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Jul
AKWA IBOM GOVERNOR ADVOCATES TRUE FEDERALISM, CITIZEN-CENTERED REFORMS
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CapitalTimesNews / 4 weeks
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- 2 min read
The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, has called for true federalism and citizen-centered reforms in the ongoing constitutional amendment exercise undertaken by the National Assembly. Represented by his Deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, the Governor made the appeal at a public hearing for the South South geopolitical zone on the review of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The public hearing was held at the Four Points by Sheraton in Ikot Ekpene, and Governor Eno described the process as an important moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey. “The people of Akwa Ibom State are happy that this session is holding here,” he said. “It is beyond happenstance that this significant event is holding here in the ancient city of Ikot Ekpene, the raffia city, the cradle of Local Government administration and the oldest Local Government Area in Nigeria.” Governor Eno expressed optimism that the yearning of the people for true federalism would be given due prominence in the proposed review. “This theme resonates deeply with the yearning of the people of the South-South,” he said. “Indeed, it mirrors long-standing calls from this Region for a more just, responsive, and restructured Nigeria, where every federating unit can flourish, contribute meaningfully, and feel a sense of belonging.” The Governor emphasized the need to tread with caution while driving reforms, so as not to create a breeding ground for conflicts and chaos at the grassroots. He commended the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, for leading a transparent process in which all Nigerians could participate meaningfully. Senator Eyakenyi, the Deputy Governor, also commended the Senate President for his gender-friendly disposition and expressed optimism that he would support women in their agitation for a reserved seat in the legislature. She described Governor Eno as a gender-friendly leader, saying women have been carried along in his administration. In his remarks, Senator Akpabio noted that the participants were in attendance in large numbers to ensure that the Region would speak in one voice. He appreciated Governor Eno for his commitment to the event and hailed him as a peace-loving leader.
