By Chief Edet Isong, Publisher, Newsday
The recent attempts to portray Comfort 95.1 FM, Uyo, as a political platform are unnecessary and misleading. A radio station exists to serve the public through information, education and entertainment, not to function as a political party or an instrument of partisan interests. Comfort FM should therefore be judged by its record of public service rather than by unfounded speculation.
Since its establishment almost a decade ago, the station has earned a reputation as one of Akwa Ibom State’s leading broadcast organisations. It has provided a platform for news, public affairs, cultural programmes and civic engagement, giving voice to diverse opinions while promoting responsible journalism. This is the role of an independent media institution in any democratic society.
It is also important to acknowledge the vision behind the establishment of the station. Senator Effiong Bob deserves commendation for investing in a media organisation that has contributed significantly to the development of broadcasting in Akwa Ibom State. Building and sustaining such an institution requires foresight, commitment and substantial investment. Rather than being criticised for creating opportunities, such initiatives should be appreciated.
Beyond its role in informing the public, Comfort FM has made a tangible contribution to the state’s economy by creating employment for hundreds of families over the years. Journalists, presenters, engineers, marketers, producers, technicians and administrative personnel have all benefited from the opportunities provided by the station. In a period when unemployment remains a major concern, institutions that generate jobs deserve encouragement, not unwarranted attacks.
The station has also brought honour to Akwa Ibom State through its achievements. The Guinness World Record attained in 2025 by its presenter, Mighty George, remains a source of pride, while numerous industry recognitions reflect the professionalism that has become associated with the organisation.
Those who seek to drag every private institution into political contests do a disservice to society. Democracy flourishes when the media is allowed to operate independently, holding all sides accountable while remaining focused on its professional responsibilities. The fact that Senator Effiong Bob chairs the station’s Board does not make Comfort FM a political organisation. Corporate governance and editorial management are separate responsibilities, and that distinction should be respected.
Public discourse should be guided by facts, fairness and responsibility. Institutions that promote knowledge, encourage dialogue and create employment should not become casualties of political rivalry. Comfort FM has consistently demonstrated its commitment to public service broadcasting and deserves to be assessed on the basis of its performance and contributions to society.
As citizens, we must support initiatives that create opportunities for our people, strengthen democratic values and contribute to the social and economic development of Akwa Ibom State. Comfort FM has done exactly that. It should therefore be allowed to continue its work as a professional media organisation, free from needless political labelling and partisan distractions.
The station’s greatest identity is not politics but service—service to the people through credible journalism, community development, employment creation and the promotion of informed public discourse. That is a legacy worth preserving.