Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, said “Every month, 15 elders will be selected per local government and would receive N50,000 each.
Governor Eno, on Sunday promised the elders when he visited the Fifth Itai Afe Annang, His Majesty, Obong Blaise Awakama at his Palace in Abak.
He highlighted commitment to construct an international market in Ikot Ekpene and medical corridor between Ibom Specialist hospital and Four Points by Sheraton.
Nevertheless “Our ARISE Initiative for the elderly aimed at showing our appreciation for the huge contributions they made for development, unity and oneness of our state,” he said.
In addition, “Our developmental plans based on the need assessment we drew up during the electioneering campaigns for the people of Ikot Ekpene Senatorial district.”
Whereas, the programme will be operated transparently.“A lot of votes that gave us victory came from Annang land,” Eno stated.
Therefore, shortly after I took oaths of office, the first place I visited was Essien Udim, where I thanked the Iroko 1 of our politics, Chief Michael Afangide,” he explained.
However, “Let the traditional rulers speak among themselves,” he said Boycotting meetings is not helping matters.
He noted the case is still in court, nevertheless, he said they will put a closure to the matter soon.
For instance, he said he will continue to run an inclusive government because some of his closest aides and strategic appointees are from Annang extraction.
Meanwhile, the monarch sued for peace and the Traditional Rulers Council (TRC) matter in court be resolved amicably.
Obong Awakama described Governor Eno as a man who wears peace, humility, Christian virtues as badges of honour.
Thus “Annang land voted for you massively and that’s how it would continue to be,” he said. “We will support your re-election and support you for who you are.”
He continued: “We know you as a man of peace, truth, deep character and convictions; a man who does exactly what he says he would do.”
Specifically, “The number of prominent ibibios married to Annang women is staggering and vice-versa, we are one, thoroughly interwoven.”
Also, “I am happy you came back to greet me. I have many friends, but I will call you my Golden son.”
“It is not an easy task to draw these caliber and quality of leaders under one roof. It shows the love we have for you.”
Hence, “when you came here to consult me, I told you the sky was not just your limit, but the starting point.”
Ekerete Udoh, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, said the Director General of the Campaign Organization, H.E. Chief Assam Assam offered vote of thanks.
He reemphasized the fact that Governor Umo Eno is a deeply detrabilized leader, who has the interest of the state at heart.
EXCO members, the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, State Chairman of the PDP, Elder Aniekan Akpan, National President of the Maintain Peace Movement, Barrister Emmanuel Enoidem, SAN, former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Uwemedimo Nwoko,SAN, among others joined the governor for the visit.
Those who joined the Itai Afe Annang included, Obong Michael Afangide, H.E. Moses Ekpo, MFR, H.E., Sir Michael Udofia, Distinguished Sen Emmanuel Ibokessien, and Chief Senas Ukpanah.
Also, DIG Udom Ekpudom, (rtd) Hon. Friday Iwok, Obong Eno Akpan, Dr. Emmanuel Abraham of Topfaith, Rt. Hon. Udo Kieran , Prof. A.E Udoh, His Highness, Aba’ak of Abak, Obong Ifiok Umanah and other leaders from Annang Land attended.