in the hotel and not Senator Effiong Bob.

The other day while discussing this issues with somebody, on how this character is trying so hard to cause disunity in the Nsit Ubium, by his false and malicious story stories he sponsors, the person opted in to say that he is being engulfed with fear of defeat in the primaries that will take place on September that this year.

A man who was reported to have connived to kill a widow, can do anything for politics, and people need to be very careful about him. Because from what I gathered. if he does not blackmail Sen. Bob, he goes on to boast of how he is going to defeat his son.

I see the reason why majority of Nsit Ubium people rejected him, that's why he is roaming places ,looking for more derogatory blackmail to sponsor against Sen. Effiong Bob. Otobong Edemidiong when will you refrain from " Pull him Down syndrome"? Imagine how wicked a man who calls himself a politician can be,

I think it's time you look back and discover that you have a future and a name to protect that blackmails is not the means to get to your goals.

OTOBONG EDEMIDIONG BEHIND THE TRENDS OF BLACKMAILS ON SENATOR EFFIONG BOB.


The immediate past transition chairman of Nsit Ubium Local government Area has vowed not to rest, thereby exploring all avenues to blackmail Senator Effiong Bob, according to him, he sees Sen. Bob as the major obstacle to his House of Assembly ambition.

Mr. Edemidiong has over time been using all medium to blackmail Sen. Bob, paying people to call him unprintable names on the social media.

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