GOVERNOR UMO ENO'S TIME-TESTED PERISCOPE AT WORK!

By Elder Iniobong Akpan

The investment world is a realm only for the daring hearts and individuals who are ready to stake for the future. Only those who are willing to take risks and invest for the long term can truly reap the profits.

Shelby M.C. Davis, a retired renowned Vice President of The Bank of New York, once said, "Invest for the long haul. Don’t get too greedy, and don’t get too scared." True to it, every investment is today combated by two major forces - greed and fear. A situation that can easily be overcome with the aid of a time-tested investment periscope that sees beyond the obscurity posed by greed, fear, ignorance or procrastination.

Governor Umo Eno is a visionary leader with a periscopic foray into profitable investments and one who understands the value of emerging opportunities for the same. His successful ventures into the hospitality sector as a private citizen proved him as a climactic actor in matching investments with opportunities through a precision machine galvanised by experience and wealth of knowledge - to see beyond the thickened walls of playing safe at the detriment of the future.

It is no wonder, then, how he accurately visualised the massive opportunity in the state's hospitality sector at a time when no investor would have considered it ripe enough for such. The result is 25 years plus success with many gains to the state, including employment, community developments, wealth creation and competitive indigenous services to the IOCs. What a periscopic entry, then, that has built a brand that continues to be celebrated as an iconic and indigenous hospitality giant!

Today, the 19-storey Ibom Towers poses as another periscopic immersion of Governor Umo Eno's visionary leadership into his unrelenting commitment to making strategic and profitable investment decisions, albeit now for the interest of the State Government. It is a timely and excellent initiative that reflects his grasp of the future landscape of the nation's economy, particularly in light of the imminent diminishing role of crude oil in revenue generation.

It's essential for all well-meaning citizens of the state to support the Governor's initiative and to recognise the long-term benefits it will bring to the state. Those who oppose these investments are simply trying to play safe or seek immediate gratification but fail to understand the importance of a strategic plan for the prosperity of our dear state. Let us, without doubt, trust the Governor's successful track record with outstanding investment results in the private sector and believe the same to yield more for the state government.

While opposing voices are expected for every government's drive, although the best, a deliberate reliance on a time-tested periscope can help us see better, understand clearly and maintain the required patience for time to prove it under the pragmatic leadership of an investment genius with unbroken antecedents.

Let me rest on the words of Charlie Munger, himself a time-tested investor who made it distinctly clear why many people will never appreciate investment with his renowned quote "Waiting makes you an investor, but a lot of people just can’t stand to wait. If you didn’t get the deferred gratification gene, you’ve got to work very hard to overcome that.”

It's not surprising, therefore, to see people calling for protest against a well-periscopic investment decision for the betterment of our future as a state. The question to ask now is "Are these the people who can't wait or those who can't defer gratification just for the future of Akwa Ibom State?". Our respective actions will tell!

Let us jointly give our pragmatic leader and Governor the full support to leverage our relevance as a state in Nigeria's uncertain economic future and his selfless foresight of turning a wasteland into wealth through investment as a sub-sector of the infrastructural and economic advancements of the ARISE Agenda blueprint.

I fully support the visionary initiative of Governor Umo Eno to construct the 18-floor Ibom Towers in Lagos. This project will bring numerous benefits to Akwa Ibom State and showcase the leadership and forward-thinking approach of Governor Eno. Here are 10 reasons why the building is a positive development to Akwa Ibom State
1. Economic Boost: The construction of the Ibom Towers will create job opportunities for the Indigenes of Akwa Ibom State and stimulate economic growth in the region.
2. Investment Magnet: The iconic building will attract investors from both within and outside the country making Akwa Ibom State and Lagos a parallel competitors in the real estate market.
3. Infrastructure Enhancement: The construction of such a modern structure will contribute to the overall development symbol to Akwa Ibom State.
4. Revenue Generation: The Ibom Towers will generate significant revenue for the state through taxes and other financial avenues, contributing to the state's financial stability.
5. Prestige and Recognition: The construction of a landmark building like the Ibom Towers will elevate the reputation and status of Akwa Ibom State as a tourist destination.
6. Connectivity Hub: The Ibom Towers will serve as a central hub for businesses, promoting networking and collaboration among companies in Akwa Ibom State and Lagos.
7. Technological Advancement: The construction of a modern, 18-floor building will showcase the technological and architectural expertise of Akwa Ibom State.
8. Economic Diversification: The Ibom Towers will diversify Akwa Ibom State economy offering new opportunities for businesses.
9. Profit Potential and Sustainability: The project will not only yield profits for the state but also ensure long-term sustainability and growth for Akwa Ibom State.
10. Economic, Social and Political Relationship
This project will enhance economic, social and political ties between Akwa Ibom and Lagos State. (West)

Governor Umo Eno's decision to embark on this project demonstrates his commitment to the progress and prosperity of Akwa Ibom State. The Ibom Towers will stand as a symbol of innovation, progress, and economic growth for the state. The Governor's leadership and vision for the future are commendable, and this project will undoubtedly bring immense benefits to Akwa Ibom State and its residents.

Inibehe Effiong is thinking within the box for condemning Governor Umo Eno's Visionary initiative in building the 18 Towers in Lagos.
The construction of the 18-floor Ibom Towers in Lagos under the visionary leadership of Governor Umo Eno is a strategic move that will significantly boost Akwa Ibom State's economy and revenue generation.
I further enunciate the project will contribute to economic growth and profit-making:
1. Increased Revenue: The Ibom Towers project will diversify Akwa Ibom State's revenue sources by tapping into the lucrative real estate market in Lagos. The income generated from leasing or selling office space in the building will add to the state's Internal Revenue Generation (IGR).
2. External Investment: The presence of the Ibom Towers in Lagos will attract external investors and businesses who are seeking a prime location for their operations. This influx of investment will not only benefit Lagos but also contribute to Akwa Ibom State's economy through partnerships and collaborations.
3. Rental Income: The rental income from the offices and commercial spaces in the Ibom Towers will be a steady source of revenue to Akwa Ibom State, adding to its IGR without solely relying on internal sources.
4. Business Expansion: The establishment of a prominent landmark like the Ibom Towers in Lagos will create opportunities for Akwa Ibom-based businesses to expand their operations to the economic hub of Nigeria. This expansion will lead to increased profit-making and economic growth for the state.
5. Real Estate Development: The construction of the Ibom Towers will catalyze further, attracting investors and developers to the area. This growth in the real estate sector will benefit Akwa Ibom State's economy through increased property value and investment returns.
6. Strategic Investment: The Ibom Towers project is a strategic investment that will yield long-term financial benefits for Akwa Ibom State. By tapping into the commercial potential of Lagos, the state will diversify its investment portfolio and create sustainable revenue streams.
Governor Umo Eno's decision to venture into the Lagos real estate market with the Ibom Towers project is a forward-thinking approach to boosting Akwa Ibom State's economy and revenue generation. It is essential to look beyond internal revenue sources and leverage opportunities in other economic hubs like Lagos to maximize profit-making potential and ensure the financial sustainability of the state. This project will not only add to Akwa Ibom State's IGR but also position the state as a key player in the national economy.
Summarily, Barrister Inibehe Effiong's condemnation of Governor Umo Eno's visionary initiative to build the 18 Towers in Lagos reflects a limited perspective that fails to recognize the broader economic opportunities and strategic benefits of the project. Governor Umo Eno's decision to expand into the Lagos real estate market with the Ibom Towers project demonstrates forward-thinking leadership that goes beyond traditional boundaries which include among others:-
1. Thinking Outside the Box: Governor Umo Eno's decision to venture into the Lagos real estate market with the Ibom Towers project shows a willingness to think outside the box and explore new avenues for economic growth. This visionary approach sets Akwa Ibom State apart and positions it as a progressive player in the national economy.
2. Strategic Expansion: The construction of the Ibom Towers in Lagos presents a strategic expansion opportunity for Akwa Ibom State, tapping into the economic potential of one of Nigeria's key commercial hubs. This move will not only generate revenue but also enhance the state's economic footprint.
3. Diversification of Investments: By investing in the Ibom Towers project, Governor Umo Eno is diversifying Akwa Ibom State's investment portfolio and opening up new avenues for profit-making. This approach provides a sustainable strategy for economic growth and financial stability.
4. Leveraging External Opportunities: The decision to build the Ibom Towers in Lagos demonstrates a proactive approach to leveraging external opportunities for economic development. By tapping into the commercial potential of Lagos, Akwa Ibom State can access a broader market and create long-term financial benefits.
5. Strategic Vision: Governor Umo Eno's visionary initiative to build the Ibom Towers in Lagos reflects a strategic vision for the future of Akwa Ibom State. This forward-thinking approach positions the state for growth and prosperity, establishing a strong foundation for sustainable development.
It is also worth noting that Governor Umo Eno is planning to use Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in achieving the objectives of the Ibom Towers project. This will not directly affect the State Financial Allocation from the Federal.
In conclusion, Governor Umo Eno's visionary initiative to build the 18 Towers in Lagos is a strategic move that demonstrates proactive leadership and a commitment to economic growth. By thinking outside the box and leveraging external opportunities, Akwa Ibom State can secure long-term financial benefits and position itself as a key player in the national economy.

Rev. Dr. Hilkiah Eliathah
Chairman, Coalition of 35 Amalgamated Human Rights, Community Based Oragnizations

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Renewed Hope to Rivers APC With Gover Wike as Leader:

It was late Bishop Desmond Tutu, that renowned South African freedom fighter, that said "Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.”

When All Progressives congress(APC) adopted the Renewed Hope concept of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as its manifesto, in the 2023 general elections, they simply saw a ray of light beaming from the seeming darkness, that covered Nigeria and every aspect of our polity.
Today, the emergence of His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR as the 16th President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and his performance score card for just 25 days in office, is truly bringing back hope that Nigeria will be great again.
What is more fascinating is the fact, that other great politicians and Leaders of thoughts from other opposing parties, (under the aegis of the integrity group) Led by former Governor Nyesom Wike, were quick to identify with the Renewed Hope concept of our Asiwaju's APC. Even though they were on the opposing sides, they saw national unity and peaceful co-existence, encapsulated in the renewed Hope manifesto of the APC.
With their belief in the propounder of APC manifesto, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, they worked behind the scenes, to actualize the victory of His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the President of Nigeria to drive the vision of the APC's renewed hope agenda.
Today the role played by the G-5 integrity group, especially the former Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency Governor Wike,in the emergence of Tinubu as President, is being applauded by all political gladiators in our country.
For members of APC Rivers State,led by Chief Tony Okocha, Governor Wike's total involvement in the victory of APC, was a game changing Strategy that brought synergy between APC and PDP, in the last general elections.
This is why members of Rivers State led by Chief Tony Okocha, believe that, with the role played by former Governor, and his acceptance by His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and great Leaders of APC, the Renewed Hope is beginning to take it's course in Rivers APC. The group therefore believe, that having him as the Leader of APC Rivers State, will bring an end to lingering crisis in the APC,with hope and sense of belonging among members.
In an emergency meeting held yesterday, the Leader of the group submitted that, the Party in Rivers state has no other Leader, than His Excellency Governor Wike,who worked with the true APC members to deliver Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a resolution adopted by majority of the members and leaders of the group and delivered by the Leader Chief Tony Okocha, it was resolved that :

1. "That the Renewed Hope APC Rivers State Congratulates His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR on his veritable election victory and seamless Inauguration.

2. That we are satisfied and very proud of the record-breaking performance of President Tinubu in less than a month in office, especially the brilliant and people-oriented bills that he boldly and courageously assented to, such as the removal of Fuel Subsidy, the Students Loan Bill, the Electricity Bill, etc.

3. That we owe eternal gratitude and appreciation to the former Governor of Rivers State, HE Chief Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike CON GSSRS, for his invaluable support towards the victory of President Tinubu in Rivers State in the February 25 presidential election. We reemphasize that leadership is as old as the creation. The leadership of APC in Rivers State has been at peace with Wike. When things were difficult, Wike obliged us.

4. That we are still in huge shock over the disquieting betrayal and abandonment of Bola Ahmed Tinubu by some Rivers chieftains and their supporters for their personal ambition, before, during and after the February 25 Presidential election in Rivers State

5. That having been gratified and satisfied with the support, alliance and collaboration of Former Governor Ezenwo Nyesom Wike before, during and after the Presidential election in Rivers State, that we do hereby call on President Tinubu to handover whatever benefit of appointment that is due Rivers State to Wike, adding that the former governor worked and should be rewarded.

6. That Rivers State is one of the states that delivered Tinubu outrightly, therefore, we have the right of entitlements.
Nobody should rob Peter to pay Paul.
Our right should be handed over the Wike. We say so because we have confidence that as soon as it gets to him, he knows those that worked for Tinubu and it will get to us.

7. That since the National leadership of PDP do not seem to sincerely value the pertinacity and political adroitness of Former Governor Wike, that we in APC are passionately calling on the Former Governor to please come over to APC and take over the mantle of leadership so as to reposition the party in the State.

8. That we Congratulates the Executive Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminialaye Fubara on his election victory and seamless inauguration and look forward to a smooth working relationship with his administration to move the state forward.
9. That Rivers State APC is satisfied with the Leadership dexterity, aptness and intrepidity of our Capacity Leader, Hon. Chief Tony Okocha KSC JP DSSRS, and immensely venerate and commend him for leading the party to the right direction, thereby reaffirming our resolve to always abide by his leadership direction."
With these audacious resolutions, by the true APC members in Rivers State, the Renewed Hope is here, with the coming of Governor Wike as the Leader of APC, Rivers State
We do not doubt his influence, capacity and acceptability Nationwide. He has truly changed the narratives, as far as Governance is concerned, in his 8 year rule in Rivers State.
Further more, we see a stronger and united APC, under Wike, unlike the factionalized,confused and ineffective entity that existed under the previous Leaderships of the Party in Rivers State.
And as a true member of APC Rivers State under Chief Tony Okocha, and core believer of His Excellency Asiwaju Bola,i joined my Leader chief Tony Okocha, in calling for Governor Wike, to come over APC to "balance the equation" in APC in Rivers.
I mean the equation of ineffectiveness in Leadership,lingering crisis and selfishness, disloyalty and abandonment of members.
The true members of Rivers APC need fresh breath in Leadership, and I believe, former Governor Nyesom Wike,has all it takes to reset the party for greatness.
The days of darkness are over. A ray of light is here with the coming of Governor Wike, and this is why all other political leaders in Rivers State APC, must queue behind Governor Wike and Chief Tony Okocha for the progress of APC , Rivers State.


Dr Godpower Egbono
Zonal Coordinator, South South/ Former APC PCC/ICC member,Rivers State

Tinubu Presidency - The Game changing Strategy, that brought Hope to Rivers people
The concept of game theory is well known in the field of Economics and politics. It basically involves strategic thinking and interactions between individuals and firms,inorder to maximize and protect business interest , especially in terms of profit maximization and efficiency.
In politics also, the theory which involves predictions and strategic planning as well (from political parties,and key individuals at the centre stage in any political spectrum), play a crucial role in influencing preferred outcomes of elections.
During the just concluded 2023 general elections,especially the presidential poll, we saw a lot of the principles of the game theory at work.There were permutations and counter permutations base on vested interest, both on individual basis as well as political parties. Some of the strategic calculations manifested in mass defections from one party to another,and gave way to change of ideologies and direction of loyalty.
A typical example was the SMA faction of the legacy APC , which was hitherto part of Asiwaju movement in Rivers State.The Leader of that faction of APC , Distinguished Senator Magnus Abe, was among the advocates of Asiwaju presidential ambition in the state, but prior to the campaigns,he changed his strategy.What was more paramount to him and his team was his Governorship ambition. The Leadership later realized that campaigning for Bola Ahmed Tinubu, an APC candidate in Rivers State, will jeopardize their party's chances of clinching the Gubernatorial ticket under SDP. So their best was to defect to SDP, with all their supporters.
Similarly, in legacy APC, what appear to be like a defeatism syndrome, and the issues of litigation characterized the attitude of CRA led APC Leadership, and their strategy. They simply abandoned the party both at the national and state levels, and decided not to identify with the Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu/Shettima ticket. In the end, they resolved not to campaign for APC, but secretly shifted support to Alhaji Atiku Abubakar who was the presidential candidate of the PDP.
However, in all these political moves and permutations by the dominant contending parties, the game changing Strategy that took the centre stage and worked for Rivers State, is the political move and smart decisions taken by Chief Tony Okocha, Ksc Jp, DSSRS. While the confusion was raging in the legacy APC and SDP, prompting their sudden movement to opposing camps, Chief Tony Okocha, was quick to identify an opportunity, which he immediately harnessed, by searching for all true loyalists of Asiwaju's Bola Ahmed Tinubu's APC in Rivers State. I mean those who are members of APC who were pro Tinubu to the core.
Further more, as the Leadership of the opposition parties (legacy APC and SMA) secretly withdrew support from Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and influenced their supporters to work for SDP and PDP, Chief Tony Okocha, immediately organized the New APC members, who were the faithful remnant of Tinubu's presidential ambition.
He personally located this category of pro Tinubu supporters, majority of whom were former APC PCC/ICC members.It was this group and several other interest groups,spread across the 23 local Government areas, that he organized to receive Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Port Harcourt. More still, he invested heavily in press conferences, and other various strategic engagements, that set the stage for the adoption of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu by other parties, notably the PDP, that gave their overwhelming support.It is pertinent to state that, without Chief Okocha's bold move to fill the leadership gap created by legacy APC and SMA/SDP, APC would probably have gone into extinction and only exist in paper.
Another favourable move that ignited chief Okocha's commitment to BAT and APC, was former Governor Wike's decision to withdraw support from PDP's presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.That decision laid the foundation for collaboration of APC and PDP to work in synergy for Bola Ahmed Tinubu's victory in Rivers state.
It is on record that from the former Governor's support, and the direction laid by the Leadership of new APC through Chief Tony Okocha, both parties, became united in one mission. A mission that produced the victory of APC Presidential candidate in Rivers State, for the first time, in all most two decades of our political history.
So, as Nigerians are still in the euphoria of celebration for the inauguration of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as the 16th president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as well as the democracy day remembrance, Rivers people are saying a big thank you, and congratulating their democracy icons of the last political dispensation, chief Tony Okocha, Ksc, JP DSSRS,the Rhwunu Oha of Ekinigbo,and former Governor Barr Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, CON, GSSRS POS Africa, and life bencher, who have brought hope to a hitherto hopeless people.
In the same vein, Rivers people are equally saluting the President, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the nation's excellent score card of the performance in just three weeks on assumption of duty. Rivers people appreciate the sacrifices,as well as the sagacity of both Leaders, who through their visions, have changed the face of politics and governance in Nigeria in just three weeks.
To other gladiators, especially other political leaders in Rivers State, who saw the pendulum, differently in their own calculations, I think it is time to come to reality, that the support for Bola Ahmed Tinubu by Rivers State through the effort of Tony Okocha and Bar Ezenwo Nyesom Wike , was a good move , capable of changing the fortunes of the Rivers people. It is time to rally round the party(APC) that produced the President, in order to attrack greater dividends from the centre, and further position Rivers State for the best
It is true that politics may go" beyond political parties", but as a state, let all Leaders begin to eschew differences and embrace the synergy between former Governor Wike, and Chief Tony Okocha, to engender enduring peace and harmony. These great icons in Rivers state, demonstrated courage with foresight to place Rivers state at the centre. A feat APC have never achieved for decades.
In terms of the Renewed Hope from the centre, Rivers people are excited, that they are among the APC states , that installed Mr President. Already he has started implementing tough decisions, which previous administrations failed to implement, due to combinations of various Nigerian factors.
Specifically, the president is receiving accolades on daily basis, for his stance on:
- fuel subsidy removal and the simibiotic framework in place, to resolve all labour related issues.
-His appointment of competent aides to implement the decisions so far.
- the immediate removal and probe of top government officials indicted for various misconducts
- the opening of the Nigerian borders that were shut for some years
- allowing the new National assembly to follow due process in selecting their leaderships
- wide consultations with Royal father's of the Nation to forge a path to peace and unity.
- on growing the economy, and advocating for fix exchange rate regime.. etc.
- the recent signing of the students's loans bill
- directive on the road map to revamp the moribund refineries.
This piece will not be complete without reminiscing on the other aspect of the strategy, which was the reciprocatory version of the deal. I mean the much demonstrated "Nyendeba, Nyendeba" concept of give and take introduced by former Governor Wike.
In a bid to repay back PDP ,for supporting Tinubu, the New APC under Tony demonstrated their loyalty by trouping enmass in their Local Government areas, to vote for the PDP Governorship candidate, Amaopu Senibo Siminialayi Fubara, now the executive Governor of Rivers state on 25th March 2023. Suffice to say that the New APC under Tony Okocha, is proud to be part of the victory of the current Rivers State Governor, AmaopuSenibo Siminialayi Fubara,and indeed all PDP candidates that won in their various positions.
As we look forward to a more symbiotic relationship between PDP and APC, I also congratulate His Excellency ,the Executive Governor of Rivers State, AmaopuSenibo Siminialayi Fubara,for the successful inauguration and assumption of office.
In conclusion, the visions of Chief Tony Okocha and former Governor Wike, for Rivers State, and APC, were right, and their missions very clear on the result we have seen today. They are truly game changers who have applied their strategies in the right direction, in the installation of Tinubu presidency. Indeed Rivers people, especially the progressives of Tony Okocha led APC, are glad and confident, that the dividends of democracy from this struggle( both from the state and centre) will not elude them.

Dr Godpower Egbono
Zonal Coordinator,
COSGABAT/ Former PCC/ICC Member
Rivers State.

REAL HEROES OF VICTORIES

Ima Nkanta

As Pastor Umo Eno and Senator Dr. Akon Eyakenyi receive their certificates of return from INEC today, the heavens truly deserve thunderous shouts of acclamations for the outstanding help granted the duo throughout their travails that greeted them as they leaped over the various stages outlined by the electoral act to resounding victory.

For Pastor Umo Eno, God has endowed him with sufficient grace to endure the myriads of insults, attacks and mindless vituperations by hirelings of the opposition elements. They heaped piles of opprobium on him as a sworn foe. But as human, a time came he thought, "Oh God, is this really what I have been prepared ahead to face?" No answer came to him as heavens kept mute because grace was already released for strength against the numerous arrows that were hauled at him; just because he blazed the trail of moving from the pulpit to the podium to serve Akwa Ibomites.

As we celebrate, we must remember that there are unsung heroes - the real heroes of the epochal victories of Pastor Umo Eno. These heroes are Governor Udom Emmanuel and his dear wife, Dr. Mrs. Martha Udom Emmanuel. This couple put down their lives, staked their reputation and resources for the victories we celebrate today to happen.

How? What if after God impressed Pastor Umo Eno on the heart of Governor Udom Emmanuel as his successor and he declined? What if the governor's wife had disuaded the husband against the choice of Pastor Umo Eno due to the quantum of litigations? Recall that Udom Emmanuel has come under a heavy battery of attacks not known before in the history of Nigeria's democracy. No sitting governor has ever been so abused with glee.

We saw how the governor's friends abandoned him. Those who wined and dined with him; some even swore to die for him, yet turned behind to betray him and went to town with all sorts of deodorizing lies against him. They made unimaginable jests of him and spat on his face. They swore "he will leave the government house in shame and reproach." They mocked him as the iPad prophet. They ganged up against him and swore the choice of Pastor Umo Eno was dead on arrival.

To back up their determination to frustrate Governor Udom Emmanuel, they busied themselves with litanies of court cases and boasted to high heavens of a truck load of evidence in their possession that they will deploy to throw Pastor Umo Eno out of the race.

Those who cannot stand up to look at Pastor Umo Eno's overnight became celebrated social media influencers by spewing up mires at the person of Pastor Umo Eno and Governor Udom Emmanuel. Some went to the extent to manufacturing lies that, "Ha, Udom Emmanuel is regretting his choice successor; he's looking for immediate replacement." They bought front pages of local tabloids and swashed the streets with their fake news, such that the lily-livered were extremely afraid and began to doubt the governor's succession plan.

I recall how many men of God themselves expressed doubts over the victories of Pastor Umo Eno. Many came to my office to avail me with several revelations and prophecies they purportedly had about how the enemies have truncated the succession plan and how terrible the shame will rub on those of us who staked our necks and faith in the project - all in an attempt to kill our faith but we stood still.

How frightening they described their filthy dreams and prophecies. But thank God for Nehemiah who said, 'How can a man like me run and hide in the altar because of lies the enemies were orchestrating.'

My resolve was akin to the Nehemiah's; I refused to bend because I knew the God of Pastor Umo Eno would not fail. But today, I'm applauding Governor Udom Emmanuel and wife for their firmness, faith and commitment to their vision of Pastor Umo Eno as successor.

Yes, Udom Emmanuel and the wife deserve a lot of applause. They are the real heroes of these victories. If the enemies succeeded at wounding their heart to succumb to blackmails, today's celebration would have been stolen away. Thank God Gov. Udom Emmanuel stood firm to his conviction. He never swerved to the right or left in all the troubles the detractors instigated. They are my real heroes of victories.

I recall during the Campaigns how Martha Udom Emmanuel bestrided the entire LGAs of Akwa Ibom State to promote the cause she believed in. In one of those campaigns, I observed from a distance how tired this godly woman was, yet she never showed any signs of weariness. Her faith in God and the succession plan kept her going. She was focused despite the cacophonous rows that the opposition elements instigated.

She's really a woman of strength; a model of determination, faith and pursuit of a cause one believes in. She's the real heroine of faith. I salute this great woman! I salute Governor Udom Emmanuel; Your Excellency you're the real hero. Your faith, your confidence, your forthrightness and tenaciousness have brought unbelievable victories to Akwa Ibom State.

Apostle Dr. James Okrok, JP

The just concluded pilgrimage to Israel has occupied much of my meditating moments. The frills and anxieties, especially the discoveries that made Bible texts as real as the blue morning skies, brightened by the rising sun, have kept me trapped with ecstatic relish of what it was when the greatest of all men, Lord Jesus Christ, walked those paved paths.
Ever since I returned from that trip to Jerusalem, I must confess that my first experience and experiment in the holyland have been a library of information and I have been reviewing notes upon notes to update my knowledge of Bible history, as someone saddled with responsibility to teach others.
But Friday 3rd February, 2023, a piece of writing caught my attention and I found it very interesting. It was a post from the governorship candidate of African Democratic Congress (ADC) Arc Ezekiel Nya Etok. I also listenned to his voice note on one of the media platforms, as follow up to his earlier comments, where he took upon himself the role of washing pigs so they could become clean but very sad, they will always return to the mire.
The noble gentleman architect was passionately arguing in defence of the current status of ACA and the decision she has taken (or not yet taken as the architect was deceived to believe) in the current political equation.
To be kind, Arc Ezekiel Nya Etok does not know much of the subject he has delved into or at best, he has half information - those he has surrounded himself with do not tell him the truth. In fact, they are worst than shrewd politicians who would vow to build bridges in a landlocked community, when they know the people don't need bridges there.
If Arc Ezekiel Nya Etok was told the truth about ACA's formation and her principles, then he would have understood the main reason behind the desperation of the president of ACA to enthrone a cultist governor, against Governor Udom Emmanuel and the Fathers of Faith's stance, I submit that this noble architect, who has contributed a lot to build the Nigerian state and especially Akwa Ibom State, would have long ago, distanced himself from the wolves he has surrounded himself with in the estranged Akwa Ibom Christian Assembly.
I will take on few aspects that the ADC guber candidate touched on. I'm doing so in deference to him because I have great regards for him, even though he has admitted he wants to swirl in the mire with pigs to muddle his stainless political career in the merciless quagmire ad infinitum. Who will bail out Arc Ezekiel Nya Etok before he soils his good name? When did Arc Ezekiel Nya Etok, an honourable professional in housing development and a social security exponent, descend so low to become a spokesman for Archbishop Cletus Bassey and ACA?
As I write this, I'm seriously fighting back tears because this intelligent grey-headed son of the great Annang nation has allowed himself to be hoodwinked by the cassock-wearing, suave-talking swanky archbishop. Doesn't the architect know that the archbishop is climbing on his reputation to keep few poorly informed people around him?
I'm saddened by my kinsman's bravery in public defence of the indefensible, all because he wants to get the support of Archbishop Cletus Bassey and his infamous ACA for his election on March 11, 2023. Believing in the archbishop is like leaning on a broken staff. If this clergyman can betray Governor Udom Emmanuel, betray his fellow clergymen, betray the Fathers of Faith, including those who raised him up, like the eminent Papa Elijah Akpan Mboho, then who can he not betray?
Let me come back to few issues you raised in your write up and voice note. You said you have been a member of ACA from inception. This is not correct, you only started hobnobbing with ACA last year when Archbishop Cletus Bassey was looking for a few credible people to appear in his meetings. Then he started inviting you and Engr. James Iniama to his meetings. But James Iniama later reclined after realizing it was all a gimmick to milk him.
In case you were not told the truth, ACA was formed in 2017 personally by Governor Udom Emmanuel. The archbishop knew nothing about it until he was invited and handed the presidency of ACA since he just ended his second term as CAN Chairman, Akwa Ibom State chapter.
As a member of the immediate past CAN administration, some of my colleagues then had opposed ACA's formation, as it was perceived as a parallel body to rival CAN. It took some while before the leadership of CAN then understood the role ACA was set up to play before it supported it. It was a risky adventure then because the archbishop had already lost the confidence of the Christian body.
Given his antecedents in betraying people, he wouldn't have been the right person to preside over ACA but sometimes you have to stoop to win. Even at that, his character of betrayal soon manifested. He betrayed Governor Udom Emmanuel whoopingly and ran away to the US during the battle for second term election, he only returned three months after that election.
Why did he run? He collected much money from APC, leveraging his closeness to Rev. Mrs. Angela Ashong who had had strong ties with Senator Godswill Akoabio's wife, to reach Mr. Nsima Ekere. When the bubble burst, he fled.
Having registered ACA with himself as president, and knowing he will never be taken seriously by those he betrayed, he was to later bundle Rev. Mrs. Angela Ashong along to sign an undertaken with Senator Bassey Albert. Since he lost favour with Governor Udom Emmanuel - who was funding the operations of ACA - he must survive, so he sold the group to Senator Bassey Albert.
The senator who was delighted to have ACA's backing, immediately doled out millions to the archbishop who immediately rented an appartment for ACA in a posh part of Ewet Housing Estate, lavishly furnished it, staffed it, but the archbishop in his evasive manner lied that the apartment was rented through contribution of funds by the LGA coordinators. As I'm writing, I can boldly say that none of the 31 LGA coordinators contributed a penny. Is lying now becoming a norm for this clergyman?
Arc Ezekiel Nya Etok should now realize that the archbishop he is defending in the media space has no regards for a gentleman's agreement. As far money is concerned, he tills in its pull. Why he still holds onto OBA is because no other candidate has given him more than what he got from the senator.
The archbishop has never denied that he got millions from OBA. He is only denying that he hasn't named any candidate yet, even though heaven and earth have borne witness that OBA is the person he has sold ACA to. Of course for him, the game is money.
In mid 2019 he returned from the US broke. The first thing he did was to sell his expansive land housing the Vision Theological Seminary at Nsukara Offot. It takes a man who is so broke to mortgage his historical heritage. Vision Theological Seminary at Ekamba Nsukara was the only surviving establishments to remember the archbishop's days as an apostle.
Vision Bible Seminary a decade ago was like a pilgrimage ground for some young bible students and budding gospel ministers. Selling it, just like he sold his sound and sight production studios, Lifetone Studios Limited, was in his desperate move to survive financially as he had lost out on government patronage.
Arc Ezekiel Nya Etok made it clear in his voice note that Archbishop Cletus Bassey never sat with him to discuss money. This is not true. Archbishop Cletus Bassey has said it countless times that whoever wants to be governor must consult ACA - that means money. ACA was never established to host political candidates on consultations.
The architect, it was widely reported consulted ACA and the archbishop with a huge amount and likewise others. What one should ask him is! Was ACA established to throw her doors open for political gains or was it established to help the indifferent Christian community find a platform to unite for good governance, the sustenance of peace and the emergence of an egalitarian society?
Now, who's funding ACA? I'm glad you know that OBA is funding ACA, then why did the archbishop say ACA had no candidate to support yet, why is he lying in the open and disgracing what was supposed to be a noble cause?
Do you not know that Archbishop Cletus Bassey is planning a major outing later this month where he will formally declare support for OBA and adopt him as ACA candidate for the 2023 elections? With this, do you not consider that all this while, the archbishop has been deceiving you? Or are you saying you will leave your noble cause and enviable niche you have carved for your distinguished self all these years, and collapse ADC into OBA's YPP once the archbishop announces OBA in the open this month or next? Answers left to be heard!
Now, why has Bishop Samuel Daniel, an attack dog of the archbishop who has been your key supporter now playing double standards by backing OBA against your interest? Why are members of ACA now leading YPP in sensitive positions? What is Apostle Nnyenime Andy doing in ACA now, after he left because he had a sharp disagreement with Archbishop Cletus Bassey in 2018? This same Nnyenime Andy once vowed to drive the archbishop away from town and make himself a leading priest in Akwa Ibom State but now a common ground both found in OBA has united them.
My amiable ADC guber candidate, these are happenings that you need to know and realize now or later that the archbishop is on a cosy roller coaster journey with you. He hasn't any genuine commitment to you, yet you have plowed in faith and resources. Sad!
The overt presence of YPP officials in ACA meetings should let you know that there is already alliance the two bodies have entered. Your continued romance with them indicates that you are allowing the archbishop to canole you to team up with OBA in a fight against Governor Udom Emmanuel. If this happens, then you will have done a great damage to your cherished noble character, reputation and integrity of several years. It's better you fight on the side of nobility and fail than join the regae beats of the leaf party to your most regretable outcome.
While I still hold you in very high regards for your tenacious sense of dedication and determination to ensure there's good governance, it will save our generation a note of kindness if you detach yourself from those whose sense of decency and morals is questionable.

- Okrok teaches in a seminary in Abia State, hails from Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State

By Hope Otoyo, Uyo

Finally, the gripping effect of the hole up of Senator Bassey Albert - a consequent of his bail on health grounds that won't let him freely interact with his base and physically campaign -
is fast telling on his governorship bid, as hundreds of his supporters ebb out gradually for shelter where they find better hope.

A visit by this reporter to campaign headquarters of the embattled senator and candidate of YPP in Akwa Ibom State, presented an exhibition of the shadows of its past glories, as the place was completely deserted and abandoned by party faithful and supporters of OBA. And this has been a regular feature of the OBA campaign office for weeks.

Driving into the sprawling arena along Edet Akpan avenue, Uyo, met me with an awe, as not even the gatemen were around to attend to me.

I spent about a quarter of an hour within the premises just to ensure my hunch was wrong but to my surprise, no one was available, as I drove off.

The deserted OBA campaign premises is just one of the tell-tale signs that hundreds of the embattled senator's supporters have moved over to other parties or were frozen chilled by the sad tale of the senator's conviction and the likelihood that, as the election day looms larger, things may continue to fall apart and debilitating.

Also observed was the scarcity of OBA wife's presence during the ward tours of YPP which are coordinated by party officials mainly for those candidates standing for national and state assemblies elections.

A party official, who would not be named, said most of the staff and officials of the party whose offices are located in the four storey building of OBA campaign building were on the field. He however averred that the chances of their principal at the polls were depleted heavily by the legal landmines laid by EFCC.

To make it worse for the YPP candidate, there is a battery of internal wranglings in the party administration.

Party officials are at danger's drawn edge with the chairman of the party, Apostle Nnyenime Andy.

Their grouse, according to one of the senior party officials who pleaded anonymity, was about Apostle Nnyenime Andy's high-handedness, greed and lack of leadership quality of a party man. He said Apostle Andy's obsession with "eat it all alone" attitude has polarized party officials, making the party ill prepared for the elections.

A source hinted how many of the EXCO members of the leaf-clutching party have had to go without allowances for months, just because the party chairman has pocketted monies released by OBA for operations of the party.

It was also revealed that Andy runs the operations of the party from his pocket, leaving out sensitive party officials in the administration of funds and resources of the organization.

The source volunteered: "Apostle Nnyenime Andy is too money conscious; running the party as if it is his personal business. There's no internal cohesion among party EXCO."

He added that the apostle, who has received over three vehicles and two houses from OBA so far, has boasted that he singlehandedly brought OBA to the party and that he was going to deal with any party official who complains against him. He was reported to once barked at the EXCO members during meeting and stormed out, threatening to deal with anyone trying to question how he runs the party.

Although such posturing never went well with party officials, everyone was said to keep sealed lips and jeopardize their hope that the gubernatorial candidate of the party, OBA, would fulfill his pledge of donating cars and logistics supports to the party officials penultimate elections weeks.

"But sadly the turnout of events today is dimming the light of that pledge by the day, " the frustrated party official lamented.

On the expectation that the convicted senator will complete the appeal against his conviction before elections, feelers have it that OBA himself is so afraid and would not intensify efforts towards appealing the conviction.

Fears are rife that the appellate court might uphold the judgment of the federal high court, Uyo, which convicted him for money laundry, a crime against the state, and that such could drive a death nail on his political career.

Party source expatiated that the senator prefers to quietly exploit his extensive network in the national assembly and the federal capital territory (FCT) to lobby against the EFCC stance.

It is yet to know if EFCC will press further on the case.

Cletus Bassey Administers Oath of Secrecy to Members , As Ntia Ntia, Ors Absent

By Udeme Silas

ACA president, Archbishop Cletus Bassey yesterday placed curses on disloyal members who act as moles in the organization, by releasing vital information over his clandestine support to Senator Bassey Albert's governorship aspirations.

The furious clergyman, who maintained that ACA was the only organization to produce the next Akwa Ibom State governor, issued out curses at the body's summit at Destiny Mission Church, Uyo, Thursday May 19.

He also threw spats at Governor Udom Emmanuel for patronizing foreign preachers and vowed to fight against pastors who are not Akwa Ibomites taking over the priesthood roles at the state government functions.

Our reporter who was denied entrance into the hall during the occasion, was reliably informed by a source who attended the meeting from Ikot Ekpene Senatorial zone of Akwa Ibom State that the meeting was to launch a Gatekeeping mission to protect the state from invasion by missionaries from outside, as the body favoured only indigenous missionaries.

When pressed further, the source said: "I cannot say much because we are under oath not to reveal what was discussed at the meeting."
Our reported who milled around the premises while the meeting lasted, observed that members were scared to speak to press as the archbishop had placed curses on members for divulging messages given at the meeting to members of the public.

Notwithstanding, we learnt he appointed one Bishop Ekpo, 85, to chair the Gatekeepers forum. He also took time to attack the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel for not supporting his candidate as his successor and sworn to fight the governor to a standstill. He was said to assure the gathering of his ability to install the next governor and become the leader of the priesthood order in the next government.

Meanwhile, prominent indigenous ministers like Rev. Ntia I. Ntia were not sighted amongst those who attended the meeting, except Apostle Nnyenime Andy, Rev. Angela Ashong and her husband, Prof Ashong Ashong.
Ntia Ntia, it was revealed was prevailed upon by an influential preacher in the Federal Capital City who warned him to stay off ACA political meetings to avoid his support backfiring at his church.

Top Clergies Dump ACA, Cletus Bassey fights dirty

By Offiong Tom, Uyo

Prominent church heads and founding members of Akwa Ibom Christian Assembly (ACA) have dumped the body, leaving only few unknown leaders of the Christian community with him, since he sold the body to a senator biding for governorship seat 2023.
At her gatekeeping meeting where he sourced for new members, especially elders, seats were almost empty, even the high table had only Bishop Awasiakan Otong from Etim Ekpo, with him and a handful of ministers.
More shocking discovery was made when Rev. Mrs. Angela Ashong, the Archbishop Cletus Bassey closet ally and Evang. Smith Ukpong, Rev. Ntia Ntia, Apostle Andy Nnyenime who graced previous meetings, were not sighted throughout the hours the meeting lasted.
Enquiries indicated that since Governor Udom Emmanuel presented Pastor Umo Eno, a founding board member of ACA, several prominent ministers of influence have shunned all entreaties to attend ACA's meetings, as it was found out the body was against the Governor's succession project.
Meanwhile, ACA's president, Archbishop Cletus Bassey has appealed to coordinators to hire buses with people for another meeting next Thursday.
The re-gathering of ACA, a source in his church said is to fight the Governor Udom Emmanuel's succession plan, because of OBA whom he has supported all along.

UMO ENO: THE LIGHT SHINETH!

Ima Nkanta
In the words of erudite clergy, Prelate Prof. Isaiah Issong, "No shaking, no quaking and no fearing! Come Monday 29 the May, 2023, Pastor Umo Eno will be sworn in as the Governor of Akwa Ibom State." This pulsating note has continued to stimulate courage, unify team spirit and strengthen the resolve of pastors to support the Completion Agenda vision of Gov. Udom Emmanuel and soar supports for Pastor Umo Eno.

As time inches towards primary election, the party delegates should stop and ponder for a minute about the future of Akwa Ibom State. They should vote for light, and against darkness.

For the delegates, statutory or ad hoc, this is your finest moment to make a selfless but best decision that will guarantee us a better and healthier Akwa Ibom State - after this administration.

We must know that this election is between light and darkness. Pastor Umo Eno is light and those who fight the light are fighting God; there's no darkness in God. Those who boast of being cultist (s) for Christ are liars. God cannot be identified with darkness.

1John 1:5 says: "This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all."

Delegates must consider the sacredness of the above scripture and integrate it into their decision making process because the destiny of Akwa Ibom State and her citizens cannot, and must not, fall into the hands of cultists or occultists which all are all of darkness.

The dividends of darkness are sorrows, tears and blood. This is why light has come to shine and liberate us from the subjugating spell of cultists who had, in the past dispensation, held this state in the jugular until a King Josiah, in the person of Deacon Udom Emmanuel, came to break down their evil altars.

Now that he has prepared to exit, God has aroused him in good time to present light to shine after his exit. Governor Udom Emmanuel, under the inspiration of the Spirit of God, knows very well that whatever progress this state has made in the last three administrations - those of Obong Victor Attah and Godswill Akpabio and the present one, would be completely reversed, if evil men grab the levers of power. Let the light shine!

However, those who love darkness hate light with passion. Like Herod the king of old at Jesus' time, haters of light would rather mow it down, than let it shine. But Jesus the light survived because God hid him. Pastor Umo Eno is of light. The light shineth!

The Church, all eti oku ye ndito Abasi, cannot sit on the fence and let the noise continue to rumble from the island of darkness. The Church must rise and seize the moment - prayer must be offered more and more to dwarf the evil craftiness of the agents of darkness - whose interest is to destabilize the hard earned peace of Akwa Ibomites.

Discerning delegates must vote for light and let it shine brighter and brighter in Akwa Ibom State. With the light is our light also. With Pastor Umo Eno shall we all enjoy light. Scripture says: "For with you is a fountain of life, and in your light we will see light." Psalm 36:9

WHAT'S CLETUS BASSEY UP TO?

By Apostle James Okrok

I am back and thank God for a safe trip, inspite the Russian haze. Vladimir Putin will go down history as the most unfortunate chapter in leadership in this era. It's unthinkable that, in spite of how provoked he would have been over overtures for Ukraine, his estranged brother, to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) for whatever reasons; economic, security, technology, etc., Putin rolled out tanks against Ukraine.

The situation ante required more of diplomacy and continuous regional engagement for proper alignment, than exercising brute military might. Diplomacy will have helped better than invading an independent nation in broad daylight.

Putin's action, howsoever bookmakers may labour hard to justify, does not sync with today's global search for peace, intercontinental harmony and brotherhood. We are still watching every moment to see the end of Putin's madness. But it will certainly trademark him as the dark horse of the millennium.

But leave that apart! I see something more worrisome back home here in Akwa Abasi Ibom State, a Christian State that is dominated by Bible carrying believers, who throng big cathedrals and chapels each worship day to either preach or listen to sermons on brotherly love, kindness, mercy, reconciliation, forgiveness, humility and so on. But how many actually practice same is left in the gauge stand of the One who is theJudge of all.

I am amazed by the cooperation exhibited in the Body of Christ towards politics and the political process in the recent times. Most outstanding being the supports Christians across Akwa Ibom State are giving to Pastor Umo Eno, who has been and is still, a very close member of the Christian bodies under CAN in Akwa Ibom State.

Though, I presently lecture in Aba theological seminary but I'm excited to find out that no state in Nigeria has ever shown the kind of cooperation and support to a pastor in public space as Pastor Umo Eno; a former businessman and Church founder, has received.

But last week, as I combed through pages of local papers, I found out that the few content of criticisms emanated from the divide of Obong Bassey Albert (OBA). His attack dogs have been released to throw muds as much as they could. But all to no avail because Pastor Umo Eno has already been blessed; you can never curse or bewitched a man who has been blessed.

Sadly, Archbishop Cletus Bassey, my able former Chairman, CAN, Akwa Ibom State , Chairman AKS PFN and current Chairman Christian Welfare Pilgrim Board - a great beneficiary of this government; alongside Rev Mrs. Angela Ashong, his co-traveller in the tropospheric road of history, have not thought it necessary to align with the Church. Is it because of how he initially vowed to his followers the senator was 'the preferred successor' and had assured them that Governor Udom Emmanuel was going to name OBA as his successor? He shouldn't let the weight of what his followers will say prevent him for doing the needful and align because we all knew he was being delusional for the love of money.

Now, how heart-broken Cletus Bassey has been ever since God did not go his way - because the answer of every prayer is of God. I understand that his camp has already been thrown into disarray. But this is normal; he should know that it's normal to face such disappointment.

The most noble thing I expected Cletus Bassey and Mama Ashong to do should not be to hang on to a failed agenda but reach out to Pastor Umo Eno who is their friend and brother in the Body of Christ to wish him well. But this has not happened.

What I'm seeing are sponsored attacks from the camp where Cletus Bassey and Ashong are. These attacks are not only against the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, their greatest benefactor, but against Pastor Umo Eno, their very close brother who was also very beneficial to them.

Secondly, it is a painful observation to learn that Cletus Bassey has not even thought it honourable to reach out to those who made him what he is today. These are spiritual fathers of Akwa Ibom State - Archbishop Elijah Akpan Mboho, Apostle Isaiah Issong, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai -to seek rapprochement over his misfired passion in supporting and anointing someone who has propensity to forment violence and ungodliness on the State of Akwa Ibom State, where Gov. Udom Emmanuel has won battles against cult carnivalism and its attendant threat to peace and security.

I understand that the Church fathers in Akwa Ibom State have extended olive leaf to Cletus Bassey but he has bluntly refused. Pity! This posture was why I raised alarm over his plan to escape to US once his hattricks for 2023 fail. Yet his blind sympathizers threw stones at me. Three of them almost lynched me at a wedding ceremony lately for criticizing their Papa but today they have realized I was not wrong.

I was in US when Cletus Bassey secured American Green cards for all members of his immediate family; he also bought houses in US for permanent stay after the 2023 elections. His plans are to collect as much money as he could from whoever comes to consult him and his ACA for governorship and delude them.

This is why has said many times in his meetings that Pastor Umo Eno must consult him and ACA. Isn't it laughable that Pastor Umo Eno who is a founding board member of ACA should now turn and consult the organization he helped finance and build?

I expected that by now Cletus Bassey and Ashong would have held public applause and affirmation of the will of God on one of them as Governor Udom Emmanuel's successor but he is reluctant because he has collected so much money from OBA and he's almost choked. It's pitiable!

His strategy now is to sponsor proxies to attack the sitting Governor and the soon-to- be- sworn in- governor.

Cletus Bassey's next move is to dig out filths to pour on the Fathers of Faith - Prelate Mbang, Apostle Isaiah Issong are already on his blacklist. His plan is to attack these Church leaders with such ferocious propensity that will make them appear as hypocrites.

He sat with his LGAs Coordinators at a meeting held not long ago and carefully chose the phrase hypocrite as their slur word against the fathers. His next moves will be too dirty to imagine. What's Cletus Bassey up to?

A new Bank that will cater for the needs of micro, small and medium scale enterprises, boost investment drive of the citizens and strengthen the private sector economy, will hit the business and financial market of Akwa Ibom State this week.
The Bank, known as Ibom Fadama Microfinance Bank Limited, is set to commence business on Friday 28th January, 2022. It has the vision of becoming a pace setter in Microfinance banking.
The Bank, situated at No 3 Udotong Ubo Street, Uyo, will be formally commissioned by the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel to commence full Microfinance banking business.
According to the Managing Director of the Bank, Imaobong Michael Etuk, Ibom Fadama Microfinance Bank Limited is set to provide solutions to entrepreneurs, farmers and those doing business at the lowest level of the society. However, in keeping with its name, the Bank will pay special attention to farmers in Akwa Ibom State.
Speaking to newsmen in her office, the MD/CEO said: “Our focus is to help small businesses and households grow on a sustainable basis. As a Microfinance banking institution, we understand the economic challenges of small businesses and are prepared to help them overcome these challenges and grow their investments steadily and sustainably.” The Bank will also provide investment opportunities to individuals, salary earners and organizations by way of Deposit and loan products.
Ibom Fadama Microfinance Bank Limited is ‘’Your Growth Partner’’ and as such we are poised to provide customized solutions to challenges of individuals, households and businesses that will culminate in tangible and measurable growth.
The MD/CEO in her closing remarks expressed her sincere gratitude to the State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, for his support to indigenes and residents of Akwa Ibom State and urged Akwa Ibomites to embrace the new Microfinance Bank as “your growth partner”.
The Bank which is being run by a team of certified professionals led by Pastor Umo Bassey Eno as the Chairman, is set to bring relief to individuals, households, farmers, wage/salary earners, traders, micro, small and medium scale enterprises, Ibom Fadama Microfinance Bank Limited- your growth partner.

A coalition of Human Rights and civil societies, Akwa Ibom state Chapter has called on Akwa Ibom people to throw their weights behind Governor Udom Emmanuel to enable him pick a successor that will continue to maintain the peace that is prevalent in all nukes and crannies of the state.
And also a successor that will maintain the tempo of infrastructural reinnsssance of development that is ongoing in the state or even surpass.
The state chairman, Dr. Hilkiah Eliathah stated this today while interacting with a select journalists in Uyo, capital of Akwa Ibom state. Flanked by other members of the non governmental organization, including Hon. John Ekanem, the state secretary and Dr. Emmanuel Akpan, Vice Principal, Government Technical College, Ewet housing, Uyo, Rev. Dr.. Eliathah was however silent on who is most fitted for the job among the many aspirants.

Scoring Governor Udom Emmanuel high in all areas of development such as Education, road network, industrialization and airline to mention but a few, the chairman said Governor Udom Emmanuel is running the government as if he is in America, impacting on everybody without making noise.
"The peace that is being felt in the rural areas of the state enables everyone wherever, to sleep with his or her two eyes closed at night and walk freely in the day time without incidences of kidnappings or cult clashes that claim lives."
"For the industries, whether they are sited in one local government area or not, provided they're not cited in Dubai, China or Barbados, is a welcome development for the middle class citizens while Ibom Air provides timely service to the elites who can fly," he said.
However before he was asked what must have motivated him to go all out in support of Governor Emmanuel. His answer was something Nigerians should emulate because this is a country that before you hear of people supporting our leaders they must have lined their pockets with wads of Naira notes in exchange.
"It may surprise you to know that I have not collected a dime from Governor Udom Emmanuel nor any contract. But two things he has done that have touched me are that I can now drive straight to my house in my village courtesy of the good road by him, secondly his government has made Uruan oil producing. I can go on the road naked in solidarity with him if necessary," he vowed.
On his part Dr. Emmanuel Akpan said Udom has done well in education sub sector by paying teacher salaries as at when due, adding that all promotion arrears have been paid.
Also teachers have been trained and retrained and subvention paid
without delay. On the issue of payment of West African School Certificate Examination fees, he said the Governor had already made it known that the government was no longer going to accommodate non indigenes after paying for their tuition fees, saying that the N4,000 charged indigenes is for documentation purposes.

UNRAVELING THE MYSTERY BEHIND THE REFORMED AKWA IBOM CHRISTIAN ASSEMBLY (ACA) - A DETAILED PERSPECTIVE OF EVENTS

One of the recurring questions about the reformed and regrouped Akwa Ibom Christian Assembly (ACA) is why the structure and hierarchy of the Christian body is not the same as it was before they went into hibernation shortly after the inauguration of HE's second term in office. Why would the Fathers of Faith which was the anchor structure upon which the body evolved and revolved seem to distance itself from the reformed ACA?
To properly address this, and any other question of interest, it is important to delve slightly into the history and formation of the group later to be known as Akwa Ibom Christian Assembly (ACA).

Akwa Ibom Christian Assembly, alias ACA came into existence as a replacement to the defunct Akwa Ibom Consolidation Alliance, and incidentally, both are known by the same acronym - ACA. The latter (i.e. Consolidation Alliance) was the creation of the former State Gov. Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio as a succession campaign platform which drew supports from across the political bigwigs in the PDP in the state and this was used to midwife the first term of his successor in the person of Dcn. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel with the special committee codenamed, Divine Mandate and a slogan, "Continuity". The core supporters of the movement included, but not limited, to the party heavyweights with reliance on the blessings from the Traditional Institutions who were maximally mobilized and motivated for that purpose. There was little or no priority attention given to the Christian bodies which were much in disarray at the time with express show of scepticisms between the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) and the long standing Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).

Two successive events led to some radical changes in the political equation in Akwa ibom state.
The first is that shortly after the assumption of power by the APC led federal government in 2015, it became glaring that a religious agenda was invoked at the center and they were seriously poaching the greedy and unwary politicians in the southern states through promises of appointments and threats of investigations by the EFCC. Akwa Ibom State was not spared. Secondly, governor Udom Emmanuel became uneasy with the mixed multitude of the Akwa Ibom Consolidation Alliance which drew strengths from a combination of persons who were cult complicit and the core traditionalists who claimed glory to some of the occurrences. Himself being a deacon of the revered Qua Iboe Church, it became obvious that the only group to resort to was the christian associations, notwithstanding the fact that this was also a conglomerate of birds of different feathers.
Taking advantage of the religious disposition of an average Akwa Ibom person and the obvious threat of Islamization from the center, the stage became set for the birth of a formidable Akwa Ibom Christian Assembly. Prominent amongst the progenitors of the Christian assembly were the prelate emeritus, Dr. Sunday Mbang, Prelate Dr. Isaiah Isong, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, Bishop Cletus Bassey, etc etc. amongst a few non indigenous clergies. This fore runner group later became known as the Fathers of Faith (FoF). The birth of FoF and subsequent formation of ACA (the christian version) marked a paradigm shift of power from the traditional institution and political "timber and caterpillar" in the state to a religious power source.
As the new political cum religious movement was gathering steam, the tempo suddenly changed with the poaching of the political god-father of the governor by the APC government at the center. This singular incident which was nicknamed the Uncommon defection, marked a turning point in ACA, and with the threats of WARSAW in the air, the slogan of ACA which was "ONE BODY, ONE VOICE" penetrated the consciousness of the Akwa Ibom christian community. A battle line was drawn between the emerging loyalists of the Sokoto Caliphate and the christian remnants in the state. For the first time, and in the face of a collective threat of islamization and Fulanization, the division and scepticisms in the ranks of CAN and PFN thinned out. The fathers of Faith was seen as God's timely intervention in the affairs of Akwa Ibom state politics.
But as the threats from the caliphate became more dreading and the possibility of a forceful takeover of the state reached its crescendo, some high ranking persons within ACA started to divide their loyalty. Regrettably, a very high ranking personage in the hierarchy of ACA was reasonably suspected to have been compromised as reports started filing in that a few of them or their privies were sighted during some nocturnal gatherings of the sultanates. This allegations became crystalized when, in the last days before the 2019 general elections, this leading ACA official took a flight out of the country on "health" grounds only to return after the dusts had settled and the Akwa Ibom citizens had shown their resolve not to be cowed into a religion of the moon gods. Needless to mention that the fleeing top echelon of ACA was confirmed to have been irredeemably compromised by the powers at the national with a promise to either turn ACA to the central government or simply play the spoiler game and this level of compromise made even the funds which accrued to his office in ACA look like a peanut.

That entire episode explains why the christian version of ACA went into hibernation shortly after the successful inauguration of HE's second term because the word "Trust" was completely eroded in the assembly.

In order to sift the chaff from the grains, His Excellency went on to take what became the most daring step of all times in the history of Akwa Ibom state. He proscribed cultism and 33 cult groups in the state not only in the media as his predecessors may have done before, but also in real life. He set up machineries to enforce the proscription.
This daring act of the governor angered some PDP bigwigs who claimed to have heavily staked their human "militia" resources to protect the votes of the governor and now are being witch hunted by what they termed the obnoxious policy of government. As if to say wait to the end, His Excellency went on to foreclose employment and admission chances for any known cultist in its schools and Establishments.

The last straw came when HE audaciously declared that he did not intend to support any aspirant with cult complicity to the Hilltop Mansion. He however gave options that either you renounce cultism and offer yourself to serve Akwa Ibom people or you lose the support of the Akwa Ibom christian community. This non empty threat by His Excellency in collaboration with the FoF quickly resulted in an open confrontation and a subsequent confession by one of the top contenders who publicly declared that he is a "Cultist for Christ", a confession which aroused the curiosity of an average Akwa Ibom person who hitherto associated cultism with vices and other unchristlike practices.

The reason for the proscription in the first place was to curb the incessant cult clashes, killings and disappearances of people, especially our children, in the state which had by the efforts of many well meaning citizens started abating.
From the time of that uncommon confession, Akwa Ibom people started waiting patiently for an explanation or a manifestation of the "Cultist For Christ" package with the expectations that the novel movement will come up with an independent religious structure and a marketable ideologies. Events in this direction started unfolding in the later part of 2021 as many more persons started to declare interest in the race for the Hilltop job. In order not to get lost in the crowd, and in an attempt to launder the "Cult for Christ" assertion, the confessing aspirants took advantage of the jaundiced ACA and offered to refurbish it as a platform to incorporate both the like minded persons and the unwary Christians in the state. He found a fertile companion in the vulnerable posture of the same former ACA gladiator who had tasted of the cocumba and Onions of Egypt and by now had cornered a few money alergic clergies who became ready tools for manipulations against the PDP party structure in the state. To say the least, this movement comes as a direct affront to the non repentant governor with the "connivance" of the FoF who do not want to shift grounds to relax their deep rooted hatred for cultism in the state. Needless again to say that even the ranks of AKA also had the cult infiltration which subgroup also set up the Sons of Faith (SoF) movement with the aim of balcanising the FoF.

Today, the battle line is shifted from warding off the Islamic invasion of the state to a battle between the camp of the hardliner Governor who insists on bequeathing a cult free Hilltop mansion on the one part, and the regrouped ACA/SoF who insist on the return of status quo ante where no Akwa Ibom indigene is discriminated upon on grounds of involvement in cultism or any religious or similar reason(s).
The most significant part of this power play is the division in the ranks of the clergies who now face the daunting challenge of deciding where to pitch their tent and by extension the tent of their congregations in either of this two camps.
While the regrouped ACA/SoF have come up with a sponsored bi-monthly meeting to consolidate on the ideology of "Cultist for Christ" and a non discriminatory movement, the governor's camp and by extension the FoF have come up with the "Maintain Peace Movement" which has its slogan as "That Same God" and have proposed a periodic prayer program tagged "Finishing Strong".The "Maintain Peace Movement" is intended to persuade the people to choose between the violent and unsecured state where babies were pounded to pulp for political rituals and the present state where people can look up to a slow but steady God to choose who to grant power to. Both camps are busy evangelizing the Akwa Ibom population and are harvesting souls. Only God knows to whom and for what purpose these souls are harvested.

Coments:
CLETUS BASSEY: PRIDE OF A CLERGY

James Okrok, mcwa

Proverbs 16:18 (KJV) Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

For the past four weeks, I have refrained from making comments on Archbishop Cletus Bassey and his hysteria over the control of the political temperature of Akwa Ibom State.

I have watched moved with zest with the singular goal of installing his preferred candidate, so that he could become the spiritual father of Akwa Ibom State governor.

The person to produce the next governor, he has boasted, is not the incumbent governor' but himself.

He has announced that only his preferred choice; someone he would be able to influence and get the pecks of office as his spiritual father will succeed current governor.

Dear reader, I am not making this up myself, the archbishop has said so in the public.

Before you start throwing stones at me, let me remind you that several local media platforms have published several headlines on this subject, with the archbishop photographer superimposed on the covers.

Amongst several boasts of his are that the governor will not be able to produce a successor, that ignoring ACA will be the greatest undoing of the governor, that the governor does not have the monopoly of hearing God's voice, etc.

Very lately, he was quoted to have said that if the governor has not heard from God, he (archbishop) has already heard and that the governor should consult him.

This is where I have not been able to resist penning down these comments. In journalism, comments are sacred, and I am vouching for the sacredness of these comments.

Prophet Balaam was a popular seer in his days. He was consulted by many, including political heavyweights who needed his services for handsome rewards.

The Prophet Balaam, many thought is a true prophet but he isn't. He's more of bohemic spiritist who could divine.

The Balaam of old had the command of foretelling, the charisma and the language but he was driven more by greed and pride than God's purposes. His major interest was reward, not the kingdom.

Apostle Jude describes him as a greedy prophet: "Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core, "Jude 1:12.

The mystery about these Balaamic prophets is that even when people know they are lying and deceiving them, they still blindly follow because of crumbs promised them.

In our climes, we find more of Balaams in clerical attire than God's true prophets.

Some of the attributes of a Godly prophet are humility and respect to governmental authority. So when you see someone priding himself to be the archbishop of Akwa Ibom State, when fathers like Archbishop Elijah Mboho, Prelate Emeritus Dr .Sunday Mbang, CON and Prelate Prof. Isaiah Issong are still preaching and impacting lives, then such a archbishop of Akwa Ibom State is tipping towards a calamitous fall.

I need not remind Akwa Ibomites that Archbishop Cletus Bassey was once embarrassed publicly for displaying pride and impudence before Chief Godswill Akpabio.

I recall when Godswill Obot Akpabio was working hard towards his succession plan in 2015, it was this same archbishop who wanted the then Chief Godswill Akpabio to do his biddings.

His pride made him to disagree with the then governor at an event at Ibom Hall. Enraged, Governor Godswill Akpabio shouted him down, it was such an embarrassing scene to behold of a clergy.

He was the State CAN chairman then and had used his position to benefit from Chief Godswill Akpabio but because, just as he's jangling now, he wanted his own candidate and not the Governor's that drenched on him torrents of embarrassment.

But unfortunately, the archbishop is not a good student of history, else he would have humbled himself and not attempt to bite the fingers that feed him.

I need not remind Akwa Ibomites of the embarrassment he brought the church in Akwa Ibom State into over his ignominy at Asan Ibibio, where he was booed at and railed against by the Ibibios who felt that as a clergy, he ought to be an impartial abbiter in socio-political issues.

He has started again! This time his pride is edging him on to challenging Deacon Udom Emmanuel on his succession plan.
He will fail again!

Mocking His Excellency's decision that Akwa Ibomites should wait till God tells him who his successor is, the archbishop replied that if the governor has not heard from God, himself has heard. What a pride of a clergy!

At a public outing recently, he charged that the governor doesn't have the monopoly of hearing from God on who to succeed him.

It seems the archbishop has forgotten that kings have the exclusive privilege to determine who succeeds them.
As an ordained Deacon in a foremost denomination, Mr. Udom Emmanuel cuts into the two offices of a priest and a king.

You cannot fault him when he said, he's waiting for God to show him who the successor is.
If for anything, the Governor Udom Emmanuel's position on waiting on God has helped to bring calmness to the state, else by this new year several Balaams would have ignited fire on the polity with their dozens of prophecies on who will be the next governor.

If Cletus Bassey actually understands the place of the priests and kings, he shouldn't be so forward on the issue of succession but should exercise restraint while praying for God to reveal the person to His Excellency.

The fact that Cletus Bassey has gone into an unholy alliance with a candidate he wants to succeed Udom Emmanuel doesn't mean he should insult the governor and heat up the polity with his infamous rants.

The Governor has shown him enough respect, the governor has supported him and his church hugely, and he deserves some honour from him.

That the governor is quiet, a man of peace; does not mean the archbishop should throw spats at him because, as pride goes before a fall, the archbishop should be careful, else he is simply tipping to a disgraceful fall. And how great that would be!

©Apostle James Okrok is a member of Christian Writers Association; lives in Ewet Housing Estate, Uyo

An Interdenominational Prayer Day for National Repentance, Revival and Recovery.

Prophet Dr. Isa El Buba heartily invites all the Fathers of Faith, all Churches, members of Christian Association of Nigeria ( CAN), Business and Political Class to Akwa Ibom Mega Prayer Day on Thursday 21st October, 2021 by 12noon at Ibom Hall, IBB Avenue, Uyo - Akwa Ibom State with our Distinguished Guest of Honour: His Excellency, Deacon Udom Gabriel Emmanuel, Governor of Akwa Ibom State.

Powered by Akwa Ibom State Chapter of Initiative for a Better and Brighter Nigeria and The Redeemed Christian Church of God.

God bless Akwa Ibom State.

TAX RELIEFS GRANTED BY THE GOVERNOR OF AKWA IBOM STATE HIS EXCELLENCY MR. UDOM EMMANUEL

UDOM TRANSFORMS AKWA IBOM IGR COLLECTION
. . . generates N19 billion in 9 months
. . . pays salaries and entitlements to public servants promptly
. . . constructs over 1700km of roads
. . . upgrades health facilities across the State

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel has recorded another milestone in the economic sector of the State as he has raised the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the State to an all-time high since the creation of the State, 31 years ago.

Just as the Governor has performed creditably well in all areas of his 5-point Agenda which have since put him in a pole-position to receive maximum votes of the people in 2019, he has again raised the bar in collecting N19 billion in just 9 months this year, the highest ever recorded by the State.

Disclosing this while presenting the 2019 Budget Proposals christened, “Budget of Industrialization for Poverty Alleviation”, to the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly last Wednesday in Uyo, Governor Emmanuel said the IGR for 2018 as at September this year stood at N19.043 billion.

This is more than the N15.95 billion that the State realized in the whole of 2017 by N3.09 billion, even with the figure for the last quarter of 2018 yet to be added.
Facts gathered from the Joint Tax Board show the yearly collected IGR in Akwa Ibom State as follows:-
(i) 2008 - N9.55 billion
(ii) 2009 - N11.80 billion
(iii) 2010 - N12.03 billion
(iv) 2011 - N12.38 billion
(v) 2012 - N14.87 billion
(vi) 2013 - N15.40 billion
(vii) 2014 - N15.58 billion
(viii) 2015 - N14.78 billion
(ix) 2016 - N14.97 billion
(x) 2017 - N15.95 billion
(xi) 2018(9 months) N19.04 billion

This superlative performance in the IGR growth for 2018 could be attributed to a number of factors, principal among which include:-
(a) The autonomy that Governor Emmanuel granted the new Board of Internal Revenue which he empanelled about 17 months ago has since removed all encumbrances from the bureaucracy of the civil service, as was the case hitherto.
(b) Inauguration of an Executive Board headed by a financial whizkid and a top flight tax/public finance expert.
(c) Blockage of all forms of financial leakages within the State IGR process.
(d) Introduction of automation and technology in IRS operations.
(e) Stoppage of all tax payments through physical cash handling as all tax collections are now done directly through designated banks and online.

A manager with Access Bank in Uyo, Polycarp Bassey who read through the 2019 Budget Proposal online gave kudos to the State Governor and the Board of the State’s Internal Revenue for a job well, stressing that the Board must have overworked itself to realize N19.04 billion in 9 months in a purely civil service State like Akwa Ibom State.
He however noted that with the avowed determination of Governor Emmanuel to industrialize the state, the state is bound to reap bountiful IGR in the next couple of years as more Akwa Ibom youths would not only be employed but others would be involved in other productive and taxable ventures.

Another Akwa Ibom indigene, Pastor Bassey Isin who also spoke with our reporter said the spectacular feat achieved by the Akwa Ibom Internal Revenue Service in raising the State’s IGR to an all-time high in the first 9 months of this year should be attributed to the vision of His Excellency in putting together square pegs in square holes to manage the internally generated revenue for the government.

He maintained that as a financial expert himself, Governor Emmanuel is well positioned to know the type of buttons to press for maximum results to be achieved.

Noting that the highest IGR since the creation of the state was collected in only 9 months in a recessed economy, Pastor Isin stated that even in the immediate past period of boom where there were high level of employment and steady increase in economic activities, the state could not match what she has realized in 9 months this year, commending the IRS for a job well done.

The significant growth in IGR started in 2017 with the inauguration of the new Board which has Mr Okon Okon as the Executive Chairman. The Board immediately commenced the implementation of new strategies which combined has given the agency the needed boost and push that turned around the fortunes of the agency to realize her highest revenue collection of N19.04 billion in only 9 months.

Value for the tax-payers’ money include; payment of salaries and entitlements to public servants on or before the 28th of every month.
Governor Udom has also paid all outstanding pensions, and gratuities to retired workers up to 2015, in addition to paying backlog of promotion arrears from 2012 to 2014 in which more than 10,352 public servants have benefitted.

He has also in the same vein recruited about 4,761 teachers into the education sector, spanning through primary and secondary school teachers as well as the Polytechnic and College of Education lecturers.

On health, the maxim that health is wealth has continued to engage the attention of His Excellency through the provision of the following services to Akwa Ibom people.
- Free medical services for children below 5 years, pregnant women and the aged.
- Over 25 containers of State-of-the-art medical equipment have been procured and are being delivered to health institutions in the State.
- Construction and upgrading of secondary healthcare facilities across the State.
- Reconstruction and equipping of General Hospital, Etinan, which was commissioned last year by Vice President, Yemi Osinbanjo.
- Reconstruction and the commissioning of Ituk Mbang General Hospital. Reconstruction of Ikono General Hospital, Emmanuel Hospital, Eket and the General Hospital at Iquita, Oron. On-going reconstruction work at Ikot Okoro General Hospital. Some of these hospitals are fully digitalized with advanced health information management systems among other many other achievements in other sectors of the State’s economy.

*# UDOM 2019*

PDP RECEIVES OVER 5500 DECAMPEES FROM APC IN IDU URUAN by Pat Greg

It was a bee hive activities as the Chairman, BOT, Uruan Democratic Renaissance Group - Akparawa Okon Okon in his magnanimity, continues to champion support for Udom towards the forthcoming election in 2019. He officially received over 5500 persons who decamped from APC and other parties to PDP across the entire 11 wards in Uruan in the late hours of Friday 23/11/2018 at Idu.

Mr. Okon made this known while addressing the APC decampees in the open field of the Uruan Local Government Council headquarters, Idu.

The UDRG Chairman urged the decampees to support PDP and all her candidates in the forthcoming general elections in 2019 as it remains the yardstick for the Governor to return to the hilltop mansion next year.

The Chairman, Akwa Ibom State Road Maintenance and Other Infrastructure Agency (AKROIMA)/The Uruan Divine Mandate Coordinator - Akparawa Prince Godwin Ntukideh thanked Mr Okon for the initiative, while urging the decampees to support Mr Udom's second term bid. He also informed them that their support will bring even development to the entire Uruan.

A decampee from central Uruan Ward II said that this decision was taken to reciprocate and support Governor Udom's unwavering love for Uruan people.

In another development, Mr Iyire, a decampee from Southern Uruan Ward III lauded Mr Okon Okon for championing the decision they have engaged-in to join the PDP family to support Mr. Udom's second term bid for his good works to continue in Uruan.

Present at the occasion were; top government dignitaries, PDP Uruan chapter, political stalwarts, support groups and many others.