Author: Our Correspondent

By Joyce Babayeju

As Muslim faithful across Nigeria and the world celebrate Eid al-Adha, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) Chapel, has extended heartfelt Eid greetings to all Muslim journalists and the wider Muslim Ummah.

A statement by Comrade Ngozi Ufomba the
Chairperson, NUJ FCTA Chapel noted that Eid al-Adha, also known as Eid al-Kabir, is a season of deep spiritual reflection, sacrifice, and gratitude. “On this auspicious occasion, we celebrate the enduring values of faith, devotion, and obedience exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
May Allah accept your sacrifices and bless you with joy, peace, and prosperity. We pray that this sacred period strengthens our faith, unites our communities, and inspires us all to become better versions of ourselves” she noted.

She also called on muslim faithfuls to use the occasion to also reflect on the significance of selflessness, patience, and devotion to the will of Allah.

“The NUJ FCTA Chapel calls on all journalists to continue upholding the values of truth, peace, and national unity as we celebrate. We remain committed to fostering harmony, professional excellence, and mutual respect among all.
May this Eid Kabir bring us closer to one another and deepen our collective commitment to nation-building”.

“Eid Mubarak and Jummah Kareem to all our Muslim colleagues and their families.
Amin Ya Hayyu Ya Qayyum”. The statement concluded.

By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo

Three commissioners serving in the cabinet of Governor Uno Eno of Akwa Ibom have on Friday resigned from his cabinet in protest over the Governor’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressive Congress.

This is even as Eno during a brief speech at the official announcement of his defection in Uyo pledged to govern the state “through the prism of bipartisanship”

The trio of Prof Eno Ibanga, Mr Emem Bob and Comrade Ini Ememobong who served as Works, Finance and Special Duties/Ibom Deep Seaport Commissioners were said to have tendered their resignation.

It is also understood that the lawmakers representing ONNA and State Constituency in the state assembly Mr Sunday Johnny is also said to have rejected overtures from the Governor to join him to the APC.

Eno”s political godfather and his predecessor, Mr Udom Emmanuel is from ONNA local council, same as the just resigned finance commissioner and the lawmaker.

Ememobong in a statement said hr tendered his resignation to the Governor in compliance with his directive that his appointees who are unwilling to join him on the political journey to the APC should resign.

“While I cannot question or fault the Governor’s personal decision, I am unable to join in that sojourn. My decision is borne out of my belief in politics with principles and my long standing opposition to that political platform, which is daily validated by numerous Nigerians across many sectors.

” This decision does not affect my personal relationship with the Governor, who calls me his brother and reposed great confidence in me by saddling me with two very important ministries(Information and Special Duties & Ibom Deep Sea Port).I have and will continue to have tremendous respect for HE Governor Umo Eno, even out of EXCO.” He said.

Eno had said he officially joined the APC inorder to support President Bola Tinubu’s reelection bid, to align the state with national politics and to avoid being accused of playing anti party in the PDP.

“Why am I in the APC, you may ask? The answer is short and simple: Enlightened State Interest predicated on the need to align our State with the Centre to attract more Federal presence. . That is the truth-pure and simple as well as the exercise of my fundamental Right of Association as expressed in the 1999 Constitution as Amended.

“t is a known fact that, I have never hidden my admiration for the President and his patriotic devotion to national renewal which he is engendering today. I believe he is poised to replicate the Lagos magic on a larger national scale. I therefore, have no apologies for supporting him for a second term in office to complete the reforms he has started.

“Let me also say it here, that political parties are vehicles to run for elections. Governance in my considered opinion should be done, without rigid attachment to political labels, since these parties are not defined by ideology but by enlightened set of interests.

” In two years, since my inauguration as Governor, I have not worn a toga of a political party rather it has been my passionate commitment to pursuing the larger interest of our State and our people. The Arise Agenda, has been our Governance Blueprint, and that’s what it will be as we make this movement.

“I therefore, appeal to you my people to join me in this necessary movement to align our State with the Centre and to facilitate more development to our State.” The Governor said.

In the presence of Senate President, some APC governors led by Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo, solidarity messages were received from ALGON, State Assembly members, members of the State Executive Council and National Assembly members from the state.

…cites indictment by an FG Investigative panel

A socio-political in Eket, Eket Integrity Alliance, have called for the arrest and prosecution of Ibeno Paramount Ruler, Effiong Archianga on the grounds of his indictment for murder and arson, by a federal government judicial panel, dating back to 1993.

In a release signed by the Secretary General of the group, Barr. Peter Akpan, Eket Integrity Alliance condemned Effiong Archianga for his inciting outbursts, citing the Akwa Ibom Map Law as the reason behind the monarch’s actions

Eket Integrity Alliance disclosed that Archianga’s was indicted for murder and arson by the Judicial Commission of Inquiry, set up in 1993 by the then military government to unravel the mystery surrounding the dispute between Eket, Uquo Ibeno, Mbo and Onna local government areas.

The Commission was headed by a retired Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Ephraim Akpata.

“In 1993, Effiong Archianga sold out his Ekid people to Ibeno, a settler clan. Archianga joined Ibeno to commit genocide against the people of Esit Urua in Eket Local Government Area between December 1992 and April 1993 in the fight to annex Stubbs Creek, land of the Ekid people to Ibeno.”

“The Federal Military Government appointed a Panel of Inquiry into the disturbances and in Page
86 of the Panel’s Report, Effiong Archianga was indicted for murder and arson and recommended for prosecution.

“But it is sad that rather than answering to charges preferred against him, he frog-leaped into becoming a village head”

The group described the Akwa Ibom Map Law as the perfect gift from Udom Emmanuel which put an end to the many years of lies and mischief that Archianga and his cohorts have been thriving on.

“We are very much aware that this State Law which Chief Archianga and his trouble seekers are fighting against, is currently in a court of competent jurisdiction. His anger and bile against Mr Emmanuel stems from the fact that the former Governor, acceded to the voice
of natural reasoning by righting years of injustice and deprivation that defied every legal means of containment.”

“Effiong Archianga as expected, will always whine and moan about the Akwa Ibom Map Law as one of his problems because Udom Emmanuel toed the part of peace by giving the State its first ever gazetted map hence putting an end to the lies and deceit Archianga and his cohorts have been peddling for years especially over the ownership of the Stubbs Creek Forest despite the 1918 Privy Court judgement.”

Eket Integrity Alliance also frowned at Effiong Archianga for consistently beating drums of war through his utterances against Ekid Nation which his origin can be traced.

The group also called on the Ibeno Paramount Ruler to desist from heating up the polity at any given opportunity especially when the State Government had forbidden Royal Fathers from granting interviews especially on contentious issues in the state.

“It is noteworthy that the self-acclaimed ‘Professorial’ royal father’s short memory has prevented him from remembering the directive of the State Government, that forbids all
monarchs from granting interviews, especially on contentious issues.

“This is especially more disturbing, given the huge investments, personal appeals and massive efforts of His Excellency, Governor Umo Eno, to institutionalize peace across all parts of the state.

They further revealed that the title of Professor which Archianga parades, is also a subject of controversy.

“We won’t be tempted to dig deep into his questionable title of Professor which he believes is gotten as a traditional title.

“It is alleged that Archianga sometime in 2022 harboured a certificate syndicate in his Ibeno residence called Saint Thomas-a-Becket University, claimed to be headquartered in Canterbury, England with a branch at Ibeno Nigeria.”

“However, checks revealed that such university is neither recognized by the British
Department of Education nor recognized by the Nigerian Universities Commission NUC.”

“Archianga arrogated to himself, a professorial title in the same year for his role in harboring the syndicates, an allegation he is yet to counter till date.” the group said.

Eket Integrity Alliance further called on peace loving Akwa Ibom people to ignore the rantings of the Ibeno Monarch as Pastor Umo Eno and immediate past Governor Udom Emmanuel remain partners in the peace and progress of the state.

…cites indictment by an FG Investigative panel

A socio-political in Eket, Eket Integrity Alliance, have called for the arrest and prosecution of Ibeno Paramount Ruler, Effiong Archianga on the grounds of his indictment for murder and arson, by a federal government judicial panel, dating back to 1993.

In a release signed by the Secretary General of the group, Barr. Peter Akpan, Eket Integrity Alliance condemned Effiong Archianga for his inciting outbursts, citing the Akwa Ibom Map Law as the reason behind the monarch’s actions

Eket Integrity Alliance disclosed that Archianga’s was indicted for murder and arson by the Judicial Commission of Inquiry, set up in 1993 by the then military government to unravel the mystery surrounding the dispute between Eket, Uquo Ibeno, Mbo and Onna local government areas.

The Commission was headed by a retired Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Ephraim Akpata.

“In 1993, Effiong Archianga sold out his Ekid people to Ibeno, a settler clan. Archianga joined Ibeno to commit genocide against the people of Esit Urua in Eket Local Government Area between December 1992 and April 1993 in the fight to annex Stubbs Creek, land of the Ekid people to Ibeno.”

“The Federal Military Government appointed a Panel of Inquiry into the disturbances and in Page
86 of the Panel’s Report, Effiong Archianga was indicted for murder and arson and recommended for prosecution.

“But it is sad that rather than answering to charges preferred against him, he frog-leaped into becoming a village head”

The group described the Akwa Ibom Map Law as the perfect gift from Udom Emmanuel which put an end to the many years of lies and mischief that Archianga and his cohorts have been thriving on.

“We are very much aware that this State Law which Chief Archianga and his trouble seekers are fighting against, is currently in a court of competent jurisdiction. His anger and bile against Mr Emmanuel stems from the fact that the former Governor, acceded to the voice
of natural reasoning by righting years of injustice and deprivation that defied every legal means of containment.”

“Effiong Archianga as expected, will always whine and moan about the Akwa Ibom Map Law as one of his problems because Udom Emmanuel toed the part of peace by giving the State its first ever gazetted map hence putting an end to the lies and deceit Archianga and his cohorts have been peddling for years especially over the ownership of the Stubbs Creek Forest despite the 1918 Privy Court judgement.”

Eket Integrity Alliance also frowned at Effiong Archianga for consistently beating drums of war through his utterances against Ekid Nation which his origin can be traced.

The group also called on the Ibeno Paramount Ruler to desist from heating up the polity at any given opportunity especially when the State Government had forbidden Royal Fathers from granting interviews especially on contentious issues in the state.

“It is noteworthy that the self-acclaimed ‘Professorial’ royal father’s short memory has prevented him from remembering the directive of the State Government, that forbids all
monarchs from granting interviews, especially on contentious issues.

“This is especially more disturbing, given the huge investments, personal appeals and massive efforts of His Excellency, Governor Umo Eno, to institutionalize peace across all parts of the state.

They further revealed that the title of Professor which Archianga parades, is also a subject of controversy.

“We won’t be tempted to dig deep into his questionable title of Professor which he believes is gotten as a traditional title.

“It is alleged that Archianga sometime in 2022 harboured a certificate syndicate in his Ibeno residence called Saint Thomas-a-Becket University, claimed to be headquartered in Canterbury, England with a branch at Ibeno Nigeria.”

“However, checks revealed that such university is neither recognized by the British
Department of Education nor recognized by the Nigerian Universities Commission NUC.”

“Archianga arrogated to himself, a professorial title in the same year for his role in harboring the syndicates, an allegation he is yet to counter till date.” the group said.

Eket Integrity Alliance further called on peace loving Akwa Ibom people to ignore the rantings of the Ibeno Monarch as Pastor Umo Eno and immediate past Governor Udom Emmanuel remain partners in the peace and progress of the state.

Senator Joel-Onowakpo Lauds President Tinubu’s Strategic Efforts on Security

By Anne Azuka

Senator representing Delta South, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his strategic interventions in the fight against insurgency and insecurity nationwide.

Senator Joel-Onowakpo gave the commendation during his familiarisation visit to the Brigade Commander 63 Brigade, Brigadier General Folu Shonibare in the capital city of Asaba, Delta State.

He acknowledged the significant progress made in the fight against insecurity in the last two years of President Tinubu’s administration, and called for sustained efforts by government, security agencies, communities and other stakeholders.

“I want to commend the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR who has done exceptionally well in curtailing insurgency in every part of the country within the last two years of this administration even though there is still a lot more to be done regarding security of lives and properties.

“I want to encourage you (the military) to continue to put in your best because the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the National Assembly and the entire nation is solidly behind you cheering you on. To the citizens, security is everybody’s responsibility. Like it is said in the United States, “if you see something, say something.”

While stressing that President Tinubu was providing maximum political will and adequate funding to the security architecture of our dear country, he also mention the invaluable contributions of the National Assembly ably led by the President of the Senate and Chairman of the National Assembly-His Excellency, Godswill Obot Akpabio for providing the enabling legislative environment for peace and security

The Delta South senator, who serves as the Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Defence and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content, said his mission was not to conduct oversight but to identify with the military and better understand their realities.

“My visit today is to familiarize myself with the military formations around my constituency and commend our gallant officers for their dedication. This is not a Senate oversight function, but a personal engagement to hear directly from those at the frontline.”

“Let’s not at this point forget to recognize a fine gentleman, a gallant soldier, my own brother, the Chief of Defence staff, General Christopher Gwanbin Musa OFR who made this visit possible. Thank you so very much.

“To this command I want to commend the Brigade commander, officers and men of the Army who have dedicated their lives to protecting the citizens of Nigeria, and more particularly, Delta States and environ.”

He called for a minute of silence in memory of the officers who died in active service, especially those killed in Okuama, Delta State, noting that their bravery would never be forgotten.

“We honour our fallen heroes—those who gave their lives for the peace we enjoy today. Their sacrifice must inspire us to do better as a nation”, he stated.

Noah Ocheni

The Kogi State Executive Council has reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots development, economic sustainability, and infrastructural growth following its latest meeting held at the EXCO Hall, Government House, Lokoja.

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo charged government officials to remain close to the grassroots and ensure constant engagement with the people, noting that such connection is key to responsive governance.

“We are in government to serve the people, and that means staying connected to their needs and aspirations,” the Governor was quoted as saying during the meeting.

As part of efforts to boost the local economy, the Governor also directed all government officials to wear Made-in-Kogi fabrics as a show of support for indigenous industries. He encouraged Kogites to take pride in local products and lead a cultural and economic renaissance from within.

Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, said the administration is committed to making governance more visible and impactful.

“Governor Ododo is driving a government that listens, learns, and leads from the grassroots. His directive on Made-in-Kogi fabrics is a strategic move to grow our economy and export our identity,” Fanwo said.

On infrastructure, Fanwo disclosed that perimeter fencing at the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara is 90% completed, while both male and female hostels have been completed and are already housing students. Similar projects at the Kogi State University, Kabba, are progressing satisfactorily.

To improve public safety, the Council also approved a bill to restrict the movement of heavy trucks during peak hours. Another bill was approved for the establishment of the Kogi State Agency for Climate Change as part of a forward-thinking response to global environmental challenges.

In a separate briefing, the Commissioner for Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Mukadam Asiwaju Asiru Idris, announced that the Ododo administration has fully liquidated N98.8 billion in debts inherited from previous administrations within just 15 months.

The breakdown includes:
• N8 billion in bonds from the Idris Wada administration.
• N50.8 billion salary bailout from the last administration.
• N10 billion ECA-backed infrastructure loan.
• N15 billion infrastructure loans from Zenith Bank and another N15 billion from UBA Plc.

“This is a landmark achievement. His Excellency Governor Ododo has demonstrated fiscal discipline and commitment to economic recovery. Within 15 months, we have cleared N98.8 billion in inherited debt,” Idris said.

He added that Fitch Ratings has upgraded Kogi State’s credit rating from ‘B-’ to ‘B’, with a stable outlook, citing prudent financial management. As of September 30, 2024, the state’s debt profile stands at N40.5 billion, placing it on a strong path to debt sustainability.

By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo

Governor Umo Eno has warned those planning to incite violence in the state over agitations of not benefitting enough from his government not to test his resolve.

Eno alleged that there has been an intel that some leaders of youth groups in the state were planning with external collaborators to incite mayhem in the state over perceived denial of benefits for 2023 electoral support for the governor.

Eno who gave the warning last weekend at the flag off of construction for Judges Quarters in Uyo bemoaned a culture of extreme sense of entitlement over government money in the state.

The Governor insisted that he owed no support group any special benefit and would deal decisively with anyone caught stirring violence.

“I’m speaking to our young people. We’re providing jobs and aware that some of these youth leaders are planning to bring in mercenaries from outside the state.

“We know what you’re doing and we are up to the task. This state under my watch will continue to be peaceful and we’ll confront anyone or group of persons that will attempt to detail the peace God had brought here.

“Let us stop this issue of entitlement. It’s so much around us. You feel entitled to everything. It must be me. They didn’t recognize me.

“It’s only in Akwa Ibom that people feel so entitled. And they look to the gates of Government House as if a bullion van is going to come out and start sharing money.

“And when you finish same people are the ones to petition you to EFCC, that you took government money. It’s not me. I will defend any decision I’ve taken.” He said.

Eno commended the judiciary in the state for their level of professionalism and said the estate would provide them with the convinience and privacy they need to increase their productivity.

His administration he said would also embark on exclusive estates for lawmakers in the state assembly and members of the state executive council to enable them perform optimally.

By Ogenyi Ogenyi,Uyo

The National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN) has chosen Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital as host of the 2025 Annual Marketing Conference (AMC) and National Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled for June 19 to 21.

A release signed by Mr. Idorenyin Enang, FNIMN, President and Chairman of Council, made available to our correspondent in Uyo on Thursday showed that the conference with theme,
“Leveraging ESG in Driving Value Across Generations.” would bring together top marketing professionals, executives, policymakers, students, academia, and business leaders from across the country and beyond.

Enang explained that ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance while the conference would focus on integrating these principles into brand leadership, strategy, innovation, and business decisions.

“AMC 2025 will be a convergent point for thought leaders and marketing professionals to engage in thought-provoking dialogues that will elevate the Marketing profession. The conference will also spotlight Akwa Ibom as a destination for business, culture, and tourism.

“The conference will feature several highlights, including a Marketing Symposium on Sustainable Marketing: The Future of Brand Leadership, the Annual Marketing Conference, a Fellowship Dinner, and the Annual General Meeting and Elections.

“Delegates will have the opportunity to engage in thought-provoking sessions, panel discussions, and networking events. They will also get to experience the city’s culture, including city tours, cultural exhibitions, and culinary experiences of Akwa Ibom’s finest delicacies”. Enang explained.

The President said the choice of Uyo as the host city signaled a renewed commitment by the Institute to decentralize professional engagement and spotlight regional excellence. It also highlights the importance of sustainable marketing practices across Nigeria.

The conference, according to him would afford a great opportunity for marketers to come together and discuss the latest trends and best practices in the industry., as well as provide a platform for networking and building meaningful relationships.

“We are excited to welcome marketers from across Nigeria to experience our hospitality, engage in forward-thinking discussions, and build meaningful networks. The conference promises to be an exciting and informative event”. He said

He therefore invites stakeholders across public and private sectors, academia, and the marketing profession to partner, participate, and be part of this transformative national gathering. pledging the Institute dedication to promoting marketing excellence through education, professional development, and ethical standards.