September 23, (THEWILL) – Minister, Niger Delta Affairs Ministry, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has felicitated Government and people of Akwa Ibom State on the 34th anniversary of the state, saying that ” from creation in 1987; much progress has been recorded in all facets of developments.
A statement by the Press Secretary to the minister, Mr Jackson Udom, quoted the former governor of the state, while commenting on the 34th Anniversary of the state creation, as saying, “exactly 34 years ago, we began our journey for a collective identity, to give our people and unborn generations, a sense of pride.”
“Part of the journey also witnessed the era of Uncommon Transformation, when I mounted the saddle as your governor.
” I therefore, use this opportunity to congratulate the Governor, Members of the State Executive Council, Lawmakers, Royal Fathers, Stakeholders and Citizens of Akwa Ibom State on this 34th Anniversary of our statehood.”
The former Senate Minority Leader, prayed for peace, unity and development of the state, saying” may God Almighty bless and unite us to embrace the slogan of Forward Ever, Backward Never in Jesus’ name – Amen.”
In his speech while briefing newsmen yesterday, the state Commissioner for information and strategy, Comrade Ini EmemObong was quoted as saying: “All the Governors of the state did well in their time, if you displace them in their time, they won’t have done as well as they did.
Obong Victor Attah drew the Master plan of the state, Chief Godswill Akpabio came anger for development, Mr. Udom Emmanuel came at the time the economy of Nigeria was in recession and you can see that he was prepared for a time like this.”
He lamented that but not for the persistent Delta Varian of the Covid-19, it would have been a time to roll out droms to celebrate statehood.
“If Covid-19 did not come, we would have rolled out the drums as usual to celebrate, we would have declared a public holiday in the state. But the celebration this year will be low keyed”. The commissioner lamented.
THEWILL can authoritatively report that the seeming face off between the former Governor and his successor is gradually fading off.
It would also be recalled that the incumbent, during a media interaction to mark his sixth year in office had denied having known issues with his predecessor.
