Ahead of the forthcoming local government elections, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno has tasked the chairmanship candidates contesting under the umbrella of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to base their campaigns on issues and intended service to the people and avoid attacks on persons or institutions.
The Governor gave the charge at the flag off of the 2024 Local Government campaign and presentation of flags to the 31 Chairmanship Candidates at the Uyo Township Stadium, Uyo.
He noted that the candidates have so many things to talk about given the quality performance of the PDP-led government in the State.
Governor Eno described the candidates as great ambassadors, who represent the heart and soul of the party, as well as ambassadors of the ARISE Agenda through which the party has brought development, peace, security and good governance to the State and people.
According to him, “You represent the collective symbols of all our past leaders who have, in the last almost 37 years, and most specially since the coming of the current political dispensation, worked hard to lift our State from a backwater subnational it was at creation, to a destination of choice that we have become today.
“So I charge you to campaign on our sterling record of accomplishments, sell your message of hope, and our shared aspirations as elaborately contained in the ARISE Agenda”.
Speaking on the local government autonomy, he said, “You now have autonomy, which means you will totally, on your election and swearing-in, control the purse and finances of your local government. You must be prepared to be accountable, to take responsibility for your statutory responsibilities and serve our people with transparency, love and passion.
“One of the key elements of the ARISE Agenda, is rural development. Upon your successful election as the local government boss, you will be expected to key into this vision, and be partners in our collective desire to lift our people and show them that government and governance can be platforms and forces for good.
“You will also be the Chief Security officer of your respective councils, and I know you will keep and maintain the peace, after your election.
” Let your campaign be without bitterness, rancour or mudslinging. There is no need for name-calling or violence of any manner. We have a fantastic record to run on, that’s what we expect you to run with,” he added.
While congratulating them on their successful emergence as candidates of the party, he said “We will continue to work collaboratively with you, because that’s what the people expect from us.”
In his remark, the State party chairman, Elder Aniekan Akpan appreciated the Governor for his laudable performance since assumption of office, adding that he has given the party the impetus and solid foundation upon which to campaign.
He assured that the party was prepared for the election and will win in all LGAs.
Setting the tone for the event, the State Chairman of the PDP Congress Coordinating Committee, Engineer Uwem Koko said the process which saw the emergence of the candidates was fair and all inclusive, adding that 40 percent of the positions were given to women as directed by the leader of the party, Governor Umo Eno.
Earlier in their separate remarks, the political leaders of Ikot Ekpene, Uyo and Eket Senatorial districts, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, Senator Effiong Bob, and Chief Nduese Essien who was represented by Ambassador Asam Asam respectively, said the people of Akwa Ibom were happy with the leadership of PDP in the State since the return of democracy, and the Umo Eno lead administration in particular.
They noted that the Umo Eno- led administration was unique in its approach, stressing that it was the first time of selecting candidates for the party without any rancour, and therefore assured that the people of the three senatorial districts will continue to support him and will ensure the victory of all the PDP candidates in the forthcoming elections.
On their part, the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi and Obongawan Grace Ekong appreciated the Governor for his laudable inclusion of women in his administration, they also assured that in appreciation, Akwa Ibom women will standby him and vote for PDP candidates in the forthcoming elections.