By Asuquo Edem
In a landmark move to strengthen democratic processes and ensure continuity in governance, the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly on Monday held a public hearing on a bill seeking to provide a legal framework for the peaceful and orderly transfer of executive power from one democratically elected governor to another.
Declaring the hearing open, the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Elder Udeme Otong described the bill as strategic, stating that it was aimed at curbing abuse of power during transitions while safeguarding the interests of the people. He emphasized that the proposed legislation would serve the larger good of the citizens by ensuring seamless handover and sustained development.
In his remarks, Hon. Emem Udom, Chairman of the House Committee on Inter-Governmental, Political and Special Matters, underscored the essence of peaceful transfer of power as the cornerstone of democracy. He noted that beyond symbolic ceremonies, true transition includes the smooth handover of both authority and state resources. According to him, the bill fosters democratic consolidation, prevents power vacuums, and builds public trust in governance.
The lead sponsor of the bill, Hon. Moses Essien, explained that the proposed law is designed to provide legal backing for post-election transitions, empowering the governor-elect to appoint key transition personnel within seven days of election declaration. He added that the legislation would ensure that laudable projects of outgoing administrations are not abandoned, thus promoting development continuity.
Also speaking at the event, Special Adviser to the Governor on Political and Social Reorientation, Barr. Kufre Udosen, highlighted the importance of inclusive governance, stressing that the bill would enable all arms of government to participate actively in the transition process. He noted that stakeholders’ inputs would further enhance participatory democracy.
Contributing to the discourse, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Chairman in the state, Comrade Sunny James, advocated for the extension of the bill’s provisions to include local government chairmen and vice chairmen. He argued that they also play crucial roles in delivering governance to the grassroots and should be part of orderly transition protocols.
Other speakers at the hearing, including the Special Adviser to the Governor on Legislative Matters, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Ekpenyong, Director of Policy Alert, Mr. Tijah Bolton, and Director of Centre for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN), Comrade Franklyn Isong, described the bill as timely and essential. They lauded the Assembly for initiating a process that would bring clarity, order, and accountability to leadership transitions in the state.
The State Attorney General was represented at the event by Sifon Ntuk, Esq. The hearing was well-attended by key stakeholders, civil society groups, and traditional rulers, who commended the Assembly for providing a platform for public engagement on the bill.
The public hearing marks a critical step in the legislative process as the state positions itself to institutionalize peaceful democratic transitions and sustain governance structures beyond electoral cycles.
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