National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Paulinus Nta, A’IBOM |
Barely 48 hours after local government elections were conducted across the 31 Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom State, the newly elected Chairmen and their deputies will be inaugurated on Monday, October 7, 2024.
The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled to take place 8 a.m. at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Uyo.
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, announced the forthcoming inauguration while speaking at the All Nations Christian Ministry in Eket. He noted the importance of installing the democratically elected local government leaders without delay, to align the councils with recent national developments.
This move is expected to secure their legitimacy and ensure that they can begin receiving financial allocations by the end of October, in line with the Supreme Court ruling on financial autonomy for local governments.
Governor Eno highlighted that the prompt inauguration would solidify the local governments’ role in managing their affairs and accessing necessary resources for the development of their areas. He explained that this swift action reflects the state’s commitment to governance and accountability.
Addressing the recent appointment of his eldest daughter, Helen Obareki, to coordinate the office of the deceased First Lady, Pastor (Mrs.) Patience Eno, the Governor clarified that the decision was a natural outcome rather than a political maneuver. He explained that First Ladies are not appointed but assume their roles alongside the Governor upon his election. Given the unfortunate passing of his wife, it felt appropriate and comforting for his daughter, who had been closely involved with her mother’s initiatives, to take over the coordination of the office.
Governor Eno reaffirmed his commitment to continuing and expanding the visions and projects initiated by the late First Lady.
This gesture, he stated, would ensure the continuity of her contributions to the state and its people, maintaining her legacy even in her absence.
The Governor concluded by encouraging all stakeholders to support the new local governments’ leadership and work together for the progress of Akwa Ibom State.
