The Empire Naija

  A former lawmaker, Rt. Hon. (Barr.) Usenobong Akpabio, has announced that he will not contest the Akwa Ibom North (Uyo) Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections, despite mounting calls from constituents urging him to enter the race. In a public statement issued on Thursday, Akpabio expressed gratitude to stakeholders across the senatorial district—spanning markets, churches, farms, and community forums—for their support and encouragement to seek the party’s nomination. He acknowledged the confidence reposed in him by the people, noting that their calls reflected a desire for “purposeful and effective representation.” However, he said recent developments within his political party influenced his decision to step aside. According to him, the party leadership appears to be aligning with a “policy of continuity” that favors the incumbent, a move he said, though not formally communicated, became evident after consultations and careful consideration. “In view of this, it would be ...

  By Asuquo Edem  In a major step toward addressing persistent power supply challenges in Akwa Ibom State, the State House of Assembly has confirmed five nominees forwarded by Governor Pastor Umo Eno to serve as commissioners of the Akwa Ibom State Electricity Regulatory Commission (AKSERC), reinforcing the administration’s drive to reposition the electricity sector. The confirmation, which followed the screening of the nominees during Tuesday’s plenary at the Old Assembly Chamber, Uyo, is seen as a significant follow-up to Governor Umo Eno’s commitment to finding sustainable solutions to epileptic power supply across the state. Those confirmed are Engr. Ubong Etukudoh for Engineering, Dr. Valerie Okon Obot for Finance and Corporate Services, Mr. Paul Okon for Economic Regulation, Dr. Kalu Ukoha for Policy, Planning and Innovation, and Ms. Arit Okon-Uya for Stakeholder Engagement and Consumer Affairs. The confirmation came after the House considered and adopted the report of i...

  The leadership of the Association of Eket Senatorial District Media Professionals (AESDMP) wishes to respond to concerns raised by members following the press release issued on April 23, 2026, by the Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsikan Esenowo. In the said release, published across traditional and social media platforms, the NUJ Secretary warned members against identifying with “unrecognized, unregistered, and unconstitutional splinter groups,” threatening decisive action against defaulters. The statement further urged government agencies, security institutions, corporate bodies, and religious organizations to transact only with the NUJ platform for media-related dealings. While the NUJ did not specifically mention AESDMP, we issue this clarification for historical record and public enlightenment: 1. *Legal Status and Identity*: The Association of Eket Senatorial District Media Professionals is not a splinter group of the N...

  PRESS RELEASE:   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE The Akwa Ibom State Police Command and the general public are hereby notified of an armed robbery incident that occurred today, Sunday, April 19, 2026, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. *BACKGROUND INCIDENT REPORT*    Arc. Victor Nyong Paul, accompanied by his family, attended a church service in Uyo this morning. Upon returning home, they discovered that armed robbers had burgled their residence during their absence. The assailants made away with several valuables, including laptop computers, food items, cash, and a motor vehicle. *PARTICULARS OF STOLEN VEHICLE*   The public, security agencies, car dealers, and auto technicians are kindly requested to be on the lookout for the vehicle described below:   Description Details Owner's Name:Arc. Victor Nyong Paul Vehicle Make/Model:Honda Civic, 2012 Model Colour: Blue *Chassis Number* GP4/1004794 Engine Number:TK/AH3/J1273 *APPEAL FOR ACTION* 1. *Akwa Ibom State Po...

  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...

  Upenekang, Ibeno LGA — April 10, 2026 A prominent figure in Akwa Ibom politics, Eunice Thomas, on Thursday paid a high-profile visit to the All Progressives Congress (APC) Secretariat in Upenekang, Ibeno Local Government Area, where she was received by party leaders and enthusiastic supporters. Arriving at about 4:13 p.m. in the company of a large crowd of loyalists, Dr. Thomas was greeted by a jubilant assembly of party faithful who thronged the premises to welcome her. Addressing the gathering shortly after her arrival, she described herself as the “emblem of victory,” urging members to remain united and focused on consolidating the party’s growing influence. Dr. Thomas commended APC members in Ibeno for their years of resilience and unwavering commitment, even during challenging times. According to her, their sacrifices have yielded results, with the party now firmly established as a dominant political force in both Akwa Ibom State and the country at large. She further called ...

The Ibeno Traditional Rulers Council  has thrown their weight behind the aspiration of Dr. Eunice Thomas for Eket Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives in the forthcoming elections, declaring that the time has come to give women a fair opportunity in political leadership.  Speaking during a consultative meeting held at the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Ibeno in Iwuokpom, the Paramount Ruler of Ibeno Local Government Area, HRM Owong Amb. (Prof.) Effiong B. Archianga (JP) emphasized that society consists of both male and female, and equity demands balanced representation.  He noted that while men have long dominated the political space, the people of Ibeno are now ready to support a capable woman, describing Dr. Thomas as “tested and trusted.” stressing the need for a competent hand who understands governance and grassroots development.  Recalling her track record as a former member of the State Executive Council and board member of the NNPC, he ...

  The Senator representing Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District, Aniekan Bassey, on Tuesday undertook an inspection of the ongoing construction of the 3.96 kilometre Adadia Market- Ekim Enen–Esuk Odu Beach Road, a project he facilitated through the Akwa Ibom State RAAMP. The construction project is handled by Rosh Es Nigeria Limited.  Speaking shortly after the visit, Senator Bassey said the inspection is part of his commitment to ensuring quality delivery and timely completion of critical infrastructure projects across the senatorial district.  He expressed satisfaction with the pace of work and reiterated his resolve to continue attracting impactful development projects to rural communities. The Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District Senator also hinted that “the Adadia–Esuk Odu Road, when completed, is expected to significantly improve connectivity within the area, easing the movement of people, goods, and services.” “For residents, the road will open up economic...

  By Asuquo Edem  In a strategic move to inspire a new wave of productivity and self-reliance among young people, the Managing Director of the South South Development Commission (SSDC), Usoro Akpabio, on Sunday hosted an Easter gathering with youths drawn from across Akwa Ibom State, delivering a compelling message centered on skills development, innovation, and economic empowerment. The interactive session, held at Lamems Hotel, brought together a cross-section of young people for engagement on opportunities within key sectors of the regional economy. Speaking passionately, Akpabio underscored the critical role of youths and women in driving sustainable development across the South-South region. “It’s an honour to be here to engage with young minds. Development in the South-South hangs largely on the shoulders of women and youths,” she said, emphasizing that the region is richly endowed with creativity and untapped talent. She identified priority areas such as infrastructure,...