The Akamkpa Local Government Council convened its second Solemn Assembly for February 2025 at the Council Hall, reinforcing the spiritual essence of governance through prayers and fasting. The sacred gathering underscored the indispensable role of divine intervention in fostering unity, development, and effective leadership at the grassroots level.
With the theme “Good Tidings,” the assembly resonated deeply with the message of restoration and divine favour. Delivering the homily, Venerable Prof. Harold Onoh. of the Anglican Communion, Akamkpa, went prophetic, admonishing council staff, appointees, and councillors to eschew the ‘pull-him-down’ syndrome—a destructive trait that impedes collective progress. He further urged attendees to embrace righteousness, noting that the blessings of good tidings are reserved for those who uphold integrity and unity in service.
Onoh also expounded on the perils of falsehood, warning that the spread of unfounded rumours often leads to dire consequences. Citing biblical precedents, he illustrated how false reports have historically precipitated calamities upon both the bearers and their communities. His message was a clarion call for truthfulness, sincerity, and adherence to ethical standards in both public and private engagements.
In his goodwill message, the state representative of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Deacon Dr. Ntino extolled the importance of Solemn Assemblies, delineating four key virtues that participants should imbibe: character, confidence, capacity, and compassion. He also described the Akamkpa Local Government Council as exceptional, given the harmonious synergy between its leadership and CAN, which has fostered an atmosphere of spiritual growth and moral rectitude within the council. Others who accompanied him on the missionary trip were; Sir Eyo Boco, Apostle Leonard Ekpeyong and Pst Daniel Usang.
Speaking on behalf of the Executive Chairman, Hon. (Ophot) Felix Akposi, KSJI, his Vice, Hon. (Mrs.) Emilia Katame, charged all staff, appointees, and council operatives to embrace the spirit of unity and cooperation as enshrined in public service regulations. She emphasized the need for stewardship, accountability, and dedication in their official duties, commending the recent amendments to the Cross River State Local Government Law as a transformative step that would expand governance, create employment opportunities, and enhance efficiency at the grassroots level.
The apex moment of the assembly was the presentation of the Holy Scriptures to the Chairman, symbolizing divine guidance in governance. This was followed by fervent intercessory prayers for national leadership, state prosperity, and the overall growth and security of Akamkpa. Prayers were also offered for the wisdom, fortitude, and well-being of the council’s leadership and workforce, reinforcing the spiritual foundation necessary for sustained progress.
As the assembly concluded, a renewed sense of purpose and collective resolve permeated the atmosphere. The convergence of faith and governance at the Akamkpa Local Government Council underscores the timeless principle that when leaders seek divine wisdom, governance becomes a conduit for transformation, peace, and enduring development.