Henry Archibong, 26 others make list of Akwa Ibom commissioner-nominees

Akwa Ibom Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has forwarded a list of 27 nominees to the state House of Assembly for screening as members of the State Executive Council, including a two-term House of Reps member, Dr Henry Archibong, and a former commissioner for information in the State, Mr Aniekan Umanah.

The list presented to the Speaker during Tuesday’s plenary also comprises some members of the immediate past Executive Council, former local government chairmen, and former members of the House of Representatives.

Some of the returning Exco members include the former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr Uko Udom (SAN), former Commissioners for Finance, Hon Linus Nkan, Works, Prof Eno Ibanga, Information, Comrade Ini Ememobong, Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Frank Archibong amongst others.

Some former local government Chairmen who made the list are: The immediate past ALGON chairman, Hon. Iniobong Robson, and Hon. Emem Ibanga.

The list which was contained in a letter signed by the Governor and captioned “Clearance for appointment” stated: “On behalf of the Government and people of Akwa Ibom State, I warmly greet the Leadership and the Honourable members of the 8 Assembly for the wonderful spirit of cooperation we have received from you since we came in.

“In line with Section 192 (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), I forward the under-listed names of nominees for appointment to the Office of the Commissioners and Special Advisers for confirmation by the State House of Assembly.”

The Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, while receiving the letter, said it would be given expedited treatment accordingly.

Our Correspondent reports that Pastor Umo Eno had in many fora stated that his choice of Executive Cabinet Members would not be influenced by anybody even as no one anywhere would have a clue of the names until they were formally presented to the House of Assembly.

He particularly warned stakeholders at all levels to avoid sending names or lobbying for any office, as such would spell automatic disqualification for such a person.

The long-anticipated list as presented to the State House of Assembly and copies made available to the press, did not pull surprises as all 27 nominees were old recurring faces in the state’s political scene.