31/07/2024
AKWA IBOM LOCAL COMMUNITIES DISOWN PLANNED MASSIVE PROTESTS, COMMEND GOV ENO ON PALLIATIVES
More communities in Akwa Ibom State have continued to voice their disapproval of the planned mass protests in the country.
During the distribution of 48,000 bags of rice palliatives, as well as 4,800 bags of garri to the 2,272 villages in the ten federal constituencies of the State, the various villages expressed their deep gratitude and excitements, offering words of prayers to Governor Eno.
While they appreciated the relief materials, which included 20 bags of rice for each village and two bags of garri, they voiced their resentment to the speculated nationwide protest march. The local leaders conveyed that the governor’s efforts have already made a substantial difference, and there was no need for further protest.
At each local government, the community leaders made it clear that the Governor’s initiatives have greatly improved their situation, reflecting a widespread approval of his work and a rejection of calls for protest, while the Governor’s senior special Assistant on Research and Documentation, Dr. Essien Ndueso urged them to continue maintaining the peace in their locales to attract further development to their areas.
“You didn’t protest when Governor Eno brought these rise, you didn’t protest when the Governor intensified the scale of sustained payment of gratuities, you didn’t protest to bring His Excellency to start building 400 homes for the homeless, model schools and hospitals as well as provide free food through the bulk purchase agencies. This means that he is compassionate and is already thinking ahead for your welfare”, Dr Ndueso said.
In Ini Local Government Area at the council headquarters,Odoro Ikpe, the Transition Committee Chairman Comrade Inibehe Umah, on behalf of the Elders, youths and traditional rulers has stated that the sons and daughters of Ini LGA will not participate in the alleged nationwide protest.
Similarly the transition chairman of Essien Udim local government area Anthony Luke has also stated that the youths, women and men rather than join in any nationwide protest against government, will continue to support the Government adding that their belief was in peace and dialogue.
The Obot Akara stakeholders led by their Transition Committee chairman, Anietie Ibritam, and Secretary, Obong Leo Okure while highlighting the benefits enjoyed from the state government, assured that their area was not among those that would witness any protest.
The palliative distribution initiative continued on Tuesday in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area with the distribution of 1,420 bags of rice and 140 bags of garri to 71 villages.
Local leaders and stakeholders in Ikot Abasi expressed profound gratitude for the aid but also voiced strong opposition to the planned nationwide protests. Ettebom Nsikan Etokudim said, “I thank Governor Umo Eno and President Tinubu for delivering this palliative at such a critical time. The assistance has come when it is most needed, and the people of Ikot Abasi are very appreciative.”
Mrs. Elizabeth Ekot, Vice Chairman of Ikot Abasi Local Government Council, highlighted the significance of the distribution, saying, “The people of Ikot Abasi are extremely pleased. The governor’s action is commendable. This assistance will help women feed their families, and we pray for the governor’s continued health and prosperity.”
Mr Ubon Okonya, Transition Secretary of Ikot Abasi LGA, also expressed his thanks: “We have received 1,420 bags of rice and 140 bags of garri for distribution across the 71 villages. We are delighted and grateful for this palliative aid from our governor. His kindness and goodwill towards the people of Ikot Abasi are deeply appreciated.”
For Etop Udoette, Personal Assistant to the Governor on New Media, “I want to thank Governor Eno for his efforts to alleviate poverty in the state. In addition to the support from President Tinubu, the governor has increased the quantity of rice and garri distributed.
In Ibeno local government, the transition chairman Emmanuel Ibok and representatives of the Ibeno traditional fathers, also stated that the people of Ibeno would have chosen to protest against companies who are unable to employ their qualified youths, rather than protest against the government as Pastor Umo Eno has been very proactive in catering for their needs.
At Eket local government area, the stakeholders through the immediate past Secretary of the local government transition committee, Usoh Hanson, commended the Governor for the gesture to the people of the area, maintaining that the food items will cushion the effect of the biting economy in the 72 villages of the area.
Governor Umo Eno’s commitment to the well-being of Akwa Ibom State residents has become increasingly apparent through his various initiatives aimed at enhancing local living conditions. His dedication is exemplified by projects such as Arise Compassionate Homes, which underscore his compassion for the homeless and the free food to the neediest across the State.
In a recent demonstration of his commitment, Governor Eno significantly increased the palliative aid brought to the State by the federal government, by doubling the 24,000 bags of rice provided by President Tinubu to 48,000 bags. This generous allocation ensured that every village in the state receives 20 bags of rice and two bags of garri each.
It is not surprising that the people of the State have maintained a stand against joining in the nationwide protest against the government. Having seen the strong display of compassion to the people especially the vulnerable and the downtrodden across the rural communities through compassionate homes for the homeless, modern primary healthcare facilities, model primary schools and farm inputs to farmers and free food to the neediest through the new bulk purchase agency.
This compassion was further demonstrated in his doubling of palliatives sent by the federal government to the state government from the initial 24,000 bags of rice to 48,000 bags evoking passionate words of appreciation from everyone; men, youths, leaders and women across the state.
Other local government areas like Nsit Atai, Uyo and Ikono also vented their disapproval of the anticipated mass protest in their areas and vouched to continue supporting the State Government led by Governor Eno