Inaugurates Chapter, Ward Primaries Organising Committee
Stakeholders Promise Bloc Votes for Party Candidate
The Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Akon Eyakenyi, on Friday rallied critical stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oron Local Government Area ahead of Saturday’s National Assembly primaries, charging them to ensure victory for the party’s endorsed candidate.
Addressing party faithful and stakeholders at her country home in Oron, Senator Eyakenyi urged members of the party to mobilise massively in support of the APC candidate for the Oron/Mbo/Okobo/Udung Uko/Urue Offong/Oruko Federal Constituency, Martins Esin.
She said the meeting was convened to sensitise stakeholders on the importance of the primaries and to reinforce unity within the party ahead of the exercise.
According to her, the APC in Oron remains one united family devoid of divisive tendencies, stressing the need for peace, brotherhood and cohesion among party faithful.
“Today we are together as brothers and sisters, one big family. You must be my voice in this local government area. You must exemplify peace, brotherhood and cohesion,” she said.
Senator Eyakenyi also urged members who were yet to register with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to take advantage of the extension granted by the electoral body.
The Deputy Governor commended the Executive Chairman of Oron Local Government Area, Asukwo Eweme, for maintaining peace and security in the area, noting that insecurity previously experienced in Oron had been completely subdued.
She further informed stakeholders of the scheduled visit of the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, on May 26 for the commissioning of projects in the local government area.
“From the day he saw the picture of the administrative block, he was so excited. He will be here on the 26th of May to commission these projects. Oron LGA will be the first to commission four projects in one day,” she stated.
She maintained that there was no distinction between old and new members of the APC in the state, insisting that diligence, loyalty and good conduct remained the only requirements for relevance within the party.
Earlier, the immediate past Commissioner for Transport and current Delivery Adviser to the Governor, Orman Esin, said the meeting provided an opportunity for stakeholders to deliberate on strategies ahead of the primaries.
He described Rep. Martins Esin as a tested mobiliser with commendable antecedents, adding that his endorsement by the party leadership was based on his proven track record.
Also speaking, Chief Asukwo Eweme assured party members and residents of adequate security during the exercise, urging them to participate in the primaries without fear.
Responding, Rep. Martins Esin appreciated party stakeholders in Oron for their support and loyalty, while thanking Governor Umo Eno and Senator Eyakenyi for their continued backing.
He expressed confidence in the direct primary process and optimism about emerging victorious at the polls.
Goodwill messages were delivered by former council chairmen, Engr. Kpahabia Efretuei and Hon. Hogan Etta; the President-General of Oron Union, Sir Essang Nsa Bassey; and the APC Chapter Chairman, Hon. Tony Elvis Okpoabasi.
The highlight of the meeting was the inauguration of the APC Primaries Chapter and Wards Organising Committee.
By Ndifreke Bassey
