The Forum of Senior Special Assistants (SSA) to Governor Otu paid a courtesy call to the APC Secretary, Pastor Patrick Asikpo Okon (JP), in his office. During the visit, Pastor Asikpo welcomed the forum, emphasizing the party’s commitment to inclusivity and transparency.
“The party is very open to working with everyone,” Pastor Asikpo assured. “We have a transparent and open-door policy.” He emphasized the importance of integration, stating, “The issue of your integration will be addressed immediately as I am drafting a letter to that effect. I am very impressed by your coordination and cooperation. It shows your desire to work. Our party is one. However, if in the course of your duty following your mandate, there is a conflict of interest and interference, do well by consulting higher.”
Pastor Asikpo also advised the SSAs to avoid the “pull him down” syndrome often seen in politics and to view their positions as significant opportunities not to be taken for granted. “As an extended arm of the Governor, relate well with people. Pick their calls and assist where you can. Even when you cannot, don’t dismiss them but empathize with them. I owe my Governor two things, truth and loyalty, and this is what is also expected of you in your various offices.”
Earlier, the Chairman of the Forum, Chief Mathias Ake, Senior Special Assistant on Infrastructure – North, spoke on behalf of the group, expressing gratitude for the warm reception and addressing the purpose of their visit. “Our visit stands on a tripod: first, to commend you for your sterling leadership qualities exemplified in the way you have managed the affairs of the party as prescribed by your office. We are also here to draw your attention to our readiness to work, to partner, and be in tandem with the party through collaboration and synergy for the success of the Governor, The Sweet Prince, as he delivers on his mandate, ‘The People First’.”
Chief Ake continued, “We are here to tap knowledge and blessings from you as the engine room of the party. We are ready to work as prescribed by our mandate and any party assignments you assign to us, granted that our position in government does not deny us the opportunity to contribute at our polling units, hence contributing, consulting, and having a very cohesive bond to unite us all. In the event of omission, we pray to be carried along.”
Also in attendance at the partnership meeting were:
- Hon. Ekong Oqua – SSA Local Content
- Elizabeth Omali – SSA, Trade Development
- Fred Ntui – SSA Transport Infrastructure
- Alex Etim – SSA, Transport
- Patrick Ita Etim – SSA, Infrastructure South
- Hon. Magnus Ntui – SSA, Environment
- Ekanem Essien – SSA, Digital Media
- Fidelis Edem Effa – SSA, Tree Crops
- Agbeh Ferdinand Ekpong – SSA, Special Duties
The visit marks a pivotal point in strengthening the structure between the extended arm of the Governor and the party through the Secretary. Both parties promised to build a strong relationship and synergy to foster growth and development.
