The Empire Naija

  By Asuquo Edem  In democratic governance, the true measure of a lawmaker is not in noise-making or media theatrics, but in tangible impact, effective representation, and purposeful legislation. Despite attempts in some quarters to downplay his contributions, the performance record of Hon. Jerry Otu, who represents Ikot Ekpene State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, tells a compelling story of quiet diligence and meaningful service. Within less than three years in office, Hon. Otu—who also serves as Chairman, House Committee on Information—has demonstrated commitment to the three cardinal responsibilities of a legislator: law-making, representation, and oversight. Perhaps the most visible aspect of Hon. Otu’s work lies in his grassroots-focused interventions. His projects reflect a deep understanding of the immediate needs of his constituents across Ikot Ekpene and Obot Akara LGAs. From the provision of ambulances to improve emergency healthcare response,...

  Community leaders, royal fathers and Stakeholders in the education sector have given Hon. Bassey Pius Bassey, Member representing Okobo State Constituency in Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, a pat at the back for attracting critical infrastructural projects to various Schools in Okobo State Constituency, describing the intervention as a major boost to learning and community development. The commendation follows a wave of education-focused projects facilitated by the lawmaker which are spread across various Wards in Okobo Local Government Area, thereby creating a conducive ambience for teaching and learning. Speaking while playing host to the Okobo lawmaker who led the  team of  Government Officials and contractors to Community Secondary school, Urue Ita for flag-off of Assembly Hall and Office  Complex Project, the Village Head of Urue Ita, His Highness, Chief Friday Matthew, community leaders; Mr. Uwem Dominic Uduk, Hon. Samuel Okpo, Elder Edet Sam, Woman leader...

  By Asuquo Edem  The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly is taking decisive legislative steps to tackle environmental degradation and curb criminal activities, following the presentation of two key reports by its Committee on Environment. The reports, presented during plenary by the Committee Chairman, Bassey Pius Bassey, focus on proposed laws to prohibit the use of polystyrene (Styrofoam) and other single-use plastics, as well as to regulate the operations of scrap metal dealers across the State. According to the Committee’s report, the bill seeking to ban the use, manufacture and importation of Styrofoam and other single-use plastics was read for the second time on September 11, 2024, before being referred to the Committee for detailed scrutiny. As part of its legislative process, the Committee held a public hearing on March 9, 2026, attracting wide participation from key stakeholders, including government officials, environmental regulators, civil society organisations and ...

  By Asuquo Edem  The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has commenced legislative action on the establishment of the Akwa Ibom State Electricity Regulatory Commission, following the transmission of a list of five nominees by Governor Umo Eno for screening and confirmation as pioneer commissioners. The governor’s request, read on the floor during plenary, seeks legislative approval for the nominees who are expected to drive the regulatory framework of the state’s evolving electricity sector. Shortly after the letter was read, the Speaker of the House referred the nominees to the House Committee on Judiciary, Justice and Public Petitions for detailed screening, directing the committee to report back within two weeks. The nominees include Engr. Ubong Etokudoh, a Deputy Manager with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, nominated as Commissioner for Engineering; Dr. Valerie Okon Obot, pioneer Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power, Akwa Ibom State, as Commissioner for Fi...

  Political momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections gathered pace in Esit Eket Local Government Area on Tuesday, as key stakeholders and party leaders unanimously endorsed Dr. Eunice Thomas as their preferred candidate for the Eket Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives. The endorsement was the outcome of a high-level consultation meeting held at the residence of prominent political leader, Elder Benjamin Udobia, where leaders across party structures and community blocs converged to deliberate on the constituency’s political future. Speaking at the meeting, the Executive Chairman of Esit Eket Local Government Council, Mrs. Uduak Ikemesit Ikott, described Dr. Thomas as a timely and divinely inspired choice, expressing confidence in her capacity to deliver effective representation. “Dr. Thomas is God-sent for a time like this, and I am confident that the God who has sent her will stand by her till the end,” Ikott declared, affirming the area’s full acceptance ...

  The city of Uyo witnessed a remarkable convergence of power, prestige, and reverence on Saturday, April 12, 2026, as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the South South Development Commission (SSDC), Usoro Akpabio, took centre stage in leading dignitaries to celebrate elder statesman Etim Eyakenyi on his 80th birthday. With her presence setting the tone for the high-profile gathering, Ms. Akpabio joined the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, members of the Deputy Governor’s family, and an array of political leaders and stakeholders who thronged the event in honour of the revered octogenarian. The celebration quickly transformed into a grand assembly of influence and admiration, reflecting the immense respect Elder Eyakenyi commands across political, social, and community circles. Guests took turns to recount his lifelong dedication to service, highlighting a legacy defined by integrity, leadership, and impact. In her tribute, Ms. Akpabio described the celebrant as a be...