Ahead of the forthcoming local government elections, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has tasked the chairmanship candidates contesting under the umbrella of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to focus their campaigns on issues and intended service to the people, avoiding attacks on individuals or institutions.
The Governor gave the charge at the flag-off of the 2024 Local Government campaign and the presentation of flags to the 31 chairmanship candidates at the Uyo Township Stadium, Uyo.
He noted that the candidates have much to highlight, given the quality performance of the PDP-led government in the state.
Governor Eno described the candidates as great ambassadors who represent the heart and soul of the party, as well as the ARISE Agenda, through which the party has brought development, peace, security, and good governance to the state and its people.
According to him, “You represent the collective symbols of all our past leaders who have, in the last almost 37 years, and most especially since the beginning of the current political dispensation, worked hard to lift our state from the backwater subnational it was at creation to the destination of choice that we have become today.
“So, I charge you to campaign on our sterling record of accomplishments, sell your message of hope, and our shared aspirations as elaborately contained in the ARISE Agenda.”
Speaking on local government autonomy, he said, “You now have autonomy, which means you will, upon your election and swearing-in, fully control the purse and finances of your local government. You must be prepared to be accountable, to take responsibility for your statutory duties, and to serve our people with transparency, love, and passion.
“One of the key elements of the ARISE Agenda is rural development. Upon your successful election as the local government boss, you will be expected to key into this vision and be partners in our collective desire to uplift our people and show them that government and governance can be platforms and forces for good.
“You will also be the Chief Security Officer of your respective councils, and I know you will keep and maintain peace after your election.
“Let your campaign be free of bitterness, rancor, or mudslinging. There is no need for name-calling or violence of any kind.
We have a fantastic record to run on, and that’s what we expect you to campaign with,” he added.
While congratulating them on their successful emergence as candidates of the party, he said, “We will continue to work collaboratively with you, because that’s what the people expect from us.”
In his remarks, the State Party Chairman, Elder Aniekan Akpan, appreciated the Governor for his laudable performance since assuming office, adding that he has given the party the impetus and solid foundation upon which to campaign.
He assured that the party was prepared for the election and would win in all LGAs.
Setting the tone for the event, the State Chairman of the PDP Congress Coordinating Committee, Engineer Uwem Koko, said the process that led to the emergence of the candidates was fair and all-inclusive, adding that 40 percent of the positions were given to women, as directed by the leader of the party, Governor Umo Eno.
Earlier, in their separate remarks, the political leaders of Ikot Ekpene, Uyo, and Eket Senatorial Districts—Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, Senator Effiong Bob, and Chief Nduese Essien (represented by Ambassador Asam Asam)—respectively stated that the people of Akwa Ibom are pleased with the leadership of the PDP in the state since the return of democracy, and with the Umo Eno-led administration in particular.
They noted that the Umo Eno-led administration was unique in its approach, stressing that it was the first time candidates were selected for the party without any rancor.
They therefore assured that the people of the three senatorial districts would continue to support him and ensure the victory of all PDP candidates in the forthcoming elections.
On their part, the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, and Obongawan Grace Ekong appreciated the Governor for his laudable inclusion of women in his administration.
They also assured that, in appreciation, Akwa Ibom women would stand by him and vote for PDP candidates in the forthcoming elections.
