New Year: Akwa Ibom lawmaker hosts constituents, advocates unity

Member Representing Itu/Ibiono Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Ime Bassey Okon, has expressed gratitude to political stakeholders in Itu Local Government of Akwa Ibom State for their support during the 2023 general elections.

The event, held at the residence of Rt. Hon. Henry Archibong, Political Leader of Itu and former Member Representing the Federal Constituency, also served as a platform to discuss developmental strides and plans for the future of the constituency.

Speaking, Barr. Ime Okon expressed profound gratitude to the stakeholders for their pivotal role during his election and their continuous support, describing their efforts as instrumental to his success.

“I am here to say thank you. You stood by me as brothers and sisters, and I will always remain grateful.

“Despite the challenges of a highly contested election petition, we have stabilised and made significant progress over the past year,” he said.

Highlighting some of his achievements and plans, Barr. Ime Okon enumerated key interventions, including the construction of six classroom blocks at the Technical School, Ayadehe, and four classroom blocks at North Itam Primary School, as well as the installation of solar-powered streetlights across some communities in the constituency and the ongoing construction of Joshua Uwa Street in Mak Itam 3. Other projects included the payment of ₦200,000 bursary to over ten students from Itu in the Nigerian Law School and reaching out to hundreds of people across the federal constituency for various forms of assistance.

He also announced plans for a free medical outreach for Itu and Ibiono Ibom Local Government Areas and the disbursement of ₦50,000 bursaries to 200 students this January, reflecting his commitment to improving healthcare and education.

Addressing infrastructure challenges, Barr. Ime Okon assured stakeholders that he is actively seeking external intervention for the erosion site at Ntiat Itam and Mkpeti. “I remain deeply committed to addressing the concerns of our people. By the end of this year, we would have achieved significant milestones for Itu-Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency,” he pledged.

The lawmaker used the opportunity to advocate for peace, unity, and togetherness within the constituency, stressing that such cohesion is vital for collective progress.

He also urged the people of Itu and stakeholders to continue their support for Pastor Umo Eno’s administration and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), noting that such collaboration is vital for sustained development across the federal constituency and the state at large.

In his goodwill message, the member representing Itu State Constituency in the state House of Assembly and the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. KufreAbasi Edidem, commended Barr. Ime Okon for his humility in returning to thank his constituents, describing it as a testament to his character and leadership.

“This act of humility and recognition endears you to the people. You have my full support as always,” he assured.

Hon. Ubong Wilson Nkutt, Executive Chairman of Itu Local Government Council, praised the lawmaker’s commitment to delivering dividends of democracy to the people. He lauded his initiatives, particularly in empowering youths, women, and stakeholders, pledging continued support.

Speaking on behalf of the PDP in Itu, Chapter Chairman, Mrs Inemesit Maxwell, described the lawmaker as a source of pride for the party. “Your excellent representation in the National Assembly and your dedication to the constituency make us proud. We urge you to sustain this momentum,” she remarked.

Representing the women, Dr Ekaette Ebong commended the lawmaker for his interventions and care for womenfolk. She revealed that part of the Yuletide gifts Barr. Ime Okon provided was used to support indigent families, further spreading joy within the area. She prayed for God’s blessings upon him and urged him to continue prioritising the welfare of the people.

Goodwill messages also came from notable figures, including the International President of Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio, Akparawa James Edet, and the Senior Special Assistant on Branding and Marketing, Sir Raphael Edem, who described Barr. Ime Okon as a dependable and impactful representative.

The highlight of the meeting, which was well attended by stakeholders across the 11 wards of the local government area, was the disbursement of Christmas and New Year gifts to the stakeholders by the lawmaker.

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