Stakeholders of Oro ethnic nationality of Akwa Ibom State have reaffirmed their support for Pastor Umo Eno.
The stakeholders, drawn from the political class, the traditional institution, the academia, youth and women’s organizations, made the declaration, Thursday, at the residence of a former deputy Governor of the State, Sir Etim Okpoyo,in Oron, during a “Thank You “ Visit to the Federal Constituency.
While moving a motion for the Vote of Confidence on the Governor, the Chairman, Akwa Ibom State Traditional Rulers Council and Paramount Ruler of Udung Uko Local Government Area, Odidem Bassey Etim Edet said the Governor has demonstrated unprecedented goodwill for Oro people as shown in the number and magnitude of projects so far sited in the federal Constituency.
He said the reaffirmation of the Vote of Confidence and royal blessing on the Governor became necessary because the one earlier passed by the Akpakip Oro Elders’ Advisory Council on March 16 was done without the involvement of traditional rulers.
“The Governor is a true friend of Oro Nation. And we appreciate the level of attention Oro Nation is receiving from his administration.
“Since the Vote of Confidence earlier passed by the Elders’ Advisory Council was without the involvement of traditional rulers, I hereby move another motion passing a Vote of Confidence on His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno.”
The motion was seconded by the Paramount Ruler of Okobo Local Government Area, Edidem Ita Okokon, while the Paramount Ruler of Mbo Local Government Area, Owong Okon Abang sealed it with a prayer.
In his remarks, Governor Umo Eno expressed appreciation for the support, love and confidence reposed in him by the Oro people, noting that the visit was in fulfilment of the promise he made to Oro leaders when they hosted him in the same venue during electioneering.
“I am grateful for all the good things you have said concerning the modest efforts God has enabled us to make in Oron federal constituency.
“What you’ve done here today is a tonic for us to do many more things for Oro as a child will normally go to where he’s appreciated.”
Briefing the stakeholders on the inclusive disposition of his administration, particularly in infrastructural development, the Governor said at least one major project was ongoing in each of the thirty one Local Government Areas of the State.
“While reviewing ongoing road construction projects at the last Exco meeting, we realized Ibeno was the only Local Government Area without an ongoing road project. I have accordingly initiated the process for the award of contract for two internal road projects for Ibeno Local Government Area.
“We will try to ensure that whatever we do goes round. We will not leave you behind. We have done very strategic projects in Oro.
“The project we are executing in Oron Beach is handled by three ministries and it is one of the biggest projects in our State.”
The Governor said the recently terminated contract for the dualization of Uyo – Nsit Atai – Okobo Road will soon be re-awarded for an expeditious completion for the benefit of commuters.
He used the opportunity to commend the contributions of the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi to the administration, describing her as a great daughter of Oron who is tireless in advocating for her people.
While specifically thanking the traditional rulers for the honour done him, the Governor sued for peace and understanding, reiterating the unity of the State.
In their separate speeches, Member Representing Oron Federal Constituency, Honourable Martins Esin, former Deputy Governor, Sir Etim Okpoyo, President General of Oron Union, Sir Essang Nsa Bassey and Chairman, Akpakip Oro Elders’ Advisory Council, Ikpoto Okon Osung thanked the Governor for fulfilling his campaign promises to people, thus giving them an unprecedented sense of belonging.
They confirmed that AMITEC Construction Ltd. handling the Unyenghe – Orukim- Unyenghe-Universal Energy Road and CCECC handling the Okopedi – Uya Oro Road had long mobilized to site, and are making great progress in the execution of the projects.
They appealed for the dualization of Oron Road to properly connect the dualized Okopedi – Uya Oro Road with Oron Beach, the siting of a power station in Oron to solve the perennial power problem in the area, and the support of the Governor towards the take-off of the Federal University of Maritime Studies, Oron.
The Governor’s cordial relationship with his Deputy was also appreciated by the Stakeholders.
In her speech, the Deputy Governor, Senator (Dr) Akon Eyakenyi thanked the Governor for his inclusive leadership style, describing him as a conscientious leader who has brought peace, unity and development to the State.
