A’Ibom 2023: ‘I will solve local problems using local solutions’ says governorship aspirant
The former deputy governor of the State and now Senator representing Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District, Dr. Christopher Ekpenyong, has said that his support for one of the leading aspirants, Obong Bassey Albert Akpan (OBA), stemmed from his sterling qualities and achievements as former finance commissioner and committee chairman in the senate.
He made this observation in his country home, Obot Akara while receiving the aspirant who was on one of his routine tours to Obot Akara council area to consult with stakeholders in the constituencies there.
He told the aspirant that within the period he has worked with him in the red chambers of the National Assembly, “you have been a pride to Akwa Ibom and Nigeria, adding that, “if we want to follow the American system, if you were not vying for governorship, you are eminently qualified to vie for the presidency of Nigeria.
And continuing he said, ‘I am aware that you are experienced, you know how Nigeria is and where to tap the resources for the good of our people. I know you have the capacity”.
He described the gubernatorial aspirant as being a peaceful and humble person, noting that such sterling qualities were what endeared OBA to him, especially his respect for him, notwithstanding that he is a ranking Senator.
The former deputy governor said he has always been proud of OBA’s sterling performance in the Senate which has brought so much respect to Akwa Ibom from the leadership, irrespective of being from a different political party.
He added that he postponed his trip “to give credence to his candidacy for the governorship of Akwa Ibom State. Senator Bassey Albert is a pillar in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”.
Ekpenyong said that nobody can intimidate him to accept that which is not good for his people, adding that, they want a governor who knows their peculiar problems and has the wide contacts to deploy for their solutions.
“OBA, since your heart is very clear, I know that you will change the circumstances of these men and women. As a former banker, you know that these people need welfare and banking investments. What they need is development. If you go to Ini, you can change the environment into a rice belt so we can also have a rice pyramid. From Obot Akara to Etim Ekpo to Ika, we have the best palm oil”, he said.
Ekpenyong disclosed that God revealed to him that the next governor of Akwa Ibom State will be Senator Bassey Albert Akpan aka OBA, adding, “I don’t know what others are saying and what they heard. All I know is that God has told me that OBA is the best governorship aspirant for Akwa Ibom at this time. OBA has the experience, he has the connection. With him, we can go to bed and sleep”.
Earlier, Senator Akpan told his counterpart, senator Ekpenyong that his aspiration is anchored on his experience, connection with the people, and knowledge of their particular challenges to serve Akwa Ibom better when elected
Besides, he said his ambition will leverage God’s blessings upon his life.
”The welfare of Youths is very paramount towards sustaining the peace for the development of the state. Leveraging the gains of the past administrations will provide a veritable ground for us to address Youth unemployment by generating a resourceful data bank to identify the gaps and core issues limiting the development of our Youths to enable them to become self-reliant” he posited.
Senator Akpan assured that he has a tailored development roadmap that will enable his administration when elected to solve local problems using local solutions.
