In a decisive meeting held at the instance of Hon. Ophot Felix Akposi KSJI, Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Area, stakeholders from across the council convened to deliberate on development projects, the inauguration of councillors, and strategies to improve infrastructure. The gathering highlighted a renewed commitment to teamwork, consultative leadership, and tackling pressing local challenges.
Chairman Hon. Ophot Felix Akposi KSJI expressed his gratitude to the Almighty God for the success of the meeting, emphasizing the significance of consultation with stakeholders before making critical decisions. He underscored the pivotal role of councillors in local governance, urging community leaders to rally behind them for effective representation and service delivery.
He further introduced the new leader of the council, Hon. (Princess) Magdalene Ekpe. He informed and invited the stakeholders to the formal proclamation and inauguration of the legislative arm slated for Monday, 11th November, 2024 in the legislative chamber of the council highlighting his commitment to collaboration and community improvement.
Akposi decried the poor state of council infrastructure and the absence of an official handover note. He announced plans to immediately commence road grading and earthworks in Old and New Ekuri, Ekperem-Esai Road, Akwa Ibami, Buden and Uwet Road, Mbobui Road, and Nneghe Road.
He finally requested that the leaders and appointees from the various wards should meet within themselves and bring forward one name per ward for appointment as soon as possible, adding that similar request will be made to the youth, a litmus test for transparency and inclusivity from the leaders in their respective political wards.
Earlier the Chapter Chairman, Ntufam Raphael Ntui, commended all attendees for their timely response despite the short notice. He expressed pride in the leadership displayed by the chairman, recognising his steadfast commitment to the party and the importance of the meeting.
Hon. Matthew Olory echoed the chairman’s sentiments, advising him on strategic approaches to surmount prevailing challenges. Ntufam Achort Okon also voiced his support, urging wisdom in collaborating with civil servants. Similarly, Ntufam Okon Owuna lauded the chairman, calling for firmness and resolve in leadership.
Contributors including Richard Efa, Ntufam Emmanuel Anom, Prof. Asuquo, and Kelvin Eyam praised the chairman’s consultative leadership style and called for its regular adoption in governance. Eyam further raised the issue of prioritising student needs and fostering new scholarly talent within the community.
Hon. Ankpo Pius, Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, applauded the chairman for appointing a woman as council leader and pledged partnership in road maintenance and infrastructure development. Rt. Hon. Itaya, while supporting the chairman’s plans, requested needs assessments for wards not currently covered by the proposed roadworks.
Hon. Titi Ndifon and Hon. Victor Effiong commended the appointment of a female council leader and called for legislative cooperation to enhance teamwork. Magnus Ntui appealed for the inclusion of Ikpai and Eku roads in development plans and decried unchecked mining activities that harm the environment without proper reclamation measures.
In a solemn note, the house was informed of the funeral arrangements for Mrs. Faith O’ben Etchi, wife of Rt. Hon. George O’ben Etchi, with condolences extended to the grieving family.
Culled from the Media Unit of the Chairman, Akamkpa LGA
