Lessons from Ekiti watershed – Barr. Onofiok Luke

 

The Ekiti governorship election may have come and gone, but its outcome will remain a case in point for tacticians in the boardroom of politics in our country for many years. This is not because a governor lost the election in spite of being armed with all the powers of incumbency but because the pattern of voting defied every expectation.

This time, the will of the people prevailed against the wishes of most power brokers whom many had expected would bring to bear their stiff control of their political stronghold. I see the outcome of that election as a watershed which has underscored the fact that we are gradually arriving at a destination where election will no longer be business as usual.

The election bears with it numerous lessons for those of us whom fate has located in the arena of politics. It teaches most fundamentally that the time has come when the wishes of the people can no longer take a back seat in the selection of leaders. At every point in the Ayo Fayose story is the mark of democracy, the towering of popular yearnings and aspirations above surrounding political sentiments by politicians.

Many would recall that Fayose had stuck to his guns when the issue of the selection of PDP’s flag bearer for the general election arose. While many party stalwarts favoured the emergence of a candidate for the party by consensus, Fayose thought otherwise.

He prayed the party at the national to discard the option and allow internal democracy and the voice of party men in the state decide the course of the party. Fayose’s prayers fell on the listening ears of the game changer, Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu. The voice of common men and women of the PDP prevailed in the end. Thanks to the PDP Chairman under whose leadership the PDP has taken a better new turn.

On the other hand, the permutations in the leading APC in the state were made clear not to favour an open contest. The alleged serial frustration and intimidations which followed eventually forced a chieftain of the party, Opeyemi Bamidele out of APC and into Labour Party.

No thanks to his perceived ambition to wrest the party ticket from incumbent Governor John Kayode Fayemi. While the APC was left torn and with disgruntled members who saw the incumbent governor and flag bearer as an imposition, the opposition waxed stronger with candidates who were products of popular will. At this point, many had seen the handwriting on the wall and had made their fears known, albeit ignored.

So when the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced Fayose as Governor-elect, not many people who know the story behind the emergence of the various candidates were taken by surprise. The will of the people will always prevail and this was clearly seen in the pattern of voting, in which the sitting governor lost across all the sixteen local government areas of the state.

Besides the role which internal democracy in the PDP played in upping PDP’s chances in the Ekiti polls, Nigerians can attest to how
perfectly the personality of Fayose had positioned him on the right path of fate. This is another lesson we politicians must learn as we approach the business of selecting candidates for 2015. As I would learn much later, Fayose is a man who is very much at home with his people. I recall meeting him and having an interaction with him a few weeks after he won the PDP ticket.

I asked how he thought the race was going to see him back to Ekiti Government House given the odds in a South-western state like Ekiti. His answer was simple and frank – he was on the ground with the people, he told me. He expressed this uncommon confidence in his grassroots affinity. There indeed is something about a man who left power 8 years ago and could still command the kind of huge crowd of supporters we saw during his election rallies.

Fayose is a man who can enter a keke with a man on the street and not be seen as being odd. While the grandeur of office was his opponents’ albatross, Fayose could enter the worst of shanties; sit down with the lowly to seek supports. His high level of
unpretentiousness is as common knowledge as his heart for the common man. I dare to say if PDP had missed the opportunity to field this man, the party might as well have let go the thought of winning back Ekiti state.

Also worth learning from is the gentleman manner of acceptance of defeat by Governor Fayemi and the no winner-takes-it-all attitude of Fayose. While Fayemi immediately accepted the outcome of the polls, Fayose was quick to pay him a courtesy call and assured the governor of his brotherhood. This is unprecedented in our political history.

Fayemi’s refinement is uncommon in this part of the globe. And for this to have happened at the wake of a toughly contested election shows just how much the two men put Ekiti state far ahead of their personal or party interests. I consider Fayose’s promise to work with Governor Fayemi for the development of the state as a rare show of humility. It is also noteworthy that the governor-elect would have none of his supporters derogate Fayemi following the election.

The humility in victory and the civility in concession are honourable acts which have etched a place for the names of these two Ekiti democrats in the history of Nigerian politics. It is however pathetic that the personality of Fayemi is in absolute contrast with what is the norms in his party.

While his party is yet to at least acknowledge that INEC gave Ekiti people a good outing on Saturday, Fayemi has already sent a
congratulatory message to his compatriot Fayose, calling him “brother.” Judging from Fayemi’s conduct, one cannot but struggle to understand how he manages to get along in a political fold like his APC.

The outcome of the Ekiti poll has once again underscored the fact that elections in Nigeria are never won on the internet as Fayose noted on Sunday. If INEC had relied on the proliferous blackmails against Fayose on the internet, it probably would have announced Fayemi winner of that polls without having to count the ballots. While the social media will always remain a potent tool for mobilising and educating a section of our people who have internet access, the candidates must do more than internet campaigns.

The Fayose campaign was a vigorous door-to-door, community-to-community wooing of votes. For one moment there, Nigerians were reminded of the 1993 outing where we gladly returned MKO Abiola as President which was owed mainly to the sinking
down of his message into the hearts of the people. There were no internets then, and statistics have shown that there are yet a little
less than significant number of Nigerians with internet access.

As we reflect on the Ekiti scenario, politicians at all levels must make the lessons count in the coming months when political activities would have peaked. The place of internal democracy and the will of party men and women should never be undermined. As a faithful party man, I desire to see the emergence of candidates for my party through popular will of fellow party faithful. Like Fayose, popular candidates do not fear party primaries.

They call for it and are ready to accept the outcome gladly. This is what keeps any ambitious political partyabove the limiting bar of average. Again, no matter the acrimony which may result from personal interests, it is important that the bond of brotherhood which aspirants share be not broken.

There is no political prize attractive enough to justify the annihilation of the things which make us one people. This is the consciousness that will redirect the focus from attacks on personality, cause less lies, reduce pernicious propaganda, and concentrate discourse on issues of development of the lot of the citizenry.

Those looking for the governorship seat in Akwa Ibom state should look to wooing supports and votes through issue-based debates and not sentiments, blackmails, and calumnious media stories. Closeness to the people and the need to feel their pulse cannot be overemphasised. Those seeking to lead people must be able to understand the plights of those they seek to lead. Close watchers of the Ekiti fallout have attributed Fayemi’s detachment from his people as the albatross that hanged around his neck.

On the other hand, Fayose does not cut the picture of a Big Man at whose beck and call the executive powers of Ekiti state government once were. How much of our people do the people who want to become Akwa Ibom state governor know? For instance, how many of us politicians know the cost of a drop in keke from Ibom plaza to Itam junction? How many can tell the determiners of the cost of commodities in Akpan Andem Market and how this is giving families sleepless nights? How many of those who covet the governor’s seat can tell why there is a growing number of youths at the motor-parks?

We should not make the mistake of thinking that our level of detachment from the circumstances of life of the common man will in the end not count at the polling booth. Campaigns are now beyond where a person comes from. The Ekiti experience has now shown us that the petty mudslinging over a person’s place of origin is inane where the will of the people is at work. We must do all within our powers to see that candidates with the correct credentials and emotional attachment to the people bear our flag at the poll.

There are questions which Ekiti people asked to which only Fayose could provide the acceptable answers. One can therefore dare to say that a social contract had been entered into between Fayose and the people of the state long before the election. The event of last Saturday was only in keeping with the terms of that contract by the people of the state. Our next set of leaders in the state must begin now to show their sincerity and commitment by entering into similar contract with the people.

They must start by subjecting themselves to scrutiny by the people and gain their confidence. When this happens, those with authority will employ less of intimidation and cohesion and more of consultation and negotiation. The Ekiti election has shown the determination of President Goodluck Jonathan to make the will of the people triumph and every single vote count.

People seeking to occupy offices should therefore seek the direct mandate of the people through wider consultation and with the
air of humility. Powers gotten through the backdoors are often catastrophic. Arrogance and impunity could not have paid off for
Fayose. The people mattered above all and this was evident in the way Fayose’s victory sat pretty.

INEC did a good job to cushion the challenges of that election. While we urge Prof Attahiru Jega to correct the pockets of lapses which were reported during the election, I call on Nigerians to continue to accord him that benefit of the doubts that he will deliver in the 2015 election. Men of the Nigeria police and others in the security system also did a commendable job to ensure a smooth poll. We can only pray that we see same level of commitment in 2015.

I must express my strong admiration for our party helmsman, Alhaji Mu’azu in whose watch the PDP is taking back its glory. The past one year had been turbulent for the party, with key members decamping. But today we have peace and confidence. We have one more governor and have successfully penetrated a bloc considered as opposition. All thanks to Mu’azu, who assured us of internal democracy in the party and went on to midwife the emergence of a popular candidate in Ekiti state. His barely 7-months of reign has helped us take back our pride of place.

In the coming election year, those who wish the PDP well cannot but pray that Alhaji Mu’azu continues on the path of righteousness he is currently walking on. Above all, let me congratulate President Jonathan for the electoral reform which has further straightened our path to democracy and given the electoral powers to the people and not to a select few.

The sincerity in the reform is seen in the emergence of a true multiparty Nigeria. It cuts across every party in the country. We saw the emergence of Governor Olusegun Mimiko of the Labour Party in Ondo state in 2013, the Governor Adams Oshiomole of ACN (now APC) in Edo state, Governor Willie Obiano of APGA in Anambra state, and now, the emergence of Fayose as governor-elect of Ekiti state under the PDP umbrella.

For this and many other achievements, I join the rest of Nigerians to say BRAVO, Mr President!

[+] Written By: Hon. (Barr.) Onofiok Luke - A member of the Akwa Ibom state House of Assembly

2015: Sen.Helen Esuene promises 50,000 Jobs Annually if elected Governor

Senator Helen Esuene, a strong contender in the Akwa Ibom Gubernatorial race come 2015 has vowed to create at least 50,000 jobs annually for the teaming unemployed youths of the State if elected as Governor.

Speaking to newsmen in Eket on Thursday, the distinguished Senator representing Eket (Akwa Ibom South) Senatorial District in the red chambers of the National Assembly said that her promise to create jobs will be made possible through her industrialization policy and the establishment of trading clusters in all the 31 Local Government Areas of the State. The Senator, who pundits describe as a possible successor to Governor Akpabio said further that the trading clusters will be built to encourage both skills acquisition and service delivery.

“Since it is almost impossible for government anywhere in the world to provide jobs for all of its people, we shall create the enabling environment through provision of facilities to our people to enable them start their own businesses”, she said, adding that industrialization will also play a prominent role in her employment plan.

“If elected, my administration will review the circumstances that led to the collapse and or abandonment of some industries in the State with a view to reviving them through the public private partnership (PPP)”.

“The collaboration of foreign investors would be sought to revive these industries while efforts will be made to take advantage of the enormous oil and gas endowments of the State to go into Petroleum related investments”, Senator Esuene said.

On how optimistic she is to emerge as the next Governor of Akwa Ibom State, she said that there is an unanimity of political opinion that her public and community service records put her in a good stead as a front runner in the governorship race, adding that her hard earned antecedents of 18 years unbroken, dedicated and meritorious service to fatherland makes her the most preferred over others who are presently campaigning for the hilltop mansion come 2015.

Esuene who is the Chairman Senate Committee on Women and Youth Matters pointed out that the most Akwa Ibom people acknowledge the fact that she comes from a heritage known to offer quality service to mankind, stressing that no one can deny the fact that her late husband, the late Brigadier General Udoakagha Jacob Esuene established an enviable model of governance in the then South Eastern State, a feat only equaled in distinction and impact by the uncommon transformation of Akwa Ibom State, over 30 years after, by Obong Godswill Akpabio.

When asked if Chief Godswill Akpabio had given her the go ahead to aspire to the position of the next governor of the state, she said, “he has given me the go ahead. I discussed with him, he is not carrying me along right now”.

She disclosed that her desire to lead the State was further fired by the clear fact of her familiarity with the socio-political and economic terrain in the state, a prerequisite for good governance.

By Assam Abia

2015 GOVERNORSHIP: Ekpenyong Ntekim Declares via Facebook

2015 GOVERNORSHIP: TOGETHER WE CAN

Exactly 5 years ago, I had the privilege of being invited by His Excellency, Chief Godswill Akpabio, CON, to be a member of his uncommon transformation team in pursuit of a new Akwa Ibom State. I am very grateful to His Excellency for the golden opportunity to serve, and will ever cherish his consideration of my worth. The abiding fruits of the charismatic political leadership of this administration, which comes to a constitutional end on 29 May 2015, are simply beyond measure.

However, the responsibility is on us to remind ourselves why finishing right and strong the job, so commendably in progress, remains significant. With the massive infrastructural interventions of the last few years bearing desired fruits in the crescendo to which Akwa Ibom State has been justifiably raised, both friends and foes are watching to see whether, as a people, we have the resolve to continue to faithful completion the uncommon transformation agenda or would be fatigued out by political inexpediency and naïvety. Make no mistake, the progress so far made is as significant as the task ahead is onerous.

However, I am confident we can achieve the goal of successful continuity in an atmosphere of shared sacrifice and efforts, and I trust in our capacity to rise to the occasion. Indeed, together we can!

It is imperative, in light of my dedication to the core values of public service, that I be transparent with you on my future political engagements, especially as I cannot take on a commitment I do not desire to honour.

Over the past several months, I have been encouraged to give unremitting thought to seeking the mandate to be the Governor of Akwa Ibom State in 2015. This has now graduated to a commanding course of action that I am to sedulously pursue. Therefore, in the days, weeks and months ahead, I verily look forward to consulting with the leadership of my party, the Peoples Democratic Party and the good people of Akwa Ibom State at different fora to discuss, with unmitigated determination and steadfastness, my thoughts and plans for Akwa Ibom State, if it pleases God, to whom power belongs, to favour me with its grant.

I urge you, my beloved brethren, to remain fast and firm as the gospel of fairness, equity, equality and justice in the political landscapes of Akwa Ibom State unfolds.

Many thanks.

Long live Akwa Ibom State!

Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!!

Ekpenyong Ntekim, Esq.

LORD! Give Me A Politician's Heart by Osundu Ahirika

Create in me a Politician's heart oh Lord and renew in me a right spirit. That's my recent prayer, and folks', never for a second mistake that for a sacrilegious plea. Life has taught me that, the politician, who manages to string the most electoral successes, and manages to personify the proverbial cat with nine lives  notion, is the one who knows how to effortlessly relate with his so called enemy and sit at ease, in the conclave of opponents.

In Akwa Ibom, check out the likes of Rt. Hon. Usenobong Akpabio, Senator Ita Enang, Senator Effiong Bob, Rt Hon. Ekong Sampson, Rt. Hon. Anietie Etuk etc, you will see this virtue in them. How do they manage this? I have since realized their secret. They are so flexible that, they know how to, not only embrace yesterdays foe and make friends with him today, but also, learn to use the so called enemy as an ally for tomorrows agenda.

As Senator Effiong Bob, who, back in 2011, was treated as a political leper for seeking an audacious third term berth in the National Assembly, works himself to becoming a de facto beautiful bride of the 2015 Governorship battle, one thing strikes you. His easy fence mending with powerful rivals of yore, who have paid homage, to consult him on their ambitions, cannot but, confound you.

I have come to conclude that, if you want to know a greenhorn in politics, his trademark is simple. Look out for that politician who sorts people around him into two camps of supporters and enemies. Such a politician moves to crush all those perceived, suspected or proven to belong to the latter camp.

He banishes them from his countenance and treats them as nuisance. Isantim Kenneth Okon, the Etinan Local Government Council boss it was, who told me, only a non career politician will commit the ambition stifling error of keeping a black book for supposed enemies. A true politician he says, has an elastic shock absorber that enables him tolerate all classes of people: The good, The bad, The ugly. According to him, even the lousy associate of the politician has his day for reckoning, where his nuisance value will be needed.

Same for the sycophants, cynics, thugs, intellectuals and what have you. Everyman around the politician he opined, must be given his space and not castaway. Those you segregate against and dismiss from your camp, Isantim Okon says, turn around to hurt you the most.

It is the same lesson I learnt from erstwhile Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Obong Nsima Ekere. His almost condescending demeanour, simplicity and general affability, is prudently cultivated second nature. His free spirit is so robust that, the man hardly has a room for grudge, hate, beef or vendetta in his being.

When I questioned his rare ability as a top mixer with, not only other top governorship contenders, but even those who are decidedly opposed to his dream of governing Akwa Ibom, his simple retort was, "only the weak in politics dreads opponents. The strong needs and even works harmoniously with them. That is the only key that can sustain and take you far in politics", Ekere opined. I chose to believe him.

Who would have thought that, Senator Bola Tinubu, Gen. Mauhammadu Buhari, Mallam Nasir El Rufai, Nuhu Ribadu, Rotimi Amaechi and Olusegun Obasanjo etc, can cohabit the same room and laugh it out? The notion of strange bedfellows is easy and possible, particularly, in politics, because, politicians have such a large heart, with inherently automated delete button inside of them, that erases past dirty bickering and quickly harmonizes current interests where they gel. I want that heart of give and take. Win some, lose some. A heart to be a good negotiator and when I can, make concessions for progress and peace to be made.

A politicians heart is what I crave, so I can find it easy to say, 'I'm sorry' and not see it as a weakness. Picture the ebullient Obong Umana Okon Umana, set aside his intimidating persona and profile to humbly apologize to Senator Bob. The same thing, immediate past Finance Commissioner, Bassey Albert Akpan did during his visit to the Senator recently. Has former Vee Pee, Atiku Abubakar not said, 'I'm sorry', to his erstwhile boss, Olusegun Obasanjo.

Many in the world are too proud to alight from their high horse and be the first to say sorry. Only, the great can do this and I elect greatness above false pompousity. I want the simplicity of heart politicians bear, which makes haste to show remorse, penance, penitence and restitution where, and when necessary.  

I have also discovered, it takes the never say die heart of a Politician to remain an incurable optimist. In religion, we call it FAITH. They have faith in themselves, in their God and their dreams no matter the odds. Indeed, only a politicians mind set will convince him to row his political boat against the tide. Even when his political pursuit is akin to making a river flow uphill, the politician will stick to his objective, and too many times, they get it done. They don't quit even when common sense dictates so. Else, why will Engr. Frank Okon remain in Court up until date, still seeking to invalidate Governor Godswill Akpabio's victory in the 2011 PDP Governorship Primaries and subsequent Governorship Election, when the entire State has since moved on, and are locked in the hurricane of who succeeds Governor Akpabio with barely a year left to end his second term in office. Only a politician has such sense of tenacity, persistence and self belief.

I want a politicians heart so that I can take several blows with a smile, or at most, a wink. Like American President, Barack Obama, has stated, a Politician must grow very thick skin as the game is not for the faint hearted. President Goodluck Jonathan has described himself as the most vilified Nigerian President ever. Truly, he has endured the most harrowing, humiliating and harassing criticisms ever mounted against any leader in this country. Yet, he still holds out and will not press the panic button of resorting to ruthless crackdown on critics.

 Each passing day, under the duress of scathing recriminations from opponents, detractors, social activists, human rights crusaders, warts and all, Mr President still relays a near boyish mien, that makes him look more sinned against than the sinner. What a heart to brave the darts and arrows and still top it all with equanimity and surreal calm.

I want the heart of a Politician. That I can endure heart rending betrayals and still hold my head high. As I take a dozzier on the Politics of Prince Enobong Uwah, I came off with the disbelief of a man's capacity to sidestep and overlook wanton betrayal. The day he hosted his people after he lost the Uyo State Constituency election in 2011,  I was left speechless. How can you thank a people for losing elections?

Even for many others that he brought to political relevance, who have stabbed him behind, I shudder at how admirably, he has looked ahead and contained the strain and the pain. Only politicians can live this way and not suffer hypertension, or relapse into Political autism, or political down syndrome, if you get the devastating debilitation of those diseases in medical sciences. I pray for the heart of a politician, even if it is trickery as many think.

I want the cheerful heart of benevolence that gives and gives and gives, without counting the cost. In that wise, I try to deconstruct the large heartedness of Governor Akpabio, whose generousity marked a new era of empowerment politics taken beyond the ordinary. The uncommon spirit of giving he transmitted to his proteges, such as, Hon. Barr. Onofiok Luke, Prince Enobong Uwah, Obong Bassey Albert, Obong Kufre Etuk, Mr Don Etim and Barr. Emmanuel Enoidem is a dream I pray to live. The same way, Obong Umana Okon Umana, and Obong Nsima Ekere, have single handedly turned so many boys to men. It is such a willing spirit to be of help that I crave.

 I want a Politicians heart, so that, I can be stout hearted like Governor Godswill Akpabio. His demonstration of political will for implementing his ideas is unprecedented and peculiar. He knows how to fight. Plans his game well ahead from end to beginning  and beginning to end, with Plans A-Z in case any plan fails and he doesn't get stuck in a fox hole. Like he confessed, I want to move like a lion whenever I do, always conscious of my stock. I need, not a timid mind of fear, but a bold and courageous one.

The summary is that, great Politicians possess the heart of a child, but act and live like adults. Guided by the childish enthusiasm, they look up to the brighter side of life and remain positive. Little wonder, the great Rabbai, Jesus Christ taught, "except one becomes like a little child, he cannot make the kingdom of God.

They say Politics is a dirty game, but I think differently. It is a game of hearts.

CAPTAIN EKONG VS NSEOWO: COURT FINES YOUNGEST EDITOR

CAPTAIN EKONG VS NSEOWO: COURT FINES YOUNGEST EDITOR

Record holding Nigeria’s Youngest newspaper editor, Ifreke Nseowo has been fined the sum of N18,300 by the court for failing to file his statement of defence on time.

Nseowo, who is dragged to court by Governor Godswill Akpabio’s P.A on Security Matters, Captain Iniobong Ekong (Retd) over the ownership of an exclusive lounge/bar, Play Terrace was given the mandatory 40days to file his statement of defence but he however did so 91 days after the expiration of the 40 days, hence the compulsory fine on him by the court.
Meanwhile, Uyo High Court (7) will sit on Monday, 5th May, 2014 to entertain the case the between the Governor’s P.A and the country’s record breaking editor.

Captain Ekong is expected to be given the mandatory 15days to reply Nseowo’s statement of defence and to fill the pre-trial form through his counsel before the main hearing begins.

Captain Ekong (retd) is seeking N500m as damages for Nseowo’s allegation in a blog publication that he (Ekong) is the owner of the said Play Terrace, located in the LeastPay building along Aka Road, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Nseowo is represented by Barr. Eddie Ntukidem while Ekong’s legal man is Obio Mkpanam, Esq.

Bassey Albert rallies support for Governor Akpabio's Administration

Immediate past Akwa Ibom State commissioner for finance, Mr. Bassey Albert Akpan has called on the people to support the administration of Chief Godswill Akpabio to the end.

Mr. Albert made this known while receiving various groups who paid solidarity visit to him at his residence. 

He hinted that he will support the Akpabio led administration till the end and called on his supporters to be calm and show maturity in their dealings.

The former finance boss labelled his Seven years of service to the state under Chief Akpabio as phenomenal and advised the people to be law abiding in pursuit of the political future of the state.

The ex-banker described Govenor Akpabio as a friend, brother and source of inspiration, whose leadership qualities he said has transformed the state. He said Akwa Ibom people should see it as a necessity to consolidate on the achievements of the Governor to project a new Akwa Ibom. 

Mr. Albert was appointed commissioner for finance since inception of the Akpabio administration in 2007. He was relieved of his appointment following a minor cabinet reshuffle on Thursday.


Here are some images from the event...

Bassey Albert: A Project Manager with Depth and Vibrancy

Sustainability and Utilization of resources is a function of effective management. For resources to be efficiently managed to yield increased productivity and continued availability, the services of Project Managers are required to ensure accountability, credibility and consistency.

A project manager initiates, plans, executes, monitors, controls and gives tentative feedback to relevant stakeholders of a project. These are some of the sterling qualities of Mr. Bassey Albert Akpan, the young, energetic and resourceful Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for finance. The 41 year old as a modern politician has contributed immensely to the success of the Governor Akpabio led administration.

When Governor Akpabio took over leadership of the state in 2007, fears that development may not be felt in rural areas because of continued neglect of locals were predominant together with increased dilapidation of few available social amenities in remote areas. These and many more were reasons why Governor Akpabio established the Inter-Ministerial Direct Labour Coordinating Committee. As commissioner for finance, Mr. Albert was asked to coordinate affairs of the committee in line with the uncommon transformation agenda of the state.

Gov. Akpabio and the masses as major stakeholders in the Akwa Ibom project were eager to witness transformation of the state from rural to urban centers for the people to witness true dividend of democracy. Mr. BasseyAlbert’s duty as project manager was to serve as a mediator between stakeholders and end users. The quest has been challenging and rewarding. The result of his stewardship and commitment caught my attention when the people of Akwa Ibom poured encomiums on the Chief Akpabio led administration during the recent town hall meetings and commissioning of over 5,000 projects across ten federal constituencies of the state.

As a project manager, risk bearing is one of the fundamentals of success. Mr. Bassey Albert utilized the experience he garnered over the years as top managing staff of various financial institutions to manage risks involved in execution of projects under the committee by instituting a progress based payment model for service providers.

His human resource management proficiencies traced back to the banking industry, where he managed over three hundred capacity building assets with efficient service delivery for over a decade. A good project manager develops capacity to manage resources with limited or no incentives. Mr. Bassey Albert demonstrated such qualities when he managed over fifteen branches of a financial institution across the South-South Geo-Political zone of the country.

Mr. Bassey Albert is visionary, organized, efficient, honest, reliable, possesses high communication skills. He is action oriented, vested with leadership flair, experienced and knowledgeable. These are some outstanding attributes of a good project manager.

He demonstrated his risk management expertise when he crossed miles of water to visit a project site in a remote village in Eastern Obolo Local Government Area during a tour to the area. Before the visit of the Inter Ministerial Direct Labour Coordinating Committee, the area witness mild Government presence since inception of Akwa Ibom in 1987. Mr. Bassey Albert integrated his project management skills and negotiated for peaceful completion of projects undertaken by the Akpabio led administration in the area.

While stakeholders are busy providing the much needed funding and resources, Mr. Bassey Albert has directly been engaged in research and development to meet deadlines set by stakeholders. He successfully developed a model capable of answering the 4W question of When, Where, What and Who before initiating any project under the committee. These ensured no repetition of projects and adequate placement of projects where needed.

Mr. Bassey Albert fancies a matrix organizational structure for day to day running of affairs of the Inter Ministerial Direct Labour Coordinating Committee, where all functional managers are allowed to perform numerous tasks irrespective of job specifications. Members of the committee exhibit distinctive teamwork potentials to consolidate the magnanimous qualities of their leader. These have been the reason behind effective actualization of the uncommon transformation agenda of Governor Godswill Akpabio as they have recorded no abandoned project since inauguration of the committee.

A good project manager must be vast and detailed. Mr. Bassey Albert as Chairman of the Inter Ministerial Direct Labour Committee has visited many areas in the state. As one with a listening ear, he relay messages from the masses to the principal on issues relating to rural development. Mr. Bassey Albert as a proficient manager with verve and vibrancy successfully identifies key areas of need of the people and make recommendations to relevant stakeholders for implementation of the people’s demand.

For the past seven years as commissioner for finance and Chairman Akwa Ibom State /Local Government derivation committee, he has selected appropriate processes required to meet project objectives by using defined approach to meet stakeholder’s expectations and balance the competing demands of scope, time, quality, resources and risk to produce specified products, services and results.

Mr. Bassey Albert Commands authority, Possess quick sifting abilities, knows what to note and what to ignore, ask good questions and listen to stakeholders. He hardly sees information as a weapon or means of control, but adheres to predictable communication schedules. His self reliance and confidence showcases independent and fair consensus-building skills when conflict arises. As a source of inspiration to many, he relies on extensive informal networks inside and outside his work base structure to solve problems that arises and shows absolute commitment to work.

His contributions to the management of state resources endeared his kingsmen to honour him with the title “Enin Ibiono Ibom” in 2009. This was further consolidated with the award of Chieftaincy Title of “Obong Uforo Akwa Ibom State” by the Paramount Ruler of Etinan, His Majesty Edidem Dickson Umoette.

The wealth of experience gathered by Mr. Bassey Albert over the years cannot be ignored at a glance. His thrust can numerically be analyzed to make predictions for the future by using available and relevant data. From a political stand point, a project manager is seen as a technocrat who helps in developing and realizing the goals of Governance.

With the rapid transformation witnessed in the state in recent times, it is imperative to note that qualities of Mr. Bassey Albert will be very defining in the New Akwa Ibom. As a project manager vested with skills and resources, he has been tipped to be a realistic team player in the next political dispensation as a result of his undisputed loyalty to the current administration.

For project “Akwa Ibom” to maximally attain its set goals, noble sons and daughters of the state like Mr. Bassey Albert should be encouraged to activate more effective management models for continued transformation and sustenance of our democracy. He is a delight to integrate without a differential constant.

Promise Etim
Uyo

AKS 2015: Who is your candidate?

GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION IN AKWA IBOM STATE

It is very unfortunate that so many people are afraid to choose who they will vote for the governorship position in Akwa Ibom State come 2015 while others are audacious to declare their stand even at the market place.
Now, who is your candidate among the list below and why your choice?

1. Barr. Assam Assam, SAN
2. Obong Nsima Ekere
3. Barr. Effiong Abia
4. Sen. Helen Esuene
5. Mr. Udom Emmanuel
6. Obong Umana Okon Umana
7. Rt. Hon. Okpolupm Etteh
8. Prof. Richard King
9. Hon. Justice Nya Ebito (Rtd)
10. Dr. Samuel Udonsek
11. Sen. Etang Umoeyo
12. Barr. Asuquo Okpo
13. Bishop Sam Akpan, PhD
14. Arch. Otu Ita Toyo
15. Mr. Bassey Albert Akpan
16. Sen. Effiong Bob
17. Dr. Effiong Edunam
18. Mr. Larry Esin
19. Mr. Okon Iyanam
20. Mr. Owoidighe Adiakpan
21. Engr. Patrick Ekpotu
22. Sen. Udoma Udo Udoma
23. Effiong Assam Ntekim (PhD)

2006 race recorded the highest with over 50 contenders. We need more people to express interest and Affirmative Action for women and youth is not shown here. Why? Again, two Federal Constituency of Eket and Oron are taking the lead of contenders.

Where are the remaining?

Please help me comb the state for other contenders.

Credits: Ubong David

2015: Akpabio Insists on Eket Senatorial District

Says opposition spends an estimated N4m on campaigns daily...

Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Godswill Akpabio says the next Governor of the state must come from Eket Senatorial district. Chief Akpabio made the disclosure during the 2014 Solemn Assembly of the state held yesterday in Uyo.

Dr. Akpabio said Akwa Ibom indigenes from any zone are qualified to vie for the Governorship seat, but assured the people that the next Governor will be an Ibibio man of Eket Senatorial District extraction.


He also said less than Four million naira is being spent by opposition on a daily basis to sponsor campaigns of calumny against him and his family through text messages and advertorials and advised the people to shun ethnicity and continue praying for the development of the state and nation at large.

Chief Akpabio who is from Ikot Ekpene Senatorial district was elected Governor of the state in 2007 after Oblong Victor Attah from Uyo Senatorial District had served two terms from 1999 to 2007.

Feelers from some quarters in Uyo Senatorial district are demanding for a return of power to the majority in 2015, a situation that has witnessed huge criticism and resistance withing and outside the state.

The 2015 elections which is less than twelve months away will witness a stiff battle between Governor Akpabio and power brokers from Uyo Senatorial district, who are determined to wrestle power back to their fold.

Ikono inducts Aloysious Etok as political leader, Ex Commissioner as Deputy

* Paramount ruler, PDP, APC, ors hail gesture

The people of Ikono local Government Area have unanimously adopted the senator representing Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District, Dr. Aloysious Etok as the political leader of the area. Elders, women and youths of the area said they had to undertake that formal action to put paid to insinuations and an impression making the rounds that some other person is the political leader of the area.

In an elaborate event which took place at Unity Secondary School, Oduk, the chairman of the occasion and secretary Ibibio Elders forum, Dr. Emmanuel Akpanobong called on the people of Ikono to eschew all forms of bitterness, political hatred and rancor and join the boat of the political progress of Ikono which is being steered by senator Etok. Akpanobong who is the Chief Medical Director of St. Athanasius hospital in Uyo observed that the choice of Aloysious Etok as the political leader of Ikono is a welcome development.

He called on those who are still not in tandem with what is going on to retrace their steps and join the moving trend which he said is capable of protecting the political and all economic interest of Ikono people. He had kind words for Etok and however prayed God to grant the senator the grace to lead the people of Ikono in the right steps politically. Earlier, the chairman of the planning committee of the installation Sir Victor Etefia, KJW, in his address had said that the installation of Aloysious Etok and Clement Bassey as the Political Leader and Deputy leader of Ikono respectively was the beginning of a new era in Ikono Local Government Area. he added that with this exercise, Ikono politics is no more a child’s play and that the politics of the area can never again be left in the hands of misguided political persons or group of persons stressing that the area shall collectively say no to impostors at all cost. He said, “my message to the good people of Ikono is let us never negotiate out of fear, but let us never fear to negotiate and were necessary confront our oppressors so as to usher in a better image for the incoming generation.” Speaking further, Victor Etefia said, the political image of Ikono people for sometime now is not worth mentioning in any political gathering in the state. He said the people of Ikono have found themselves in a situation where their territory is under siege by the in laws and friends. He lamented that their views in the scheme of things are not considered. He solicited for the corporation of all indigenes of the area with a warning that freedom is indivisible and that when one man is enslave, all are not free.

The Guest speaker at the event and a former senate hopeful for Uyo senatorial district AbaiNsimaUmoh in his paper entitled, Ibibio EtimIbaba, EtimUsungafere lamented the enslavement of the Ibibio and the fact that the region is almost losing its pride of place in the comity of nations in the country. He expressed humility over his choice as the guest speaker at the event. He maintained that by 2015, he will support an Ibibio man from any senatorial district to emerge the Governor of the state. in his words, “permit me ladies and gentlemen to comment on this overflogged issue of Akwa Ibom state and 2015. All I hear in the political firmament is that of zoning and rotation of the leadership of our state. I must warn that it is so much of our loyalty to our region and tribe, and enthronement of mediocrity that has brought Nigeria to its present sorry state. For now however, it would appear there is already a consensus that our next Governor will be an Ibibio man or woman of whatever senatorial district, occupy the Hiltop mansion. But my ideal candidate should be someone who has something extra to offer in terms of integrity, broadmindedness and the fear of God” High point of the event was the administration of Oath of allegiance on the new political leader, Aloysious Etok and his Deputy Clement Adolf Bassey.

The administration of the oath was done by Barr Imo Akpan. Aside from the swearing in of Senator Etok as the political leader, Ikono Political Advisory council was also inaugurated with members drawn from all parts of Ikono local Government Area. those sworn in as members of Ikono political advisory council were Senator Aloysious Etok, Political leader, Dr. Clement Bassey, Deputy, DrEdemUsoro, His Excellency Chief UU OkorenEtefia Ikono and former Deputy Governor of then Cross River state , Obong Amadu Akpan Udede, Chief OkonAkpanusung, Obong IbangaUdo Akpan. Others were Dr. Emmanuel Akpanobong, Elder Pius Eyo, Elder Eyo Akpan Udo, Prof Joe Unyanka, Obong KufreInyangette and Dr Augustine Umoh. Also inaugurated were special members of the political Advisory council. They were Hon IboroUdo, sir Obong Ntuk, Obong Mathew Ebong, Comrade Ephraim Obot, Chief EtimInyang, Engr Godwin Akang, Obonganwan Glory James, ObonganwanIma K D Inyang, Chief GM Uba and Sir Victor Etefia who was sworn in as the secretary of the Ikono political Advisory council.

In his acceptance speech after the inauguration, the Ikono Political leader Senator Aloysious Etok said, the history of that event will, in clear and strong terms open a new phase of our political participation with a drawn agenda of defined unity, sustainable leadership, democratic and due process in the selection of candidates for elections as well as visionary representations. He promised to ensure that the Ikono people are not shortchanged in the state and nation’s politics. He appealed for the cooperation of all Ikono sons and daughters. He promised to run an all- encompassing administration. Etefia Ikono in his goodwill message poured encomiums on Senator Etok and members of his team. He promised to always stand by them towards the growth of the local Government Area at all times.

Chief UU Okoren harped on peace and love amongst his subjects and called on the people of Ikono at home and in the diaspora to recognize SenatorAloysious Etok as the authentic Political leader of the area. The event received thumbs up from traditional rulers, all political parties, women and youth groups, even as Ntisong Ibibio the third, NtisongDr Essien Ekidem had kind words for the event, Aloysious Etok and the people of Ibibio whom he advised to guard what belongs to them jealously.

Source: The INK