JOE EFFIONG, UYO
One of the major socio-cultural organisations in Akwa Ibom State, the Ibibio Elders Forum, have expressed their support to the president-elect, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, even as they have implored him to restructure the country when he assumes office on May 29 as well as ensure that the National Water Resources Bill before the National Assembly does not sail through.
The Chairman of the Forum, Dr. Emmanuel Akpanobong (Adaha Ibibio) who expressed this position in a congratulatory message to thePresident-elect as made available to Daily Sun, congratulated Tinubu on his victory at the February 18, 2023 presidential election, but stressed that restructuring would bring rapid development to the federating units in the country.
The forum also described the National Water Resources Bill as ‘anti-people’.which should be immediately trashed
“As you settle down, note that the Ibibio people, the fourth largest ethnic group in Nigeria, have been clamouring for such matters as restructuring of the polity particularly to revolve some powers to the federating units rapid growth. We are glad that restructuring is an essential part of your agenda”, he said.
The elders urged Tinubu to ensure the security and protection of lives of all Nigerians irrespective of ethnic and religious afflictions while granting all sections of the country equal economic and political opportunities.
“Be rest-assured that in your efforts to restore hope and confidence of the people in government, revamp the economy, guarantee security and foster national integration, the Ibibio people are with you”, Dr Akpanobong said on behalf of the elders.
Akpanobong also congratulated the Akwa Ibom state Governor-elect, Pastor Umo Eno for his victory at the governorship Election, and urged him to implement his blueprint for the state.
“When I attended and listened to you reeled out your blueprint at Ibom Icon Hotel a couple of months ago I knew you were prepared for service.
“With this victory, Sir, the entire state is your constituency and the people your children. Bring in the private sector spirit to develope the economy, empower the people and restore unity especially in Ibibio land”, he said