Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy By Prof Ephraim Stephen Essien by fahocdigitalsolutions

UNCOMMON TRANSFORMATION LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY

First Chronicle Of

SENATOR GODSWILL AKPABIO'S ACHIEVEMENTS AND LEADERSHIP STYLE AS GOVERNOR, SENATOR AND MINISTER

by Ephraim-Stephen Essien, PhD

Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy

UNCOMMON TRANSFORMATION LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY: FIRST CHRONICLE OF SENATOR GODSWILL AKPABIO'S ACHIEVEMENTS AND LEADERSHIP STYLE AS GOVERNOR, SENATOR AND MINISTER

Ephraim-Stephen Essien, PhD

“We intend to make (continue making) the welfare of the…person the centre-piece of all our efforts and actions as a government” – Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON

Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy

Published by Ahmadu Bello University Press Zaria ©2020 Ephraim-Stephen Essien All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reprinted or reproduced or utilized in any form or by an electronic, mechanical, or other means, now known or hereafter invented, including photocopying and recording, or in any information storage or retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner. ISBN 978-007-168-7

Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy

The Welfare of the People is the Supreme Law (Salus Populi Suprema Lex) ---- Cicero

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DEDICATION

This book is dedicated to the Uncommon Transformer of Akwa Ibom State & The Political Nostradamus of the Niger Delta His Excellency Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON th

On his 59 Birthday, 9 December, 2021

Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy

..........................

Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy

CONTENTS Dedication Preface 1. DEBUNKING DELE SOBOWALE'S CLAIMS IN IT IS WELL WITH MY SOUL (2018:199-210) 2. GOVERNOR GODSWILL AKPABIO AND HIS UNCOMMON TRANSFORMATION OF AKWA IBOM S TAT E D R I V E N B Y T H E P H I L O S O P H Y O F WELFARISM 3. SENATOR GODSWILL AKPABIO AND THE NIGERIAN SENATE 4. SENATOR GODSWILL AKPABIO AS MINISTER OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA 5. THE MAN: GODSWILL OBOT AKPABIO 6. CONCEPTUALIZING POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY AND AKPABIO'S POLITICAL LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY 7. GOVERNMENT IN ANCIENT GREECE AND ROME AND AKPABIO'S TOWN-HALL DEMOCRACY 8. THE SOCIAL CONTRACT THEORY AND ORIGIN OF THE STATE: AKPABIO IN CONTEXT 9. CICERO'S POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY AND AKPABIO'S EXAMPLE i. Natural Law ii. Equality of all men before this law iii. Welfare of the People as the Supreme Law iv. Typologies of Mixed Government a) Monarchy b) Aristocracy c) Democracy v. Cicero's Theory and Akpabio's Example

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CONTENTS Dedication Preface 10. JOHN LOCKE'S POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: AKPABIO IN CONTEXT The Social Contract Government as a Trust The Will of the People Election as a Democratic Method Akpabio in the context of Locke's Philosophy and Elections 11. GODSWILL AKPABIO'S LEADERSHIP AS A PRACTICE OF PEOPLE-CENTRED PHILOSOPHIES OF CICERO AND JOHN LOCKE A. A People-Centred Governance i. The Story of Uncommon Transformation ii. Vox Pop and Testimonies on Akpabio's Democratic Leadership iii. Nigeria's Most Decorated Governor of All Time B. Pragmatic and People-Oriented Developments i. Akpabio's Transformation: See Uyo and Die ii. Akwa Ibom, A Paradise Regained through Akpabio iii. Akwa Ibom Destination Philosophy Test with Gulder Ultimate Search 12. GOVERNMENT FOR PEOPLE'S HAPPINESS: BENTHAM, J.S. MILL, MONTESQUIEU AND AKPABIO 13. KANT'S CONCEPT OF DUTY AND AKPABIO'S DUTY FOR AKWA IBOM STATE AND NIGERIA 14. AN ASSESSMENT OF GODSWILL AKPABIO'S UNCOMMON LEADERSHIP STYLE WITHIN THE ETHICS OF DEMOCRATIC GOVERNANCE viii

Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy

CONTENTS Dedication Preface PREFACE This book considers the uncommon leadership transformation of Akwa Ibom State by Senator Godswill Akpabio, CON, her former governor, as a model which other political leaders should emulate. The hypothesis is that if every state governor or political leader in Nigeria emulates (at least 50%) the infrastructural development of Akwa Ibom State by her former governor, Nigeria would be well developed in infrastructure, especially with good roads and other basic infrastructure and social facilities. This book is, therefore, an unbiased documentary of the political achievements of the Governor, Senator and Minister Godswill Akpabio from 2007 till 2021. This means, that the work covers his two terms as a governor, his four years as a Senator and his time as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. It is undoubtedly correct to aver that the sights and psyche Akwa Ibom State and Akwa Ibom people got transformed during the eight years of Akpabio's governorship. And beyond his governorship era, Senator Akpabio continued his developmental strides in Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District which he represented in the Nigerian Senate, in Akwa Ibom State and in the Niger Delta. Akpabio's leadership is here regarded as the Akwa Ibom State example of what Nigeria's leadership should be, hence this book title, Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy: First Chronicle of the Achievements and Leadership Style of Godswill Akpabio as Governor, Senator and Minister. This book is organized into fourteen chapters. Instead of beginning with his biography and early life in chapter one, the first two chapters of the book rather begin, first, by debunking Dele Sobowale's perception about Akpabio's government in Victor Attah's book, It is well with my soul, and reaffrirming that Akpabio spent Akwa Ibom money for the uncommon transformation of Akwa Ibom ix

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CONTENTS Dedication Preface infrastructural space. This is followed by a kaleidoscopic yet panaromic presentation of the major achievements of Governor Akpabio in chapter two, emphasizing that this magnitude of social reform can only be inspired by the philosophy of welfarism. Chapter three xrays the landmark activities and achievements of Senator Akpabio in the Nigerian Senate, chapter four focuses on the positive contributions so far recorded by Senator Akpabio in the Niger Delta,while chapter five tells the story of Akpabio's birth and early life. Chapter ten comes in again to wrap up a dossier of the tactile, tangible, empirical and perceptible yet uncommon transformation of Akwa Ibom State. While chapters six to seven, twelve and thirteen juxtapose Akpabio's leadership policy side by side with democratically oriented political philosophies, including the philosophies of Cicero, John Locke, Jeremy Bentham, J.S. Mill, Charles Montesquieu, and the moral philosophy of Immanuel Kant, chapter fourteen concludes this book with an assessment of Godswill Akpabio's uncommon transformation leadership style within the ethics of democratic governance. I acknowledge Pastor Anietie Ukpe and Mr. Joe Iniodu, who were media aides to Governor Akpabio, for their chapter contributions carried in this work. I acknowledge Mr. Anietie Ekong, media aide to Senator Akpabio, for his useful resources. Special thanks to Dr. Sir Patrick Umoh, KSJI, for his guide, suggestions and assistance. A draft of this book had been submitted to the His Excellency Senator Akpabio for his assessment and his assent to go on with the publication. Your suggestions were all very useful and were all taken into consideration. My wonderful wife, Helena, my darling daughter, Florida and my sweet son, Aristotle, thank you for bearing with inconveniences while this research was carried out. And to those whose names have not been mentioned here, but who contributed to the success of this book, I thank you very greatly.

Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy

CONTENTS Dedication Preface Ephraim-Stephen Essien, PhD Associate Professor Department of Philosophy University of Abuja and Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria. 20 October, 202

Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy

CHAPTER ONE DEBUNKING DELE SOBOWALE'S CLAIMS IN IT IS WELL WITH MY SOUL (2018: pp. 199-210) This beginning chapter of our present book, Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy, aims to dissect, x-ray, analyze, debunk, rebut and refute the inherent lies and unwelcome logical fallacies and distorted facts injected by the media machinery and trader from Lagos, Dele Sobowale, in Victor Attah's It is well with my soul (2018:199-210). The book, It is well with my soul, by Victor Attah, is a collection of famous speeches and addresses by the former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Arc. Obong Victor Attah, put together by a media machinery from Lagos, Dele Sobowale. Quite uncharacteristically of book authors, it was this media machinery and merchant, Dele Sobowale from Lagos, who wrote the preface to this book, instead of the author of the book; a clear case of authorial usurpation. The media machinery from Lagos, Dele Sobowale, went ahead to give assessment of Obong Attah's administration -1999 to 2007 from pages 199210, wherein we find a litany of logical fallacies, naked lies, blatant falsehoods, distorted facts and unsalient averments and claims. The table of contents of It is well with my soul by Victor Attah consists of: · Preface (not written by the author, but by Dele Sobowale) · Primed to serve · Come let us build together · Resource control as panacea for sustainable peace and development of the Niger Delta in a democratic system · Now it is time for a political solution 1

Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy

· It is well with my soul · The practice of full tenets of true federalism as a prerequisite to lasting democracy in Nigeria · We cannot make omelette without breaking eggs · Let us build a partnership that works · Taming our angst: The greenery option · First African conference on safety security and financing of the aviation industry in African airspace · A formal opening of the meeting of the Nigerian guild of editors · We are setting standards in governance · Sustaining the Akwa Ibom project · A postmortem on Obong Victor Attah's administration 1999 – 2007 (by Dele Sobowale) · Obong Victor Attah's achievements in pictures From our in-depth analysis of the book, It is well with my soul, by Victor Attah, only one of the chapters was written in August 2018, and this was the chapter written by Dele Sobowale, the media machinery. All other chapters, being speeches or addresses or public lectures delivered by our beloved former governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Arc. Obong Victor Attah, were written between November 1998 and March 2007. This implies that Dele Sobowale gathered Obong Victor Attah's speeches, wrote the preface (against standards of best practices in book authorship), brought in one vilifying chapter, and put a cover to the book. A smart journalism! The first chapter, “Primed to Serve”, was a statement presented by Arc. Obong Victor Attah at than International Press Conference at Ibom Hall on 27 November, 1998, to commemorate his 60th birthday and to declare his gubernatorial aspiration (Attah, 2018:1). The second chapter, “It is a new dawn”, was an inaugural 2

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address of His Excellency, Arc. Obong Victor Attah, on the occasion of the ceremonious transfer of power from the military to the civilian administration on 29 May, 1999, at Uyo Township Stadium (Attah, 2018: 9). The second chapter, “It is a new dawn”, was an inaugural address of His Excellency, Arc. Obong Victor Attah, on the occasion of the ceremonious transfer of power from the military to the civilian administration on 29 May, 1999, at Uyo Township Stadium (Attah, 2018: 9). The chapter, “Come let us build together”, was an inaugural mission statement and manifesto of Governor Attah on 29 May, 1999 (Attah, 2018: 15). The chapter, “Resource control as panacea for sustainable peace and development of the Niger Delta in a Democratic Nigeria” was a paper presented by Governor Attah at a lecture in th Yenegoa, Bayelsa State, on 15 November, 2002, to mark the th 50 Birthday of Chief D.S.P. Alamieseigha, Governor of Bayelsa State, as he then was (Attah, 2018: 45). The chapter, “Now it is time for political solution” was a statement by Governor Attah on the Supreme Court Judgment of 5th April, 2002 (Attah, 2018:63). The chapter, “It is well with my soul” (from where the title of Attah's book derives its name) was an address by Governor Attah at the reception, banquet and gala night in his honorndby Akwa Ibom Professionals at Sheraton Hotels, Abuja, on 22 August, 2003 (Attah, 2018: 73). The chapter, “The practice of full tenets of true federalism as a prerequisite to lasting democracy in Nigeria” was a speech th presented by Governor Attah at the 10 Anniversary of Lagos th State University MBA Programme on 6 June, 2005 (Attah, 2018: ). The next chapter, “We cannot make omelette without breaking eggs” was Governor Attah's address at the Gala Night in honour of President Olusegun Obasanjo during his working th visit to Akwa Ibom State at Ibom Hall on 7 August, 2004 (Attah, 2018: 97). “Let us build a partnership that works” was Governor Attah's address at the South South People's Assembly 3

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Rally in Uyo on April 2nd, 2005 (Attah, 2018: 107). “Taming our angst: The general option” was Governor Attah's lecture at theth fourth Annual Senator Abraham Adesanya's Lecture on 25 July, 2005 (Attah, 2018: 115). The chapter, “First African Conference on safety, security and financing of the aviation industry in African airspace” was Governor Attah's keynote address at the first African conference on safety, security and financing of the aviation industry in African airspace in September, 2006 (Attah, 2018: 141). The next chapter of Victor Attah's book, “It is well with my soul” was “A formal opening of the meeting of the Nigerian guild of editors” which was Governor Attah's address to the Nigerian Guild of Editors at theth multipurpose hall of the Governor's Office Annex, Uyo, on 7 October, 2005 (Attah, 2018: 151). “We are setting standards in governance” was Governor Attah's address at Gala Night in honour of President Olusegun Obasanjo during his working visit to Akwa Ibom State on 12th August, 2006 (Attah, 2018: 157). The next chapter, “Sustaining the Akwa Ibom Project” was Governor Attah's valedictory summit address on the occasion of the Third Akwa Ibom Economic Summit at Ibom Hall, Uyo from 22nd to 23rd March, 2007 (Attah, 2018: 169). In this address, Governor Attah outlined his achievements during his administration from 1999 to 2007. Governor Attah had constructed the Olusegun Obasanjo Way, popularly known as Abak Road from Ibom Plaza (which he built) to Idoro junction, popularly known as Ekom Iman junction. He also constructed the Atiku Abubakar road and very few other roads within Uyo metropolis. His successor, His Excellency Chief Godswill Akpabio, consolidated on Governor Attah's modest road construction, and took massive road construction as one of his lasting legacies. Governor Akpabio went further to ease traffic in Uyo metropolis by constructing bridges and three concentric flyovers in the metropolis. It is also on record that Governor Akpabio extended his generosity to construct a dualized road from Aka Road to Governor Attah's village in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area. 4

Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy

At page 182 of Victor Attah's It is well with my soul, Governor Attah mentioned that a key project initiated by his administration was “the building of an International Airport”. Here, we suppose that His Excellency Arc. Obong Victor Attah, has committed a foul, if this address was written in March, 2007, as there was nothing tangible to call an airport in Akwa Ibom State in March, 2007. Attah dreamed of an airport. Akpabio built it. The truth is that Governor Attah conceived of an International Airport in 2007 and Governor Akpabio built an international airport and commissioned it for operation on 23 September, 2009. This is akin to Governor Attah's conception of a State University, which he never built, but later built by Governor Akpabio. This is how governance should be; continuity on good projects! At page 183 of the book under analysis, “It is well with my soul”, Governor Attah had hoped that Akwa Ibom State University of Technology (AKUTECH) would “open its doors to the first resident intake in the 2007/2008 academic year with five schools and 100 students”. This was hardly the case. However, his successor, Governor Akkpabio, who completed most of his predecessor's projects, as is expected of a good-willed and people-oriented successor (since government is a continuum), made the University to take off in 2009/2010 academic year with three faculties – Science, Agriculture and Engineering – after having transformed the university to a conventional secular university. Let's stop and think! If Governor Akpabio had abandoned the Airport project, there would not have been any airport in Akwa Ibom State by now. Not even the present administration would have embarked on such a grand project, especially as the present administration is not fond of completing any good project initiated by the previous administrations. Not even the Ibom Science Park Project! 5

Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy

Secondly, if Governor Akpabio had abandoned the State University project, AKUTECH or AKSU would have remained like the proverbial failed project in the state, the Ibom Science Park Project. Again, not even the present administration would have embarked on such a grand project, especially as the present administration is not fond of completing any good project initiated by the previous administrations. It is a glaring veracity that Governor Akpabio completed many projects that had been initiated by his predecessor. He initiated and completed many others during his administration. The present volume of this book at hand, Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy, contains the uncommon leadership achievements of the uncommon governor and uncommon senator of the federal republic. In this same valedictory address which forms the chapter under the present analysis, our amiable Governor Attah went ahead to mention Ibom Science Park as one of his achievements. Hear him as he says, “We have also established the Science Park with a Free Zone license as a tool of promoting entrepreneurship” (Attah, 2018: 184). The Science Park was a 5.8 billion naira project, and 5 billion naira was paid out as mobilization. But one is left in utter dismay and utmost bewilderment why Ibom Science Park had remained a failed project. Where is the money? Where is our 5.8 billion naira? Our dear Governor Attah should have left out the Science Park as one of his achievements, or should have marked it “kept in view”, because everyone, even primary school pupils, have been made to know the Science Park as a good example of a government's failure. The Science Park project of Governor Attah till today remains a myth! A Canadian dream! Our dear Governor Attah is famous for his success in derivation principle for the Niger Delta and also successful in building the Ibom plaza. Most other successes of his were dreams and concepts, such as the dream of an international airport and a state university, none of which he built nor actualized until his uncommon successor, 6

Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy

Against Dele Sobowale's “A Postmortem on Obong Victor Attah's Administration, 1999 – 2007” ( pages 199 – 210) The media machinery from Lagos, Dele Sobowale, who seemed to have known Akwa Ibom more than the Akwa Ibom people, wrote the last literary chapter of Victor Attah's It is well with my soul. Dele Sobowale's “A Postmortem on Obong Victor Attah's Administration 1999-2007, in Attah's “It is well with my soul” (pp. 199-210), takes a swipe at Governor Akpabio's administration, 2007-2015 (202) and Governor Udom's Administration, 2015 – 2018 (Attah, 2018: 204205). This Sobowale, like an alien who appears to be more Roman than the Romans or more American than the Americans, seems to be so pecuniary in his media trade that he appears not to be in real touch with realities in Akwa Ibom State. He lambasted Governor Udom's achievements as “a mystery” since, according to him, “At the moment, it is almost impossible to find any major project attributed to him (Attah, 2018: 204). He went further to indict the present administration's Commissioner for Information, that publishing falsehood about achievements has now become the primary function of Government in Akwa Ibom (Attah, 2018: 204 – 205), forgetting the falsehoods in It is well with my soul. Governor Udom's commissioner for information and the media team may wish to respond to Sobowale's trade against the administration as that is not our concern in the present work. Our concern relates to Sobowale's little knowledge of facts concerning Governor Akpabio's humongous and gargantuan achievements in Akwa Ibom State. At page 202, Dele Sobowale. The media machinery imported into the state to distort truth and bend facts, claims: “The first shock one receives when one looks at the record of accomplishments in how little had been added to what Attah left in 2007. The observation is made more astonishing, given the fact that Attah collected a little less N600 Billion from the 7

Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy

Federation Account in eight years, while Akpabio received almost N1.3 trillion during his first term, 2007-2011 alone, and close to N1.6 trillion during his second term, 2011-2015. Yet, all the projects that can be identified as the Akpabio's legacy point not to “uncommon transformation but “uncommon waste and pillage” (Attah, 2018: 202-203). Sobowale went on to say: “If Akpabio's administration was characterized by grandiose plans and great white elephant projects which were mostly uncompleted, or even not started…..Governor Udom Emmanuel's period remains a mystery!” (Attah, 2018: 204). Our first impression of Dele Sobowale is that his vision is veiled. Or, if Sobowale's vision is not veiled, it must be vague, jejune, nebulous and peccatic. How would Dele Sobowale accept to get hired to cry more than the bereaved? The art of hermeneutics as art of interpretation requires total involvement and deep immersion of the interpreter in the text so interpreted. Let us assume that Akwa Ibom State is a text interpreted by Dele Sobowale, an itinerant media machinery, who visits Akwa Ibom when he is hired to perform a journalistic arraignment. How then shall we repose confidence in his bifurcated report about Akwa Ibom State? He had earlier reported that our dear former Governor Attah built an airport for Akwa Ibom State. Our dear former Governor Attah conceived of an international airport, but never built any. Let Dele Sobowale note that his last trip to Akwa Ibom State was via the Airport that was conceived by former Governor Attah and built by former Governor Akpabio. Let Dele Sobowale note that his move from the airport to Governor Attah's residence was made easier by macadamized and well constructed roads, thanks to former Governor Akpabio. Let Dele Sobowale note that the whole federation and her people singled out the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium as a beautiful sports masterpiece, where the Super Eagles of Nigeria play their home matches, both continental 8

Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy

and mundial qualifications. Yes! It was there that One Goal Nigeria scored by Alex Iwobi to sent Nigeria to the World Cup in 2018. Yes! It was there that Nigeria hosted football superpowers, such as Athletico Madrid and the great Fernado Torres! Yes! It was there that Nigeria and her former President Jonathan welcomed and hosted th four other African presidents on 7 November, 2014. Nigerians currently converge at this Nest of Champions to support the Super Eagles whenever they have home games in Nigeria. The Akwa Ibom football teams, especially Akwa United FC, have their home games there as well. Dele Sobowale lacks correct facts about Akwa Ibom State. I suppose he should have correct facts about Lagos state. Let Dele Sobowale note that former Governor Attah started paying SSCE examination fees for final years secondary school students who were writing their SSCE; but former Governor Akpabio went beyond his predecessor's good gesture to declare free and compulsory education for all primary and secondary school students in Akwa Ibom State; and this single but uncommon educational policy has made a lot of parents from other states, including Dele Sobowale's state, to relocate to Akwa Ibom State, in order to benefit from this benevolent, beneficent and uncommon opportunity. Let Dele Sobowale note and note very well that this single educational policy of former Governor Akpabio corresponds with one of both the Millennium Development Goals and the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. The present administration of Governor Udom Emmanuel so much appreciates his predecessor's educational policy of free, compulsory, and qualitative education that he had to establish a pencil industry to supply pencils to school children (even though the school children are yet to receive Governor Udom's pencils). Dele Sobowale has claimed Governor Akpabio received almost N1.3 trillion during his first term, 2007-2011, and close to N1.6 trillion during his second term, 2011-2015, and that Akpabio legacy point not to 'uncommon transformation' but 'uncommon waste and pillage (Attah, 2018: 202-203). Although Sobowale was not logically 9

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certain of the two sums of money, especially where he said in the first, “almost N1.3 trillion”, and in the second, “close to N1.6 trillion”, we urge Sobowale to adduce evidence and hard facts to prove his claims. th

Nonetheless, hear Governor Akpabio as he replied his critics on 30 August, 2018, as reported by StraightNews: “I collected N1.7 trillion in eight years from the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee, FAAC,'' against purportedly bogus figure bandied by his critics that he collected more than N3 trillion. The immediate past governor who recently left Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, for All Progressives Congress, APC, also deflated accusations by his critics that ''I borrowed N80 billion in eight years, refunded N30 billion, and left N50 billion debt. This amount sharply countered the N500 debt profile allegedly floated by Assam Assam, a one-time state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and other critics to malign the ex-governor's image. Chief Akpabio, who is also the immediate past Senate Minority Leader, said his administration meant well for the people of the state. I was able to initiate life-touching projects across the three senatorial districts of the state, which he said are still valuable and appreciated till now. According to him, “I don't like talking about what I did during my administration as a governor, but it became necessary to mention that you people now have the opportunity to watch Real Madrid players live at the World Standard stadium built by my administration.” “There was a time that I slept-over in Owerri because I missed my flight because of bad roads. But today, people can now fly and land at the Ibom International Airport, courtesy of my administration. Or were you not aware that pilgrims were airlifted from Uyo directly to Jerusalem and Mecca, because we all pray to the same God? Even there was once one man heard at the Jerusalem airport 'Those boarding aircraft to Uyo' and fainted that the name 'Uyo' has been heard in Jerusalem”. “I wouldn't want to talk about the many roads we undertook during my administration. What used to happen at Itam junction 10

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was so shameful. People were using polythene bags to urinate and then threw them into the water. Even the former governor of Rivers State, Chief Peter Odili, when he visited the state experienced the same thing and was so shameful. “Like what used to happen at Itam Junction closed to the Mega Station. There was always stagnant water and it was always a problem during rainy seasons. We had to construct pipe hijacking drainage system to Ibesikpo which also took care of the water at Obot Idim. Do you remember what used to happen at Obot Idim? We had to construct the best in West Africa and people are asking what we did with the money.'' The immediate past governor , Senator Akpabio, stated: ”For over 30 years, Ika and Etim Ekpo local government areas were disconnected from the entire state. Ika was very terrible that the whole local government area was deserted. When I came in as governor, I constructed new roads and the whole place was revived. Have you forgotten the Etim Ekpo bridge that consumed many lives. When I finished that road, I brought the then President Goodluck Jonathan to commission it. We were still driving in Etim Ekpo when he asked, 'are we in Uyo?' because the entire place had been transformed into a city. Now, all those people who ran away from Etim Ekpo and Ika had returned and the place is very busy now. ''Have you forgotten that during my tenure, I brought Naval base to Ikot Abasi and also brought Army base to Ika? Have you forgotten that during my administration, I brought Federal Polytechnic, Police College and also built a state university? I connected many villages to the national grid. That's why I am telling people that the reason I left PDP is for the interest of everyone. There are changes we need to make, but I can't do them from outside. I need to be there when certain decisions are taken and I will make sure that we, the minority, are not left out in the scheme of things'' the Senator narrated.

Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy

“During my administration, I turned band-boys into men. You know a lot of them. Most of them were guards, gate-men and band-boys on the streets of Uyo. But when I came in, I had to invest in the lives of our youths and that's why you could see over 35,000 new houses in Uyo. Thousands of cars ply our roads now. You see new cars and I can assure you that I developed many young people. I helped many people and sponsored them abroad for trainings. “That idea of Free and Compulsory education changed the entire perception about Akwa Ibom State. Before now, when you go to visit people outside the state, they will tell you to bring Ekaette and Akpan when next you're visiting because their relatives are in need of househelps. It was always a very shameful situation. Immediately when we came up with that idea, the whole menace stopped. Today, our children are well respected outside. “I've read of many accusations and blame that I belong to many cult groups. I am not a member of any cult group and I have never sent anyone to kill anybody. The other day, I stood at Ibom Hall and said that if I've ever sent anyone to kill anybody, that it should not be well with me and my children. Let them also come and say like that if they will not die that same spot. Throughout my tenure, we made sure that security of lives and properties were intact. “I never said that my decision to go for Udom Emmanuel in 2015 was a mistake. If I say so, it means something is wrong. Udom was right then, but now….busted into laughter. I've not regretted every decision I took when I was the governor. Every decision I took during my tenure as governor, If I am given the opportunity again, I will take them again except one,” the former governor said. Sobowale's lies and those of others are very timely. Governor Udom's October 1st and Christmas 2018 messages are also timely. Sobowale in Attah (2018: 204) had described Governor Akpabio's administration as being characterized by grandiose plans and great white elephant projects. Governor Udom's 2018 Christmas message to Akwa Ibom people was: “We are not engaged in building 12

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monuments (including Akpabio International Stadium) that have no direct impact or meaning to our everyday lives; we are not grandstanding with the construction of white elephant projects.” Both lies and boastfulness (Sobowale in Attah and Governor Udom) make the present volume of this book very timely too, both in its title and contents and aim. In the book, Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy: First Chronicle of Godswill Akpabio's Achievements and Leadership Style as Governor, Senator and Minister 2007-2021, we present what Governor Akpabio used the N1.7 trillion he received in eight years from Federation Accounts Allocation Committee to do in Akwa Ibom State, a model that few other state governors in Nigeria have started to emulate. Let us go straight to the next chapters on Governor Godswill Akpabio And His Uncommon Transformation Of Akwa Ibom State Driven By The Philosophy Of Welfarism and Godswill Akpabio's Leadership As A Practice Of People-Centred Philosophies to see for ourselves and be the judges.

Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy

CHAPTER TWO GOVERNOR GODSWILL AKPABIO AND THE UNCOMMON TRANSFORMATION OF AKWA IBOM STATE BASED ON WELFARISM PHILOSOPHY Welfarism as a state policy refers to a concept of government where the state plays a leading role in the protection and promotion of the economic and social well-being of its citizens. Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli succinctly described the welfarist function of government in his 1845 novel, where he wrote, “The only duty of power is the social welfare of the PEOPLE” (Sybil). The British sociologist, T.H.Marshall, identified modern welfare states as a distinctive combination of democracy, welfare and capitalism. Germany, the Nordic countries (Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Finland), the Netherlands, Uruguay, New Zealand and the United Kingdom are associated with the origins of welfare governments. The United States, Canada, Australia, France, Belgium, Italy, China, Japan, Switzerland, Ireland, Austria, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Brunei and Oman are currently welfare states. Otto von Bismarck, the first Chancellor of Germany, created the modern welfare state. Bismarck introduced old age pensions, accident insurance, and medical care. These measures formed the foundation of the modern European welfare state. The Liberal Welfare Reforms of 19061914 marked the definitive emergence of the welfare state in Great Britain under Prime Minister Herbert Asquith (Castles 2010). Old-age pensions, free school meals, adequate health care, adequate housing, and adequate employment were hallmarks of the welfare state in Great Britain. Basically, welfare states are either universal (with provisions that cover everybody), or selective (with provisions covering those deemed most needy). 14

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However, welfare governments provide for the people, from infrastructure, housing, healthcare to education. Godswill Akpabio's radical, pragmatic, unprecedented and uncommon transformation of the sight and psyche of Akwa Ibom State has been motivated by the philosophy of welfarism, which focuses on the welfare of the people. This welfarism was aptly demonstrated in his policy statement, where he declared: “We intend to…make the welfare of the Akwa Ibom person the centre-piece of all our efforts and actions as a government” – Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON This policy corresponds with the welfarist philosophy of Cicero, where he averred: “Let the welfare of the people be the supreme law”, rendered in Latin as “Salus populi suprema lex”. No doubt, Godswill Akpabio's overriding philosophy in his uncommon transformation programme was welfarism. The welfare of the people is his breast-plate. We have a list of welfarist programmes embarked upon by Godswill Akpabio while he was Akwa Ibom State Governor. The pictures and photos above speak for themselves. These were as follows: EDUCATION: The policy objective of Godswill Akpabio's administration was to produce a very vibrant, literate and wellfocused population. To this end the administration had undertaken: The free, compulsory and qualitative education from primary to senior secondary school levels: To ensure the elimination of fees of all kinds, the administration paid subvention to primary school head teachers at N100 per pupil per term and to secondary school principals at N300 per student per term; Massive rehabilitation and construction of educational infrastructure: The administration built over 500 new classroom 15

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blocks and rehabilitated over 1,500 others. It built/constructed over 500 classroom blocks, dormitories and laboratories across the state and rehabilitated about 1800 others; Employment of teachers and the absorption of more than 2,000 primary school teachers who were initially employed for a Federal Government Universal Basic Education scheme.

Ibom E-Library SPORTS The fact speaks for itself (res ipsa loquitur). Without doubt, Governor/Senator is the number one contributor to Nigerian football in the past four years by the provision of the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium since November 7, 2014. God'swill Akpabio International Stadium

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Laying on foundation of God'swill Apkabio International Stadium by former President, Goodluck Jonathan

Commissioning of Godswill Akpabio International Stadium by former President, Goodluck Jonathan, in the company of former Presidents, John Dramani, John Keffour and Jerry Rawlings of Ghana and Former President Quattara of Cote d'Ivoire 17

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Nigerian Music artistes waiting for their live performance at the newly commissioned stadium, 7th November, 2014

Governor Akpabio, President Jonathan, President Dramani and President Quattara at the commissioning of the Nest of Champions

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President Jonathan addresses the public at the commissioning of the Nest of Champions

Governor Akpabio and Super Eagles Coach, Gernot Rohr at the Nest of Champions before Nigeria – Tanzania tie 19

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Governor Akpabio exchanges pleasantries with Super Eagles players at the Nest of Champions.

Super Eagles Captain, John Obi, presents a Super Eagle jersey to the sports-spending leader, Governor Godswill Akpabio, for his contribution to Nigerian football.

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Senator Akpabio poses with other Nigerian political leaders during National Anthem before Nigeria – Algeria match.

Senator Akpabio exchanging pleasantries with the Desert Foxes of Algeria before their match against the Super Eagles at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo 21

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CHILD RIGHTS AND PROTECTION: Conscious of the need to ensure the protection of the rights of our children, Godswill Akpabio's administration enacted the Child Rights and Protection Law 2008. This law was meant to safeguard our children's rights and protect them from social vices including sexual abuse, child prostitution and witchcraft stigmatization. This government had striven to ensure that abandoned children are catered for. The government built and maintained Child Welfare Centers, and courtesy of his wife, the state today has an ultra-modern reformation centre for children. HEALTH: Godswill Akpabio sees healthcare not only as a goal of development, but as the right of individuals and the means to achieve the related goals of higher labour productivity. His government's health investment in Akwa Ibom State was focused on ten major policy areas. These were: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Uncommon Transformation Leadership Philosophy

government established free medical treatment for these groups. There was also free medical treatment for our senior citizens.

Ibom Specialist Hospital ELECTRICITY: The administration completed the electrification of more than 1,400 communities over the past seven years. This raised electricity coverage in the state to 85 percent. In the same vein, the First Phase o f t h e 1 9 1 Ibom Power Plant megawatts of the Independent Power Plant located at Ikot Abasi had since been completed and over 40MW of power from the plant was released to the national grid and is being utilized in parts of the state. 23

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ROADS: The transformation of our state in terms of road construction had been one of the most hailed accomplishments of Godswill Akpabio's government. The government tarred 211 roads covering over 700km throughout the state and built several bridges and constructed three concentric flyovers in the state. Akpabio's government also constructed five federal roads, which traverse the state, with a combined total length of 198.6kilometres. Some of these were dualized, and bridges and drainages constructed in them.

Aerial view of some parts of Uyo

Four lanes Road Network 24

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Road Network

Flyovers and bridges 25

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Concentric flyovers and interpass

HOUSING Government attaches high priority to the provision of affordable housing to the citizens. Akpabio's government had, therefore, undertaken the construction of 2,000 housing units in the three Senatorial Districts and 31 mini-housing estates in the 31 local government areas.

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Housing scheme

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IBOM GAS PLANT This project, which had since been completed, involved the construction of a 59.5km pipeline from Uquo in Esit Eket to Ibom Power Plant in Ikot Abasi. The Ibom Gas Plant will supply gas to Ibom Power Plant in the light of the obvious incapacity of Nigerian Gas Company, NGC, to meet the gas needs of the plant. The project was handled by Septa Energy Ltd., a subsidiary of Seventh Energy, a UK-based gas development company. This project was undertaken under “PPP” arrangement whereby the Akwa Ibom State Government had contributed $33 million down payment for gas supply to the IPP for at least one year, while the company invested $550 million in the construction of the Gas.

Ibom Gas Plant

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HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM

Four Points Sheraton and Ibom Tropicana

Le Meridien Resort

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AIRPORT AND AVIATION DEVELOPMENT The administration provided a functioning international airport with 3.6 km runway, first class facilities and aviation aids. The administration also sponsored 251 members of staff for training in the best universities and aviation institutions in the world on various disciplines including avionics, power plant and airframe, maintenance engineering, fire-fighting, aviation security, air traffic control, etc. Ibom International Airport

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CHAPTER THREE SENATOR GODSWILL AKPABIO AND THE NIGERIAN SENATE

Chief Godswill Akpabio contested in the 2015 general elections and won the Senate seat of the Akwa Ibom North West (Ikot Ekpene) Senatorial District to represent the district in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Barely two months in the Senate, he was nominated for the position of the Senate Minority Leader by the South-South caucus of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), ratified by the caucus of the PDP in the Senate and announced by the Senate President as Senate Minority Leader on 28 July 2015. He voluntarily and freely resigned from the position of Senate Minority Leader on 4th August, 2018. On Wednesday 8th August, 2018, the Distinguished Senator joined the ruling party, the All Progressive Congress, amidst pomp and pageantry at the Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium. The Distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria made it explicitly and abundantly clear that he was driven by Nationalist reasons to join the ruling party, the APC. His Excellency is currently the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District Senate flagbearer for the 2019 general elections under All Progressive Congress. His committees in the Senate include judiciary, human rights and legal matters and constitutional review, among others. He has legislative interests in oil and gas, and his target achievements include unbundle the weight on federal expenditure through legislation and proper budgeting 31

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(http://www.nassnig.org/mp/profile/863. Accessed: 17 October, 2017). Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON, is characterized by his uncommon and unflinching commitment to his party affairs; his good relations with, unpartisan and respect for his opposing party; his respect and obedience to elderly statesmen; his detribalized and patriotic approach to matters of national concern; his excellent representation and commitment to the welfare of his constituency; his dispositional charisma and affective magnetism; his eloquence and visionary prolepsis; his galvanizing force, unification ability, peaceful co-existence policy, his populism, the people's center of gravity; his friendliness, his mien, candour, glamour, humour and splendour. Below is a chronicle of some milestone achievements, contributions, performances and life as a senator representing his constituency in the 8th Senate: On July 14, 2016 and August 21, 2016: The Distinguished Senator led a delegation (with the Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu) of PDP Senate Caucus to pay a condolence visit to Late Ambassador Ojo Madueke's family, and attended the funeral of the late Nigerian diplomat. On September 3, 2016: He continued to lend his support and contribution to Nigerian sports as the super eagles of Nigeria hosted the Tanzanian national team at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium (The Nest of Champions), Uyo. (See next page) On September 28, 2016: At the invitation of the Governor of River State, Barr. Nyesom Wike, Senator Akpabio commissioned IGWURUTA-CHUKOCHO ROAD in River State. On November 8, 2016: At Senate, he prayed for decongestion of our Nigerian prisons On November 13, 2016: Expressed his supports to the Super Eagles 32

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against the Desert Warriors of Algeria On December 7, 2016: With his predecessor, His Excellency (Obong) Victor Attah at National Assembly public hearing of the Petroleum Industry Governance Bill On December 9, 2016: He marked his 54th birthday On December 24, 2016: He convened and presided at Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District Stakeholders meeting at Ikot Ekpene Local Government Council Hall On January 26, 2017: He was awarded LEGISLATOR OF THE YEAR 2016 by Authority newspaper. On January 27, 2017: At Senate, he made contributions on the appraisal of the general principles of the 2017 budget. On March 1, 2017: He launched Training snd Empowerment of Youths and Women in Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District On March 2, 2017: He accompanied Governor Udom Emmanuel to welcome His Excellency Prof. Osinbajo, SAN, who visited Akwa Ibom State as an Acting President On March 6, 2017: He showed respect for and solidarity with Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, former President of Nigeria, who celebrated his 80th birthday in Abeokuta, Ogun State. On March 19, 2017: He stress the important role of women in the family and nation building while he eulogized the Nigerian Women on International Women's Day. On March 28, 2017: He showed respect for and solidarity with Chief Bola Tinubu, former Governor of Lagos State, National th Leader of APC and Nigerian Minister of …, who celebrated his 65 birthday in Lagos. 33

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On April 12, 2017: With His Eminence, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, at the Premiere of Spice TV On April 25, 2017: He visited Osun State on a condolence visit to the family of Late Senator Isiaka Adeleke, former Governor of Osun State On May 12, 2017: At Wedding Fatiha of Halima, the daughter of former President, General Ibrahim Babangida in Minna, Niger State. On May 14, 2017: The Senate Minority Leader was the Keynote Speaker at the 2nd International Chamber of Commerce Africa Regional Arbitration Conference, Lagos, 14-16 May, 2017. On May 17, 2017: The Senate Minority Leader represented the Senate President, Senator (Dr.) Bukola Saraki, to inaugurate the Senate ad-hoc Committee to investigate allegations of fraud against Chevron Nig. Ltd. The Committee was headed by Senator Magnus Abe. On May 18, 2017: He had a meeting with the Nigerian Youth Parliament in the National Assembly, Abuja. On May 20, 2017: The Senate Minority Leader represented the Senate President, Senator (Dr.) Bukola Saraki at Senator Lady Uche Ekwunife (Iyom)'s grand reception by Nri Progress Union in Nri Kingdom, Anambra State On May 22, 2017: He commissioned Governor Nyesom Wike's projects in River State, at the Governor's invitation. On May 23, 2017: The Senate Minority Leader was with the former Senate President, Senator David Mark, to concelebrate Governor Nyesom Wike's 2nd year in office. On May 27, 2017: He was guest to the Cross River State Governor, th Prof. Ben Ayade, in Calabar, as part of the activities to mark 50 Anniversary of the State and Children's Day celebration. On May 29, 2017: Democracy Day: The Senate Minority Leader participated and also addressed the audience at the Federal 34

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Government Social Investment Programme Report Card of Buhari Administration at Presidential Villa, Abuja, anchored by the Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, who was Acting President. On June 9, 2017: The Senate Minority Leader concelebrated the 46th birthday of his darling wife, Her Excellency Ekaete Unomma Akpabio. On July 6, 2017: The Senator representing Akwa Ibom North West held the Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial Briefing and Empowerment Programme at Ikot Ekpene Stadium, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State. Senator Dino Melaye, Senator Obinna Ogba, Senator Attai Aidoko were there to witness this grand event. On July 11, 2017: Senator Godswill Akpabio, CON, commissioned a power injection sub-station and other projects executed by the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Deacon Udom Emmanuel, at the invitation of the Governor. On July 11, 2017: He was at Asan Ibibio to concelebrate Governor Udom Emmanuel's reception by Ibibio nation in Akwa Ibom State. On July 16, 2017: He was in Ibusa, Delta State, for the 60th birthday anniversary of Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Niger Delta Affairs. On July 17, 2017: He attended the 16th Commonwealth Speakers and Presiding Officers Conference-Africa Region at Transcorp Hilton, Abuja. On July 17, 2017: He was also at a dinner hosted by the Vice President (then the Acting President), Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, at Aso Rock Villa for attendees at Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of Commonwealth Countries-Africa Region.

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On August 12, 2017: He attended the National Convention of the Peoples Democratic Party at Eagles Square, Abuja. On August 14, 2017: The Senator of Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District presented cheques to students who were successful in the Senator Akpabio Scholarship/Bursary Scheme for Students of Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District at Independence Hall, Abak. On August 26, 2017: As Grand Patron, he attended ATI ANNANG Convention at Chelsea Hotel, Toronto, Canada. ATI ANNANG is the apex socio-cultural organization of the Annang people of Nigeria. On September 23, 2017: The Senate Minority Leader attended th Akwa Ibom State 30 Anniversary with the Vice President (then the Acting President), Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, in Akwa Ibom State. Also in his company were the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commision, Mr. Nsima Ekere; the Special Adviser to the President on National Assembly Matters, Senator Ita Enang; Mr. Umana Okon Umana; and Senator John Udoedehe; the Speaker of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Barr. Onofiok Luke; the wife of the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Her Excellency Martha Udom Emmanuel, and the wife of the Senate Minority Leader, Her Excellency Ekaete Unomma Akpabio, among other sons and daughters of Akwa Ibom State. On September 29, 2017: He met with the National Youth Corpers Forum at his office in the National Assembly. On October 4, 2017: The Senate Minority Leader was at the Inauguration of Nigeria-Morocco Parliamentary Friendship Group by Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, at the Senate New Building, Abuja. On October 18,2017: At the National Summit on Intergovernmental/inter-party relations and budget process reform in Nigeria organized by the National Institute for Legislative 36

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Studies, the European Union Parliament, Democracy Support and Election Coordination Group and Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly. October 20, 2017: He was Chairman of the Public Lecture on: The Role of the Legislature in the Development of Akwa Ibom State in the past 25 years, to mark the 25th anniversary of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Onofiok Luke. October 28, 2017: At the wedding of Oluwatosin Halima Saraki (daughter of the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki) to Adeniyi Olatunde Olukoya at the Ballroom, Eko Convention Centre, Lagos. November 1, 2017: A bill sponsored by the Leader seeking to amend the legal practitioners act 2004 scaled second reading. November 2, 2017: At the PDP Official flag-off of Campaigns for Akwa Ibom State Local Government Elections at Uyo Township Stadium November 8, 2017: The bill he sponsored for the establishment of the Federal Polytechnic, Ukana, Akwa Ibom State scaled second reading. The bill which was first presented on March 9, 2017 sought to formalize the existence of the Federal Polytechnic. November 15, 2017: He commended Barrister Ibanga Akpabio and Prof. Victor Inoka on their appointments as Commissioners and their elevation into the Akwa Ibom State Executive Council. December 1, 2017: The leader commiserated with the Bishop of Ikot Ekpene Diocese of the Catholic Church, Most Rev. Camillus Umoh on the loss of a Patriarch, the late Monsignor Sylvanus Udo Etok who passed on to eternal glory at the age of 86. December 2, 2017: He commended the peaceful conduct of the local government elections in Akwa Ibom State which he participated in his unit at Ukana West 2 in Essien Udim Local Government Area. 37

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December 2, 2017: With Senator Samuel Nnaemeka Anyanwu (Samdaddy) on the thanksgiving/grand reception in his honour by Ikeduru Progressive Assembly at Iho Central Stadium. December 5, 2017: At the South South Zonal congress of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. th December 9, 2017: His 55 birthday coincided with the PDP National Convention. December 9, 2017: National Convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at Eagles Square, Abuja. December 14, 2017: At Governor of Rivers State, Chief Nyesom Wike's 50th birthday. December 15, 2017: He formally flagged off the training of over 400 youths and women in Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District in cassava and palm oil processing by the Agricultural and Rural Management Training Institute (ARMTI) in Abak and Ikot Ekpene centers as part of his constituency projects. December 22, 2017: At the funeral service in honour of late Obongawan Imo Isemin, wife of the first civilian governor of Akwa Ibom State, Obong Akpan Isemin, at Mbioto II, Etinan LGA of Akwa Ibom State. December 22, 2017: At the 2017 edition of the Akwa Ibom State Christmas Carols festival in Uyo. December 24, 2017: Godswill Akpabio Law House in collaboration with Coalition of Lawyers from Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District organized a dinner in honour of his wife, Mrs Ekaette Unoma Akpabio and the Leader. The event had the theme: "RESTRUCTURING FOR FISCAL FEDERALISM" and also featured the presentation of a book "BRIEFCASE ON ELECTORAL LAWS AND PRACTICE IN Nigeria.” 38

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December 25, 2017: With his wife, Mrs Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, he paid a visit to Ikot Ekpene prisons to celebrate the Christmas with about 861 inmates. They ate and drank with them and donated food items and drinks to them, but most touchingly on hearing from the inmates the condition of the Prison, they donated 300 mattresses to them and money to fix the vehicles to enable the inmates to be taken to court. December 31, 2017: Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District Christmas gettogether at Independence Hall and Tilapia Island Resort, Abak. January 1, 2018: The Leader celebrated the new year with youths of his Senatorial District under the aegis Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District Youth Assembly in his country home in Ukana, Essien Udim LGA. January 4, 2018: He played host to the leadership and members of the Ati Annang Foundation, a socio-cultural organization, on a new year visit to him in his country home in Ukana, Essien Udim Local Government Area. January 13, 2018: He traversed the length and breadth of Ini, Ikono, Ikot Ekpene and Abak Local Government Areas to commission some projects that he had executed as part of his constituency projects, from classblocks, potable water, to market stalls. January 16, 2018: President Buhari hosted Principal Officers of the National Assembly in Aso Villa: Senate President Bukola Saraki, Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, Minority Whip Senator Philip Aduda, Minority Leader Senator Godswill Akpabio, Senate Majority Leader Senator Ahmed Lawan and Chief Whip Senator Olusola Adeyeye. January 20, 2018: Commissioning of some constituency projects he initiated to bring succour to his constituents in Obot Akara, Etim Ekpo and Oruk Anam Local Government Areas. They included classroom blocks, solar powered water projects with 4 kilometers radius reticulation, open market stalls and inspection of the Chief Donald Dick Etiebet Civic Centre in Ikot Ekpuk, Oruk Anam LGA. 39

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January 29, 2018: With his wife, Mrs Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, he attended the 9th/10th Memorial Thanksgiving Service in honour of Late Prince Bernard Idiong and Late Professor Stella Idiong, parents of Her Excellency Deaconess Martha Udom Emmanuel at Ibom Hall Grounds, Uyo. February 1, 2018: Second reading of the bill sponsored by the Leader for an Act to establish the Federal Polytechnic, Ukana, Essien Udim LGA, Akwa Ibom State, to provide full-time courses in Technology, Applied Science, Management and other field of studies and to make provision for general administration of such Polytechnic. February 1, 2018: Senator Godswill Akpabio spoke on crisis arising from non-delineation of Nigerian internal boundaries which have resulted in boundary crises, making more Nigerians to become Internal Displace Persons. February 2, 2018: At the burial of the late Elder Statesman and the former Vice President, Dr Alex Ekwueme, GCON in Oko, Anambra State. February 2, 2018: Senator Goodwill Akpabio spoke while supporting a motion on local content element and cost variations to the Egina Oil fields. He said that Nigeria is in recession partly because of poor contracts signed by the Federal Government. February 6, 2018: A bill sponsored by him for an Act to amend the Legal Practitioners Act (Second reading). The bill is to regulate the legal profession in Nigeria. February 7, 2018: At the investigative hearing on local content elements and cost variations relating to Egina Oil Field and other related projects by the Senate ad-hoc committee on local content. February 7, 2018: On the senate floor, Senator Godswill Akpabio congratulated his PDP colleagues in offering constructive opposition to the APC administration and also commended the armed forces in 40

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containing the Boko Haram insurgency. February 7, 2018: The PDP members of the National Assembly met with the National Executive Council of the party led by the National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus. February 8, 2018: The Senate Minority Leader was at the National Security Summit organized by the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. February 9, 2018: The Senate Committee on Local Content led by the Chairman, Senator Solomon Adeola and the Vice-Chairman, Senator Godswill Akpabio and other members of the committee went for the oversight function of the Senate Committee on Local Content to Ladol. February 12: Day 2 at the National Security Summit organized by the 8th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. February 14: A coalition of female gender groups led by Prof Joy Ezeilo of the Faculty of Law, University of Nigeria, Nsukka pushing for legislation to enhance the status of women today met with the Leader in his office. February 14: He supported the bill for an Act to provide for the establishment of Federal University of Sports to make comprehensive provisions of its due management and administration and other related matters. (Second Reading). February 15: The Leader was at the funeral service of Late Mr Charles Bartholomew Ekon, elder brother of member representing Abak Federal Constituency, House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Emmanuel Ekon in Iwukem, Etim Ekpo LGA. February 17: Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr Moses Ekpo presented the Leadership Prize Award to the Leader on behalf of Ati Annang Foundation, a socio-cultural organization at the Annual General Meeting at Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State. 41

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February 19: At the South South Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Zonal Executive Committee Meeting in Government House, Port Harcourt. February 22: At the National Executive Committee meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party in Abuja. February 23: The Leader with the National Chairman of PDP Prince Uche Secondus, Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu among other senators & dignitaries at the Silverbird TV award in Lagos. February 25: He was at THE SUN NEWSPAPER awards in Lagos. February 28: The Senate Minority Leader and the Senator representing Akwa Ibom Noerth West senatorial district, Senator Godswill Akpabio, supported of a bill for an Act to establish the Federal Polytechnic, Aba, Abia State, to provide full-time courses in Technology, Applied Science, Management and other fields of studies and to make provisions for the general administration of such polytechnic. March 1: The Conference of Speakers of the 36 States of the Federation presented votes of the proposed constitutional a m e n d m e n t s t o t h e 8 t h N a t i o n a l A s s e m b l y. In attendance were the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, the Speaker Rt Hon Yakubu Dogara, Deputy Speaker Hon Yusuf Lasun, Senate Minority Leader, Senator Godswill Akpabio and other Senators and a cross section of the Speakers of the States Assemblies including the Speaker of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Onofiok Luke. March 1: The Leader was Chairman at the Foundation laying ceremony of the Editors' Plaza at Guzape District, Abuja. Along with the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed SSA to the President on Diaspora Hon Abike Dabiri and representatives of Alhaji Aliko Dangote and Alhaji Abdulsamad Rabiu, Chairman of Bua Group.

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March 9: The Leader commiserated with the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr Moses Ekpo on the death of his elder brother, Elder O. F. Ekpo. March 10: As part of his constituency projects, the Leader commissioned a 20 Open Market stalls in Ikot Osukpong in Ika LGA. He also commissioned a solar powered borehole with reticulation facilities in Ikot Oyoh/Ikot Inyang Udo in Ika LGA. On the same day, he commissioned a 20 Open Market stalls in Urua mbonoh Annang, Otoro Obong, Etim Ekpo LGA and the Ikot AdiaUkpum road, Oruk Anam LGA. March 14, 2018: Continuation of the investigative hearing on local content elements and cost variations relating to Egina Oil Field and other related projects by the Senate ad-hoc committee on local content. March 14, 2018: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Youth Leaders from across the 36 States and the FCT led by the National Youth Leader today paid a courtesy visit to leadership of the Senate PDP Caucus at the National Assembly. March 15, 2018: Alongside Senator Bassey Albert, the Leader received Chairmen of Local Government Areas in Akwa Ibom State in his office, who were then attending a training program in Abuja. The two senators urged them to be good Ambassadors of Akwa Ibom State. March 18, 2018: At 40th birthday celebration of Barrister Onofiok Luke, Speaker, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly March 20, 2018: As Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content, he was ‎ at the Stakeholders' Sensitization Programme on developing legislators' understanding of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board's (NCDMB) Mandate and the oil and gas industry in Accra, Ghana

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March 23, 2018: He was at the Abak Township Stadium for the mega rally/reception of His Excellency, Deacon Udom Gabriel Emmanuel and wife, Deaconess Martha Udom Emmanuel by the youths of the Old Abak Division in Akwa Ibom State. March 23, 2018: He was at the wedding of Fatima, Aliko Dangote's daughter and Jamil Abubakar at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island Lagos April 6, 2018: The Senator was with the Senate President, Bukola Saraki, , Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremandu and other Senators and dignitaries at the burial of Late Madam Mathilda Nwannediya Ohuabunwa, mother of the Chairman, Senate Committee on Primary Healthcare, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa representing Abia North Senatorial District in Arochukwu, Abia State. April 12, 2018: The Senator was installed as the Chancellor of Ritman University during its third public Lecture in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State. April 28, 2018: The leader was at the reception of the wedding ceremony of Amanda Tolulope Mustapha, the daughter of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr Boss Mustapha and her heartthrob, Mr Otelemaba T. Westwood at Aso Rock Villa banquet hall. May 5, 2018: At the traditional marriage of Nella Donald Duke, the daughter of HE, Mr Donald Duke, former Governor of Cross River State to her heart throb Mr Asuquo Ekpenyong Jnr in Calabar May 11, 2018: The Senator was at the University of Calabar, assisted by his dear wife, Mrs Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, to commission the Godswill Akpabio Faculty of Engineering theatre block, built by him. May 12, 2018: The Senator presided a meeting of Eket Senatorial District Leaders led by Chief Nduese Essien with political stakeholders of Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District in his country home,

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Ukana Ikot Ntuen, Essien Udim LGA, Akwa Ibom State. May 23, 2018: The Senator attended the inauguration of Mr Chrysanthus Udoh, former Chairman of Essien Udim Local Government Area as a Commissioner with the Public Complaints Commission. The inauguration was performed by the Senate President, Bukola Saraki. th June 9, 2018: The Distinguished Senator celebrated the 46 birthday of his dear wife, Her Excellency Ekaette Unoma Akpabio in their house, Asokoro, Abuja June 22, 2018: The Senator was part of the parliamentary visit by the Nigerian Senate led by the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki to the Russian Federation. June 23, 2018: In Russia, he attended the World Cup match between Nigeria and Iceland, and congratulated the Super Eagles on their victory. We can recall that all the home qualifiers matches involving the Super Eagles were played at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, and that the Super Eagles qualified for the mundial at that stadium, the Nest of Champions. July 16, 2018: The people of Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District hosted the senator to a grand endorsement rally as their worthy representative at the Red Chambers, and wished him to go for a second term. July 23, 2018: The senator was at the 80th National Executive Committee meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at Wadata House, Abuja. August 1, 2018: As the then Senate Minority Leader of the 8th Senate, the Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio was at the dinner reception in honour of returnees and new entrants into the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja. August 4, 2018: The Distinguished Senator tendered his resignation as the Senate Minority Leader 45

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August 8, 2018: The Distinguished Senator joined the ruling party, the All Progressive Congress August 17, 2018: With the Governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, his wife Her Excellency Ekaette Unoma Godswill Akpabio, the Distinguished Senator attended the funeral of his grand mother-in-law, Late Madam Mercy Uduoku Neife Igwenagu (Nee Adinde) at the Christ the King Parish Aguobuowa, Ezeagu Local Government Area, Enugu State. August 19, 2018: Senator Godswill Akpabio addressed a large crowd of APC youths at Ikot Ekpene plaza who turned out to receive him on his return from Enugu where he had gone to bury his grand mother-in-law. It turned out to be a political rally. August 25, 2018: Senator Godswill Akpabio and other leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Akwa Ibom State at the party's caucus meeting in Uyo August 25, 2018: Senator Godswill Akpabio with Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Obong Nsima Ekere paid a courtesy visit to former Minister of State (FCT) Senator John Akpanudoedehe in his country home in Afaha Offot, Uyo Local Government Area. August 28, 2018: Former Senate Minority Leader, Godswill Akpabio, Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Presidential Liaison to the National Assembly, Senator Ita Enang, were at the caucus meeting of ruling APC at the State House, Abuja. August 30, 2018: Senator Godswill Akpabio and other dignitaries were at the APC 2018 NEC Meeting Holden at the APC National headquarters in Abuja. September 1, 2018: Senator Godswill Akpabio and other officials welcomed President Muhammadu Buhari as the President arrived Beijing, China, to participate in the 7th Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation. 46

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September 2, 2018: Senator Godswill Akpabio was with other officials with President Muhammadu Buhari during the President's interactive session with the Nigerian Community in China at the Nigerian Embassy in Beijing. September 11, 2018: Senator Godswill Akpabio and other dignitaries at the All Progressives Congress (APC) Akwa Ibom South (Eket) Senatorial District in honour of President Muhammadu Buhari and reception of Obong Nsima Ekere. September 13, 2018: Senator Godswill Akpabio submitted his nomination form for re-election into the Senate as a response to the overwhelming calls by the good people of Akwa Ibom North West (Ikot Ekpene) Senatorial District to seek re-election into the Senate. September 14, 2018: Senator Godswill Akpabio and the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Obong Nsima Ekere and other dignitaries attended the public presentation of the book "COMPENDIUM OF SERVICE" by Senator Oluremi Tinubu in Lagos. September 17, 2018: Senator Godswill Akpabio led a delegation of Akwa Ibom APC leaders and stakeholders to meet with President Muhammadu Buhari at the Aso Rock Villa. September 22, 2018: Senator Godswill Akpabio was with his wife Ekaette Unoma Godswill Akpabio and other dignitaries at the special solidarity rally in honour of President Muhammadu Buhari and the Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mr. Nsima Ekere, by the people of Akwa Ibom North-East (Uyo) Senatorial District. September 24, 2018: Akwa Ibom North West APC Caucus adopted Senator Akpabio as consensus candidate for Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District September 28, 2018: APC Presidential Primaries: Senator representing Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District, Senator Godswill Akpabio and wife, Ekaette Unoma Godswill Akpabio, member representing Essien Udim State Constituency, Hon Nse 47

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Ntuen among other dignitaries and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) were at Methodist School Ukana (Okop Akama) Essien Udim Local Government Area venue of the APC Presidential primaries for Ukana West, Ward 2, Essien Udim Local Government Area. September 30, 2018: APC Governorship Primaries: Senator representing Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District, Senator Godswill Akpabio and wife, Ekaette Unoma Godswill Akpabio, member representing Essien Udim State Constituency, Hon Nse Ntuen among other dignitaries and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) were at Methodist School Ukana (Okop Akama) Essien Udim Local Government Area venue of the APC Governorship primaries for Ukana West, Ward 2, Essien Udim Local Government Area. October 20, 2018: Senator Godswill Akpabio accompanied the Vice President, Prof.Yemi Osinbajo to the 80th birthday celebration of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi. October 22, 2018: Senator representing Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District, His Excellency Senator Godswill Akpabio sponsored the Entrepreneurial/Agricultural Grant to his constituents. The APC Governorship candidate for Akwa Ibom State and Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Obong Nsima Ekere and other dignitaries were present at the flag-off of the disbursement of cash grants for Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District at Ikot Ekpene. October 24, 2018: Senator representing Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District, His Excellency Senator Godswill Akpabio received members of the Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic, Ukana, and members of the Federal Character Commission in his country home, Ukana, Essien Udim Local Government Area. The Governing Council was led on the courtesy/solidarity visit by the Chairman, Prof. Sylvester Ike Udabah. 48

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Senator Akpabio signing condolenceregister mourning late Ambassador Ojo Madueke

Oration at Late Ambassador Ojo Madueke's funeral

With the Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu during a condolence visit to the family of Late Ambassador Ojo Madueke 49

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Commissioning of Igwuruta – Chokocho Road in River State at the invitation of the Governor of River State, Barr. Nyesom wike

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With his predecessor, His Excellency (Obong) Victor Attah at the National Assembly hearing of the Petroleum Indrustry Gorvanance Bill

His 54th birthday, December 9, 2016, with his family and the Auxilary Bishop of Abuja, His Lordship most Rev. Dr. Anselm Umoren, MSP 51

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Legislator of the Year 2016 Award by The Authority Newspaper

Legislator of the Year 2016 award by The Authority Newspaper 52

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Initiating Training and Empowerment of Women in Trade in Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District 53

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Initiating Training and Empowerment of Youths Skills in Trade in Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District 54

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With his successor, Governor Udom Emmanuel, to welcome His Excellency, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, who visited Akwa Ibom State as an Acting President on 2nd March, 2017

Welcoming the Acting President on 2nd March, 2017 to Akwa Ibom State 55

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With the Speaker of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Barr. Onofiok Luke

Showing respect for and solidarity with former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, who celebrated his 80th birthday on 6th March, 2017 56

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At Chief Olusegun Obasanjo's 80th birthday party

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In a tete-a-tete with Chief Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his 65th birthday in Lagos, 28th March, 2017

Wishing Chief Bola Tinubu a happy 65th birthday, 28th March, 2017 Posing with Chief Bola Tinubu on his 65th birthday 58

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Sitting with His Eminence, John cardinal Onaiyikan the Arch Bishop of Abuja Arch Diocese at the premiere of Spice TV on April 12th, 2017

Handshake with John Cardinal Onaiyekan at the premiere of Spice TV 59

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At Wedding Fatiha of Halima, the daughter of former Nigeria Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida in Minna, 12th May, 2017

At Wedding Fatiha of Halima, daughter of General Ibrahim Babangida 60

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As keynote speaker at the 2nd International Chamber of Commerce Africa Regional Arbiteration Conference, Lagos, 14th - 16th May, 2017

As keynote speaker at the 2nd International Chamber of Commerce Africa Regional Arbiteration Conference, Lagos, 14th - 16th May, 2017 61

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On May 17, 2017 he represented the Senate President, Senator (Dr.) Bukola Saraki, to inaugurate the Senate ad-hoc Committee

On May 18, 2017 he had a meeting with the Nigerian Youth Parliament in the National Assembly, Abuja 62

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Addressing Nigerian Youth Parliarment in the National Assembly, Abuja, May 18th, 2017

With Nigerian Youth Parliarment members

May 20, 2017 at Senator Lady Uche Ekwunife (Iyom's) grand reception by Nri Progress Union in Nri Kingdom, Anambra State 63

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May 22nd, 2017, the commissioning of Governor Nyesom Wike's projects in Rivers State

May 23rd, 2017, the celebration of Governor Nyesom Wike's 2nd year in office 64

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The Uncommon Transformator with Mr. Project

The Uncommon Transformator with Mr. Project and an expertite Engineer

May 27th, 2017 at the 50th Anniversary of Cross River State and Children's Day Celebration 65

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May 29th, 2017, at the Federal Government Social Investment

Programme Report Card of Buhari Administration at Presidential Villa, Abuja

June 9th, 2017, the 46th birthday of his wife, Her Excellency Ekaete Unomma Akpabio 66

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46th birthday of Her Excellency Ekaete Unoma Akpabio on 9th June, 2017

June 9th, 2017, the 46th birthday of his wife, Her Excellency Ekaete Unomma Akpabio

June 9th, 2017, the 46th birthday of his wife, Her Excellency, Ekaete Unomma Akpabio 67

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With fellow Senators, July 16, 2017 Constituency Briefing in Ikot Ekpene

With fellow Senators, July 6, 2017 Constituency briefing

With Senator Dino Melaye at July 6, 2017 Constituency Briefing in Ikot Ekpene

Senator Dino Melaye dancing to Sekem music in Ikot Ekpene 68

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Briefing his Constituents at Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium on July 6, 2017

Constituency Briefing in Ikot Ekpene, July 6, 2017 69

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With his Successor, His Excellency Governor Udom Emmanuel at the Ikot Ekpene Constituency Briefing

July 16, 2017, the 60th birthday celebration of Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Niger Delta Affairs 70

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He commissioned a power sub-station at the invitation of Governor Udom Emmanuel, July 11, 2017

At Asan Ibibio to celebrate Governor Udom's reception by the Ibibio nation 71

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With Governor Udom Emmanuel and his wife at Asan Ibibio, July 11, 2017

July 16, 2017, the 60th birthday celebration of Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Niger Delta Affairs 72

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July 17, 2017 at the 16th Common Wealth Speakers and Presiding Officers Conference – Africa region at Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja

Hosting Corp Members who paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja 73

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August 12, 2017 event

August 12, 2017, the National Convention of the Peoples Democratic Party at Eagles Square, Abuja 74

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August 12, 2017, the National Convention of the Peoples Democratic Party at Eagles Square, Abuja

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Bursary Scheme Test for Constituents

The Senator of Akwa Ibom State North West Senatorial District presented cheques to students who were successful in the Senator Akpabio Scholarship/Bursary Scheme for students of Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District at Independence Hall, Abak on August 14, 2017 76

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Arriving Independence Hall, Abak, for payment of Scholarship and Bursary to beneficiaries, August 14, 2017 77

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A cross section of beneficiaries of the Bursary and Scholarship Scheme at Independence Hall, Abak

Waving to the crowd at Independence Hall, Abak

Signing cheques for presentation to beneficiaries of the Bursary and Scholarship Scheme at Independence Hall, Abak 78

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With his brother, Sir Emem Akpabio, at Indepence Hall, Abak

Waving to the crowd at Independence Hall, Abak

With the thankful crowd after presentation of money to beneficiaries of the Scholarship and Bursary Scheme, August 14, 2017 79

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With his wife at ATI ANNAG Convention

Exhorting the beneficiaries of the Bursary and Scholarxhip Scheme on the essence of education August 14, 2017

Presenting an award to wife of the Governor, Her ExcellencyMartha Udom Emmanuel during ATI ANNANG Convention, 2017

Waving to ATI ANNANG

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Patron and Matron of ATI ANNANG

Women of ATI ANNANG in Toronto, Canada Addressing ATI ANNANG members in Toronto, Canada, August 26, 2017 81

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With ATI ANNANG President, Rt. Hon. Udo Kieran Akpan

ATI ANNANG Convention, 2017 82

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With Governor Udom Emmanuel and his wife at ATI ANNANG Convention

With Senator Dr. John Udoedele during the 30th Anniversary of Akwa Ibom State, 23rd September, 2017 83

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With Umana Okon Umana, His Excellency Obong Nsima Ekere and Senator Ita Enang during the 30th Anniversary of Akwa Ibom State, 23 September, 2017

Celebrating the 30th Anniversary of Akwa Ibom State with his successor, Governor Udom Emmanuel 84

Akwa Ibom State 30th Anniversary, 23 September, 2017

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With Governor Udom Emmanuel and Vice President, Professor Osinbajo, SAN, during Akwa Ibom 30th Anniversary

Consulting with the Vice President, Professor Osinbajo, SAN

With former Governor of Anambra State, Governor Peter Obi and Governor Udom Emmanuel at the 30th Anniversary 85

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Presenting an award to Chief (Dr.) Uko Akpan Ekpo, founder of Uko Akpan Cultural Group in Akwa Ibom State

Presenting an award to Chief John Idung, founder of Afe Mbono Radio programme in Akwa Ibom state during the 30th Anniversary 86

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Dancing with his wife and wife of his successor Song and dance at the 30th Anniversary celebration

With Governor Udom Emmanuel and Mr. Aniekpeno Mkpanang, Co-Ordinator of Ibom Christmas Carol during the 30th Anniversary Celebration 87

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Congratulating a winner in the Godswill International Scrabble Competition at Le Meridien Hotel, Uyo At Le Meridien Hotel,Uyo to grace the Godswill Akpabio International Scrabble Competition

Display of trophies at the Godswill International Scrabble Competition at Le Meridien Hotel, Uyo 88

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November 8, 2017 at plenary. The bill he sponsored for the establishment of the Federal Polytechnic, Ukana, Akwa Ibom State, sealed second reading.

At plenary, sponsored a bill seeking to amend the legal practitioners Act 2004 November 1, 2017

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At the inauguration of Nigeria-Morocco Parliarmentary Friendship Group by Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki at the Senate New Building, Abuja on October 4, 2017 event

At the National Summit on Intergovernmental/Inter-party relations and budget process reform in Nigeria organized by the National Institute for Legislative Studies, the European Union Parliarment and Democracy Support and Election Coordination Group and Office of the Special Assistant to the Vice President on National Assembly on October 18, 2017 90

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With David Mark, former Senate President

With Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki at Senate

With Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu

Senator, representing Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District with effective representation 91

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With Senator Ita Enang and Barr. Onofior Luke He was Chairman of the Public Lecture on: The Role of the Legislature in the Development of Akwa Ibom State in the past 25 years, to mark the 25th anniversary of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Onofiok Luke on October 20, 2017

In a party with Senator Ita Enang

In a party with Obong Nsima Ekere 92

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The “Kehre” (Turning): Addressing the mammoth crowd on his defection from the PDP to APC on Wednesday, 8th August, 2018 at at Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium

In a jovial mood with Obong Nsima Ekere and Senator John Udoedele in the latter's residence in Uyo

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With the President, General Muhammadu Buhari

Senator Akpabio and other officials welcomed President Buhari as the President arrived Beijing, China, to participate in the 7th Summit of the Forum on China – Africa Cooperation. -September 1st, 2018 event 94

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With the Vice President, Prof. Osinbajo to the 80th birthday of Alafin of Oyo

Senator Godswill Akpabio accompanied the Vice President, Prof.Yemi Osinbajo to the 80th birthday celebration of the Alaafinof Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi on October 20, 2018 event.

With Bola Tinubu during National Convention of APC, September 2018

Senator Akpabio with Akwa Ibom APC stalwarts 95

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Addressing the youths at Ikot Ekpene Plaza

Former Senate Minority Leader, Godswill Akpabio, Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Presidential Liaison to the National Assembly, Senator Ita Enang, were at the caucus meeting of ruling APC at the State House, Abuja on August 28, 2018 96

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Senator representing Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District, His Excellency Senator Godswill Akpabio sponsored the Entrepreneurial/Agricultural Grant to his constituents. The APC Governorship candidate for Akwa Ibom State and Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Obong Nsima Ekere and other dignitaries were present at the flag-off of the disbursement of cash grants for Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District at Ikot Ekpene on October 22, 2018

Senator Akpabio lea a delegation of Akwa Ibom APC leaders and stakeholders to meet with President Buhari at the Aso Rock Villa, September 17, 2018 97

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With President Buhari at Aso Rock Villa, September 17, 2018

At Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium with National APC Chairman, Comrade Adams Oshiomole

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With Chief Bola Tinubu during the APC National Convention in ABuja

With Senator Ita Enong during the APC National Convention in Abuja 99

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CHAPTER FOUR SENATOR AKPABIO AS MINISTER OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA In July 2019, Senator Godswill Akpabio was nominated by President Muhammadu Buhari and screened by the Nigerian Senate

for a Ministerial appointment. On August 21st, 2019, he was sworn in as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Minister of Niger Delta Affairs.

His appearance in the Senate Chambers for screening as a Ministerial Nominee on Wednesday July 24, 2019. And he took a bow! 100

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His appearance in the Senate Chambers for screening as a Ministerial Nominee on Wednesday July 24, 2019. And he took a bow! 101

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His swearing-in on August 12, 2019 as a Minister of the Federal Republic 102

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First day in the office as Minister of Niger Delta Affairs

Along with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, he had a meeting with some exagitators of Niger Delta under the aegis of Youth for Peace and 103

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Development in the Niger Delta in my office in Abuja on Friday, August 23, 2019.

3rd September, 2019

Federal Government to partner Greece on ship building, employment generation in the Niger Delta. The Federal government pledged to partner with the Republic of Greece on the training of Niger Delta youths and others in ship building, fishing, food sufficiency and employment generation. The Minister of Niger Delta Affairs Senator Godswill Akpabio disclosed this when the representative of the Greece government in Nigeria, Concept Amadeus Limited paid a working visit to the Ministry on September 3, 2019 in Abuja. Senator Akpabio said that the Ministry is poise to improving the standard of living of the people of Niger Delta and Nigeria in general. He commended the initiative which according to him, will reduce militancy and crises of unemployment in the country. The Minister noted that the partnership, will empower the youths in the Niger Delta Region, stop the illegal fishing on Nigerian shore and also give Nigerians the opportunity to explore the value chain in the fishing industry.Senator Akpabio said that the host communities will be involved in the whole process to enable them own the project and provide the enabling environment for successful hosting of the dockyard. 104

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CALL FOR FORENSIC AUDIT OF THE NDDC

-Senator Akpabio observed that the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, had not performed well since it was established and he called for a forensic audit of the commission. This was just as the Minister decried the huge indebtedness of the Commission to the tune of over N2 trillion to some real contracts and imagined contracts. Senator Akpabio who disclosed this while meeting with the Management team of the NDDC said there would be a forensic audit of the funds received and spent by the Commission since 2000. “The impact of NDDC on the entire Niger Delta region would have been more if not for those thing militating against development, personal interest, political interest, interferences here and there. “The NDDC was strategic, it was a child of necessity, I believe that the NDDC has not performed well, I don't want to say that you have failed the region, I am saying that you have not performed well. “The real youths of the Niger Delta who undertook clearance of water hyacinths have not been paid, those that were paid are political youths, people that you owe just N500,000 to N1 million 3rd September, 2019

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are over 400 and they have been going to NDDC for over 10 years, and the money has not been given to them. “I know as for now in terms of debt, NDDC is owing over N2 trillion, some of them are real, some are imagined, but the problem we are having is that you won't know the ones that are real when they are mixed with the ones that are political, and the result is that someone who took a loan to do a real job for NDDC probably may have died, leaving the family in penury. “We will do forensic analysis and audit, we will try to go backwards even from the year 2000 up till now to know what came in and what went out and why we have not seen much on ground,” Senator Akpabio said. Stating the need to refocus the Commission, the Minister noted the Commission would cease from paying over N200 million as rent for their headquarters. “We will stop you from doing politically motivated roads, 3rd September, 2019we will stop you from keeping your headquarters for over 20 years without commissioning, we will stop you from paying N200 million to N300 million yearly as rent for the headquarters you are occupying,” he added. Earlier in his address, the Minister of State for Niger Delta Affairs, Mr Festus Keyamo said the NDDC has failed the Niger Deltans. He said the funds spent by the Commission were not commensurate with the infrastructure on ground. “The purpose of this meeting is to meet with you for the first time as the supervisory Ministry, get to know you and discuss some issues that are at the front burner, redefine the vision of the Commission that has since been lost over time. “I recall that a few weeks ago, the Vice President of this country did say publicly that this commission has failed, that is the truth. “In terms of commensurability of the project viz-a-viz the income that is accruable to the commission, we have failed. “Let us be clear that it will not business as usual, it will be business unusual from now on,” Keyamo noted. The NDDC Management team was led by the Director Overseeing the Commission, Dr Akwagaga Enyia 106

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September 11, 2019 President Muhammadu Buhari presides over Maiden Federal 3rd September, 2019 Executive Council (FEC) Meeting of the 2nd Term in Office in State House on 11th September, 2019.

On its part he said the NDDC was a child of necessity which was established “with a mission of 107

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facilitating the rapid, even and sustainable development of the Niger Delta into a region that is economically prosperous, socially stable, ecologically regenerative and politically peaceful” and said the Commission has to adopt a new template to achieve this mission. According to Senator Akpabio, “The Niger Delta Development Commission must adopt a well structured funds development regime whereby all funds that accrue to the Commission must be properly utilized in this new era of probity which President Muhammadu Buhari demands,” he said. In her welcome address, the acting Managing Director, Dr Akwagaga Enyia said the Commission under her watch had embarked upon fiscal responsibility as required by the anticorruption drive of the Buhari administration. She promised to expeditiously complete the on-going headquarters building project. Senator Akpabio and Mr Keyamo who later inspected the on-going construction of the headquarters building of the Commission, charged the management to channel more funds into completing the building. They also visited a failed portion of the East-West road and promised an intervention to alleviate the suffering of commuters

October 10, 2019 The Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs pledged to partner with Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) in the development of infrastructure, 108

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provision of health facilities and employment creation in the Niger Delta Region. The Minister, Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator (Dr.) Godswill Akpabio, CON, said this when the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the Commission Engr. Chidi Izuwah paid a courtesy call to the Ministry on Thursday, 10th October, 2019 in Abuja. According to Senator Akpabio, the collaboration will chart a new future for the region and ensure that the Niger Delta youths do not go back to the Creeks. He added that it would also help in the reconstruction of accessible roads in the region. The Minister noted that Water Hyacinth has brought a great menace to the people of Niger Delta by killing their aquatic lives, increasing poverty in the region and making it impossible for vessels to navigate the water ways. He added that it has also affected the Education and Security of the region. In his remarks, the Honourable Minister of State, Senator Omotayo Alasoadura said that the Government need the expertise of the private sector apart from their money as there is nowhere government can provide everything expected in the society. He also charged the Commission to identify different areas they can explore for the development of the Niger Delta region and take the lead by bringing all the stakeholders together to chart the way forward. Speaking further, he said the infrastructural decay is not peculiar to the Niger Delta Region alone adding that the Ministry is ready to cooperate with the Commission to ensure that the people of the Niger Delta Region have good infrastructure, education, and conducive environment to engage in their daily economic and fishing activities. Earlier the Director-General/CEO of (ICRC) Engr. Chidi Izuwah, said that the Commission is proposing a summit on revolutionizing infrastructure delivery in the Niger Delta region through Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) which should be convened by the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs in collaboration with Niger Delta 109

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Development Commission (NDDC) and the (ICRC) to showcase and highlight to investors, financiers and development actors the critical infrastructure value chain opportunities in the region. According to the (ICRC) Director-General, “addressing Nigeria's infrastructure challenges will require sustained expenditure of over US$30 billion per year over the next decade, or about 12 percent of GDP”. He added that about US$15 billion is needed for Federal infrastructure alone, most of it for capital spending and power.

15 October, 2019

Senator Akpabio represented the Vice-President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, SAN at the 11th National Development Summit of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria in Abuja

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December 6, 2019

15 October, 2019

The Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs (MNDA) would strengthen relationship with donor agencies and development partners to boost the provision of basic infrastructures and social-safety programmes that would guarantee sustainable peace and development in the Niger Delta region. The Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio disclosed this at the luncheon meeting with development partners and donor agencies recently in Abuja. The meeting was to strengthen the existing collaboration and also appreciate their developmental intervention in the region The Minister called on the development partners and the donor agencies to inject more funds into the region either by direct investment, by way of grants or through collaboration with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the Ministry. According to Senator Akpabio, the Ministry was in need of technical support to take the region out of poverty and redirect the people in the cleaning up of the environment, remediation and oil spills prevention and management, pollution of the air and the land and in the management of concomitants disease that comes as result 111

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of oil exploration and exploitation in the region. Other areas the Region needed technical assistance according to the Minster, were the provision of better health care facilities, provision of potable water supply, construction of good roads and the creation of employment opportunities so that the youths will not go back to militancy. According to Senator Akpabio, the Ministry had been in discussion with United Nation Development Programme UNDP, World Bank, European Union (EU) and other development partners for grants and assistance in order to fund critical developmental activities in the Niger Delta Region. 15 October, 2019 He noted that the current administration was determined to change the narrative of the region through fundamental reforms aimed at repositioning developing efforts to ensure resources deployed in the region are well utilized. In his remarks the Honourable Minister of State, Senator Omotayo Alasodura encouraged the development partners and donor agencies to continue to play very active roles in ensuring a peaceful and prosperous Niger Delta Region which would aid the development of the region for sustainable national development. He said that the Ministry was committed to transparent and accountable governance with regards to resources and efforts deployed to develop the region. Earlier, The Permanent Sectary of the Ministry, Mrs. Didi WalsonJack, in her welcome remarks said that the aim of the meeting was for the Honourable Minister to brief the donor agencies, representatives of Heads of Governments, Development Partners, International Oil Companies (IOCs) of the new administration's vision with regards to Niger Delta stabilization and development. She added that the role of the Ministry was to coordinate the development in the Niger Delta region as well as to solicit possible areas of collaboration and partnership with the Development Partners and Donor Agencies.

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She therefore encouraged the Donor Agencies and all major stakeholders, to support and collaborate with the Ministry to add value to the efforts of government. “The task of developing the region are enormous but not unsurmountable, with joint commitments and efforts we can make meaningful impact," she added. In her remarks, the Deputy Chief of Missions US Embassy, Kathieen Fitz Gibba said that the US will continue to give financial and technical assistant to all developmental programme in the region. In his remarks, the Team Lead, Niger Delta Stabilization Programme, Alex Sewell said that the meeting was a laudable attempt to make a complex programme easy to manage, adding that the SDN coordinated data with the help of the Ministry and other departments for the development of the region. Representatives from the UN, Canadian High Commission, Netherland and UNDP amongst others were in attendance. DECEMBER 9, 2019, HIS 57th Birthday

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December 20, 2019

Senator Akpabio received the President of Sierra Leone, His Excellency Julius Maada Bio at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

On Friday, December 20, 2019, Senator Akpabio received the President of Sierra Leone, His Excellency Julius Maada Bio at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. 114

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He was in Nigeria to attend the 56th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government which holds in Abuja on the 21st of December 2019. On 20 February, 2020:

SENATOR AKPABIO INAUGURATED ENLARGED NDDC INTERIM MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE He charged members on cooperation for forensic audit, service delivery. The Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio has charged the enlarged Interim Management Committee of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to cooperate with forensic auditors to audit the operations of the Commission as directed by President Muhammadu Buhari. The President had on Wednesday approved the enlargement of the Interim Management Committee (IMC) of the NDDc from three to five. The five members of the Committee are: Prof Kemebradikumo Daniel Pondei, Acting Managing Director replacing Barrister Joi Nunieh; Chief Ibanga Bassey Etang, Acting Executive Director (Finance and Administration); Dr Cairo Ojougboh, Acting Executive Director (Projects); Mrs Caroline Nagbo (Member) and Cecilia Bukola Akintomide (Member.) Inaugurating the new Acting Managing Director and Members, Senator Akpabio said President Buhari enlarged the Interim Management Committee to inject new blood into the Commission for better service delivery. According to Senator Akpabio, change was inevitable in a Commission like the NDDC. He said the NDDC was passing through a phase that would soon be over and thanked President Buhari for giving the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs the responsibility of supervising the NDDC. 117

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“The story of NDDC in the last 19 years has not been so rosy. The NDDC, we believe could have achieved more. You have a stunted child who could have been a six-footer. We need to find out the reason why the child could not grow. Is it that the child was not given enough nourishment? “And then the country is looking at the fact that a lot of money has gone into the NDDC but we could not see commensurate result. I am not saying this to deride any particular person. I am not saying this to bring down anybody. I am not saying this to make a political point. I say this from the point of truism. “I am a Niger Deltan and I believe in the Niger Delta. God has put us in the Niger Delta to make a difference. I had the opportunity of being a Governor in the Niger Delta and I left my mark behind. Nobody can deny that there was uncommon transformation of Akwa Ibom State. “I will like to see the NDDC build specialist hospitals. I will like to see the NDDC provide light to communities in darkness. I will like to see the NDDC support industrialization and food sufficiency in the Niger Delta. These things are possible, it is a question of commitment. “I want to thank President Buhari for the interest he has shown in the Niger Delta region. That is why he ordered the forensic audit of the Commission. As soon as the forensic auditor was appointed, there was need to inject new blood into the Interim Management Committee. The NDDC must change and we will all work together to achieve that,” Senator Akpabio said. Speaking further, Senator Akpabio advised the Interim Management Committee members to work as a team to achieve the goal set for them by President Buhari. He said as the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, he was not interested in running the NDDC but he would be interested in how the NDDC is run. The Minister of State for Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Omotayo Alasoadura emphasized on the need for a synergy between the Ministry and the Commission. He said since President Buhari had in his wisdom asked the Ministry to supervise the Commission, the 118

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NDDC had no option than to work and deliver on their mandate with absolute cooperation between the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs and the NDDC. In his response, the new Acting Mangaing Director, Prof Pondei thanked President Buhari for the confidence reposed in them to manage the affairs of the NDDC and see through the forensic auditing of the Commission. He promised to work together with other members of the Interim Management Committee to achieve the goal set ffor them. He solicited the cooperation of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs and said they would leave the Commission better than they have met it. March 10, 2020:

INAUGURATION OF NDDC ADVISORY COMMITTEE OVER N3.7B RECOVERED FROM NDDC CONTRACTORS, DIRECTORS SO FAR, PRESIDENT BUHARI SAID AT INAUGURATION OF NDDC ADVISORY COMMITTEE President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday in Abuja said law enforcement agencies have recovered over N3.7billion as well as various assets worth billions of Naira from contractors and former directors of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). The President disclosed this at the inauguration of NDDC Advisory Committee, comprising the 9 Governors of the Niger Delta Region and the Ministers of Niger Delta Affairs and Environment. Specifically, President Buhari said: ''To date, the EFCC and other agencies of Government have recovered over N3.7billion in cash as well as various assets worth billions of Naira from some contractors and former Directors of the Commission. ''Furthermore, I am told that Government agencies have placed liens on over N6 billion of assets which are being investigated.'' The President told the committee that these abuses of the past clearly show the need for strict and diligent oversight, going forward. 119

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He, therefore, charged them to discharge the new assignment diligently and effectively, working closely with the relevant ministries, adding that he looked forward to seeing positive changes in the affairs of the Commission as well as on the ground in the Niger Delta region. President Buhari recalled that in 2016, his administration launched the “New Vision for the Niger Delta (NEVIND)”, aimed at bringing sustainable peace, security, infrastructure and human capital development to the region. He said the medium to achieve this noble objective was through the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, NDDC and the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP). The President, however, expressed regret that in the past these institutions were unable to deliver their mandates due to mismanagement. ''As a result, the people of the Niger Delta were left with abandoned infrastructural projects and substandard social programmes which were designed to improve their living conditions. ''It is to reverse this trend that I approved, in February 2020, the constitution of a 10-Man Presidential Monitoring Committee (PMC) as provided for in Section 21 of the NDDC Establishment Act.'' He noted that the PMC, which will be chaired by the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs and its members drawn from various MDAs, will focus on monitoring the operations and activities of the commission, and will be reporting to him. In the same vein, the President said the inauguration of the NDDC Advisory Committee is in line with the provisions of Section 11 (I) of the NDDC Establishment Act, explaining that the Committee is charged with the responsibility of advising the Board and monitoring its activities. Justifying the decision to inaugurate the Committee ahead of the reconstitution of the NDDC Board, President Buhari said: ''This is to enable us develop insights into the affairs of the Commission which will properly guide the Board when 120

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reconstituted once the Forensic Audit exercise on the Commission is concluded. ''You may recall that the Federal Executive Council, on 5th of February, 2020 approved the appointment of the Lead Forensic Auditors. I am told they are concluding their pre-engagement activities and should be ready to commence work soon''. Speaking on behalf of the members of the Advisory Committee, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State thanked the President for inaugurating the Committee and granting the request of the governors, from the region, for a forensic audit of the NDDC. The Governor expressed the hope that the result from the forensic audit would help streamline activities of the NDDC with a view to putting it on course to deliver on its mandate to the people. Underscoring the roles of the Advisory Committee, the Delta State Governor noted that for sustainable development of the region, the NDDC must perform its duties in close collaboration with the States to avoid duplication of projects. ''We do not want to criticise what has happened in the NDDC for quite some time, but the fact is that the cooperation between the states and the NDDC has not been strengthened overtime and we have various cases of duplication of projects that are not properly planned. ''But I believe that with the inauguration of this body we will be able to sit down, meet together, work in collaboration and supportively to bring greater developments to our people,'' he said.

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MAY 7, 2020

SENATOR AKPABIO RESPONDED TO CORRUPTION CHARGES Senator Akpabio responded to alleged N40B corruption charge as follows: RE: NATIONAL ASSEMBLY PROBES ALLEGED N40B CORRUPTION IN NDDC. The attention of the Honourable Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio has been drawn to sensational headlines about an alleged N40 billion corruption in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC.) We wish to state categorically that under the supervision of Senator Akpabio, there has been no corruption in the NDDC. It is obvious that there have been an upsurge in attacks on the Commission, the Interim Management Committee and the Honourable Minister through spurious and unsubstantiated allegations since the commencement of forensic audit of the Commission. Unfortunately, these phantom allegations have found their ways into the hallowed chambers of the National Assembly. In response to the campaign of calumny, the Commission had explained that the Interim Management Committee has only approved the total payment of Eighteen Billion Naira (N18, 000,000, 000) for contractual claims. The payments to contractors are all payments for contracts awarded by previous administrations, especially the payment for contracts below N50 million. The present management has not awarded any single contract. So where is the bogey N40 billion coming from? It is instructive that the Commission under the supervision of Senator Akpabio has devised a strategy by which only duly verified and inspected contracts with photo and video evidences are 121

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recommended and approved for payments. The Interim Management Committee has been very prudent in managing the affairs of the interventionist agency. The interest of Senator Akpabio has been to make sure that the NDDC completes its headquarters building started since the days of the defunct Oil Minerals Producing Areas Development Commission (OMPADEC) the contract of which was awarded with approval of the Federal Executive Council many years before Senator Akpabio became the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs. Following the recent Presidential approval, the NDDC is also providing intervention support to complement efforts of the Federal and State governments against further spread of COVID 19 in the nine states of the Niger Delta. Senator Akpabio is upbeat about the plan to probe the NDDC as he has no skeleton in his cupboard. In fact, he will welcome a public hearing beamed live for all Nigerians to see. The probe of the Commission along with the ongoing forensic audit will expose those who have used their exalted positions over the years to fleece the NDDC through fully paid contracts which were never executed and other forms of contact racketeering. While we await the probe if carried through, we find it extremely insulting for Senator Akpabio's name to be dragged into what is obviously a smear campaign. The general public should not be misled by spurious claims. The NDDC under the supervision of Senator Akpabio will not be distracted neither will the ongoing forensic audit of the Commission be derailed through blackmail and intimidation. The Minister will remain focused on the mandate of President Muhammadu Buhari to reposition the Commission for sustainable development of the Niger Delta region. Anietie Ekong Chief Press Secretary to the Honourable Minister of Niger Delta Affairs.

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June 5

VISIT TO THE NAVY

Senator Akpabio paid a courtesy visit to the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas to solicit for the support of the Nigerian Navy in providing security for the forensic auditors of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) as they traverse the riverine communities of the Niger Delta region

June 9, 2020:

SENATOR AKPABIO'S WIFE'S 2020 BIRTHDAY Senator Akpabio's warm birthday message to his wife ”Happy birthday my Jewel! Happy birthday to my dear wife and great mother, Her Excellency, Mrs Ekaette Unoma Godswill Akpabio. You have been a pillar of strength to me, a prayer warrior for us, our family, state and our dear nation. 123

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Your labour of love for us, our people and humanity shall never be in vain. May the Almighty God continue to protect you and keep you in good health. Happy birthday EKA ESIT MBOM Akwa Ibom Senator (Dr) Godswill Akpabio, CON & children” July 20, 2020:

SENATOR AKPABIO'S TRIUMPHANT DEFENCE AGAINST CORRUPTION CHARGE AT THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

A P R E S E N TAT I O N B Y T H E HONOURABLE MINISTER OF NIGER DELTA AFFAIRS TO THE HOUSE COMMITTEE ON N D D C O V E R A L L E G AT I O N O F F I N A N C I A L MALFEASANCE AND OTHER ACTIVITIES IN THE NIGER DELTA DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION (NDDC) HELD AT THE MEETING ROOM 447, NEW BUILDING EXTENSION, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, NATIONAL ASSEMBLY COMPLEX, ABUJA ON MONDAY, 20TH JULY, 2020 124

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-PROTOCOLS The Honourable Chairman and Members of the Committee, I am sincerely grateful for this opportunity to appear before you to personally respond to the issues raised in your letter Ref. No. NASS/9HR/CT/2020/VOL.1/039 dated 6th July, 2020 alleging malfeasance and other activities in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). 2.I want to appreciate the Honourable Members of the House of Representatives under the leadership of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila and other Principal Officers. I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to interact with this Committee today as I recall some of the fond memories shared with a number of members during the 8th Legislative Session as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, a Minority Leader in the opposition party of the PDP and a Principal Officer of the Nigeria Senate before I moved to join a President with impeccable record of integrity in the APC, His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR. 3.To this day, I have endeavoured to discharge my responsibilities as the Minister in charge of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs together with my colleague, the Honourable Minister of State, Senator Tayo Alashodura, with the same zeal demonstrated by me a few years ago as Governor of Akwa Ibom State. The propelling force is to bequeath a legacy that future generations will be proud of. This philosophy has guided my stewardship in the Ministry and the oversight of its lone parastatal, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) which in the recent has been in the public space due to concern in certain quarters on the commencement of the forensic audit of the Commission as directed by Mr. President. 4.To situate in its proper context, the Governors of the 9 States of the Niger Delta Region at a meeting with Mr. President in October 20th 2019 requested and the President approved and directed the conduct of the forensic audit of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) from 2001 to 2019 fiscal years.

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5.Prior to this directive for the conduct of the forensic audit, Mr. President has reconfirmed the following: i. Delegation to the Honourable Minister, the powers and duties conferred on the President by Section 7(3) of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Act; ii. Confinement of the NDDC as a parastatal in the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, a decision taken since 2015; iii. Suspension of the composition of a proposed Board for the NDDC in 2019 until the conclusion of the Forensic Audit exercise; iiii. Constitution of a 3-Man Interim Management Committee, later expanded to a 5-man Interim Management Committee currently led by Professor Kemebradikumo Daniel Pondei as the Acting Managing Director, to oversee the affairs of the NDDC during the forensic audit exercise; v. The estimated cost of the forensic audit exercise put at N2.5billion to be funded from the budget of the NDDC; and vi. That the composition of a Board for the NDDC in 2019 be put on hold, pending the conclusion of the Forensic Audit exercise. 6.This Honourable Committee is adequately informed that a component part of the NDDC Budget comes from the annual national appropriation, as a single line Vote and of which the 2020 Appropriation Act signed into law by the President on Tuesday, December 17, 2019 and which went into force on January 1, 2020 provided the sum of N80.88billion for NDDC. In the 2019 Budget, a statutory transfer for the NDDC in the Federal Government of Nigeria Budget was put at N71,195,023,528.62. Earlier in October, 2019, the President had approved the funding of the Forensic Audit exercise by an estimated sum of N2.5billion to be sourced from the budget of the NDDC. The processes leading to the final award of contract for the Lead Consultant was completed in March 2020 when the two Houses of the National Assembly had passed the 2019 Budget of the NDDC. 7.On the passage of the 2019 statutory Appropriation as indicated above, the sum of N1,250,000.000.00 was provided for the forensic audit of the Commission on March 4 and 5, 2020 by the Senate and 126

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the House of Representatives respectively. However, the Clerk to the National Assembly conveyed a letter forwarding the passage of a budget of the NDDC for the 2020 fiscal year (copy of the said letter is attached as Annex I) 8.To kickstart the process for the Forensic Auditing exercise, the then Ag. Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, vide a letter dated December 6, 2019 (copy attached as Annex II) transmitted to the Bureau of Public Procurement prequalification, technical and financial documents of Messrs. Jake Riley Ltd as a Lead Consultant to recruit other Forensic Auditors for the Commission. The BPP reviewed the submission and vide its report Ref. No. BPP/DPR/SP/REPORT/2019/093 of January, 2020 (copy attached as Annex III) conveyed approval for the adoption of Direct Procurement method for the engagement of a Lead Forensic Consultant but declined to certify Messrs. Jake Riley Ltd because its submission was not responsive. 9 . T h e r e a f t e r, t h e N D D C v i d e l e t t e r R e f . N o . NDDC/HQ/MD/BPP/2019/09 dated December 30, 2019 (copy attached as Annex IV) again transmitted to the BPP the prequalification, technical and financial documents of Messrs. Olumuyiwa Basiru & Co. for review and Certification of award of contract as Lead Forensic Audit Consultant at the cost of N335,601,562.50. The BPP reviewed the firm`s capacity and credentials and issued a Due Process Certificate of No Objection to Award, Ref. No. BPP/S.1/Vol.XV/19/108 dated January 08, 2020 (copy attached as Annex V) in favour of Messrs. Olumiuyiwa Basiru & Co. and its engagement as the Lead Consultant for the recruitment and supervision of Forensic Auditors and the coordination of the conduct of the forensic audit of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), at the total Consultancy Services Fee of N318,903,750.90 only. 10.The approval of the Federal Executive Council was subsequently obtained at the meeting of the Council held on 12th February, 2020 as certified above. However, the Ministry exercised restraint in finalizing the procurement process in view of Section 127

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16(1)(b) of the PPA, 2007, which prohibits the finalization of a procurement process until the related funds are available, hence while the requisite processes were concluded, the related letter of award and contract agreement which marked the finalization of the procurement processes were not issued until the passage of the Budget of the NDDC on 4th and 5th March, 2020, by the Senate and House of Reps of the National Assembly. Extract of relevant page of the PPA, 2007 and the letter of award of the contract are attached as Annexes VI and VII respectively. 11.In line with its mandate to recruit field forensic auditors for the exercise, the Lead Forensic Auditor, through the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs in the letter Ref. No. MNDA/PROC/NDDC/20/263/Vol.1/9 dated March 20, 2020 (attached as Annex VIII) sought and received a 'No Objection' Approval from the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) for the appointment of the field forensic auditors through Selective Tendering process. Subsequently, the Evaluation Report with the Technical and Financial Tenders were transmitted to the BPP for review and certification. The Bureau reviewed the procurement processes and certified the process and issued a Certificate of 'No Objection' to award Ref. No. BPP/S.1/Vol.XVI/20/084 dated June 29, 2020 (copy attached as Annex IX) for appointment of the nine (9) firms and companies reflected in the Report as field forensic auditors for the conduct of the Forensic Audit of the NDDC, at the cost of N817,033,002.48 inclusive of all taxes and VAT at 7.5% with a completion period of 6 months and directed that the remaining seven (7) project lots be re-procured. 12.With the imminence of the commencement of the active phase of the forensic audit of the NDDC (visitation to project sites State by State), the social and print media have been awashed with massive campaign of calumny against the Interim Management Committee of the Commission and the Ministry, even at very high quarters all in the effort to frustrate the conduct of the Forensic Audit. The Interim Management Committee alleged an attempt at arson on the Headquarters of the Niger Delta Development Commission to 128

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destroy records and frustrate the forensic audit exercise. The Commissioner of Police Rivers State Command was immediately notified and he came in person to beef up security at the Headquarters. Many staff were also caught attempting to cart away hundreds of files belonging to the Commission. The police was notified. The Interim Management Committee handed over 8,000 files to the Lead Forensic Auditor who in a letter advised that staff that held very senior position that have not been on leave in the last two years were advised to go on mandatory leave with full salaries and benefits on monthly basis until the forensic audit exercise is concluded. No permanent staff of the Commission was sacked as alleged in the print, electronic and social media. The action of the Interim Management Committee in sending on mandatory leave any official whose presence in his or her duty post is deemed capable of interfering with the audit process, as advised by the Lead Forensic Auditor is in line with best practices. DOCUMENTS REQUESTED 13.Request to Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) for Certificate of No Objection for the Lead Consultant and the response of BPP in that regard: The relevant letters are attached as Annexes II-V above. 14.Criteria used for the appointment of members of the Interim Management Committee (IMC): It is in exercise of the power conferred on the President by the following: (i.) The Ministers' Statutory Powers and Duties (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act at Chapter M14, Section 2 (Extract attached as Annex X) provides inter alia: (1) “Subject to the provisions of this section, the President may, in any law enacted by the National Assembly or having effect as if it had been so enacted, by order make such modifications, whether by means of addition, substitution or deletion, as he may think fit for the purpose of: (a) transferring to a Minister any of the powers and duties which are by such law directly or indirectly conferred or imposed on the 129

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President, or any public officer or which are conferred upon any other Minister; and (b) making provisions consequential or incidental to any such transfer. (2) An order made under this section may include directions (either general or in relation to any particular matter) for the carrying on and completion by the Minister to whom a power or duty is transferred, of anything commenced by the authority from whom it is transferred. (4) A law which has been modified in accordance with an order made under this section shall be deemed for all purposes to have been amended in accordance with such modification, and the provisions of section 22 of the Interpretation Act (which relates to the reprinting of Acts and laws which have been amended) shall apply to any modification so effected as they do to additions, omissions, substitutions and amendments effected by an amending Act or law. [Cap. 123.]. (ii.) The “Administrative Guidelines Regulating the Relationship Between Parastatals / Government -Owned Companies and the Government” (extract attached as Annex XI) in paragraph 6 provides that “Government will ensure that there is always a Board for every parastatals that has a statutory provision for such a body. Where, however, a Board is dissolved and it is not immediately possible to reconstitute the Board, the President shall on the recommendation of the supervising Ministry constitute an Interim Board. Pending the reconstitution of such a Board, all matters which normally require the approval of the Board shall be referred by the Ministry to the President for approval”. The foregoing put in place the governance structure operational in the NDDC in the absence of a Statutory Board. 15.Report of the Tendering Processes for the selection of other forensic auditors, with all relevant correspondence to the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) are attached as Annexes VIII and IX above. 130

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CONCLUSION 16.In concluding this briefing, let me reiterate my confidence in the leadership of the House of Representatives led by Rt. Honourable Femi Gbajabiamila and the Leadership as constituted. I hereby state my utmost desire to work closely with House of Representatives in our collective quest for a better Niger Delta Region - nay Nigeria of our dream. It is our belief that the outcome of this public hearing combined with the final report of the forensic auditors shall together help us to reposition the Niger Delta Development Commission to meet the yearnings of Niger Deltans and Nigerians, that have eluded us in the last 19 years. 17.Thank you the Honourable Chairman and Members, for the audience. Senator (Dr.) Godswill O. Akpabio, CON Honourable Minister

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October 8, 2020 Presentation of the 2021 Draft Appropriation Bill to National Assembly by President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja on October 8, 2020

At Presentation of the 2021 Draft Appropriation Bill to National Assembly by President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja on October 8, 2020

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November 24, 2020

Other dignitaries and I at the Presidential delegation meeting led by the Chief of Staff to the President, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari with leaders of South South region in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The meeting was attended by all the six Governors of the South South Region led by the Chairman, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa who presented a common position on issues affecting the region November 25, 2020 AWARD OF EXCELLENCE Award of Excellence presented to me jointly by State Coordinators of the Presidential Support Committee (PSC) during a meeting in Abuja on Wednesday, November 25, 2020. Among the Chieftains of the PSC present at the meeting were Major General Garba Audu (rtd) Retired Inspector General of Police, Chief Mike Okiro and Ambassador Lawal Munir. 133

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November 29,2020

CONDOLENCE VISIT TO SENATOR VICTOR NDOMA-EGBA I led the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Prof Kemebradikumo Pondei and the Executive Director of Projects, Dr Cairo Ojougboh on a condolence visit to the immediate past Chairman of the NDDC Board, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba on the loss of his wife, Amaka. A great soul has departed. A woman of virtue, a mother of mothers, a pillar to her husband, Distinguished Senate Leader Victor NdomaEgba. A monumental loss that words cannot describe. Adieu my school mate, friend and sister. We all miss you but heaven has gained an Angel. Rest in perfect peace and may the years you left behind be added to your dear children, amen. GOA December 5, 2020:

Senator Akpabio at funeral of APC Chairman, Akwa Ibom State He had commented that “It was a very sad day today as we laid to rest the Okopido brothers: 134

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Dr Imeh Okopido and Hon. Ini Okopido in Ikot Akpan Anwa, Ika Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State. Late Dr Imeh Okopido during his lifetime rendered selfless services to his people and the Nigerian Nation as a whole. He will always be remembered for his remarkable services to humanity whether as Veterinary Doctor and Past President of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association; Chairman, Caretaker Committee of the defunct Ika Local Government Area (1982 – 1983) and Pioneer Minister of State, Federal Ministry of Environment and Member of the Federal Executive Council. Until his death Hon. Ini Okopido was the Akwa Ibom State Chairman of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC). We will remember him always as a dependable and trustworthy Politician. We all share in the grief of their passing. It is noteworthy that as the State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akwa Ibom State the late Hon. Ini Okopido was a committed and resourceful leader who dedicated his time and resources to the success and growth of our party. It is regrettable that he departed when his services to our party, Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria as a whole were most needed. We know that these are difficult times for the Okopido family as the Mother of the deceased also passed on few days back but death is only the end of the physical life and the beginning of eternal glory. My family and I commiserate with the entire members of the Okopido family, the All Progressives Congress (APC), Akwa Ibom State as a whole and pray God to grant us all the fortitude to bear these irreplaceable losses. May the souls of our late dear brothers rest in peace, Amen. 135

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9 December, 2020

58TH BIRTHDAY On his 58 th birthday, Senator Akpabio thanked God for the gift of life, saying: It is my birthday. It has been another year of God's grace, favour and mercy in my life, that of my family and our nation as a whole. The last one year has been remarkable whether to me as a person or to our nation, Nigeria. I give God all the glory and pray for better years ahead in the service of the Almighty and humanity. Happy Birthday to me and thank God for the gift of another year. th

19 December, 2020

4TH NATIONAL COUNCIL ON NIGER DELTA: NEED FOR A NEW DEAL FOR THE NIGER DELTA President Muhammadu Buhari has said that the Niger Delta region needs a new deal, having suffered so much deprivation and neglect. The President disclosed that the Federal Government was repositioning the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the Amnesty Programme to ensure they deliver on their mandates to develop the region. Buhari stated this yesterday while declaring open, the fourth meeting of the National Council on Niger Delta at the Hotel Presidential, Port Harcourt. 136

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Represented by the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, Buhari said he was committed to changing the fortunes of the region to give the people a new lease of life, saying the ongoing forensic audit of the NDDC was expected to reposition the Commission and galvanise it towards optimal development and provide the needed infrastructure for socio-economic development that the region so much requires. He added: “Due to the efforts and commitment of the minister of Niger Delta Affairs, the new headquarters building of the NDDC, which had been ongoing in the last 24 years, has been completed and is awaiting commissioning by my administration.” He stated that the completion of the East-West road, which is a priority to his government, has been handed over to the Ministry, assuring that it would be delivered by the end of next year or the early part of 2022. In his own remarks, Akpabio stressed the need for harmony between the NDDC and the state governments in the region for the benefit of the people, saying disharmony between these critical stakeholders was caused by many factors, including political differences. He advised: “Development should not be tied to any political party, because what the people need is development, irrespective of political affiliation. Poverty and hunger have no political party.” Akpabio agreed that funds coming to the region were not commensurate with the level of projects on the ground, but stated that governments in the region should be held accountable for the 13 per cent oil-derivation meant to develop the oil-producing communities. He advised those blaming the NDDC for all the woes of the region to look inwards and tell themselves the truth, adding: “When stakeholders reach out to the NDDC for intervention projects and the Commission intervenes, that is not duplication of projects. State government should ensure that the 13 per cent allocation touches the lives of the people.” 137

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Akpabio described the NDDC as an organisation where everybody contributes, while it belonged to nobody, noting that there should be synergy between the federal and state governments. He said: “If we ask why the NDDC has failed, then we have to look back. That is why the President came up with the forensic audit to salvage the Commission, and I think he should be commended for that. We have to know what went wrong.” Earlier, Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike lamented that although the region was blessed with mineral resources, its people were living in poverty and underdevelopment. Wike, who was represented by his Deputy, Mrs. Ipalibo Harry Banigo, said that the National Council on Niger Delta should serve as a platform for the people of the region to articulate their needs and challenges, adding: “With political will, we can overcome the challenges confronting the region, while we continue the struggle for the enthronement of true federalism in the country.” The governor regretted the lack of collaboration between the NDDC and state governments in the region, calling on the Commission to work in concert with the state governments to ensure the greatest impact of projects and programmes for the people.

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January 15, 2021

NIGER DELTA STAKEHOLDERS HAIL BUHARI, AKPABIO OVER NDDC BOSS ....As Ateke Tom, Boyloaf, Shoot-at-Sight, other exAgitators endorse Akwa Key stakeholders in the development of the Niger Delta region have applauded President Muhammadu Buhari for re-positioning the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, to fast-track the development of Nigeria's oil-rich region. The stakeholders stated this at the end of a meeting between the three major development agencies in the Niger Delta region; namely the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, the NDDC, the Federal Amnesty Programme, as well as a group of ex-agitators at the Palace of the Amanyanabo of Okochiri, King Ateke Michael Tom, in Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State. A resolution jointly signed by King Ateke Tom, Chief Ebikabowei Victor-Ben (Boyloaf) and High Chief Bibopre Ajube (Shoot at sight), thanked President Buhari for appointing Mr Efiong Akwa as the NDDC Interim Administrator and for his “love and support” for the Niger Delta region. The meeting was attended by the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, the NDDC Interim Administrator, Mr Akwa and the Interim Administrator of the Amnesty Programme, Col. Milland Dixion Dikio (rtd.). The stakeholders declared: “Let us put it on record that the appointment of Chief Akwa as the Interim Administrator of the NDDC is well received by our people. We want to emphasise that no one is more Niger Delta than anyone else. “We are aware of the circumstances that led to his appointment as a child of circumstance. He should be supported by anyone that means well for the region. We are also aware of the court order that sacked 139

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the previous Interim Management Committee, IMC. But because Akwa was not part of the suit that sacked the IMC, and being the most Senior Executive Director, Finance and Administration, EDF&A, Mr. President appointed him to hold forth and conclude the forensic audit before a new board takes over. “We know Mr. President will also appoint him as the substantive EDF&A when the time comes. Because of his pedigree and track record of success. He is carrying everybody along and we are happy with the appointment. “We also thank Mr. President and Senator Akpabio for completing the NDDC corporate headquarters at the Eastern bye-pass, Port Harcourt. This project is a star project and we are waiting for Mr. President to come for the commissioning so that we can have an ample opportunity to show our love towards him. They called on all youth groups and various organisations to cooperate with the new leadership of the NDDC to ensure the rapid development of the Niger Delta region. The stakeholders also thanked President Buhari for what they termed “his determination to complete the East-West road and the confidence he has on our leader, Senator Godswill Akpabio to superintend over the project. They stated: “We believe that our uncommon leader, Chief Akpabio who has a record of achievement in his previous assignment as the Governor of Akwa Ibom State will perform well in this project and we have no doubt about his capacity. They also thank Chief Edwin Clark for his support to the NDDC Interim Administrator and his call for the youths to stop all forms of protests against the NDDC leadership, noting: “We want to assure him that we will work with Akwa and ensure absolute peace in the region.” Speaking earlier, Senator Akpabio, commended the stakeholders for bringing unity back to the Niger Delta region, stating: “We need peace to make progress in the region.” 140

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He assured the traditional rulers and the ex-agitators that President Muhammadu Buhari means well for the region, adding: “We must work out modalities for fast tracking development in the region, especially with the army of unemployed youths waiting to be engaged.” He said that one of the big problems of the region was that so many youths were unemployed. So, we must work together with the Amnesty Programme to initiate things that will generate employment opportunities,” he said. On the East West Road, Akpabio said: “We have initiated a combined team to raise funds for the completion of the road because if we depend solely on federal budget, it won't work. I have asked the NDDC to make contributions to the special funding of the road. In my ministry, I have devoted about three quarters of the money for 2021 budget into the road. He expressed joy that the National Assembly had passed the 2020 budget of the Commission. The details of the budget are expected next week. This will enable the NDDC to intervene in many areas. Akpabio stated: “We have completed the NDDC permanent headquarters started in the days of the Oil Mineral Producing Areas Development Commission, OMPADEC. We shall be inviting the royal fathers to join us in commissioning the project on February. “We have selected about six major regional projects to undertake within the Niger Delta region and we intend to bring the NDDC board latest by April this year. We want to handover the report of the Forensic Audit to the new board for implementation.”

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11 March, 2021

COMMISSIONING OF NEW NDDC SECRETARIAT COMPLEX NEW NDDC COMPLEX: 'WE WILL REMEMBER YOU IN HISTORY POSITIVELY,' Akpabio Hails Buhari Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio on Thursday hailed President Muhammadu Buhari for his contribution to the successful completion of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) complex in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Akpabio who commissioned the building on behalf of the President described the successful completion of the building as, “A milestone which shows the commitment of President Muhammadu Buhari to the development of Nigeria particularly the Niger Delta region.” He added that “I want to thank the President for the love he has for the Niger Delta Region and to say that, Mr President, this is a monument that stand to remember you positively." “The East-West road that you are committed to completing started in 2006 but together we have pledged that this time next year, you will also commission section 1-4 and the good people of Niger Delta will all be grateful to you. Generations will never forget you, Mr President.” The construction of the 13-floor NDDC new headquarters building according to Akpabio started in 1996 but witnessed a slow pace of work until 2019 when President Buhari committed to its completion. Akpabio also noted that when he visited the project site of the NDDC complex after he became Niger Delta Minister in 2019, he was told that no Minister – or even CEO/Administrator – has ever visited the site since 1996. Other stakeholders including the Minister of State, Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Omotayo Alasoadura, Interim Administrator of NDDC, Mr Effiong Akwa, the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzomina, Governor of Yobe State and the National Caretaker Committee Chairman of the APC, Hon. Mai Mala Buni, Deputy 142

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Senate Leader, Senator Ajayi Boroffice, Chairman Senate Committee on NDDC, Senator Peter Nwaboshi, Chairman House of Representatives Committee on Niger Delta, Hon. Olubunmi Tunjiojo, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Ita Enang, First Military Governor of Old Rivers State and Paramount Ruler of Twon Brass, His Royal Majesty, King Alfred Diete-Spiff among other dignitaries were at the commissioning of the N16 billion new complex. According to Akpabio, the completion of the 13-floor building shows the focus and determination of the commission.

COMMISSIONING OF THE NEW NDDC SECRETARIAT COMPLEX

The New NDDC Secretariat Complex

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17th April, 2021

AKPABIO INAUGURATES FIELD FORENSIC AUDITORS The Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio has inaugurated the field forensic auditors billed to audit the activities of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in the nine States of the region, and tasked them to audit the activities of the Commission from 2001 when it was established to 2019. Akpabio who inaugurated the team of 16 auditing firms during NDDC strategic capacity building workshop in Uyo Friday, said the team of forensic auditors “should be able to get the job done within three to four months.” He said the delay in the commencement of the field forensic audit of NDDC was to put logistics in place for safe take off of the exercise. “There is no way you can send such high caliber chartered accountants to a volatile region, even though we are now peaceful, without giving them adequate security, honorarium, logistics and accommodation wherever they are. Those were some of the things that caused the delay. The President has sorted out all those things, and the Ministry of Finance has released all the funds. So I don't expect stories.” The Minister seized the moment of the inauguration to explain that the idea of forensic auditing of NDDC books was to put the records straight and reposition the commission for effective service delivery. “I just want to disabuse the minds of people who probably thought the forensic audit is a ruse to keep the interim management on. What do I need the interim management for, I am not a contractor. All we need is to change NDDC. It is the considered opinion of Mr. President that before we have a properly inaugurated board of NDDC, we should look at what has happened in NDDC from 2001 when they started operation.

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“I won't be a Minister forever. It is a privilege from Mr. President for me to be a minister at this time. I thank God that I share his vision that we cannot leave the region the way we met it. All other attempts in the past to have a developmental structure for the Niger Delta Region always ended in a fiasco, disaster, corruption and all sort of things starting from 1958”. Akpabio asked staff and management of the NDDC to avail the forensic auditors with all the support needed for them to succeed in the task. The lead consultant Olumuyiwa Basiru & Co, Kabiru Ahmed said the forensic audit exercise should be considered as an exercise geared towards salvaging the Commission from decay and destruction, stopping the rot, and galvanizing the process of repositioning the Niger Delta Development Commission to serve the purpose it was created. He assured the people that the auditors would approach the responsibility with sincerity and integrity as watchwords adding that the region would not be the same again after the exercise.

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29th August, 2021 VISIT TO THE OLU OF WARRI On Saturday, I was in Warri, Delta State, on a courtesy visit to the palace of the newly installed Olu of Warri, His Royal Majesty Eriko Ogiame Atuwase 111, to congratulate him for the success and peaceful ascension to the throne of his forebears and to solicit his support for the programs of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs in the region and the administration of President Mohamadu Buhari. I also prayed for a successful and peaceful tenure for the King and asked him to continue to preach and practice peace, love and unity in his kingdom.

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4 September, 2021

PRESENTATION OF FORENSIC AUDIT REPORT TO THE PRESIDENT The report of the Forensic Audit of the activities of the NDDC in the last 20 years was finally presented to President Muhammadu Buhari, on Thursday. I personally presented the report to Mr President's representative, The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami.

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28 September, 2021 NDDC COMMISSIONING OF 64 UNITS APARTMENT FOR NIGERIA POLICE SPECIAL PROTECTION UNIT IN PORT HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE CAPITAL, BY THE VICE PRESIDENT OF NIGERIA, PROF. YEMI OSINBAJO, AND HOSTED BY THE GOVERNOR OF RIVERS STATE, CHIEF BARR. NYESOM WIKE

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17 October, 2021 INSPECTION OF AN ONGOING CONSTRUCTION OF 1000 BED SPACE DONATED TO THE UNIVERSITY OF UYO BY THE NDDC Akpabio's visit to the premises of the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State to inspect an ongoing construction of 1000 bed space donated to the institution by the NDDC. This project is one of the very many abandoned projects spread across the Niger Delta Region. According to him, “I was satisfied with the quality of work done. I was assured by the contractors that it would be ready for commissioning by President Muhammadu Buhari before December. We are acting on the presidential mandate of completing all abandoned projects that are beneficial to Nigerians”.

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17 October, 2021

CHAPTER FIVE

THE MAN: GODSWILL OBOT AKPABIO i. EARLY LIFE TO GOVERNMENT From early childhood, providence honed the leadership acumen of Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON, with an innate passion to help people expand their imagination and maximise their potentials. This passion did not only deepen in him a strong sense of justice and a great passion for excellence, it led him to positions of leadership in the different stages of his life. Like a diligent coach, destiny prepared him painstakingly for impact and influence. Driven by the same passion and a groundswell of support, he became the Governor of Akwa Ibom State in May 2007, and commenced a revolution in the state, which has excited the imagination of the people, and has been aptly described as “uncommon transformation.” He has been widely honoured and celebrated within and outside the state because of his great achievements in human and infrastructural development. He has emerged as one of the most honoured men in our country today, and a treasure in Akwa Ibom State. His visionary leadership style has motivated and shaped an entire generation of Akwa Ibom people and has become a metaphor for administrative excellence. Personal Details The son of Chief Obot Akpabio and Madam Lucy Obot Akpabio (nee Inyangetor) of Ukana Ikot Ntuen in Essien Udim Local Government Area, Governor Godswill Akpabio was born on December 9, 1962. He lost his father when he was six months old, 151

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and was raised by his mother, who inculcated in him the values of hard work, discipline and honesty. He was educated at Methodist Primary School, Ukana, Essien Udim LGA, Akwa Ibom State; the prestigious Federal Government College, Port Harcourt, Rivers State; and the University of Calabar, Cross River State, where he obtained a Degree in Law. He was called to the Nigerian bar in 1988. A Mirror on a Life of Service At Federal Government College, his sterling leadership qualities led to his being appointed the General Senior Prefect. In the University of Calabar, his charisma endeared him to the students and he was elected the Speaker of the Students' Parliament. He had a brief stint as a teacher and as an associate partner with Paul Usoro and Co., a leading law firm in Nigeria. In 2002, Governor Akpabio rose to the position of the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of EMIS Telecoms Limited, a pioneer fixed wireless telecommunications company in Lagos. In this position, he helped in shaping the future of the burgeoning telecoms industry. He had earlier served as the National Publicity Secretary of the Association of Telecommunication Companies in Nigeria, (ATCOM), while a director of EMIS. The Call to Service In 2002, he was appointed the Honorable Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources. Between 2002 and 2006, he served as a Commissioner in three key ministries (Petroleum and Natural Resources, Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and Lands and Housing) because of the indelible imprints of competence and efficiency associated with his stewardship.

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His admirable attributes, charisma and virtues led to a mass, statewide agitation for him to seek higher office. His Governorship bid in 2007 was anchored on the unselfish premise, “let God's will be done.” With this mass support, he defeated 57 aspirants in the hotly contested primary election to emerge the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in 2006. On April 24, 2007 he was elected Governor. And in 2011 he was re-elected Governor, after running a campaign anchored on the same slogan “Let God's will be done again.” Milestones of Governance Indeed, God's will has been done in all facets of life in Akwa Ibom State. God's will has been done in the free and compulsory education programme initiated by the Akpabio administration from primary to senior secondary school. This has curbed the house help syndrome, which the State was hitherto known for. It has also helped in combating kidnapping and other vices by providing proper direction for children in the State. This programme, which is codified into law, pays subvention to Secondary School principals at N300 per student per term and to primary school head teachers at N100 per pupil per term. It has quadrupled school enrolment in the State; and over 4,000 classroom blocks have been built or rehabilitated in 1,183 schools to support the programme. The development agenda of the Akpabio administration is an indelible testimony of Uncommon Transformation. Some highlights of the unquantifiable giant strides of Governor Akpabio include the following: · Free and compulsory education; As mentioned and explained earlier. · Completion of Ibom International Airport, which he met at site-clearing level and had since completed the first phase of the airport with a 3.6 km runway. The airport comes with maintenance, 153

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repair and overhaul (MRO) facility, which is under construction. Domestic and international flight operations had since commenced at the airport. Work has commenced on the building of the state-ofthe-art main terminal building of the airport and another taxiway. So far the airport has become the fastest growing in the history of aviation in Nigeria. The main administrative block had since been completed. · He has tarred/constructed over 320 new roads totaling over 1350 km (including over 200km of Federal roads). Many of these roads are dual carriageways with streetlights. He has also built five flyovers and 35 brand new bridges. These roads, along with urban roads, have remained pothole-free under the Operation Zero Pothole programme initiated by him. The Etebi Ewang bridge, constructed by his administration, is the longest in the country. · Construction of a brand new state-of-the-arts Governor's Lodge. . Construction of a state-of-the-art, purpose-built press centre. · Construction of West Africa's first digital library – the Ibom ELibrary. A state-of-the-arts facility with capacity for multifarious Internet and over 60 million ebooks. · Initiation and implementation of free healthcare programme for children (five years and under), expectant mothers and the elderly. · The initiation and completion of the 3.7 km underground drainage project using pipe-jacking drainage technology in Uyo. The first of its kind in Africa. Another one had also been done in Abak. · Construction of five new general hospitals and a specialist hospital of international standard (still under construction). · Completion of Ibom Power Plant project. Started by the preceding administration, it was at 65 percent level of completion when Governor Akpabio assumed office. It currently generates 191 megawatts 154

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· Construction of a gas processing plant, Ibom Gas Plant, with 69 km of pipeline to supply gas to the Ibom Power Plant. · Comprehensive rural electrification scheme. His administration has, achieved over 90 percent electricity coverage, up from the 35 percent level he met at assumption of office in 2007. · The rural electrification projects and school buildings are handled by the Inter-ministerial Direct Labour committee. In addition to its success in these areas the Inter-ministerial Direct Labour Agency has provided over 500 water projects for 958 communities. The model has been a major source of empowerment for the people and has accelerated human capital development. All in all over 4,500 projects have been completed through this scheme. · Construction of a world-class business and entertainment resort – the Tropicana Entertainment Centre. This one-stop entertainment facility comes with a five-star, 250-room hotel housed in 16-storey edifice; an ultra modern shopping mall; an international Convention Centre with a seating capacity for 5,000 people; games parks (wet and dry); a cineplex (already completed and open to the public); a monorail and a lot more. The main building is on the verge of completion. · In the area of agriculture N2 billion was released to 8,000 women under the Women Agro Entrepreneurship Development Programme (WAEDEP) at the rate of N250,000 each. His successes in this and in the training and empowerment of thousands of youths under the Integrated Farmers Scheme, in which young school leavers were given money to start farming after a three month period of training earned him the Central Bank of Nigeria Award as the Best Governor Infrastructure (2012). · Improved security with the provision of patrol vehicles, armoured personal carriers and gunboats to boost security operations in the state. He has launched two security outfits namely, “Operation Thunder” and Quick “Response Squad.” These have led to a drastic decrease in crime in the state. 155

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· Improved worker's welfare packages with the payment of a thirteenth month bonus salary every December, fondly called “Akpabiomber” by workers in the state. It is worthy to add here that he was the first Governor in the country to accept to pay workers the N18,000 minimum wage. The least paid worker in the state takes home over N21,000 montthly. For all he has done for labour, the labour nation-wide has proclaimed him the most labour-friendly Governor in the country. · He is currently developing the Ibaka Deep Sea Port. The Ibaka Deap Sea Port has one of the deepest ocean depths in the country. It is designed to be one of the components of Ibom Industrial City, a business resort, which will house refineries, petrochemical plant, dockyard, housing estates and oil and gas support services. The Federal Government recently bought into this mammoth project at partnership level and the required licenses have been issued preparatory to the commencement work on the project. · The administration of this dynamic young man is also set to construct 10,000 housing units in the state before 2015. So far a significant proportion of these have been constructed across the three Senatorial Districts. · The Le' Meridien Hotel, which was uncompleted at the time he took office and had just about fifteen rooms had since been completed and over 150 rooms added to it. It has become one of the choice conference centres in Nigeria and has the best golf course in Africa, according to the World's leading golf magazine, “Golf Weekly.” · He also started a micro-credit scheme in which money was given to the Christian Association of Nigeria and the Muslim Community to use as vehicles for the disbursement of loans to their members to start small-scale businesses and expand their existing ventures. The Christian and Muslim leaders in the state have hailed this.

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. Another key project undertaken by the Akpabio administration is the Ibom Specialist Hospital, which is also nearing completion. It is an architectural masterpiece designed to have the latest medical equipment and check medical tourism. . The Ibom International Stadium, which is to be commissioned in September has already been rated by FIFA as one of the best and safest in the entire West Africa. It has a capacity for 35,000 and is designed that this number could be evacuated in five minutes in the case of an emergency. · The urban transformation of the present administration in Akwa Ibom State must rank as one of the most massive in history. Uyo, the capital, now boasts of three concentric flyovers, at its entrance with fountains and gardens, at the entrance into the city. Three more flyovers are under construction on the Third Ring Road. Urban roads have been done in all the major cities in the state and Uyo, the capital wears a new look as fountains have become a regular feature of many of its junctions. HONOURS For these giant strides, he has received honours and accolades from far and near. Some of these honours are listed here: International Honours · The Congressional Certificate of Recognition of the United States Congress (2011). The award indicates that the US Congress has taken note of the achievements of the recipient and is appreciative of his efforts. · Africa Lifetime Achievement Prize awarded by Millennium Excellence Foundation in Kenya. · The Gold Humanitarian Services Award conferred on him by Niger's Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency, Alhaji Moussa Ibrahim. · Exam Ethic Marshall 2009: Exam Ethic International, Ghana. 157

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· Best Governor, Infrastructure Development 2009: BEN TV, London. · Honorary Citizen of of the City of Georgia in United States National Honors · Commander of the Order of the Niger. · Best Governor Infrastructure and Empowerment Award of the Central Bank of Nigeria (2012). · Most Prolific Governor by the National Councillors' Forum. Academic/Professional Honours · Doctor of Management Science, Honoris Causa, Nigeria Defence Academy (2011). · Doctor of Law, Honoris Causa, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (2010). · Doctor of Law, Honoris Causa, University of Calabar, Calabar (2009). · Doctor of Law, Honoris Causa, University of Uyo, Uyo (2009). · Doctor of Public Administration (Honoris Causa), Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (2009) · Doctor of Public Administration (Honoris Causa), Abia State University, Uturu, Abia State. · Doctor of Management Science (Honoris Causa) Federal University of Technology, Owerri (2011); · Doctor of Human Resource Management (Honoris Causa) Wesley `University of Science and Technology, Ondo · Doctor of Public Administration (Hon. DPA), Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu · Honorary Fellow of Nigeria Society of Engineers (2010) (The fourteenth non-engineer to be so honoured in Nigeria). · Fellow, Kazaure Polytechnic, Kazaure (2008); · Fellow of the Yaba College of Technology, Yaba (2011); 158

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· Fellow of the College of Education, Bichi, and a host of others. · Most Education Friendly Governor in Nigeria (2008) by the National Parents Teachers Association. · Best Booster Governor Award for Promoting Science, Technology and Mathematics by the Science Teachers Association of Nigeria. · Distinguished Manager of the Year (2013) by the Nigeria Institute of Management. (The first person to be so honored) · Goodwill Ambassador of the Nigerian Medical Association. Media Honours · Man of the Year 2012, Leadership Newspapers. · Man of the Year 2011, Sun Newspapers. · Best Governor in Nigeria and Outstanding Human Brand 2010: Billboard World. · Man of the Year 2010: National Daily Newspaper. · Governor of the Year 2010: Nigerian Tribune. · Award of Excellence for Outstanding Performance 2010: Nigeria Union of Journalists. · Nigeria's Emerging Tiger 2009: Thisday Newspapers. · Man of the Year 2009: Daily Independent Newspapers. · Man of the Year 2009: National Daily Newspaper. · 2008 Most Outstanding Governor in Nigeria (South South): National Daily Newspaper. · Governor of the Year (South South): City People Magazine. · Best Governor Infrastructure 2009: Encomium Magazine. · Best Governor (South South): Encomium Magazine. · Excellency Award as Best Governor South South 2009: Global Excellence Magazine.

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Other Honours Nehemiah Award of the African Church and several other honours from other churches. Nehemiah Award of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion). He is the recipient of over 30 chieftaincy titles. These include the Uko Akwa Ibom (awarded to him by the Akwa Ibom State Council of Chiefs), Utuenikang Ibibio, Iberedem Ibibio, Nta Nta Offiong Annang, Atta of Eket and the Nta Nta Oro, to mention just a few. It is notable that Governor Akpabio was mentioned in Wikileaks. But unlike others who received negative mention, his mention was, to our national pride, for the right reasons. Wikileaks quoted American diplomatic correspondences as saying that Akwa Ibom, under him, was one of the fastest growing states in infrastructure development in Nigeria, and should be watched. Family A Christian of the Catholic Faith, he is happily married to the beautiful and amiable Mrs Ekaette Unoma Akpabio and the marriage is blessed with four beautiful daughters and a son. He and his wife share a great passion for the underprivileged and for service to the community. CONCLUSION His Excellency, Governor Godswill Obot Akpabio's sojourn through life appears to have been pre-ordained and conditioned for leadership and impact. His life is like an emerging radiance and we have only caught a glimpse of his potential. We proudly present him to the public through this book.

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i. AKPABIO'S JOURNEY TO POLITICAL STARDOM* When Ralph Waldo Emerson volunteered the eternal lines that the world makes way for the man who knows where he is going, he did not know that a man like Godswill Obot Akpabio would one day serve as a fitting model of that hypothesis. Some accounts state that when Godswill Akpabio first met the woman that is today his wife, then Miss Unoma Ejike, he introduced himself as the future governor of Cross River State (now Akwa Ibom State). At the time of this fanciful introduction, he was neither a member of any political party nor even active in the local politics of his community. He was an executive of a telecoms company and a corporate player (not a political player). But he knew where he was going and the world made way for him. Godswill Akpbio's inclination for politics seems to be intrinsic, something that was ingrained in him from birth. He began to manifest the trait of leadership quite early in life. According to Obong Akpabio, a cousin whom they shared childhood, “there had never been a time that Godswill had not been like a rallying point”. He stated that “while they were growing up, everybody knew that because of his power of oratory, he was going to be a lawyer, a politician or something close to that because he was always directing affairs. He led all of us.” The cousin noted that despite the fact that he was older than him by a year, he alongside others always deferred to him in acknowledgement of what often seemed as a natural role he exercised as a leader. His life evidenced such endowments from childhood which suggest that providence has a lot to do with his affairs. He became a golden fish wherever he went, not minding the deprivations that assailed his early life. Many have often argued that successful politicians don't just explode on the scene or pop into existence without navigating through the crucible or a furnace that would serve as a training process and hone 161

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them for the exhaustive and painstaking job of politicking. Akpabio had his fair share of this “furnace passage”. In the prestigious Federal Government College, Port Harcourt which he attended, he became a general senior prefect, perhaps the first person from the then axis of Cross River State to occupy such exalted position in that school of national colouration. And in the University of Calabar where he read law, he was elected the speaker of the Students' Union Parliament. When he joined EMIS Telecoms Limited, a pioneer fixed wireless company in Lagos where he rose to the position of managing director/chief executive, he served as publicity secretary to the umbrella body of private telecom operators, Association of Telecommunication Companies in Nigeria (ATCOM). All of these compel the speculation that providence may have ordained him for service and that he had also submitted himself entirely to the cause. His recurring tandem with providence produced him as a member of Akwa Ibom State executive council in 2002. Obong Victor Attah, the then governor of Akwa Ibom state and predecessor to Akpabio had stretched forth to far-away Lagos to pick him as commissioner in his cabinet. He served in three key ministries from 2002-2006 when he resigned to join the gubernatorial race in the State. The circumstance that precipitated his appointment as commissioner is often an intriguing story which accentuates the hand of God in the affairs of man. Gaining a place in the executive council of any state requires intense lobbying, sometimes with scant regard to morality and ethical considerations. Huge sums are often known to change hands while self appointed godfathers who strut the political space delude the office seekers with the majesty of their powers. But just like God led the three wise men who went to see our Lord Jesus at birth, providence led Obong Victor Attah to an important duty of destiny which was appointing Godswill Akpabio into his cabinet. The latter did not have to lobby or expend mouth-watering sums or depend on egomaniac godfathers. He was a nominee of God. And whatever role 162

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anybody played was once again proof that we are all pawns in the hand of providence. Perhaps an interesting story to underscore the underlying divination in Akpabio's political career begs for capturing in this piece. It is a story that Governor Akpabio has told many times but which has failed to become trite because of its miraculous elements. Afe Annang, the highest cultural organ of Annang had invited all Annang sons and daughters who had interest to vie for the office of governor of Akwa Ibom state in 2007, since it was supposedly zoned to Annang of Ikot Ekpene Senatorial district, to come to the ancestral capital of Annang at Ebebit Afaha-Obong and make their intentions known to their brothers and sisters. The announcement noted that any aspirant that failed to partake in that event shall be deemed unserious and therefore not recognized as an aspirant seeking the office of governor. The implication was to use that as the first hurdle for the aspirants to cross or be disqualified. The intention of the leadership of the organ must have been geared towards pruning down the number of Annang aspirants which was growing every day. It was their belief that if Annang could work with a consensus candidate or a reduced number of candidates, the chances of an Annang son clinching the office of governor in the then forthcoming election would be less rigorous. A date was set for the all-important political event. All Annang aspirants including Godswill Akpabio prepared extensively for the day, gathering supporters and planning logistics. For Godswill Akpabio, there was a twist of fate that fateful day; a twist that almost marred his aspiration. His boss, His Excellency, Obong Victor Attah, then governor of the state had asked him to accompany him for inspection that same day. And as a loyal subordinate, he could not defy his boss. And so while other aspirants were preparing for the event, Chief Godswill Akpabio was on 163

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official assignment with his boss. Whether it was some kind of scheming by conspiratorial forces to force him out of the race is left to conjecturing. But his boss delayed him until it became very late for him to make the routine appearance at the venue and fulfill the first line condition for qualification for the race. At the time Chief Godswill Akpabio eventually arrived the venue, the event was over and the large crowd which thronged the arena was dispersing. Human and vehicular traffic combined to form a gridlock impeding movement to or from the venue. It was in that midst that Chief Akpabio arrived in a red SUV. It was like arriving too late for a promotion examination that one had prepared adequately for but without a chance to display what one had diligently studied. According to His Excellency, Chief Godswill Akpabio, when he realized that he had arrived too late, he was assailed by fear and in that moment of dilemma, his hand involuntarily reached out to a Bible by his side. It was the Holy book that reinvented his faith as he read a portion that he stumbled on and which assuaged his anxiety. As the Holy book itself posits, “If God is with you, no man can be against you”. And so even though the event had finished with his exclusion, God had not finished the event that was to produce the governor of the state come that election. Again the significance of this is that only God makes kings and that those who have their trust in him would always triumph no matter the travails or obstacles arrayed before them. Having overcome that phase which miraculously lost validity and made the implementation of the intended agenda a nullity, the political process lumbered to its next, perhaps most tedious phase which was party nomination. Chief Godswill Akpabio rallied many political elements together to form a formidable political machinery. Many things seem to account for his political sagacity. His early days as General Senior prefect, Speaker of Students' Union Parliament 164

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and eventually National Publicity Secretary of ATCOM. These exposures may have given him the rudimentary training in human relations and management. Also his strategic roles in the re-elections of Governor Victor Attah and that of Obasanjo/Atiku may have trained him in political mobilization. Perhaps the most productive may have been his stint with the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. It is believed that the office was the gateway to his sustained interface with the grassroots including the traditional institutions. As I have always noted, it is not the office that makes the man, it is the man that makes the office. Chief Godswill Akpabio can be regarded as a man of all seasons. His uncommon capacity to maximize every opportunity for public good is perhaps a selling point that has endeared him to many people. It was these people who nominated him among fifty-eight candidates, some renowned political gladiators after three excruciating days and nights with delegates surviving at the mercy of the elements. It was these same people who defended that nomination with every ounce of their strength until it was validated in Port Harcourt with the handing over of PDP party flag to Chief Akpabio which qualified him to contest the election for governor of Akwa Ibom State on its platform. The rest is history as he won that election overwhelmingly on April 14, 2007 and was sworn-in as the third democratically elected governor of Akwa Ibom State. Governor Akpabio's advent to the seat of power on May 29, 2007 was received with enthusiasm. It was so because he was truly the choice of the people. And so as he mounted the podium to give his inaugural address, he enthused the teeming crowd with the liner: “This is Godswill Akpabio reporting for duty”. He pledged to “approach development with anger” promising to make a difference in the affairs of Akwa Ibom State and that of its people. And he has not disappointed the people. He has unleashed a revolution that has 165

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spanned all facets and which has rightly earned the epithet Uncommon Transformation. It is not political rhetoric but tangible changes that one cannot fail to acknowledge no matter one's misgivings for him. Pastor Anietie Ukpe did a cerebral piece that captured the enrapturing transformation in an article: See Uyo and Die, a parody of: See Paris and Die. Steve Nwosu of the Sun Newspaper who attended an Editor's Conference that was held in Uyo followed in the same grain with his article entitled: See Uyo and Get Angry noting that one can not restrain oneself from pelting stones at one's governor if one visits and sees the development strides in Uyo. The summary of this is that Governor Akpabio has dared to be different and is patenting new benchmarks in public service and good governance. It was his sense of duty, altruism and commitment to public good that compelled the renewal of his mandate in 2012 despite the infamous and feeble efforts by the unimaginative opposition to introduce ethnicity into the State's political equation. Their attempt floundered in the face of the strong political credentials of the performing governor. Akwa Ibom people are witnessing performance for the first time in the State and underscoring it with the recurring remark, “So government can work”. The long held distrust and suspicion of the people towards government have given way to hope and enthusiasm. Today when government through its agents makes a public pronouncement of its intention to embark on a project, the people wait with genuine hope knowing that it would come to pass. It is why Governor Akpabio has rightly earned the prefix of PROMISE KEEPER. Governor Godswill Akpabio's ascendancy on the political graph seems to be rising towards consolidation. Just as in advertising where a product begins with introduction, competition and consolidation if the product is outstanding, his outstanding 166

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performance would certainly give him a role in the unfolding political equation of the State. And since his love for Akwa Ibom State and its people cannot be disputed, his role as leader of the people is also not likely to be disputed if we do the right politics. *Anietie Ukpe & Joe Iniodu

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CHAPTER SIX

CONCEPTUALIZING POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY AND AKPABIO'S GOVERNMENT POLICY i. What is Political Philosophy? This part of the book is premised on two concepts, namely, politics and philosophy. Their fundamental conceptualizations are therefore necessary for the purpose of clarity. The term 'politics' is derived from the Greek word, 'polis', meaning a 'city-state'. Politics can be described as the means by which a state is organized. Politics as an academic discipline is called Political Science. Political Science is a social science concerned with the state and of the conditions essential to its existence and development. It is a social science which treats of the foundations of the state and the principles of government. Politics is the science or art of government. From these few lines above, there are two notable ideas about Politics. First, Politics is the art by which a state is governed. The second idea is that it is a social science concerned with the foundations of the state and the principles of government. The principles of government refer to theories or philosophies concerned with the formulation of the purposes and limits of state authority. However, the definition of politics by Easton (1953: 129; 1965:50) is relevant here. He defined politics as those interactions by which values are authoritatively allocated for the society. Easton has defined a political system as the set of interactions through which values are authoritatively allocated for a society. The above identifies that a state could have abundance of resources, but not properly managed to yield positive results. Secondly, if the resources 168

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of a state are well appropriated, it could translate into a transformation of the entire state. Therefore, the uncommon transformation currently experienced in Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria is as a result of proper management of the state resources by Governor Godswill Akpabio. The second concept, 'philosophy', is commonly known as the study of wisdom. This notion directly comes from the Greek words that are combined to form the word 'philosophy'. These Greek words are 'philos' and 'sophia'. While 'philos' means 'love', 'sophia' means 'wisdom'. Hence Encyclopaedia Britannica defines philosophy as 'pursuit of wisdom'. A philosopher is often referred to as a wise man ('ata ifiok' in Annang). The Annang refer to a philosopher and a professor as 'Ata Ifiok', which literally means 'knowledge expert'. This Annang understanding has so much relevance in a better understanding of the university academic system, especially as the highest academic qualification one can attain is the Ph.D ,which, when fully rendered in English, reads 'Philosophy Doctor' or 'Philosophiae Doctor' in Latin, meaning 'Doctor of Philosophy'. This award means the awardee is an expert in learning, expert in knowledge, expert in wisdom attained from the school. It is worthy to note that when formal education began in Egypt and subsequently Greece, that every subject was studied as 'Philosophy', for whenever one left his or her house to go and learn in the Egyptian Schools or the Athenian 'agora' or Plato's Academy or Aristotle's Lyceum, he or she was in search of wisdom and knowledge. Going to school indicated 'love of wisdom'. And one was always welcome to the school amidst an induction ceremony and graduated amidst a farewell ceremony, and these are the historical backgrounds to our matriculation and graduation ceremonies in our modern schools system. Even so, one would be crowned as a Philosophy Doctor (PhD) if he/she attained the highest degree of learning in school. 169

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Philosophy, as 'love of wisdom' or search for wisdom, suggests an irresistible drive, yearning and desire for knowledge of all things. Wisdom (sophia) in this sense is synonymous with knowledge, and Aristotle, charged with this conception, announced that 'all men by nature desire to know' (Metaphysics 980a). Philosophy, in this sense, is a search for knowledge; knowledge about reality, nature, knowledge about the world. However, Aristotle (Metaphysics Bk. 1 Ch. 1) contrasts knowledge with wisdom, despite their closeness in meaning. According to him, while knowledge refers to acquisition of facts and information and how those facts are used to yield results, without knowing the reason or causes or principles behind those facts; wisdom refers to acquisition of information and facts and the principles, causes and reason behind those facts. Aristotle associated the latter with philosophy, by describing it (wisdom) as knowledge of first principles or causes of things. Philosophy as love of wisdom is the search for the universal principles of nature and reality. Philosophy is a critical study, inquiry, investigation and reflection on the fundamental problems and questions of human existence and reality. Philosophy is an inquiry and examination of reality. Political Philosophy is the branch of philosophy which focuses on formulation of the principles and theories by which a state is governed. A political philosophy or political theory spells out the principles, scope and method of government in a state. The present work uses the two phrases – political philosophy and political theory – interchangeably. Ethics is a philosophical study of the rules and regulations regarding the rightness or wrongness of human action in the society. It is a study of the moral code, whether an action is right or wrong, and what actions ought to be performed in the society. What actions ought we perform in the society? Do we have a moral obligation to obey the law of the State?

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Ethics relates with politics in so far as both prescribe what we ought to do. Again, moral obligation to obey the law of the state also relates ethics with politics. The law of the state must be good laws, for, Aristotle had observed that while the state comes into existence for the sake of life, it continues to exist for the sake of good life. Law making, administration of law and the leadership of the state must be based on good moral values. Here, a distinction must be made between the state and government. A state may be said to be a body of people within a definite territory clearly organized as a unit for purposes of government. Government is the instrument through which the purpose of the state is formulated, expressed and realized. The state has a definite territory, a population, a government and its sovereignty. Sovereignty gives supremacy to the states and empowers it to make laws and enforce them. It is noticeable, then, that, government is a part of the state, while the state includes both the government and the governed. Governments come and go, but the state remains. For instance, while Nigeria remains a state, she has, however had many (bad) governments – Ironsi's government, Gowon's government, Mohammed's government, Shagari's government, Buhari's government, Babangida's government, Abacha's government, Obasanjo's government, Y'Aradua's government, Jonathan's government and the next one to come. While sovereignty is a feature of the state and not of the government, it is, however, the government that exercises it on behalf of the state. ii. Origin of Political Philosophy Political philosophy began with Socrates, the Sophists, Plato, and Aristotle. 171

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The age of Homer and Hesiod in Ancient Greece was characterized by myths and gross superstition. Then it was superstitiously held that there was a world of spirits which controlled the physical world. This mindset led to the idea that some higher forces controlled human existence and, therefore, some higher sort of rules, principles or laws, discoverable by reason. Three wise men from Ionia in Miletus, namely, Thales, Anaximander and Anaximenes, refused to think like Homer and Hesiod. They rather had a recourse to physical nature as the cause of creation, life and existence. They sought for a causal ouvre into the secrets of nature. These men made physical observations about the order and regularity in nature. They observed the coming and going of the moon, the sun, the stars; the coming and going of time and the seasons, the wind, the surging of the Aegean Sea. They observed the sprouting of the seeds and the blossoming of the flowers in the garden. They observed birth, death and decay, generation and corruption. Fascinated by this constancy, consistency and regularity, they asked themselves the question, “ex qua materia constituti mundi?” (“out of what material is the world made?” Literally, “out of what material is the world constituted?”). This question gave birth to philosophy, not political philosophy, for Thales, Anaximander and Anaximenes were then concerned with physical nature and their concerns were cosmological. Thales posited that water constitutes everything; Anaximander suggested that what constitutes everything in nature is not definite and specific. He then averred that such is called an Indeterminate Boundless. Anaximenes argued that Air constitutes and controls everything in nature. So, to the question: “out of what material is the world constituted?” Thales, Anaximander, Anaximenes answered as follows: Thales: Water! Anaximander: Not water! Not any material thing! Not any determinate! But an Indeterminate Boundless! Apeiron! 172

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Anaximenes: None of the above, but Air! While succeeding philosophers after this Ionian trio continued to speculate on physical nature and theorized on the elements -water, air, fire, earth- a group of philosophers, the Sophists, shifted the attention of philosophy and focused it on man and the human society. The Sophists were itinerant teachers of philosophy who charged fees from their students. They focused their philosophical musings on man and the city-state. They taught only those who could afford to pay, especially the children of nobles. They taught philosophy, rhetoric and the art of argumentation. The Sophists contributed to the popular element in Greek democracy through the rhetorical training they offered to those who were preparing for leadership and participation in government. Oratory, rhetoric, persuasion, argumentation and dialogue were key aspects of the Sophists' teaching. Some of the Sophists were Protagoras, Giorgias, Thrasymachus, Hippias, Prodicus, Lycophron, Antiphon, Callicles, and Cratylus. Protagoras is associated with the saying that “Man is the measure of all things”, and Thrasymachus is associated with the belief that “Might is right”. The Sophists philosophized on the place of man in the state. They were, however, criticized by Socrates, Plato and Aristotle, for charging fees from their students and for their wayward style of life. Sophist teaching and lifestyle led Socrates to start his philosophy on man as exemplified in his sayings: “Man, know yourself” and “An unexamined life is not worth living”. This was primarily meant to address the moral decadence of the Sophists. Plato and Aristotle reacted to the banalities and exigencies of their everyday experiences within the political atmosphere in Greece. Key experiences which provoked their theorizing on the politics of their time were the execution of Socrates by the Athenian government and the rashness of the Athenian jury; the fall of Pericles; the defeat of the Athenians by Sparta in the Peloponnesian war at the Acropolis; and the degeneration of democracy. These 173

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served as provocatives for the political philosophies of Plato and Aristotle. Plato's Political Philosophy The political thoughts of Plato are contained in The Republic, The Statesman and in The Laws. In The Republic, Plato averred that there are three classes of people in the state, namely, the Rulers, the Guardians and the Artisans. The Rulers are the leaders of government who direct and pilot the affairs of the state. The Guardians refer to the soldiers and security agents who protect the state from external aggression and from internal strife. The Artisans refer to business men who provide for the material needs of members of the state. Plato suggested that the rulers must be men of deep and wide knowledge and wisdom, for through their wisdom, they would have sense of virtue and morals, and lead the state wisely. They were expected to undergo a long, extensive and rigorous academic training, a time long enough to learn and be wise. They were expected to train in philosophy and mathematical disciplines. They were not to take up any official political posts until they became thirty five years of age. These men, the rulers, were to be philosophers, since philosophers were men of great learning and wisdom. For Plato, therefore, the king was to be a philosopher, and the philosopher was to be king. The ideal leader in the state was the philosopher-king. Justice and harmony, peace and stability were attainable in the state when each member of the state performed his duty. There was no need to encroach upon another's duty. Plato had more requirements for the philosopher-king. He was not to marry any wife for himself. Every woman belonged to all in the state. Children, too, were to be separated from their parents. Both women and children were possessions of the state. The philosopher-king was expected to be a man of perfect and 174

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impeccable moral rectitude; a moral compass capable of being a moral measure for citizens in the state. These set of men were expected to be next to the gods, or, one could say, vice-gods; or in our political parlance, Special Advisers or Personal Assistants to God. Frustratingly enough for Plato, such men could not be found within the practical human society. Plato sadly suggested that the Statesman should lead the state (See his Statesman) and that the state should be organized and governed according to law (See The Laws). The statesman is the leader who sacrifices his personal interests for the interest of the state. He is he who focuses on the welfare of the people; how to better the lots of his people. He is the leader whose mantra is: the welfare of my people. He utilizes the limited resources within the state and embarks on projects that will be of benefit to the people: providing basic social amenities and infrastructure. The statesman is different from the demagogue and the rabblerouser. The demagogue cheats, deceives and oppresses his people. His interest is supreme; the people's interests do no matter. He is the tyrant and the despot, the charlatan and the impostor. He makes promise to the people and hardly fulfils them. Plato suggested that the statesman should rule in the state by law. The political ideals devised by Plato in The Republic were unrealizable, impracticable and in a way over-human. In describing the ideal state in The Republic, Plato omitted the role law had to play in the state. Perhaps, since the archetypal ruler, the philosopher king would know almost everything; he would not need to be guided by law. Plato failed to consider the ideals and necessities of the city state in The Republic. His political theory in The Republic fostered elitism and class aristocracy, uncharacteristic of the city state. He abolished the family and private property in the ideal state. While serving in the government of Syracuse, he realized the limitations of the kind of state he dreamed of in The Republic, that such a state could not work and that the philosopher king could not be real. Plato went to Syracuse with the expectation of founding an ideal state ruled by a 175

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philosopher-king, but failed. He modified his views, rather suggesting a state ruled by law by the statesman, advising the followers of Dion, saying: “Let not Sicily nor any city anywhere be subject to human masters, such is my doctrine, but to laws…” (The Laws, cited in Thorson and Sabine 1973: 78). Plato did not favour democracy. He jettisoned democracy as a rule of the mob. Aristotle's Political Philosophy It is worthy to note, meanwhile, that Socrates, Plato and Aristotle were reacting against the excesses of the Sophists, an itinerant group of teachers who taught for money. The Sophists, especially Protagoras, had believed that man was the measure of all things, and that (especially Thrasymachus) might is right, or that justice means might. Aristotle rejected these defects, excesses and intellectual extravagance of the Sophists in his political philosophy, contained in The Politics, The Constitution, The Rhetoric and in the Nichomachean Ethics. Aristotle was more influenced by Plato's later political thought in The Laws than in The Republic. Aristotle rejected the utopian state projected in The Republic. He took into consideration the human realities in the city state. He carried out a study of the constitutional history of one hundred and fifty eight Greek cities and suggested a state ruled by law. Aristotle is regarded as the father of natural law. He posited the existence of natural justice or natural right (Latin: Jus naturale; Greek: dikaion Physikon). Aristotle noted that apart from particular laws each people sets up for itself, that there is a “common” law that is according to nature. In The Politics, he posited that “Man, when perfected, is the best of animals, but, when separated from law and justice, he is the worst of all” (Politics, 1,2; 1253 a 31 ff.). Government must be a rule of law, which must be a constitutional rule. Aristotle, the father of natural law, also suggested the rule of law long before John Dicey. 176

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The family was abolished by Plato, but admitted by Aristotle. The family, according to Aristotle is the unit cell of the society. This is the origin of the society and of the state. The city state begins from the family. Man is a political animal, says Aristotle, because he is born into the society, and because he has the duty to organize his society. Man, says Aristotle, is an animal who reaches the highest stage of his development in the civilization of the city-state. However, Aristotle permitted slavery and deprived women of citizenship in the state The Stoic Political Philosophy The Stoics had their idea of the natural law. Stoicism conceives the world as an ordered whole where entities perdure following the principles of order. God, according to the Stoics, is the pervading rational substance which orders the whole course of events. God is in everything. God is reason as is in everything. Reason controls everything. Just as the world is a material order permeated by the fiery substance called reason or God so also man is a material being who is permeated by this very same fiery substance. When the Stoics said that man contains a spark of the divine within him, they meant that man contains part of the substance of God, which is reason. Man, a fortiori, possesses the rational substance. The Stoics believed that human rationality, besides engendering the act of ratiocination, fosters man's participation in the rational order of nature. They emphasized a willing submission to nature as living naturally according to reason. The Stoics had spread the ideas of a world-state, of natural justice, and of universal citizenship. They believed that the world is under divine government by God, who is good and reasonable, and who acts like a father to all men. With God as their father, all men are then brothers and members of a common human family by their rationality. Human reason participates in the divine reason and makes all men equal and subject to natural law and justice. 177

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Godswill Akpabio's Policy of Welfarism Welfarism as a state policy refers to a concept of government where the state plays a leading role in the protection and promotion of the economic and social well-being of its citizens. P r i m e Minister Benjamin Disraeli succinctly described the welfarist function of government in his 1845 novel, where he wrote, “The only duty of power is the social welfare of the PEOPLE” (Sybil). The British sociologist, T.H.Marshall, identified modern welfare states as a distinctive combination of democracy, welfare and capitalism. Germany, the Nordic countries (Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Finland), the Netherlands, Uruguay, New Zealand and the United Kingdom are associated with the origins of welfare governments. The United States, Canada, Australia, France, Belgium, Italy, China, Japan, Switzerland, Ireland, Austria, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Brunei and Oman are currently welfare states. Otto von Bismarck, the first Chancellor of Germany, created the modern welfare state. Bismarck introduced old age pensions, accident insurance, and medical care. These measures formed the foundation of the modern European welfare state. The Liberal Welfare Reforms of 1906-1914 marked the definitive emergence of the welfare state in Great Britain under Prime Minister Herbert Asquith (Castles 2010). Old-age pensions, free school meals, adequate health care, adequate housing, and adequate employment were hallmarks of the welfare state in Great Britain. Basically, welfare states are either universal (with provisions that cover everybody), or selective (with provisions covering those deemed most needy). However, welfare governments provide for the people, from infrastructure, housing, healthcare to education. Governor Godswill Akpabio's radical and pragmatic transformation of the sight and psyche of Akwa Ibom State has been motivated by the philosophy of welfarism, which focuses on the 178

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welfare of the people. This welfarism was aptly demonstrated in his policy statement, where he declared: “We intend to…make the welfare of the Akwa Ibom person the centre-piece of all our efforts and actions as a government” – Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON This policy corresponds with the welfarist philosophy of Cicero, where he averred: “Let the welfare of the people be the supreme law”, rendered in Latin as “Salus populi suprema lex”. No doubt, Godswill Akpabio's overriding philosophy in his transformation programme is welfarism. The welfare of the people is his breast-plate. We have a list of welfarist programmes embarked upon by Governor Godswill Akpabio as follows: EDUCATION: The policy objective of Godswill Akpabio's administration is to produce a very vibrant, literate and well-focused population. To this end the administration has undertaken: The free, compulsory and qualitative education from primary to senior secondary school levels: To ensure the elimination of fees of all kinds, the administration pays subvention to primary school head teachers at N100 per pupil per term and to secondary school principals at N300 per student per term; Massive rehabilitation and construction of educational infrastructure: The administration has built over 500 new classroom blocks and rehabilitated over 1,500 others. It has built/constructed over 500 classroom blocks, dormitories and laboratories across the state and rehabilitated about 1800 others;

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Employment of teachers and the absorption of more than 2,000 primary school teachers who were initially employed for a Federal Government Universal Basic Education scheme. CHILD RIGHTS AND PROTECTION: Conscious of the need to ensure the protection of the rights of our children, Godswill Akpabio's administration enacted the Child Rights and Protection Law 2008. This law was meant to safeguard our children's rights and protect them from social vices including sexual abuse, child prostitution and witchcraft stigmatization. This government has striven to ensure that abandoned children are catered for. The government has built and maintained Child Welfare Centers, and courtesy of the Governor's wife, the state today has an ultra-modern reformation centre for children. HEALTH: Governor Akpabio's government sees healthcare not only as a goal of development, but as the right of individuals and the means to achieve the related goals of higher labour productivity. The government's health investment in Akwa Ibom State is focused on ten major policy areas. These are: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

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In addition, the government has built five new cottage hospitals and another tertiary health institution in the 'Anniversary Specialist Hospital.' In a bid to fight mortality among infants and mothers, the government established free medical treatment for these groups. There is also free medical treatment for our senior citizens. ELECTRICITY: The administration has completed the electrification of more than 1,400 communities over the past seven years. This has raised electricity coverage in the state to 85 percent. In the same vein, the First Phase of the 191 megawatts of the Independent Power Plant located at Ikot Abasi had since been completed and over 40MW of power from the plant is currently released to the national grid and is being utilized in parts of the state. ROADS: The transformation of our state in terms of road construction has been one of the most hailed accomplishments of Governor Godswill Akpabio's government. So far the government has tarred 211 roads covering over 700km throughout the state and built several bridges and constructed three concentric flyovers in the state. This government has also constructed five federal roads, which traverse the state, with a combined total length of 198.6kilometres. Some of these were dualized, and bridges and drainages constructed in them. AIRPORT AND AVIATION DEVELOPMENT The administration has a functioning international airport with 3.6 km runway, first class facilities and aviation aids. The administration has also sponsored 251 members of staff for training in the best universities and aviation institutions in the world on various disciplines including avionics, power plant and airframe, maintenance engineering, fire-fighting, aviation security, air traffic control, etc.

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HOUSING Government attaches high priority to the provision of affordable housing to the citizens. Akpabio's government has, therefore, undertaken the construction of 2,000 housing units in the three Senatorial Districts and 31 mini-housing estates in the 31 local government areas. The government has also completed an ultra modern e-library in Uyo. IBOM GAS PLANT This project, which had since been completed, involves the construction of a 59.5km pipeline from Uquo in Esit Eket to Ibom Power Plant in Ikot Abasi. The Ibom Gas Plant will supply gas to Ibom Power Plant in the light of the obvious incapacity of Nigerian Gas Company, NGC, to meet the gas needs of the plant. The project was handled by Septa Energy Ltd., a subsidiary of Seventh Energy, a UK-based gas development company. This project was undertaken under “PPP” arrangement whereby the AKSG has contributed $33 million down payment for gas supply to the IPP for at least one year, while the company has invested $550 million in the construction of the Gas.

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CHAPTER SEVEN

GOVERNMENT IN ANCIENT GREECE AND ROME AND AKPABIO'S TOWN HALL DEMOCRACY I. Ancient Greece The Greek world had its great centers: Delphi for its oracle, Olympia and Corinth for the games, Athens for its wealth, empire and learning; and Sparta for the longevity of its peculiar institutions and military prowess. The world of the classical Greek polis was different from the world of heroic kingship as the world of modern democracy is from the medieval kingdom. Even in Homer's day, the Greek world was divided into a large number of different political communities. Some were very large, like Athens and Crete, while others could count their numbers in hundreds, and they lived under bewildering political systems (McClelland, 1996:8). Aristotle thought it worthwhile to have descriptions made of 158 different political constitutions. Superimposed on this variety of political regimes was the tendency of those regimes to change. The ancients tried to impose some kind of intellectual order on this puzzling political world by dividing types of regimes into three broad classes, depending on whether rule was by the One, the Few, or the Many. Philosophers debated on the question of whether the one, the few, or the many ought to rule. Aristotle sensibly settled in the end for the few-many continuum to classify states, a rough enough to contemporary political practice and pointing to the age old division in Greek cities between the oligarch and the democrats. Besides its scholarship, Athens was an industrial and commercial city by ancient standards whose empire, by then nearly over, had

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relied on forced tributes from nominal allies. Under Pericles, Athens had become the richest and most famous city in Hellas, but she was defeated by Sparta in the Peloponnesian war (430-404 BC). Thoughtful men like Thucydides, who wrote a history of the war, came to the conclusion that Athens had overreached herself (McClelland, 1996:13). Ever since the mainly Athenian army had beaten the host of the Persian King at Marathon, the Athenians had started to imagine that there was nothing they could not do. The Athenians had lost all sense of the proper limits to human action. Its democracy had almost casually decided to invade Sicily, failed disastrously to take Syracuse, and the long road to defeat ended with a Spartan garrison on the Acropolis at Athens. The constitution of Athens was clearly democratic. When the Athenians called their constitution a democracy, they meant literally what the word itself expressed. This means that the people themselves undertook the work of government. Their Assembly, in which every citizen could take part, was the sovereign body in the State to decide national affairs, great and small. The opportunity for the citizens to take part in the executive and judiciary administration of the state was considerable. Unlike in modern times, the bureaucracy who could look to the executive and judiciary work was not permanent. These were rather undertaken for short periods by ordinary citizens. The systems of lot and election, payment and short tenure of office ensured equal opportunity of all. On the authority of Aristotle, it has been reckoned that, excluding those employed on military duties, there were ten thousand officers in a state whose total number of citizens certainly did not amount to much more than twice That number (Aristotle, On The Constitution: 42-43). In practice, therefore, every Athenian citizen probably held an official post of some sort once in his life. Citizenship was rightly defined as the capacity to rule and to be ruled. There was no ruling party in a polis. They took it in turns, ruling and being ruled. Aristotle 184

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thought that taking it in turns would have a moderating influence on the polis as a whole when it is done through law. Judging and being judged bound the polis together. ii. Ancient Rome The history of ancient Rome is tri-epochal: the kingship, the republic and the empire. The royal period lasted from the foundation of Rome (? 753B.C.) till 510 BC, when Tarquin the Proud was expelled from the state. Romulus was the first king of Rome and Tarquin the last. On the abolition of kingship, the power of the king, both civil and military, was vested in two annually elected officers, the consuls. The government of the republic had separate powers distributed to the Assembly, the Executive and the Senate. The consuls were the heads of the executive. Six praetors acted as judges. The censors had the charge of finance, revised census and made the senatorial list. The consuls were assisted by the aediles. The quaestors were paymasters of troops, guardians and collector of revenues. The tribunes had the primary function of protecting the Plebeians, who appealed to them for help against arbitrary acts on the part of the magistrates. The tribunes had intercessio, the power to veto any order of a magistrate; coercitio, the right of using force; and prehensio, the right of arresting anyone who withstood them. The Comitia Centuriata, the Comitia Curiata, the Comitia Tributa and the Concilium Plebis comprised the Assembly. People voted by curiae in the Comitia Curiata. It was its function to pass the “lex curiata”, which was necessary to enable magistrates to exercise their powers. The Centuriata elected consuls, censors and praetors. People voted by centuries (hundreds). The power of legislation was reserved for this Assembly. People voted by tribes in the Comitia Tributa. They elected the quaestors and aediles. Concilium Plebis consisted of Plebeians only. It elected tribunes and two aediles (Appadorai, 1975:200). 185

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The Senate comprised 300 members, the list being revised by censors once every five years. It was the advisory body to the consuls. It was the most powerful body in the state. The Senate pointed out flaws in legislative enactments and in effect revised them. The consuls had wide powers, which were summed up in the word 'imperium'. They held office only for a year. Important matters affecting the state and cases involving capital punishment had to be decided by the people. They were expected to consult the Senate. The Republic was erected on the edifice of the following clear principles: divided authority; short tenure of office; the final decision of important matters of state by the people; and the refusal to give unlimited military powers to any magistrate within the city, the exercise of imperium within the city being limited by the right of appeal and the veto of the tribunate. That notwithstanding, the republic began to decline when executive authority was concentrated in the hands of a single man specially designated by the vote of the people (Appadorai, 1975: 202). Marius was consul for six times; Pompey, thrice; Julius Caesar was made dictator for an indefinite period from 48 BC, and was consul for five years. With a standing army at their command and with their prestige as successful generals, these men imposed their will on the people at home and transformed the republic into an executive despotism. This trend of events was noticeable during the imperium of Julius Caesar and the principate of Augustus. Little wonder why the noble Brutus and his honourable men said that Caesar was ambitious (Shakespeare, Julius Caesar). iii.Akpabio's Town Hall Democracy* Democracy as a system of government and at the level of practice is credited to the Greek city-states of Athens, Attica and Sparta, where civilization also enjoyed systematic evolution. But democracy and civilization did not just bolt into space. They arrived 186

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on the heels of an earlier model of relationship where humans consorted in pursuit of common good. The model was prescribed as town hall meeting. Town hall meeting is loosely based on a democratic practice development in Athens around 400 B.C. It is widely believed that democracy has its root in this ancient practice. Athenian-Greek democracy flourished under Pericles, who was the greatest and longest lasting democratic leader in Greece. Although Athenian democracy was interrupted by the Peloponnesian war, it was, however, revived under Eucleides. The people often met at a place called the Agora (meaning a “gathering place” or “assembly”). The agora is the equivalent of our town halls today. In ancient Rome, the meeting place was called the Forum (market place). The forum was actually an orderly spatial adaptation of the Greek agora. The Basque country of northern Spain practised a town hall meeting system of government in the Middle Ages. There, it was known as the anteiglesia, (meaning “in front of the church”), where all the residents of a town would meet outside the door of the largest church and deliberate on local matters. Town hall democracy has also been a traditional practice since the 17th century in New England in the United States of America. A town hall meeting can be defined as an informal public meeting. It often discusses the issues in the community and explores ways one can chart to improve them. While the meeting is adjudged as the closest to the people, it also has the inherent attribute of involving the largest number of people and providing the most open platform for views. A town hall meeting is typically open to everybody in a town community with attendees given unfettered platform to voice their opinions and demand answers from public figures on matters that 187

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bother them. It is a direct interface between the leaders and the led with the collateral risk of flared tempers where any of the parties do not possess the requisite temperament and civilization. It is a risk most leaders do not often willingly subject themselves because of the likelihood of tilt towards a marred outcome. Many leaders are genuinely afraid of facing the people especially when the score-card of their stewardship is likely to be the fulcrum of discourse. This is aptly illustrated in interviews where the interviewer is often expected to send to the interviewee questions in advance to allow the latter to familiarize and acquaint himself with the questions and what answers to proffer. This has been standard practice over a period of time in formal settings. But a town hall meeting is different from an interview. Outside its large number of attendees is also the non-censorship thus allowing leaders to interact and feel the pulse of the people. The Akwa Ibom Town hall meeting which started in Eket Federal Constituency on March 5, 2015 and went round all the other nine federal constituencies in the State can best be described as a novel initiative by Governor Godswill Akpabio. We call this practice “Town Hall Democracy”. Dialogue is a postscript of democracy. People must create opportunity to talk and bare their minds. Where people do not talk or where there is breakdown in communication, misunderstanding, mistrust and other human elements set in to rankle the human union. It may have been why Governor Akpabio stated in Eket that the town hall meeting is to create harmony and allow the people to have a say in the business of governance. Discussions which are the enduring import of town hall meetings create such harmony with its overriding effect on the unity of the people. One of the obvious avowals of Akpabio administration is building a 188

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state that would remain inextricably bound in one accord. He has approached this with assiduity and zeal and with assurance that only unity can ensure our collective progress. The even distribution of infrastructure and political opportunities are testimonials of Governor Akpabio's unbridled commitment to the unity of the State. For a governor who sees the State and not a section as his constituency, the need to ensure that the key elements of consultation, participation and discussion are brought to bear in the polity, subsist for him as strong pre-occupations. This is where the town hall meetings embarked upon across the ten federal constituencies finds impetus and expression. It was Arnold Glasow who observed that the test of leadership is the ability to recognize a problem before it becomes an emergency. The governorship election of 2015 is already on the tenterhooks with the polity soused in tension and predictable mistrust. The governor's vision of engaging the people in discussions and interactions that would birth the people's will is a welcome dawn in our democratic practice. It is heartwarming to note that majority of the people appreciate and applaud the vision while internalizing the critical values of justice, equity, fair-play and good conscience as the roadmap that would guide the choice of governor in 2015. The courage that the town hall meeting initiative embodies is also a veritable subject for commentary. How many leaders would accept to face the people in an unfettered discourse under the prying eyes of global audience watching the event live on television? Only Statesmen whom they say are concerned about succeeding generations against politicians that are only concerned with the next election can find the courage for such adventure. Governor Akpabio is already manifesting statesmanship traits as he works assiduously to entrench enduring values in our polity. There is no gainsaying the fact that what he is planting today would bear fruitful seeds that 189

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would benefit many generations and stabilise the polity for guaranteable prosperity. The action of the Akpabio administration in conceiving the idea of a town hall meeting is a sharp contrast with pro-establishment culture. Government that is in fear of itself, that has not cultivated relationship with the people cannot embark on a town hall meeting or desire to partake in one. But the Akpabio administration has dared to be different. It has not only built goodwill and strong cordiality with the people of Akwa Ibom, it has through its works proved that, yes indeed, government can work. It is why it can organise a town hall meeting/briefing and commissioning of projects to face the people with evidence of good governance. The Akwa Ibom Town Hall Meeting has undoubtedly lived up to its billing as an initiative predicated on robust democratic culture. Against the prediction of pessimists that views would be circumscribed, the assembly has everywhere it has gone reinforced its commitment to democratic values and untainted sincerity towards midwifing good governance. In every federal constituency, the atmosphere has remained unfettered with every speaker at liberty to speak his or her mind. Examples of such liberty were noticeable in Eket Federal Constituency where Honourable Nduese Essien spoke fearlessly. Of course, Senator Eme Ekaette was equally unsparing. At Etinan Federal Constituency, Senator Effiong Bob laid bare his mind even as it seemed to be at variance with popular position. Itu/Ibiono Federal Constituency was not too different as the paramount ruler of Ibiono took the governor to task. Governor Akpabio who is the statutory moderator at all the town hall meetings, on his part, countenances all contrary views in a manner that further dignifies the assembly as a bedrock of democratic practice.

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The Town Hall meeting which is a tripartite as it also includes briefing and commissioning of projects captures succinctly Abraham Lincoln's observation when he said: “what I want is to get done what the people desire to have done, and the question for me is how to find that out exactly”. This same question must be Governor Akpabio's current seizure. And as a democrat and an emerging statesman, he has instituted a process that would collate views of the people and use same to chart a direction for the State. This approach is what many described as government by consultation, interaction and participation. It is the authentic democracy. We must therefore pay tribute to the man who has opened the floodgate for sundry views to come together to complete for acceptance. With this approach, we are assured that our democracy would remain on course with justice, equity and fair-play as watch-words.

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CHAPTER EIGHT

THE SOCIAL CONTRACT AND ORIGIN OF THE STATE: AKPABIO IN CONTEXT The state is most often described as a politically organized society. Society refers to human communities whether organized or unorganized. Whereas society is a wider term than the state, the state is a part of the society. The society contains other groups such as the family, the church, trade union and the market. The state is a political society. The state provides the framework for social order. The state often achieves this aim by its coercive power of the law and law enforcement. A pertinent question here is: What is the origin of the state? How did organized political life begin? This question has given rise to many theories of the origin of the state. Among those theories are the social contract theory, theory of divine origin of the state, patriarchal theory of the state and many others. Plato once argued that, once the society and state have been established to meet the human needs of protection and order, there is need for government which consists of the organs and persons to carry out the purposes of the state. The Social Contract Theory The central position of the social contract theory is: that the state is the result of an agreement entered into by men who originally had no government. Accordingly, since there was no government, there was no law and no enforcement mechanism. There was no authority to formulate rules, no authority to enforce them. Men were said to have lived in a state of nature and only subject to nature's law, the law of 192

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self – preservation, which was regarded as a primordial natural right. After some time, men decided to give up their natural right to form government. There are, however, different opinions by social contract theorists as to how men lived in the state of nature, why they decided to form a Government, the terms of the contract and the parties to the contract. They all agree, nonetheless, that the state is a human creation and the result of a contract. The works of Thomas Hooker, Johannes Althusius and Milton's Tenure of Kings and Magistrates contain early versions of the social contract theory. The popular versions of the social contract theory are found in the political philosophies of Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean – Jacques Rousseau, which shall be treated subsequently in this book. The Divine Origin theory is another theory used in explaining the relationship between the state and the people. More popularly known as the theory of divine right of kings, the divine origin theory of the state posits that the state was created by God's ordinance, where the rulers are appointed by God and that these rulers are only accountable to God, not the subjects. Holders of this theory support themselves in the Bible, in Romans 13:1-2: “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisted the power, resisted the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive unto themselves damnation”. A quick reaction to this: The English people revolted against King James I and were not doomed. They deposed him and fetched some freedom for themselves. They revolted against his dictatorship and tyranny. James I had believed that “Kings are not only God's lieutenants upon earth, and sit upon God's throne, but even by God himself they are called Gods (King James I: 1598). Earlier on the English people had created the Magna Carta and in 1215 rejected the 193

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tyranny of King John Lackland. These despotic monarchs had all claimed that God ordained them to lord it over the people as a punishment for their sins. But the people resisted them. In France, the French people downed the monarchy, rejected King Louis XIV and declared the Rights of Man and of the Citizen. The despotism of King George III of England provoked the American people to part company with England and to declare their Independence in 1776. All these historical incidents indicate that: a) The Kings either misunderstood and misinterpreted the Bible, or that they manipulated the Bible to suit their advantages; b) That divine right theory is either an illusion or a mental malady. In the Patriarchal theory, it was held that the unit of primitive society was the family, in which descent was traced through males and in which the eldest male was absolutely supreme. The single family breaks up into more families, which all held together under the head of the first family and become the tribe. An aggregation of tribes makes up the state. Henry Maine analyses the patriarchal theory in his books Ancient Laws (1861) and Early History of Institutions (1875). In Ancient Laws (106), he explains: “The elementary group is the Family, connected by common subjection to the highest male ascendant. The aggregation of families forms the “gens” or House. The aggregation of House makes the Tribe. The aggregation of Tribes constitutes the Commonwealth”. It is held that the state is an extension of the family, the head of the state being the father and the people are the children. This theory has historical and contemporary cultural appeals. Historically, the Patriarchs of the Old Testament, in the Bible, the Brotherhoods of Athens and the patria potestas (authority of the father) in Rome support the patriarchal theory. The government system in most cultures in traditional Africa also lends credence to this theory. Leadership in most African societies comes from the 194

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eldest male members. All in all, the patriarchal theory essentially suggests that kinship is the origin of the state. In terms of government, following Locke's theory, people enter another contract, after the formation of civil society, to set up any form of government and entrust it with a definite task. The government, so formed by the people, has obligation to fulfill this trust. Governor Akpabio, from inception of his administration, has certainly fulfilled the trust (mandate) the people of the state gave to him in 2007.

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CHAPTER NINE

CICERO'S POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY AND AKPABIO'S EXAMPLE Cicero was a Senator of the Roman Republic. He was a senator during the last year of the republic when Julius Ceasar, the great Roman statesman and general fell to the conspiracy of the senators on March 15, 44 B.C. He was senator alongside Marcus Brutus, Cassius, Casca, Publius, Popilius Lena, Trebonius, Ligarius, Metellus Cimber, Decius Brutus and Cinna. While other senators, particularly, Cassius and Brutus, feared that Caesar wanted to become king, and conspired to assassinate him at the Capitol, Cicero was rather worried about the republican constitution. His political objective was to restore the republican constitution to the form that it had had before the revolutionary tribunate of Tiberius Gracchus. Cicero favoured the mixed constitution of the Roman Republic. Contributed by many minds working under diverse circumstances and embodying piecemeal the solutions of political problems as they arose, the constitution of Rome, as Cicero conceived, was the most stable and perfect form of government that political experience had evolved (Sabine and Thorson, 1973:161). Cicero embraced the Stoic legal legacy. His political thought was a form of Stoicism. His thoughts are contained in his major works, the Republic and the Law. I. Natural Law Cicero defined natural law as right reason in agreement with nature. For Cicero, the test of law is whether it accords with the dictates of nature. Nature, for Cicero, has endowed mankind with the law it must obey, discernible by reason. Thus, the Romans saw in the Greek idea of natural law a vantage point from where they sought justification for the jus gentium and jus naturale, which was deemed 196

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to enshrine rational principles common to all civilised nations. Cicero gave to the Stoic doctrine of natural law a redefinition which was widely known throughout Western Europe since the first century to the nineteenth century, when positivism prevailed. The natural law is a universal law of nature which originates from God, same everywhere, unchangeable, timeless and binding upon all men and nations. In Cicero's words: There is in fact a true law- namely, right reason-which is in accordance with nature, applies to all men, and is unchangeable and eternal. By its commands this law summons men to the performance of their duties; by its prohibitions it restrains them from doing wrong. Its commands and prohibitions always influence good men, but are without effect upon the bad. To invalidate this law by human legislation is never morally right, nor is it permissible ever to restrict its operation, and to annul it wholly is impossible. Neither the senate nor the people can absolve us from our obligation to obey this law, and it requires no Sextus Aelius to expound and interpret it. It will not lay down one rule at Rome and another at Athens, nor will it be one rule to-day and another to-morrow. But there will be one law, eternal and unchangeable, binding at all times upon all peoples; and there will be, as it were, one common master and ruler of men, namely God, who is the author of this law, its interpreter, and its sponsor. The man who will not obey it will abandon his better self, and, in denying the true nature of a man, will thereby suffer the severest of penalties, though he has escaped all the other consequences which men call punishments (Republic, III, 22). ii. Equality of all men before this law Cicero stresses the equality of all men before this law. This equality also stems from reason as a common property of all men. He says: Out of all the material of the philosophers' discussions, surely there comes nothing more valuable than the full realization that we are 197

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born for Justice, and that right is based, not upon man's opinion, but upon Nature. This fact will immediately be plain if you once get a clear conception of man's fellowship and union with his fellow-men. For no single thing is so like another, so exactly its counterpart, as all of us are to one another. Nay, if bad habits and false beliefs did not twist the weaker minds and turn them in whatever direction they are inclined, no one would be so like his own self as all men would be like all others (Laws, I, 10, 28-29). iii. Welfare of the People as the Supreme Law The state belongs to the people and its authority emanates from the people. The people possess the state and its law. Cicero calls the state res publica, that is, “the affair of the people”. He says: The commonwealth, then, is the people's affair; and the people is not every group of men, associated in any manner, but is the coming together of a considerable number of men who are united by a common agreement about law and rights and by the desire to participate in mutual advantages (Republic, I, 25). Cicero emphasizes that the state, being a common property or common wealth of the people, derives its authority of government from the collective power of the people. Authority of government resides in the collective will of the people. The people choose the leader who must act according to law, “For as the laws govern the magistrate, so the magistrate governs the people, and it can truly be said that the magistrate is a speaking law, and the law a silent magistrate” (Laws, III, 1, 2). Cicero thus laid down general principles of government, namely: 1. That authority proceeds from the people; 2. That authority should be exercised only by warrant of law; 198

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3. That authority is justified only on moral grounds; and 4. That the welfare of the people is the supreme law (Salus populi suprema lex). Cicero laid the foundations for the Roman law, which became a reference and key points for modern laws and legislations in Europe. Roman law in the Digest and the Institutes is in great part the codification of the jurisprudence and political thoughts of Cicero. Roman law was a crystallization of Cicero's theory that the authority of the ruler is derived from the people. Ulpian summed it up in the Digest, saying, “The will of the Emperor has the force of law, because by the passage of the lex regia the people transfer to him and vest in him all its own power and authority” (Digest, 1,4,1). Cicero came before John Locke who later came to affirm that the authority of government resides in the consent of the governed. The Roman law jealously preserved the spirit of Cicero's salient averment that “We are servants of the law in order that we may be free” (Pro Cluentio, 53, 146). iv.

Typologies of Mixed Government

In Ancient Greece and Rome, philosophers had debated on the question of whether authority of government was to be assumed by one man, or by few men, or by many people. Government by one man is monarchy; government by few men is aristocracy, and government by the people is called democracy. Monarchy In Greek, “monos” means “alone” and “arkhein” means “rule”. “Monarkhes”, that is, Monarchy, is the rule of one person in a state. Aristotle defined monarchy as government by one individual not subject to any legal limitations “who does everything according to his own will” (Politics. 1287a). Monarchy is most often hereditary. However, Kings were elected in Ancient Rome during the phase of 199

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monarchy. This suggests that monarchy is not synonymous with absolute control of power. There are absolute monarchy and limited monarchy. Limited monarchy is also known as constitutional monarchy. In absolute monarchy, the monarch is the head of state in name and in fact. In constitutional monarchy, the monarch is head of state only in name. The power of the constitutional monarch is regulated by the constitution. In England, for example, the Stuart Kings, such as James 1, were absolute monarchs. In modern England, the king or queen is only a constitutional monarch, whose powers are regulated by the constitution. Aristocracy In Greek, “Aristos” means “best” and “Kratos” means “power”. “Aristokratia”, that is, Aristocracy, literally means government by the best citizens. Aristotle describes aristocracy as a state governed by the best men, upon the most virtuous principles (Politics. 1293b, 1294a). The cardinal principle of aristocracy is virtue: the moral and intellectual superiority of the ruling class. Aristocracy would have been the best form of government if the ruling class answered to their ideal vocation. But history has negated aristocracy as the best government. The evil treatment of Helots by the Spartans in Greece and the oppression of plebeian debtors by the Roman patricians indicate that aristocrats tend to assume superiority. This tendency also calls to question the idea of equality of men in the state. Democracy In Greek, “Demos” means “people” and “kratos” means “power”. “Demokratia”, that is, Democracy, literally means government of the people. A student in a Government or Political 200

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Science class often defines democracy as government of the people, by the people and for the people. In a democracy, the people carry out the governing power directly or indirectly through representatives periodically elected by them. Democracy is characterized by political participation, political equality and periodic change of government, when its tenure ends or if it becomes tyrannical. The basic thrust of a democracy is the people. Democracy is a populist form of government. There is a measure of personal freedom and equal consideration for all classes. The welfare of the people is central to democracy. Democracy originated in ancient Greece and was also in practice in Rome. v.

Cicero's Theory and Akpabio's Example The State is a human institution. The state is established for the purpose of human and infrastructural development. As a commonwealth, the state is the affair of the people gathered together, united together under a common law in the enjoyment of common wellbeing. In respect of government, Cicero asserts that government is the offshoot of society and of state. Once society and state have been formed to meet the human needs and protection, the organs and persons to carry out the purposes of the state is the government. Governments enable the state to have continuity. Governor Akpabio's Government is in line with the prescriptions of Cicero. Human needs and protection top the priorities of government and continuity remains the next agenda for any visionary leader. Governor Akpabio believes that power rotation would guarantee citizens' participation in government and control of public life. It would thereby guarantee political liberty of the citizens. The question of political liberty corresponds with the requirements of commonwealth, one of which is expression of the common will and consent for which every citizen is free to express. 201

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CHAPTER TEN

JOHN LOCKE'S POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: AKPABIO IN CONTEXT The Social Contract John Locke, Thomas Hobbes and Jean Jacques Rousseau are the most popular exponents of the Social Contract Theory. The social contract theory postulates that human beings had lived in a state of nature only subject to nature's basic law of selfpreservation. These human beings then decided to give up their primordial right in order to form a government. Hobbes, Rousseau and Locke present us with different opinions as to how men lived the state of nature, why they decided to form a government, the terms of the contract and the parties thereto. However, they all agree that the state is a human creation and a result of the contract. Thomas Hobbes The state of nature, according to Hobbes, is the condition of men living without government. In the Hobbesian state of nature, man is a wolf to man. In this state of nature there is natural equality of human capacities, and perpetual conflicts remain the order of the day. Each man constitutes a threat to a fellow man. Hobbes describes the state of nature as uncivil. In the state of nature, there is no place for industry; because the fruit thereof is uncertain: and consequently no culture of the earth, no navigation, nor use of commodities that may be imported by sea; no commodities for building; no instruments of moving, and removing such things as require much force; no knowledge of the face of the earth; no account of time; no Arts; no letters; no society; and which is worst of all, continual fear, and danger of violent death; and the life of man, solitary, poor, nasty, brutish and short. 202

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In this state of being the law is that of self preservation, since none could predict what he would do for the preservation of his life. The preservation of life becomes the right of nature. The right of nature, in Hobbes' view, is a precept, or general rule found out by reason, by which a man is forbidden to do, that, which is destructive of his life, or takes away the means of preserving the same; and to omit, that, by which he thinks it may be best preserved. To allay the fear, insecurity, solitude, poverty, nastiness, brutality and brevity of life that surround the right of man in the state of nature, men enter into a social contract. Men surrender their individual right of selfpreservation to a sovereign, whose sovereignty is unlimited. By surrendering their right of nature to a sovereign who is not party to the social contract, men legitimize whatever the sovereign does. In Hobbes, the law of nature, therefore, lies in the fact that everyone has to surrender his right to everyone else and begin to respect the right of others. The sovereign is not subject to any law. The Hobbesian sovereign is a dictator. Jean Jacques Rousseau “Man is born free, but everywhere he is in chains” is a significant expression of Rousseau's social contract theory. Rousseau sought to find a form of association which would protect the person and property of every associate with the whole force of the country and by means of which, coalescing with all, may obey only himself yet remain as free as before. In order to realize this association, Rousseau argues that each person must surrender all his rights to the general will (volente generale) which is the commonwealth, res publica. Hence each of us puts in common his person and his whole power under the supreme direction of the general will; and in return we receive every member as an indivisible part of the whole (Socal Contract). This act of association produces a collective body, composed of many members, and which receives from this same act its unity, its common self (moi), its life, its will. According to Rousseau, this 203

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collective body, which was initially named city, now takes the names “republic or body politic”, when it is passive, “sovereign” when it is active, and “power” when it is compared to similar bodies. The associates are collectively named “people”, and are individually called “citizens” as they participate in the sovereign power and are called “subjects” as they are subject to the laws of the state. As a free agent the individual gives up his liberty to the general will and remains subject to it, for “man is born free, but everywhere he is in chains”. How and in what sense can the autonomous wills of individuals be understood as constituents of the general will? Rousseau appears not to have addressed this question so as not to unmake the general will amorphous and nebulous. John Locke's Social Contract Theory Natural right, according to Locke, is an entitlement under natural law, which is God's law. Locke argues that God did not create the world in vain. Locke argues that God intended Adam and Eve to live as contented vegetarians. But since they rebelled against God, Locke continues, they were punished, first, by expulsion from the garden, and for man, labour for his bread. Locke deduces from this story in the Biblical account of creation that man was granted the right to life, the natural right to labour and a natural right to the land he tilled and the fruits of his labour. In furtherance of his arguments, Locke observed that each man knows by the natural light of reason that other men possess same rights as he does. And, again, that his rights must be respected by other men. Each man, for his rights to be respected, had to respect another's rights. Each man, then, becomes duty-bound to respect the rights of others. This reciprocity makes the state of nature social. Due to his imperfections, nonetheless, men would sometimes invade the natural rights of others. Men entrust the government with their right to judgement on the condition that the government uses the right to judge when there is violation of natural rights. By so doing, men form the commonwealth, res publica. Locke says: 204

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Men, being as has been said, by nature, all free, equal and independent, no one can be put out of this estate, and subjected to the political power of another, without his own consent. The only way whereby any one divests himself of his natural liberty, and puts on the bonds of civil society is by agreeing with other men to join and unite into a community, for their comfortable, safe, and peaceful living one amongst another, in a secure enjoyment of their property, and a greater security any that are not of it. This any number of men may do, because it injures not the freedom of the rest; they are left as they were in the liberty of the state of nature. When any number of men has so consented to make one community or government, they are thereby presently incorporated, and make one body politic, wherein the majority has a right to act and conclude the rest (Two Treatise on Government). Government as a Trust and the Will of the People The power of government lies in the consent of the governed. The sovereign is part of the common wealth since he gives up his rights to the commonwealth. Sovereignty is entrusted to the sovereign, but if the sovereign betrays this trust, Locke argues, exercise of judgement reverts to the governed, and the governed are, then, at liberty to constitute a new contract. Locke's theory of natural rights leaves a whole lot of political principles for government. Such principles, inter alia, are the consent principle, majority principle, right to civil disobedience and civil and political rights. Hobbes'sovereign is a 'Leviathan' who is not part of the commonwealth. Locke's sovereign is part of the commonwealth. The right to life, liberty and property as given in the twenty second article of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights were argued for by John Locke, and, so, any discourse on human rights without a basis in the philosophy of John Locke is incomplete.

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Election as a Democratic Method The formal decision-making process by which a population chooses an individual to hold public office defines an election (Encyclopedia Britannica Online). Election is a methodology in modern representative democracy, and it has been so in operation since the 17th Century. However, election dates back to ancient times. Elections were in operation as early in history as ancient Greece and ancient Rome. While the Greeks voted on who should inherit the weapons of Achilles, the Roman coin depicted election. In the Roman Republic, government was created through elections. Elections were also used throughout the medieval period to select rulers such as the Holy Roman Emperor as well as the Pope. However, the election of the Pope does not belong to the populace, but only to the “College of Electors”, who must of necessity be cardinals of the Roman Catholic Church. Elections were also used to select rajas by the gana in medieval Indian caliphs, Uttman and Ali, in the early medieval Rashidun caliphate (Encyclopedia of Islam and the Muslim World. 2004: Vol. 116- 123). The Pala king, Gopala, was elected into office in early medieval Bengal (History of Buddhism in India). Modern election which entails public elections of government officials did not emerge until the beginning of the 17th Century, when the representative form of government held sway in Europe and North America. Early elections in countries such as Great Britain and the United States were dominated by landed or ruling class males. That philosophers shaped the ideology of modern representative government may be less obvious, but not less true. Again, the exponents of the social contract theory-Thomas Hobbes, John Locke and Jean- Jacques Rousseau-come readily to mind. They all suggested that the people should form their government and make their sovereign leader. Nonetheless, John Locke and Montesquieu, 206

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ideological proponents of the doctrine of separation of powers, were also the ideological proponents of election as a methodology in representative democracy. Men, according to Locke, being by nature, all free, equal and independent, can consent to make one government, where the majority has a right to act and conclude the rest. The power of government lies in the consent of the governed. Sovereignty is entrusted to the sovereign, but if the sovereign betrays this trust and turns tyrannical, judgment reverts to the people, and the people are then at liberty to constitute a new contract (See Essien, Philosophy of Peace and Conflict beyond the United Nations, 2008: 76 – 77). Hear Locke when he says that: Whenever the legislators endeavour to take away and destroy the property of the people, or to reduce them to slavery under arbitrary power, they put themselves into a state of war with the people, who are thereupon absolved from any farther obedience, and are left to the common refuge which God hath provided for all men against force and violence. Power then devolves to the people, who have a right to resume their original liberty, and by the establishment of a new legislative (such as they shall think fit), provided for their own safety and security, which is the end for which they are in society (Locke. Second Treatise of Civil Government. Trans. David Mazel. Cambridge: 460-461). In Book II, Chapter 2 of his book, The Spirit of Laws, Montesquieu states that “in a democracy the people are in some respects the sovereign, and in others the subject. There can be no exercise of sovereignty but by their suffrages, which are their own will. Now the sovereign's will is the sovereign himself. The laws therefore which establish the right of suffrage are fundamental to this government and indeed it is as important to regulate in a republic, in what manner, by whom, to whom and concerning what, suffrages are to be given, as it is in a monarchy to know who is the prince, and after what manner he ought to govern”. Montesquieu thematically continues to state that, 207

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“In the case of elections in a democracy, voters alternate between being the rulers of the country and being the subjects of the government. By the act of voting, the people operate in a sovereign capacity, acting as masters to select their government”. We learn from Montesquieu that the elector today can be the elected tomorrow. From Locke, we learn that the authority which the government has is formed by the consent of the people, who can oppose a despotic government, remove such a government, and replace it with another. Akpabio in the context of Locke's Philosophy and Elections According to Governor Akpabio, “The 2007 elections which led to our emergence signposted a rallying cry for us to rebuild the wall of our state. In an election in which more than 65 aspirants (some of these favoured and sponsored by the Government of the day), contested the primary election with me, I emerged victorious because my candidature typified Akwa Ibom renaissance and was a mass movement of Akwa Ibom people. From every nook and cranny of the state, people showed up for us and some slept in the rain and under the sun in an exercise which the rules sometimes changed after we understood the game. Seldom have a people expressed so much hope in a man and so much enthusiasm in his election. I did not take this confidence lightly and I still remind myself every minute of the day that 'to whom much is given much is expected.' ” The primary function of election is for change of government. Besides this primary function, election ensures the following: fosters democracy and serves as its methodology; guarantees free choice of leaders; confers legitimacy on the elected government; educates the electorate on citizenship, civil right and fundamental freedoms; pragmatises equality as it is a case of one man one vote.

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17th October, 2021

CHAPTER ELEVEN

GODSWILL AKPABIO'S GOVERNMENT AS A PRACTICE OF PEOPLE-CENTRED PHILOSOPHIES OF CICERO AND JOHN LOCKE A PEOPLE-CENTRED GOVERNANCE I. Akwa Ibom State: The Story of Uncommon Transformation* Below is a transcript of Governor Godswill Akpabio's address to Akwa Ibom citizens after his success at the 2011 polls which began his second term as Governor. The 2007 elections which led to our emergence signposted a rallying cry for us to rebuild the wall of our state. In an election in which more than 65 aspirants (some of these favoured and sponsored by the Government of the day), contested the primary election with me, I emerged victorious because my candidature typified Akwa Ibom renaissance and was a mass movement of Akwa Ibom people. From every nook and cranny of the state, people showed up for us and some slept in the rain and under the sun in an exercise which the rules sometimes changed after we understood the game. Seldom have a people expressed so much hope in a man and so much enthusiasm in his election. I did not take this confidence lightly and I still remind myself every minute of the day that “to whom much is given much is expected.”

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What we did in the last four years has been labeled, “Uncommon Transformation”. But the missing part in this description is that the uncommon transformation was borne out of uncommon faith in a man by an uncommon people who have an uncommon destiny. A people have been seared in the heat of poverty, emasculated by infrastructural paucity and staggered by self doubt in a land which had almost consigned them to second class citizenship; a people who have been cast down by man, but were not forgotten by God who in our time has made all things beautiful. “How did a state born with great promise like Akwa Ibom become a factory for houseboys and house girls?” You may ask. Akwa Ibom people are the most honest people in our country. Consequently our nation sought to have housekeepers from our state. Of all Nigerians, they could only trust our people with their children and their food. And as it is conventional in human nature, this noble trait was abused and we came to be seen as persons who were born to serve others. I was in Lagos, doing my best in Law, before I responded to the call to serve in the motherland. I felt a pain in my heart whenever I visited my friends and they would tell me, 'Let your sister, our housemaid, come and bring you a drink.' I felt even more pained when some of them would ask me, “Please can you get a house girl or house boy for me from your state?” I made up my mind that the shame must be lifted from our shoulders. I believed and still believe that for so long as one Akwa Ibom person is in servitude because his or her parents could not send her or him to school, then all Akwa Ibom persons at home and in the Diaspora, educated and illiterate are in servitude. Today, the story is different. The house girls and house boys are in schools courtesy of our free education programme. Akwa Ibom people walk tall and proud because the state has now become the toast of Nigeria and a perfect example that democracy works. Our state has become the preferred destination for conferences in 210

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Nigeria. But let me pause here and give you a sampler of what we did in the last four years. EDUCATION Having lost my father when I was six months, and raised by a struggling widow, I missed a year of schooling because my mother could not afford the fees for all of us. And I decided in those dark days of despair that if God ever made me Governor, I would make sure that all poor children go to school free. And perhaps God made me Governor just so that our poor children could go to school. When we marked the first anniversary of this policy, I said that we were not celebrating the victory of politics or the triumph of administrative policy, but we were celebrating the success of common sense and the destruction forever of the houseboy/house girl syndrome. Our investment in education encompasses a massive rehabilitation of all primary and secondary schools in our state. We have so far spent N40 billion on revamping the educational sector. But this money represents both a source of joy and a basis for apprehension. Joy; that so many people are in school, and apprehension; because if the proper educational and examination values and ethics are not maintained in these schools, then, we are undertaking an investment which would not yield the desired social dividends. The policy objective of this administration is to produce a very vibrant, literate and well-focused population in the next five to ten years. To this end we have undertaken: The free, compulsory and qualitative education from primary to senior secondary school level: To ensure the elimination of fees of all kinds we pay subvention to primary school head teachers at N100 per pupil per term and to secondary school principals at N300 per student per term; 211

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Massive rehabilitation and construction of educational infrastructure: We have built over 500 new classroom blocks and rehabilitated over 1,500 others. We have built/constructed over 500 classroom blocks, dormitories and laboratories across the state and rehabilitated about 1800 others; Employment of teachers and the absorption of more than 2,000 primary school teachers who were initially employed for a Federal Government Universal Basic Education scheme. CHILD RIGHTS AND PROTECTION Conscious of the need to ensure the protection of the rights of our children, we enacted the Child Rights and Protection Law 2008. This law was meant to safeguard our children's rights and protect them from social vices including sexual abuse, child prostitution and witchcraft stigmatization. As government, we have striven to ensure that abandoned children are catered for. We have built and we maintain Child Welfare Centers, and courtesy of my wife and our First Lady, the state today has an ultra-modern reformation centre for children. And the news of the stigmatization of our children was brought to our notice; we promptly set up a judicial panel of inquiry to investigate the matter. The commission recently concluded its assignment and submitted its report, which is being considered by Government. HEALTH We see healthcare not only as a goal of development, but as the right of individuals and the means to achieve the related goals of higher labour productivity. Our health investment in Akwa Ibom State is focused on ten major policy areas. These are:

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1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Health infrastructural development Health man power development and training Provision of drugs and equipment HIV/AIDS prevention and control Roll Back Malaria Aggressive Immunization Campaigns for infants and mothers 7. Integrated Maternal, New Born and Child Health 8. Free medical treatment for pregnant women, children five years and under and the elderly 9. Improved Staff Welfare Scheme 10. Effective Service delivery We inherited health structures which were in a general state of decay, prompting many of our citizens to shun hospitals. Not only did we improve our healthcare structures, we built five new cottage hospitals. In addition, we are building another tertiary health institution in the 'Anniversary Specialist Hospital.' In a bid to fight mortality among infants and mothers, we established free medical treatment for these groups. Aided by this, we have been able to reduce the infant mortality rate and the maternal mortality rate by 75 percent and well below the national average. We also have free medical treatment for our senior citizens. FEDERAL PROJECTS We embarked on a massive reconstruction of roads including federal roads because those who were dying on those roads were our people. We constructed five federal roads, which traverse the state, with a combined total length of 198.6kilometres. Some of these were dualized, and bridges and drainages constructed in them. We also did internal roads in the following federal institutions, the University of Uyo, University of Uyo Teaching Hospital and the Nigeria Television Authority Channel 12, Uyo. It should be stated that the 213

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Federal Government has promised to refund to us the money spent on these projects. ELECTRICITY In the last four years, we have completed the electrification of 1,400 communities. This has raised electricity coverage in the state to 85 percent. Our target is to achieve a hundred percent coverage before the end of this term in office. We have not only hooked these communities up to the national grid, we have installed transformers, to service these communities and had since handed them over to the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN. In the same vein, I am proud to inform you that the First Phase of the 191 megawatts of our independent power plant located at Ikot Abasi had since been completed and over 40MW of power from the plant is currently released to the national grid and is being utilized in parts of the state. We believe that with the expected deregulation of the power sector, we will soon have uninterrupted power supply in our state. ROADS The transformation of our state in terms of road construction has been one of our most hailed accomplishments. So far we have tarred 211 roads covering over 700km throughout the state and built several bridges and constructed three concentric flyovers in the state. The flyovers are so beautiful that I am certain that you would not resist the urge to take pictures there when you visit home. AIRPORT AND AVIATION DEVELOPMENT The story of the development of the Ibom international Airport is an interesting one. When we assumed office in 2007, we met an airport project which technical evaluation placed at ten percent level of completion. Because we understood the importance of the project for Akwa Ibom people, we took it on and pursued it to its logical 214

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conclusion. Let me announce to you that today, you have a completed international airport with 3.6 km runway, first class facilities and aviation aids. Your airport is playing host to domestic and international flights. Last year we commenced international flights with the airlift of over 1,000 pilgrims to Ben-Gurion International Airport, Tel Aviv, Israel. We have succeeded in stamping our state on the global aviation map. And let me at same breath, commend His Excellency, Otuekong Idongesit Nkanga, the Chairman of the project and his team for doing a difficult job well and making us proud. The state's investment in the airport was boosted by feasibility studies which used the West African aviation industry as its study area. Based on these feasibility studies, Government sought to provide a hanger facility which would cater for and exceed the aviation needs of the West African region. Armed with our studies, the state wrote to the presidency and obtained an approval to build and operate a national hangar. We are putting together a state-of-theart hangar with the most modern and most sophisticated equipment which will meet our aviation goals and that of the West African sub region for years to come, and it is capable of maintaining two Boeing 747 and/of four Boeing 737 simultaneously. The maintenance capability will cover A, B, C, and D checks on aircrafts. We have trained 251 members of staff in the best universities and aviation institutions in the world on various disciplines including avionics, power plant and airframe, maintenance engineering, firefighting, aviation security, air traffic control, etc. HOUSING Government attaches high priority to the provision of affordable housing to our citizens. We have undertaken the construction of 2,000 housing units in the three Senatorial Districts and 31 mini215

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housing estates in the 31 local government areas. In addition to this we have also constructed a state-of-the-art Governor's Lodge. And we have completed and commissioned the following projects: ultra modern e-library in Uyo and the Federal Prison at Ikot Ekpene. The Ikot Ekpene Prison meets the international standard for correctional facilities and is said to be the best so far in Nigeria. We went into this when we had to relocate the oldest prison in our state and one of the oldest in Nigeria from the middle of Ikot Ekpene town to the outskirts of the town. The Banquet Hall on Metro Road, Uyo, and several other projects are nearing completion. TROPICANA ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE We are also building a world class hospitality complex, Tropicana Entertainment Centre, with a galleria, Cineplex, shopping mall, 250 rooms five star hotel etc. The present hospitality infrastructure in our state cannot support our ambition to become the industrial hub in the Gulf of Guinea Already, we have completed the Cineplex and today, Akwa Ibom children watch movies in the Tropicana. Our intention is to use the Tropicana to drive tourism initiative and create employment for our youths. IBOM GAS PLANT This project, which had since been completed, involves the construction of a 59.5km pipeline from Uquo in Esit Eket to Ibom Power Plant in Ikot Abasi. The Ibom Gas Plant will supply gas to Ibom Power Plant in the light of the obvious incapacity of Nigerian Gas Company, NGC, to meet the gas needs of the plant. The project was handled by Septa Energy Ltd., a subsidiary of Seventh Energy, a UK-based gas development company. This project was undertaken under “PPP” arrangement whereby the AKSG has contributed $33 million down payment for gas supply to the IPP for at least one year, while the company has invested $550 million in the construction of the Gas. 216

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IBOM INDUSTRIAL CITY The Ibom Industrial City will be an industrial mix of oil and gasbased support services, dockyard and watercraft repair facilities, fertilizer plant, oil refinery, gas-to-liquid projects, petrochemical industries, power plant, deep seaport, etc. In fact, this promises to be a self - sustaining industrial city with schools, hospitals, shopping malls, hotels etc. It will be one of its kind in the entire continent of Africa. When fully operational, we believe it would employ directly and indirectly over 100,000 people, increase the export base of the state, put the state on the oil and gas map of the world, and would open up the state as one of the gateways to the world in the Gulf of Guinea and the West African sub region. It should also be noted that the area designated for this project has the longest coastline and one of the deepest water depths of any seaport in the country. Off the coast of this water, we have the most nutritious shrimps and lobsters in the world. The port would not require perennial dredging because Ibaka has a depth of over 13knots and when constructed, would complement the ports at Lagos, Port Harcourt and Calabar and help boost Nigeria's influence in the Gulf of Guinea. The water depth would allow large ocean liners to reach ashore, thereby easing congestion in Lagos and other parts, a development that would boost maritime revenue for Nigeria. Already the Federal Government has indicated interest in partnering with us in project. CHANGING OUR RURAL COMMUNITIES: THE INTERMINISTERIAL MODEL The Inter-Ministerial Direct Labour Committee was conceived as a fast clearing house for expeditious execution and implementation of identified rapid impact that could improve the lives of the rural dwellers. I can announce to you that we have achieved a lot through it. So far, over 3000 projects have been completed with several 217

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already commissioned. The beauty of this approach is that all the 31 Local Government Areas in the State are proud beneficiaries of over 80 projects each. We intend to pursue this initiative vigorously to ensure development is taken to all the nooks and crannies of the State. THE NEXT FOUR YEARS The belief which drives our vision is anchored on the fact that Akwa Ibom State can and must be a better place for all Akwa Ibom people born and unborn. This article of faith inspires the renewal of our state in the past four years and will spur us to do more in the next four years. We have demonstrated the core values of democratic governance and become pacesetters in our national developmental efforts. Our efforts have been appreciated at home and abroad by many frontline institutions of learning (University of Calabar, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, University of Uyo, and University of Nigeria, Nsukka awarding me Honorary Doctoral degrees, not to mention fellowships of polytechnics and colleges of education and others), the media (the media have awarded me several “Man of the Year” awards), foreign countries, the church, traditional institutions, etc. We are riding on a developmental momentum which is unprecedented in our state in particular and our country in general. And because the good people of our state have become the toast of the nation, they demanded that this momentum should not be lost, but that we should continue with the transformation of our state and let God's will be done again. I accepted this sacred trust and mandate for a Second Term with great humility. Fully conscious of the faith of the people in us, we have decided to continue to commit ourselves to the cause of the people and to bind ourselves to the task of complete transformation of our state and its good people. These are some of our programs for this tenure:

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CONTINUITY The quantifiable benefits to our people have been enormous in the last four years and we intend to continue with this objective of making the welfare of the Akwa Ibom person the centre piece of all our efforts and actions as a government. We intend to continue with all our projects and complete all of them. INDUSTRALIZATION What has always counted in this administration is what works. That is why we have committed ourselves to completing all viable abandoned projects and not leaving behind any abandoned project ourselves. Our objectives may sound radical, but that is simply because they are bold, modern and visionary. We commit ourselves to the establishment of an industry in each of the local government areas of our state. This, we believe, will make our state the industrial hub of our nation and lead to the employment of our teeming youths. EDUCATION In order to consolidate on our widely-acclaimed gains in this sector, we intend to provide more basic facilities like libraries, science laboratories, etc. We also intend to procure more text and exercise books for distribution to our school children in the public school system. Other plans include: the renovation and construction of more classroom blocks to take care of the tripling of enrolment in the school system, and the introduction of the boarding system in more schools to ensure a controlled and disciplined learning environment. SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY We intend to set up computer laboratories in both secondary and primary schools for the teaching of computer applications at school level. We will also deploy wide area network infrastructure for citywide surveillance (with internet protocol {IP} cameras), and provide 219

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video surveillance for bullion vans and banking areas. We also intend to establish Biogas Energy Plant for the production of high quality fertilizer and thermal energy through the decomposition of organic domestic waste and thereby reducing environmental pollution. COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY This is another key area which witnessed great activities in our First Term in office. The projects below are mapped out for attention. Ibom International Airport: Listed for action at the airport are: Completion of the Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility, construction of the cargo wing, construction of the Airport Main Terminal building and expansion of the Apron to accommodate many aircrafts. Ibom Tropicana Centre: On Ibom Tropicana Centre we intend to complete the four standing components of the complex which are: (1) A 2000 square meters floor two story mall; (2) A 250 room fourteen floor five star hotel; (3) A 5000 seating capacity multi- floor convention centre; (4) A theme park comprising both wet and dry sections. Ibom Power Plant and Ibom Gas Plant: We intend to have uninterrupted power supply before the end of this year when all distribution issues would have been resolved. At the same time the Ibom Gas Plant will ensure that the gas needs of the IPP are met and our utilization of the IPP optimized. TRANSPORTATION We intend to increase the number of township taxis, buses and tricycles in order to ease the transportation problems of our state and these vehicles would be distributed fairly and in order to address the poverty alleviation challenges of our state. On water transportation we note only 27 networks which cover 19 LGAs are available. We 220

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intend to redress this situation and water transportation to 12 additional local government areas; and we intend to add three regional transport schemes covering the three Senatorial Districts of our state. ELECTRIFICATION As stated earlier, we have broken the national record with 85 percent electrification level in the state. We will pursue with vigor the electrification of all communities in Akwa Ibom state. WATER SUPPLY We intend to ensure that we also achieve a hundred percent pipeborne and borehole water supply provision to all communities in our state in the next four years. ROADS Roads have been one of our key priority areas and we intend to keep it so. In the next four years of my administration, we intend to open more roads to the rural areas in order to facilitate the movement of persons, goods and services across the state. Already, we have awarded a N28 billion contract for Ring Road 3, Uyo. We also will dualize the Ekom Iman- Etinan- Eket Road and the Uyo – Ikot Ekpene Road. Work is already ongoing on the six lanes Aka-Nnung Udoe Road. RURAL ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT To complement our establishment of industries in all local government areas of our state, we intend to aggressively finance the establishment of micro, small and medium scale enterprises, particularly those in the agro-allied sector. We also will promote economic activities, hitherto obtained in urban areas, in the rural areas particularly as we intend to have uninterrupted power supply

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across the entire state, within the first year of the second tenure. SOCIAL WELFARE We intend to establish handicapped persons welfare scheme to eliminate begging (an alien culture to Akwa Ibom) from our land. We will support women non-governmental organizations and groups and domesticate the 35 percent affirmative action plan on the appointment of women into public and elective offices. Consequently, we will establish Women Development Centers in the three senatorial districts to fight against harmful traditional practices and gender abuses against women. We will reactivate/establish cassava/garri processing mills and palm kernel/palm oil mills, fish ponds and poultry farms for women. Other issues that we hope to tackle include the strict enforcement of the child rights law and sensitization of the citizenry about the law. Empowerment of women through micro credit schemes for women cooperative societies and the creation of employment for persons with disabilities in both the informal and formal sectors of the economy of the state. SECURITY Though we would have wished there were no incidents of this invidious crime in our state, we are proud to say that we are winning the fight against kidnapping. Compared to other states, kidnapping is not as common commonplace as it is painted here by our detractors, who are prepared to cut their noses in order to spite their faces. Suffice it to say that we have brought in the state-of-the-art technology to combat this scourge and no kidnapper would feel safe in this state anymore. We intend to pump more money into the security situation until we completely eliminate this crime in our state. HEALTH The health of our people had always been our top priority. In the next four years, we will, as has been our custom, focus on the reduction of HIV/AIDS through enlightenment campaigns, voluntary counseling and testing and the provision of anti-retroviral drugs for the treatment and control of the infection. 222

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We have successfully reduced the maternal and infant mortality rate in our state by over 75 percent with our free medical treatment for pregnant women. We intend to increase the momentum of this success with regular screening for breast and ovarian cancer; family planning; immunization/vaccination for infants against the childhood killer diseases; observation of maternal, newborn and child health weeks; implementation of other measures to promote other primary health care activities in the state. We intend to sustain our free medical treatment for the aged of 70 years and above, pregnant women and children five years and below. ENVIRONMENT One of the challenges of an industrialized land is devising a means of appropriate waste disposal. We intend to build three sewage treatment plants in the three senatorial districts. Not only will this generate revenue through sewage collection levies, it will generate employment for our teeming youths, keep our cities clean and reduce the health hazards facing our people. Tied to this will be a program for the house-to-house collection of the refuse. Other programmes lined up in this area include the establishment of recreational centers in urban areas and a strategic reforestation programme with a mission to plant over 2 million trees per year for the next four years in order to migrate the negative impact of climate change and also position the state to benefit from the global climate change financing mechanism. Furthermore, we intend to embark on the construction of erosion/flood control projects at lquita Lane, Oron, Midim Waterside, Abak; Ema Itam/Ikot Ayan Itam, Itu; OdoroIkpe, Ini; Ekeya, Okobo; St. Mary's Science College, Abak; Effiong Udo Akpan Street, Uyo; and Utit Obio, Ibiono Ibom. And the construction of additional drains at the inlet of Nkemba trough, Top Faith Road, Abak Road and its environs, and the construction of Mbiokporo Outfall No.1 and 2 to check flood problems at Idoro 223

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Road and environs. In addition we intend to address coastal erosion at the following places; Ikot Abasi, Ibeno and Eastern Obolo. SPORTS AND RECREATION We recognize the fact that sports has become a major source of revenue and we are minded to accelerate the development of sports in our state. We are, therefore, committed to the construction of ultramodern 30,000 capacity Olympic-size stadium in Uyo. We owe our forefathers a duty to build a great state in their honour and as a proof that their labours for the creation of our state were not in vain. We owe posterity an obligation to leave behind a legacy which they would look back on and say, “Truly this was a great generation!” That is why we are making our administration of the state a turning point. And this is why we want you to come and see things for yourself and come back and tell your children about the beautiful land in Africa's rainforest, the land of limitless opportunities, the land of our ancestor's pride… the proud land where their ancestors were buried and the land of your birth. Tell them in the full moon and over dinner about blessed Akwa Ibom State, the land of promise. We expect them to come visiting some day. Thank you and God bless you.

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i. VOX POP AND TESTIMONIES ON AKPABIO'S DEMOCRATIC GOVERNANCE “Free education has helped me.” - Israel Samuel Okon, JSS 2 Student, West Itam Secondary School, Uyo “Akpabio's performance is very high… It is an excellent performance.” - Emmanuel E. Akpan, Chairman, Labour Party, Akwa Ibom State “If it were possible for him to do a third and fourth terms, Ekid youths would return him again and again to office.” - Hon. Godwin Nduese, Chairman, Ekid Youth Council “Akpabio has redeemed all the promises he made to the people when he sought their mandate to be governor. It is an example for others to follow regarding the promises they make to the electorate.” - Engr. Billy Etuk, Zonal Leader, PDP Uyo Senatorial District “Akpabio is a man of destiny who took the mantle of leadership of the state courageously to give a purpose-driven and focused administration to our people.” - Elder Etim E. Udofia, Internal Revenue Service, Akwa Ibom State “I am a few years older than Akwa Ibom, but old enough to know that there have been changes in the state. Now there are good roads, hospitals, free education and free healthcare services in the state. In fact, I am happy to be part of this generation with a dynamic governor.” 225

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Doreen James Etim, Applicant, Uyo

“For the first time in the history of this part of Nigeria, the old Eastern Region, a real relief has come to our people in free and compulsory education. It is the greatest achievement he has made.” - Edidem Ime D. Umoette, Paramount Ruler of Etinan “We can see the finger of God at work.” - Donatus Anene, Anambra State indigene residing in Uyo “We are testimonies of Chief Godswill Akpabio's large heartedness and kindness to the youths.” - Onofiok Luke, Former Speaker, Nigerian Youth Parliament “What is evident needs no further evidence. Under Governor Akpabio's governance, you don't need the people's evidence to know that Akwa Ibom is a model state. The fact speaks for itself- res ipsa loquitur.” - Helen Adrian, Abak Youth “Akpabio is very gender friendly and his performance is marvelous. Any little child can also observe what is happening in the state.” - Rose Udo Toby, President Women in Politics, Akwa Ibom State “Akpabio is a man of proven integrity who has made Nigeria and entire Africa proud. He has established love and selfless service to the people” -President Goodluck Ebele Johnathan

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“Akpabio's free education is the most important legacy because without education, none of us can develop our innate abilities and ideas to ourselves, community, state, country and the whole world” - Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Former Nigerian President “A goal getter” -Dr. Abubakar Baraje, Acting National Chairman, People Democratic Party “Akpabio has aggregated the will of the people. He is really God's will for Akwa Ibom.” -General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida, (rtd.), ExNigerian Military President “Akpabio has a surgical know-how in resuscitating the ailing medical problems and other development headaches of Akwa Ibom” -Professor Okechukwu Mbonu “Godswill Akpabio is writing the future in gold” -Daily Independent “Akpabio is giving hope to Nigerians. - Babatunde Fashola (SAN), Lagos State Governor “Akpabio has justified the mandate given to him by the masses in Akwa Ibom.” - Dr. Sunday Makinde, Prelate of Methodist Church, Nigeria “I have gone round to see projects and honestly, I am thrilled. I can tell you without any fear of contradiction that this young man (Akpabio) started rebranding Akwa Ibom right from May, 2007. - Professor Dora Akunyili, Former Minister of Information 227

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“A man on a mission” - Tell magazine “Akpabio deserves a special trophy for spearheading massive people-oriented development that has altered the landscape of the state.” - Akwa Ibom Association, New York, USA “Akpabio has performed maximally well. Even my boss never did what Akpabio is doing in all aspects.” - Chief Chris Ekpenyong, Former Deputy Governor, Akwa Ibom State “Governor Akpabio stands out very tall among us the governors for his correct focus and total commitment to positively transform Akwa Ibom State particularly in the areas of essential infrastructure and the maintenance of the political unity and stability of his state in particular and Nigeria in general… I am not campaigning for him; I am only stating the obvious. The sky is his limit.” - His Excellency, Danjuma Goje, Governor, Gombe State “Your works will speak for you.” -Mrs. Patience Jonathan, Nigerian First Lady “What he has achieved so far even without the completion of his first tenure is what some of our past administrations could not achieve in eight years.” - Evangelist Ani Jacob, Arkansas, United States.

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“A lot of development has taken place in the past 22 years. But what has happened in the last two years is unprecedented.” - Dr. Timmtingiko Papaudo Enodien, Late Paramount Ruler of Eket “Governor Akpabio is a woman-friendly governor as women have had their due under his administration.” - Obonganwan Rita Akpan, Former Minister Women Affairs “His ability to frame the physical shape of Akwa Ibom with numerous infrastructural improvements has enabled Akwa Ibom environment for industrial and commercial development and investment.” - Emmanuel Umoh, Texas, USA. “The coming of Governor Godswill Akpabio to govern the state is the greatest thing to happen to the state since creation. This is the first time that the people witness what is called development; I mean development in the 31 local government areas of the state.” - David Essien, Norway “Godswill Akpabio has given to his people far more than he promised them “ - Mike Akpan, Contributing Editor, Newswatch “Dr. Akpabio has covered the landscape of Akwa Ibom like a colossus in his development strides.” - Elder Martin Usenekong, Veteran Journalist “Akwa Ibom has transited from the land of promise to the land of

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fulfillment and is now aiming towards being a destination of choice. This can only be achieved through the efforts of our digital Governor Godswill Akpabio.” - Chief Uffot Ekaette, Former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs “Akpabio is someone with a super sensational passion for working the history of his people.” - Don King, US Boxing Promoter “Governor Akpabio is the governor that Akwa Ibom people have been waiting for.” - Obong Iwaad Ibangha Etang, President General Afigh Iwaad Eket “Akpabio belongs to an emerging brigade of Nigerians who are not afraid to dare.” - Mrs Ugbechie, Columnist “A respectable alumnus!” - Professor Bassey Asuquo, Vice Chancellor, University of Calabar “Best education-friendly governor in Nigeria.” - NANS “Akpabio's administration is the beginning of infrastructural renaissance that will lead to an all-round economic empowerment after failed promises from the past governments.” - Otuekong Ita Enang, Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

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“Akpabio has impacted on his people in a rather surprising way.” - Sam Adesuwa, Tribune “Akpabio is a bold testimony to the emerging trend of enthroning young and brilliant people at the apogee of political leadership around the world.” - Dan Amor, Journalist “Akpabio has attacked infrastructural decay, human development and ignorance with the fury of a tiger.” - Comrade Akamba Awah, Secretary, Trade Union Congress, TUC. “The governor's free and compulsory education initiative is the greatest gift that could be bequeathed to any generation.” - Dr. Okon Sunday Udo, University Lecturer “What Akpabio is doing now was what the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo did in Western Nigeria many decades ago, and today, the Yorubas are the better for it. Akpabio should stay focused…” - Mr. Essien Ufot, Greater Ibom Mandate Group, GIMG “Governor Akpabio is the Nehemiah of our time.” - African Church “God has shown his face on us and things are really getting better. That is what happens when the righteous is on the throne. And the Bible says, it is well with the righteous. It is well with Akwa Ibom State under the leadership of Godswill Akpabio.” - David Udoudom, General Superintendent, Qua Iboe Church

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“Akpabio is imbued with innate leadership gift, humility, the charisma, intelligence, sense of humour, oratory and the pizzazz.” - Segun Adams, Fresh Facts “Nothing secures a brighter future for our immediate society like the free and compulsory education that our children now enjoy up to secondary level. Infant mortality rate has dropped grossly. Our women now deliver without paying a dime, and the elderly among us now look forward to greater chance of living longer.” - Bishop Cletus Bassey, Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN “At this bridge of history, there exists all the confidence that there is no stopping the train. “ - Mr. Effiong Bassey, Economist “The completion of Ibom Power Plant, IPP, is the greatest boost for the industrialization of the state by Akpabio.” -Chief Edet Amana, Industrialist “Akpabio is a labour-friendly governor. He deserves commendation for providing to workers, the enabling conducive environment to work. There has been no industrial action by workers instead, savouring packages given to workers.” -Unyime Usoroh, Akwa Ibom State Chairman of Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC “Akpabio has turned Akwa Ibom into a marketing brand.” - Hon. Eseme Eyibo, Member of House of Representatives “Governor Godswill Akpabio's uncommon achievement deserves encomiums as emerging tiger in Africa.” - Chief U.S. Udoudom (JP), Obong Mkparawa Nsit Ubium 232

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“He is a good ambassador of Nigeria.” - Mallam Yusuf Nuhu, Chairman, Federal Corporation of Nigeria “Akwa Ibom people are lucky to have a leader who is in touch with the feelings of the people.” - Rev. Dr. Abel Damina, Senior Pastor, Power City International “Akpabio is a quite pragmatic and I believe before long, there will be the need to utilize the stock exchange properly to create wealth for the people through bond investment.” - Mrs. Mary Ebong, MD, Cradle Trust Finance and Securities “Your acceptance by the people of this oil producing federal constituency, Eket, is based on your people-oriented policies and programmes in our communities.” - Obong (Barr.) Bassey Dan Abia, Former Commissioner, NDDC Board “Akpabio is a leader after the heart of Akwa Ibom people in diaspora. We acknowledge the face-lift he has given Akwa Ibom rural communities and the monumental transformation programmes being undertaken by his administration in the state.” - Bassey Kefre, Secretary, Akwa Ibom Association, Republic of Ireland “I developed goose bumps on arrival at Ibom International Airport. The state I left some years ago as one massive rustic community has been transformed into a modern, beautiful destination for tourists and investors.” - Mrs Gracelyn Paul, Washington DC, United States 233

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“The ongoing transformation drive being undertaken by Akpabio in Akwa Ibom State is a salute to vision and efficient leadership.” - Engr. Enenwan Ebong, President, Mboho Akwa Ibom, United Kingdom and the Ireland “A protagonist of a better society.” - The Promise Keeper Quarterly “I am pleased because Governor Akpabio is not playing politics with projects, but it shows clearly that he is committed to changing things”. - President Goodluck Jonathan “Akwa Ibom is lucky to have a Governor like Chief Godswill Akpabio” - Vice President Namadi Sambo “The fact of the matter is, if the State Governors will perform as he has performed, maybe we won't be talking of Boko Haram today. He may not solve all the problems but there is visible sign of development on ground and people can see it. The transformation is very visible.” - David Mark, Senate President of Nigeria “You cannot talk about development in Nigeria without talking about Akwa Ibom and Governor Godswill Akpabio… We must all strive to keep public trust once public funds is entrusted to us and do exactly what we are required to do. That is exactly what is happening in Akwa Ibom.” - Aminu Tambuwal, Speaker of Nigerian House of Representatives “I have gone round with you to see things with my own korokoro eyes; and from what I have seen, you are doing extremely very well.” - Olusegun Obasanjo, Former Nigerian President 234

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“I have been going through some of the developments here in a book, the state is fortunate to have somebody like Godswill Akpabio as the governor of the state. Seeing this kind of development, he is also God's will. I congratulate you Mr. Governor and ask all of you Akwa Ibomites to continue to give all the support so that those initiatives and those visions, he will be able to fulfill them.” - Ibrahim Babangida, Former Nigerian Head of State “The type of development you are seeing in Akwa Ibom State, if the leaders, all of us in the country will follow suit and bring development, there will be peace in this country and there will be no need for any misgivings and this type of terrorism that we are experiencing.” - Abdusalami Abubakar, Former Nigerian Head of State “How much I wish all governors of PDP would do what you have done. You have really given a good account of yourself. Having a good leader and a good team is a sure way to the economic wellbeing of the people. …PDP is very proud to have Akpabio representing it… He has given a good account of himself and by extension, Nigeria”. - Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, National Chairman, People's Democratic Party “This can only be achieved through the efforts of our digital Governor. If you see Akwa Ibom State in its true form, I believe that by the time you see other parts of the State, you will be in a better position to appreciate what our Governor, Chief Godswill Akpabio, has been able to accomplish so far. I'm proud to be part of this success story of the present administration of this state.” - Obong Uffot Ekaette, Former Secretary to the Federal Government 235

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“While other leaders are busy enriching themselves, or through their actions or inactions allowing the advent of almajaris in their communities, it is heart-warming to note that there is somebody with conscience who is involved in rescuing the young generation. I thank Governor Akpabio for bringing the rest up to enjoy the things we also enjoyed. I commend him for the massive transformation of the state.” - Wole Soyinka, Nobel Laureate, Playwright, Poet and Professor “Governor Godswill Akpabio has made Akwa Ibom State to be the best State in Nigeria in Agricultural and Entrepreneurial development and women empowerment.” - Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria “Everywhere in Nigeria and beyond, when they are talking about states that are doing well, they will mention Akwa Ibom.” - Governor Peter Obi, Anambra State Governor “Akpabio's performance is very impressive. I congratulate the people of Akwa Ibom for having him as a governor. He has made Akwa Ibom to be a hub for economic activities in the part of the country. He has opened up Akwa Ibom, not only to other parts of Africa but the world. He has done something different. He represents a new generation of leadership that will make a better Nigeria.” - Senator Bukola Saraki, Former Governor of Kwara State “I have been reading your impatience with the lack of progress and development. I saw your actions; you spend the money in accordance with the rules and regulations.” - Governor Muazu Babangida Aliyu, Niger State Governor 236

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“It is wonderful to see people that are happy with their leader. I believe that people are very happy about you today.” - Dora Akunyili, Professor & Former Information Minister “There is evidence on ground that he has a heart for God. He has done so much for the State. What he says about uncommon transformation is what is seen on ground. I like people who can say something and do what they say. This is what makes him stand out as a leader. He is a blessing not only to Akwa Ibom State but to Nigeria because many can look at him and learn, and desire to do same. I believe this country can be a better place if everyone that has opportunity to lead will actually have a heart to transform lives and transform the community where they are operating. People inspire people, he is definitely an inspiration.” - Ayo Oritsejafor, National Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN “…One most outstanding achievement of Akpabio is the Akpan's story, because wherever he tells this Akpan's story, anyhow it would appear like a small joke, but you can agree with me that it is very difficult now to get houseboys. Very very difficult.” - Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, Secretary to the Federal Government “Akwa Ibom is rich in human resources, mineral resources, opportunities, industries. The Governor has created opportunities, created positive impression, infrastructure from roads to urbanization, I will convey this to my colleagues in Abuja.” - Ryuichi Shoji, Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria

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“They were talking about Godswill, Godswill, I said I must see that Godswill by myself. You know those of us, who have Biblical backgrounds, you know we look at the Bible. Some of the things people take for granted, we don't. Names are very significant in the Bible. When God wanted to do something to Abraham, he said your name is no more Abram, it is Abraham, Jacob to Israel; for His Excellency, this is God's choice at the hour for this State. Whatever God will do for him even beyond this State, we shall be alive to see. I want to say that with what I have seen; there is much I have not seen, with the little I have seen; it has made me to know that this State is going to be a model for other States in Nigeria. What he is doing is for the entire State.” - Pastor W.F.Kumuyi, Deeper Life Bible Church “It is not just that the work he has done speaks for itself, but the passion with which he is going about it shows a man who believes in what he is doing. And I believe that the greatest tribute we can give to Godswill for coming here is that we should all become Godswill in our individual fields of endeavour. This country is going to be better if we decide that wherever we function, we do like Godswill Akpabio is doing in Akwa Ibom State.” - John Nwodo, Jnr, Former Minister of Information “What I have seen in Uyo, compared to what I used to know of Uyo, tells me that the government has done a tremendous job of transforming the city - the infrastructure, the roads, housing and hotels.” - Olu Falae, Former Secretary to the Federal Government Road construction, free education, water, everything. I am telling you, Chief Obafemi Awolowo has re-incarnated in Akwa Ibom

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State.” -

Sunday Ola Makinde, Prelate Methodist Church of Nigeria

“It is important that we have a reference point. Akwa Ibom certainly stands as a role model and source of inspiration to other States. So, it will be nice if Mr. President can advise other governors to visit Akwa Ibom on a two-day retreat during which the governor himself will have time to take them around, and they see what is happening here. I think it will serve as a great source of inspiration to them. That it is not necessarily the amount of money that you get from the federation account but the vision and mission, the determination to apply the resources judiciously. What His Excellency is doing in Akwa Ibom, when you watch a leader perform, it is different from politics where people play gimmicks that is when the people will enjoy. There are many governors in Nigeria but other governors will agree that Akpabio is setting the bar very high for them.” - Senator Ken Nnamani, Former Senate President “He is fulfilling. Some years back when I had the opportunity of being the governor of the State, an area which I looked at seriously was the establishment of an airport in Akwa Ibom State and the President at that time actually approved that but it was not to be after I had left. So it was very fulfilling when I knew that an administration had pursued the establishment of an airport here, a bigger one and an international airport at that.” - Governor Idongesit Nkanga, Former Governor of Akwa Ibom State “What I see in Akwa Ibom is nothing I am be able to talk about; seeing is believing. Through his policies, Governor Akpabio has

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improved the quality of education in Nigeria. Our choice for Akwa Ibom is the way the Governor has keyed into the transformation agenda of Mr. President. He is one of those who believe that the transformation agenda must be given a chance to succeed. There is nothing common about Akwa Ibom, the Governor has made it an uncommon state.” -Barr. Njesom Ezenwo Wike, Minister of State, Education “Any person who knew Akwa Ibom before cannot recognize it today. The change has been simply phenomenal. I must congratulate His Excellency, Chief Godswill Akpabio for a fantastic job of transformation. He has really transformed the State, and I am very proud of him!” - Walter Ofonagoro, Professor & Former Information Minister “I am much excited today. The state of affairs Akwa Ibom State is witnessing is as a result of Akpabio's unique technique. We know that he is on course. He has already designed his good programmes for the people.” - Nduese Essien, Former Minister for Housing and Urban Development “You are doing extremely well and that is what we expect from your colleagues… You have kept your people very busy and that way taken pressure away from the legislators… The attraction of coming to Akwa Ibom State is that you are performing… come to Uyo in Akwa Ibom and see a miracle.” - Labaran Maku, Minister of Information & Communication “I have been to Akwa Ibom for the first time but I have to say that, with what I have seen, the future of Nigeria is in Akwa Ibom State.” 240

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Terrence McCulley, United States Ambassador to Nigeria

“Akpabio has given the people a sense of belonging. He is focusing on addressing issues that impressed on the people.” -Retiloe Mudinu, South African Chief of Army Staff “I am happy with the support Governor Akpabio is giving to the Nigeria Police. He is committed to the safety of lives and property of all Nigerians and other citizens. He has left no one in doubt that he is a very security-friendly Governor. He is able to deliver in terms of security and well-being of citizens. I believe that if all Governors have done what he has done in terms of security for their people, Nigeria will be better secured than what it is today. If I want to mention all the good works he has done, I will not go back today but the Chief Security Officer and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, GCFR, is very happy with your performance in the area of security. He mandated me to say that.” - Mohammed Abubakar, Inspector General of Police, Nigeria “I am 75 years old now; so I can say I have lived to see so many governments and especially since the creation of Akwa Ibom State, I don't think we have ever seen any Governor that has been able to perform like this particular Governor. The transformation that is happening in this State, we have never witnessed in our lives and I couldn't believe that it is just within three years. And for those of you who know me, I don't say things that I don't believe in. I have traversed all parts of this State not to talk of the country, I don't know of any state that has been able to do what this Governor has been able to do within three years. One good thing about this Governor is that, it is not only in Uyo that you see him, you see him in all parts of the 241

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state.” -

Sunday Mbang, Prelate Emeritus, Methodist Church Nigeria “What I have seen is incredible, that within this short period of five and a half years, Uyo has turned out to be what it is, and I am told of what has been done in various local government areas. I think this time, the people of Akwa Ibom should thank the Almighty God for giving them a son who has a heart for the people; who has everything that it takes; the vision, the intellectual to be the kind of leader that Nigeria needs.” - Governor Jonah Jang, Plateau State Governor “The development we have seen in Akwa Ibom is a function of the use of time; the creative use of time. Because time has value; and the rediscovery of time by Nigerians will make the rest of Nigeria be like Akwa Ibom. All I want to say is that what is happening in Akwa Ibom under the dynamic leadership of Governor Godswill Akpabio shows that it can be done.” - Ojo-Madueke, Nigerian Ambassador to Canada “Every Akwa Ibom indigene must be very proud of Akpabio. If every state Governor would do same, Nigeria will be better. We are not a PR Firm, so we are sure of what we say.” - Ekpo Nta, Chairman, Independent Corrupt Practices Commission “When I came here, I thought I was somewhere else, I didn't know where I was quite well. And I couldn't believe my eyes; I didn't know this could happen. I am really very much impressed because seeing is indeed believing. And that is why, infact, we are thinking those of us from Abia, we used to go to Port Harcourt or Enugu to fly, we want to be flying from Abuja, Lagos to Uyo, from there, you know 242

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because of the good roads, from Uyo to our place. So quite frankly, I think Godswill Akpabio should be emulated by other states.” - Adolphus Wagbara, Former Information Minister “You have baffled me with things I have seen. The council has therefore elevated you to the prestigious membership level of fellow. You are a worthy member of the institute given the things I have seen. Akwa Ibom State is lucky to have you. My only anxiety is the continuation of what you are doing. I am extremely proud of you as my member.” “That is the Governor that every state in Nigeria should strive to have. I have seen what he has done, and I am very impressed.” - Governor Adamu Muaza, Former Governor of Bauchi State “Governor Akpabio is undertaking a revolution in project development. I do not know any city in Africa where the streets are lit all the way from the airport to the city. This is an Akwa Ibom wonder.” -Senator Ibrahim Mantu, Former Deputy Senate President “Everywhere we stopped, there were signs of improvement. In Akwa Ibom State, you have money and you know what to do with it. You are truly the wonder governor of Nigeria.” - Edwin Clark, Former Federal Information Commissioner “I am highly impressed; there is a lot of development and I must say that your Governor is working very hard.” - Buknor Akerele, Former Deputy Governor, Lagos State “Akwa Ibom has been transformed into the Dubai of Nigeria. Governor Akpabio is in his own class. When you see the State, you know there is hope for the Country… follow your leader and learn 243

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what you can from him.” - Parry Osayande, Retired Deputy Inspector General of Police “He has impressed me. He has made Akwa Ibom an extraordinary State. He has protected the interest of the grassroot people and made business to thrive.” - Alexander Polyakor, Russian Ambassador to Nigeria “The capital market community is overwhelmed with the transformation we have seen in Akwa Ibom State. We are amazed at what we have seen – the airport, the roads and the hotel. Governor Akpabio is an action Governor who delivers… if we can replicate what Akpabio has done in Nigeria, we would have a great nation.” - Uche Aruma, DG Security & Exchange Commission, Nigeria “Let us touch on security because as everyone knows in this surrounding community, it's been one of our biggest challenges in recent months. But through the good efforts of the office of His Excellency, Governor Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State, we have been able to secure additional supports. We have been able to secure Naval support, we have a significant group of army, significant group of military police, submarine police. We have a significant improvement in our security profile and the exhibition of today is further proof of the strength of our security. Such defence provides a great deal of confidence to our employees and puts our environment back in peace to allow us to do the things we are here to do and that is to provide oil and gas to the State of Akwa Ibom and the Federal Government of Nigeria. So Governor Akpabio, we greatly thank you for the support.” - Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited

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“We are very proud of you. There is something unique about you. We are indeed very proud of you. You are a big lamp on the mountain top. You have made Akwa Ibom a global resource centre. You have a vision. You are an inspiration to future generation. You are an unusual leader.” - Vice Chancellor, University of Calabar “We have gone round Nigeria to attest to the fact that we have seen the new model of development; we have seen with our eyes that indeed, people are doing what is worthy for their people. I can say that from the little we have seen, that we are very pleased with coming to Akwa Ibom. Coming down from the airport and going into the city, I was asking my colleagues, “where are we?” I say this with every sense of responsibility, the kind of development, the dual carriage way, I thought I was somewhere in London!” - Gbenga Adefaye, President, Nigerian Guild of Editors

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AKWA IBOM STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY COMMENDATION TO HIS EXCELLENCY, THE GOVERNOR, CHIEF GODSWILL OBOT AKPABIO At its sitting on Tuesday, October, 11, 2011, the House deliberated on the uncommon achievements of this administration and noted that His Exellency, the Governor had brought honour to Akwa Ibom State. The House observed that: WHEREAS, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio, has exercised the duties of his office as a Governor with great vision, and carried out duties and responsibilities in the said office with utmost dedication, competence, fairness and vision; WHEREAS, the Executive Governor has embarked on many lifeimpacting infrastructural projects, some of which are: massive road construction (over 211 roads), the completion of Ibom International Airport, the construction of first phase of Ibom Power Plant, the construction of Ibom Gas Plant, the completion of the Pipe-jacking drainage project, Uyo (the first of its kind in Africa), the construction of the E-library ( the first of its kind in West Africa), the construction of the Tropicana Entertainment Centre (on going), the construction of an Olympic-stadium (on going), the construction of the State of the art Governor's Lodge, the construction of an ultra modern Banquet Hall and four Government Guest Houses, the completion of over 3000 projects in the areas of electrification, provision of classroom blocks, provision of health centers and portable water; WHEREAS, The Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State has initiated and completed five new general hospitals and three concentric flyovers in Uyo; WHEREAS, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State has, under his watch, caused all Akwa Ibom children to obtain free, compulsory and qualitative education programme from primary up to secondary 246

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school, and has supplied textbooks to Akwa Ibom children and paid their examination fees and has, by the said free education programme, given indigent children, who were “in servitude” the opportunity to acquire education; WHEREAS, with the policy of free and compulsory education, school enrolment in the state has tripled; WHEREAS, the Executive Governor has reduced the infant and pregnancy mortality rates in Akwa Ibom State through the provision of free medical treatment for children and has also provided free medical treatment for pregnant women and the aged; WHEREAS, the Executive Governor has motivated the workforce with prompt payment of salaries and benefits and has commenced the payment of the new national minimum wage; WHEREAS, the Executive Governor has awarded scholarships to many sons and daughters of Akwa Ibom State studying within and outside Nigeria, and has provided special financial grants and laptops for students studying law and medicine; WHEREAS, the Executive Governor has promoted unity and ethnic harmony in the state by reaching out to people of all ethnic groups and tribes in the spread of appointments and development projects and has enjoyed the support of all Akwa Ibom people as expressed in the call by all sections of the state for him to seek re-election and as evidenced in his landslide victory; WHEREAS, the Executive Governor has addressed squarely the challenges of insecurity, a national concern, and this has drastically reduced the insecurity challenges in the State; WHEREAS, the Executive Governor has, through his policies, massively empowered the citizenry of the State through MicroCredit Schemes, Integrated Farmers Scheme, and the Women Empowerment Programmes; WHEREAS, the Executive Governor has made Akwa Ibom State the cynosure of all eyes in Nigeria, and has made all Akwa Ibom people proud and the State a preferred destination in our country and by 247

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these actions he has endeared himself to all Akwa Ibom people as here represented in the hallowed Chambers of this House of Assembly; WHEREAS, the Executive Governor has under his visionary and insightful leadership, prospered Akwa Ibom State with infrastructures, financial empowerment, the complete eradication of polio, the reduction of mortality rates of infants and pregnant women, the maintenance of peace, and the achievement of 85 percent electricity coverage in the state (from the 35 percent he met it just four years ago and well above the national average of about seventeen percent); WHEREAS, Governor Akpabio has been honored by all segments of the Akwa Ibom Society and all ethnic nationalities in Akwa Ibom State and has also been honored by the entire state with the title of Uko Akwa Ibom and his exploits has been celebrated throughout Akwa Ibom; WHEREAS, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State has been given the under-listed international honors: the Congressional Certificate of Recognition of the United States Congress (2011); the Gold Humanitarian Services Award conferred on him by the Republic of Niger's Ambassador to Nigeria, his Excellency, Alhaji Moussa Ibrahim; Exam Ethic Marshall 2009 of Ghana; Best Governor, Infrastructure Development 2009 by BEN TV, London; WHEREAS, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State has received the following Academic/Professional honors' Doctor of Law (Honoris Causa), University of Nigeria, Nsukka; Doctor of Law (Honoris Causa), University of Calabar, Calabar ; Doctor of Law (Honoris Causa), University of Uyo, Uyo; Doctor of Public Administration (Honoris Causa), Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Honorary Fellow of the Nigeria Society of Engineers 2010 (Only Fourteen non-engineer have so far been honored in Nigeria) Fellow, Polytechnic, Kazaure; Fellow of the College of Education, Bauchi, and a host of others; 248

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WHEREAS, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State has been given the following honors by Media: Best Governor in Nigeria and Outstanding Human Brand 2012 by National Daily Newspaper; Governor of the year 2010 by Nigerian Tribune; Award of Excellence for Outstanding performance 2010 by the Nigeria Union of Journalists; Nigeria's Emerging Tiger 2009 by Thisday Newspapers; Man of the year 2009 by Daily Independent Newspapers; 2008 Most Outstanding Governor in Nigeria (South South) by City People Magazine; Best Governor Infrastructure 2009 by Encomium Magazine; Excellence Award as Best Governor South South 2009 by Global Excellence Magazine; WHEREAS, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State has also attracted other honors including the Nehemiah Award of the African Church; awards and honors from several other churches too numerous to mention; is the recipient of over 30 Chieftaincy titles which include the Uko Akwa Ibom (awarded to him by the Akwa Ibom State Council of Chiefs), Utuenikang Ibibio, Iberedem Ibibio, Nta Nta Offiong Annang, Atta of Eket and the Nta Nta Oro, to mention just a few; WHEREAS, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State is to be conferred with the National honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) by the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the federal Republic of Nigeria, His Exellency, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Johnathan with the National Honor of Commander th of the Order of the Niger (CON) on the 14 of November 2011 for his outstanding contributions to nation building; WHEREAS, the achievements of the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State in the area of good governance were acknowledged in the wikileaks report; WHEREAS, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State has received awards and honours for his uncommon transformation of the state and whereas he most recently received the Congressional 249

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Certificate of Recognition of United States Congress at the hands of Congresswoman, Sheila Jackson Lee, and whereas he was commended by the Georgia State Senator, Donzella James for his outstanding performance, and whereas he was conferred with the Honorary Doctor of Management Science of the Nigerian Defence Academy and was the first Governor in Nigeria to be so honored by the institution in over 50years of it existence; WHEREAS, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State has brought Honours to the state; Now, therefore, be it RESOLVED BY THIS HONOURABLE HOUSE to convey our appreciation to the institutions and persons who have conferred awards and honours on His Excellency, the Governor, and in particular, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee and Senator Donzella James, The house expresses our endorsement of all these awards and honours bestowed on His Excellency, Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio for his visionary leadership, integrity, forthrightness, dedication to duty, and unimpeachable commitment to the betterment of Akwa Ibom State through charismatic, people-focused governance. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED BY THIS HOUNORABLE HOUSE to specially commend His Excellency, the Governor Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio for his outstanding achievement in the governance of the state and for the honour he has brought to the state through the various awards and honours conferred on him; This Honourable House directs that this resolution be given the widest publicity in view of the contents contained herein and the benefit of letting the world know that Akwa Ibom people appreciate the uncommon transformation of the state steered by His Excellency, Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio. The above resolution is hereby respectfully communicated to your Excellency for information, please. 250

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Rt. Hon. (Elder) Samuel Ikon Speaker of the House of Assembly i. Nigeria's Most Decorated Governor of All Time Governor Godswill Obot Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State is a charismatic and charming young man, but his records of achievement belie his age and smouldering good looks that could set off fire alarms. In the last four and a half years, he has set an agenda in the business of governance that has resonated beyond the shores of the state and attracted plaudits from far and near. The self-effacing political entrepreneur has further demonstrated unbridled commitment to governance in ways that evoke altruism, sincerity, compassion, humility and egalitarianism. And for sustaining these sterling values, he has set a 'world record' of being the most celebrated governor in our nation, nay continent, today. No doubt the most hunted public officer for deserved awards and accolades, commendations trail him everywhere he goes signaling public appreciation of his efforts. The appreciations cut across social strata, religion, race, states, nations, institutions and the media, eroding every possible vestige of prejudice or inducement. It is indicative that he has been truly judged not by emotional reason but by the fact sheet of his performance. Thus, when Governor Godswill Akpabio started early in the life of his administration to point at the direction his government was going in terms of infrastructural revolution, many interventions in health and education sectors, robust relationships with civil servants, traditional rulers and the general public, Akwa Ibom started awarding him numerous chieftaincy titles with every large configuration in the state providing a title that covers its geographical / social spectrum. And so, he became Uko Akwa Ibom awarded by the Akwa Ibom State Council of Chiefs, Utuenikang Ibibio and Iberedem Ibibo, 251

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awarded by the Ibibio, Nta Nta Offiong Annang from the Annangs, Atta of Eket from Eket people and Nta Nta Oro from Oron Nation. What this simply translates to is that his people noticed the silver lining of hope in his administration as it set out to change their fortunes. Suffice it to say that he has not disappointed them. The church, which is expected to be less amenable to inducements and mundane prejudices, joined in adorning him with fitting accoutrements of honour. The African Church, a body adjudged to possess strong moral and spiritual fibres honoured him with the Nehemiah Award. The import of this particular award is explicable in the infrastructural revolution he has wrought on the Akwa Ibom landscape taking well paved roads and bridges to people who had for long been severed from the arteries of civilization by inaccessible roads. Of course, other churches have since joined the African Church in bestowing honour to this apple of God's eye who has also invested huge material goodwill in Christendom. The international community would not stand aloof and watch without adding a voice. If they could be involved in criticizing irresponsible governments; they must also be involved in commending a government that has raised the bar in good governance especially in a clime that hitherto was in deficit of any form of responsible governance. The superlative performance record of Governor Akpabio therefore caught the admirable attention of many of them. For instance, the United State Congress (2011) honoured him with a Congressional Certificate of recognition. The award indicates that the U.S. Congress has taken note of the achievements of the recipient and is appreciative of his efforts. Before this and precisely in 2008, the Republic of Niger honuored him with its highest national honour, the Gold 252

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Humanitarian Service Award. Ghana also took its turn with the Award of Exam Ethic Marshal award in 2009 while Ben TV, London honoured him with Best Governor, Infrastructure Development in 2009. The media, being the public watchdog and who are best availed with tools to assess the performance of public officers have also suffused him with awards. As at last count, he had received more than thirteen awards from reputable media organizations. Notable amongst them are Man of the Year 2010 by National Daily Newspaper, Governor of the Year 2010 by the Nigerian Tribune, Award of Excellence for Outstanding Performance 2010 by the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Nigeria's Emerging Tiger 2009 by This Day Newspaper, Man of the Year 2009 by Daily Independent and Best Governor, Infrastructure 2009 by Encomium Magazine. The list is endless indicating the unanimity of public opinion in the judgment of the performance of Chief Godswill Akpabio as Governor of Akwa Ibom State. They cannot all be wrong. Governor Akpabio has also received academic and professional honours. He has, at the last count, bagged six honorary doctorate degrees; a large haul that Pastor Anietie Ukpe describes as a double hat-trick. He has been honoured by the reputable Nigerian Society of Engineers (2010). It is pertinent to add that only fourteen nonengineers have so far been so honoured by such prestigious awards. The academic honours include: Doctor of Law, honoris causa, University of Calabar; Doctor of Law, honoris causa, University of Uyo; Doctor of Public Administration, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka; Doctor of Management Science, honoris causa, Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna; Doctor of Management Science, honoris causa, Federal Univesity of Technology, Owerri. He is also a Fellow of Kazaure Polytechnic, Kazaure and Fellow of the College of Education, Bauchi. 253

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Jean-Jacques Rosseau in one of his works noted that heroes are known not by the loftiness of their carriage but by the quality of their contributions. Chief Godswill Akpabio, who has worked hard to earn the prefix of hero of uncommon transformation, has just turned 50 with superlative performance record that can hardly be ignored. This is why those who pretend to be in opposition against his administration are daily declining in ideas of how to shoot down this performing star. But they can't and can't deny him his life which is service to humanity, and which he has clearly expressed in the way he has run the state these past years. th

As President Calvin Coolidge, American's 30 President who succeeded President Harding in 1923 noted: “Great men are the ambassadors of providence sent to reveal to their fellow men their unknown lives…. When the reverence for its great men dies, the glory of the nation will die with it.” President Coolidge's remarks fit the situation in our nation like measured shoes. For a nation that is suffering from massive value haemorrhage, something needs to be done to rekindle faith and patriotism for the country. Our people of all strata must find ways of demonstrating gratitude to those who have done well to serve as incentives not only for them to do more but also to encourage others to imbibe the culture of social responsibility and contribute meaningfully to our nation's development.

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A. PEOPLE-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENTS i. Akpabio's Transformation: See Uyo And Die!!!* In his book, The Problem with Nigeria, the irrepressible literary icon, Professor Chinua Achebe, states with brutal honesty that the problem with Nigeria “was a failure of leadership.” That book published in the early 80's, when the dark clouds of military dictatorship overshadowed the 2nd Republic and curtailed it, is chockfull of insights and clinical political analyses of why Nigeria, with all its abundant human and natural resources, is still an economic dwarf in the comity of nations. That leadership had failed in Nigeria was as self-evident as harmattan at Christmas, even before Achebe blew his whistle. This made it more a case of “the falling apple,” than a discovery. Billions saw the apple fall before Isaac Newton saw it and wondered why. And because Newton asked the right question, mankind discovered the law of gravity. In the same vein, Achebe gave thought to what Nigerians had come to accept as a bumbling political ride to an unknown destination and pinpointed the problem – failure of leadership. Political wisdom, however, has no copyright. So even as Prof. Achebe analyzed the problem - like a laboratory scientist diagnosing a disease - it was up to others, who share his concern, to find a solution to the problem. At the same time history proves that demanding epochs throw up men who shoulder the challenges of the time, and leave their imprints in the scrolls of history. There are men and women, with a messianic complex, willing to rise up and fill the leadership vacuum. Like the ancient Italian proverb puts it “the right man comes at the right season.” One of such men, who has come at the right season, is the 50 year-old governor of Nigeria's Akwa Ibom 255

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State, Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio. “What he has transformed Uyo, the state capital into,” says Ubong Affia, a management consultant, “can only be compared to what Paris was like decades ago and all over the world the talk was 'See Paris and die.'” Paris was so beautiful that it was considered inappropriate for any man to live and die without seeing Paris. Paris was considered to be the culmination of man's inventive, artistic and creative genius. Relating this to Uyo and comparing it to Paris in those days is no idle talk. When Senator Ibrahim Mantu, former Deputy President of the Senate, came to Uyo recently he confessed that he had not visited the town in a long while, but that so many people told him “you must come to Uyo and see things for yourself.” It is a sentiment so many other visitors who visit Uyo express. Mantu, said that on his arrival at the Ibom International Airport, the beauty of the airport awed him. But he had a greater surprise as they drove from the airport to the town, and he discovered that the “entire length of the road was lit with streetlights.” “Uyo (which means 'fruit' in Ibibio, the local language) appears to have ripened in the hands of the present administration of Governor Akpabio,” says Udobong Mbeye, a Peoples Democratic Party stalwart. Uyo has actually come a long way from the rural local government it was during the civil war (1967-1980). Its nightline is now a galaxy of streetlights running through most of the streets, and most of the major junctions have fountains or decorations. Dual carriageways, constructed by the Akpabio Administration, form arteries which run across the heart of the town to link it with neighbouring towns.

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Blessing Johnson, the managing director of Savvy Lemons Travel and Tours, a travel agency based in Uyo, says he understands the importance of the dual carriageways. He found himself in Itu local government area, which is on the other side of the state and shares a boundary with Cross River State, at a time pretty close to his flight. He needed to make it to the airport in about twenty minutes. “I made it in fifteen minutes,” he says, “because all the roads I needed to take to the airport were dual carriageways and so I stepped on the gas and let it run. My Toyota Camry responded well and I made it.” When he got to the airport his agitated brother, who was worried that he would not make the flight was shocked. Blessing told him “it was possible to do that because of what Governor Akpabio had done in terms of road development.” The Uyo-Itu road snakes its way in majestic beauty through the undulating hills of Itu local government area. The sight of the rolling hills is awesome and picturesque. As far as your eyes can see, the rising and falling hills form rows of giant ridges in a cathedral of green. At sunset, the sun turns into a beautiful bowl of crimson, behind it the clouds form a blanket of wool and the undulating hills look like static waves in an ocean of green – it is a breathtaking picture of beauty that could make the finest artist and painter envious. As you approach Uyo on this road, the concentric flyovers await you. Like the hills behind, three of these flyovers rise and fall in majestic grandeur. At their bases there are a lot of spectacular fountains. “Paparrazi” scurry around the area persuading visitors to pose behind the fountains for pictures. At night, thousands turn up to savour the breathtaking sight of the fountains and the flyovers, and take pictures.

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Take a trot down the road and you encounter a fenced site and a beehive of activities. An Olympic-size stadium is under construction! It is designed to be one of the best stadia in Nigeria, with the ability to host sporting events of international standard and to pass whatever security and safety tests such international competitions demand. It was located at the surburbs so that it would not lead to traffic congestion in the inner city. “Its present location,” says Engr Etido Inyang, Special Adviser on Technical Matters, “is the best and meets all standard qualifications for a stadium of such magnitude.” Some distance from the stadium site is West Africa's only e-library. The edifice, decked in blue colors, rises up the skyline and sits amidst a garden of green. It is a one-stop spot for all ICT business and transactions, and when fully operational hopes to provide the capital city with internet facility and open internet research opportunities for students, scholars and professionals. It would also house millions of e-books under licenses, which have already been obtained. Technical handyman, Engr Inyang, posits that it would also make inroads into rural areas by using trucks fitted like mobile cybercafés to go to those areas and let the people experience the ICT revolution. In Uyo town the Cineplex at the Tropicana Entertainment Centre has become a star attraction. With six cinema halls with standard, ultramodern screens showing films simultaneously through ICT links with Hollywood, it witnesses a steady stream of human traffic each day. “This was one project, which drew the ire of many critics when it was conceived,” Engr Inyang explains. Such critics maintained that Akwa Ibom State did not need a second five-star hotel and the project should be abandoned. The Governor's position that the entire state did not have up to five hundred hotel rooms and therefore could not sustain tourism, cut no 258

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ice with them. They maintained that Akwa Ibom people would not have the money to go there to watch films. With a gate fee of just a hundred Naira (cut down to this figure from one thousand by Governor Akpabio) those under the United Nation's poverty line measurement index, troop to the Tropicana every night. More so, says Governor Akpabio, this project when completed will employ over four thousand people directly and provide economic and commercial opportunities to a host of others. The main hotel, conceived as a 16 storey edifice, is on its twelfth floor. Uyo was not always the city of lights and life. Apart from its past somnolent status it was scourged by a terrible flooding problem because it is a tableland. Whenever it rained, floodwaters would rise to high heavens on roads and compounded problems for motorists. When Colonel Bako was the military administrator of the state, over twenty years ago, the Ministry of Works thought they had found a solution to the problem and informed him of their “breakthrough.” Bako excitedly informed the press and challenged them that if they ever found flooding there, they should inform him. Two days after Bako's boast, the heavens opened up its bowel and rained mercilessly. Tony Ita Etim, (currently the South South Bureau Chief of Daily Champion, then a boyish cub reporter), was on his way to Oron Road when he came across the “river.” Tony smelled news because he has a good nose for news. He told the commercial motorcyclist who was “ferrying” him to make a detour to Government House. On reaching there, he broke through the security cauldron and met the Military Administrator coming out of an Executive Council Meeting. He sidled up to him, before the security men could stop him, and told Bako that there was flood in the area contrary to his promise to Akwa Ibom people. A bemused Bako said it was not possible and told Tony to ride with 259

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him in his official car to the flooding site. He directed the Commissioner of Works to accompany him to the site and explain to him what happened to the “breakthrough.” What happened was that the construction they did to hold the water failed. Tony had a sirenblowing ride with the Military Administrator… and a good news story. Twenty years later, Akwa Ibom has the story that Mr Etim, who now lives in Port Harcourt, was pursuing. Governor Akpabio has found a solution to the flooding problem. It is the underground pipe-jacking drainage technology, the first of its kind in Africa. It involves pipes running thirty meters underground and collecting water into a giant trough known as a manhole. The manhole, which serves as a reservoir, pours the water into a river nearby with such force that it could power a turbine. When President Goodluck Jonathan saw it, he declared that “he had not seen anything like this before,” and commended Akpabio for the high quality of his projects. According to Gen. H. Norman Schwarzkopf, "Leadership is a combination of strategy and character. If you must be without one, be without the strategy." Akpabio has manifested great character in initiating free and compulsory education from primary to senior secondary school and free medical treatment for pregnant women, babies up to five years and the aged above 65 years. He has proved himself a strategist too in the focused industrialization of Akwa Ibom State. He has proved himself to be an exception to Achebe's postulation of leadership failure. Four powerful witnesses testify to this and rest the argument in his favor. They are President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, (“Akpabio is a man of proven integrity who has made Nigeria and the entire Africa proud, he has established love and selfless service to the people”); Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, (“Akpabio's free education 260

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is the most important legacy because without education, none of us can develop our innate abilities and ideas to a level of being useful to ourselves, community, state, country and the whole world”); General Abdulsalami Abubakar, former Head of State, (“Certainly, and without any iota of doubt, even your enemies would accept that you have brought development to Akwa Ibom State.”); and General Ibrahim Babangida, Ex-Nigerian Military President (“Akpabio has aggregated the will of the people, he is really God's will for Akwa Ibom”). The Christian Good Book sums it up nicely, “in the mouths of two or more witnesses, every word shall be established.”

ii. Akwa Ibom, A Paradise Regained Through Godswill Akpabio* December 9, 1962, unto the Akpabio Family, a son was born; and unto Akwa Ibom State, a Governor was given. From the cradle to when he would emerge Governor, providence programmed him for leadership and impact. He was named “Godswill” because his parents hoped that through him God's will shall be done in their lives. But the plan of God for him was larger than his immediate family and the administration of a state conceived in hope and nurtured in faith would rest on his shoulders. He was born to turn Akwa Ibom into a paradise in Nigeria. In the epic Paradise Lost, John Milton tells the story of Satan's rebellion against God and how he and his co-rebel angels were thrown down the earth. He narrates how Satan tempted man and caused man to lose his paradise. In one seamless piece of classical poetry he states, “Of man's first disobedience, and the fruit of that forbidden tree whose mortal taste brought death into the world, and all our woe.” Paradise Lost is an epic of the very first order: vast and 261

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complex in scope, powerful in its rendition and evocative in its language, rich in imagery, complex in plots which craft the first couple's fine and divine estate, before the fall. It is a gripping tale, which intensifies the biblical theme of man's downfall in the first paradise. The sequel to this epic is Paradise Regained by the same author. Having chronicled man's fall, he decided to also cast his light on Jesus Christ and show how paradise was regained for all mankind. He states in clear terms how Christ by overcoming the temptation of Satan, restored to man the glory of paradise. Interestingly, the author, John Milton shares the same birthday as the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio. Milton was born December 9, 1608 in London, while Governor Akpabio was born December 9, 1962 at Ukana Ikot Ntuen, Essien Udim Local Government Area. But there is more that can be said about both men than merely sharing the same birthday- aspects of his epics and could be improvised for Akwa Ibom State and Governor Akpabio. The story of Paradise Lost could be said to be the story of Akwa Ibom on a different scale. A story of a people who dreamt of, and received a Paradise when the state was created, and who went wild with hopeful celebration. But that Paradise was almost lost because some Akwa Ibom people tasted the forbidden fruit of ethnicity and tribalism. Consequently, the rest of the people staggered through the years with motion without movement and had little to show for the promises, which defined Akwa Ibom State as the 'Land of Promise.' A story of hope betrayed! But Paradise Regained is also the story of Akwa Ibom State. It is the story of how God's will was done in 2007 and done again in 2011. it is the story of how one man's refusal to bow to the Devil of tribalism has led to great unity, growth and development in Akwa Ibom State. It is the story of Paradise 262

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Regained in uncommon transformation. It is the story of Paradise Regained in free and compulsory education, free treatment for the aged, infants and pregnant women, the completion of the Ibom International Airport, the completion of the first phase of the Ibom Power Plant, the e-Library (the first of its kind in West Africa), the pipe jacking drainage technology the first of its kind in Africa, the Ibom Gas Plant, the concentric flyovers, Tropicana Entertainment Centre, over 3,000 inter-ministerial projects…the list goes on. Governor Godswill Akpabio's life holds abundant proof of the truthfulness in the scripture; “Seeth thou a man diligent in his work, he shall stand before Kings.” And Ralph Waldo Emerson's assertion that “if a man can write a better book than his neighbor or preach a better sermon, or make better mouse trap, even if he lives in the woods, the world would make a beaten path to his door.” Governor Akpabio is a hunted man. The world has been stalking and hunting him with honours. These honours are coming so fast that you have to update his resume almost on a weekly basis. It is notable that Governor Akpabio was mentioned in Wikileaks. But unlike others who received negative mention, his mention was, to our national pride, for the right reasons. Wikileaks quoted American diplomatic correspondences as saying that Akwa Ibom, under him, was one of the fastest growing states in infrastructure development in Nigeria, and should be watched. An alumnus of the University of Calabar where he graduated in Law and was a Speaker of the Student's Parliament, he paid his dues in legal practice and rose to become the General Manager of Emis Telecom. He had served as a Commissioner in key ministries. He is the people's Governor and a man of his word, the promise keeper.

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iii. Akwa Ibom Destination Philosophy Test with Gulder Ultimate Search* One of Governor Akpabio's speeches in 2007 averred that Akwa Ibom would be transformed into a destination of choice. He further stated that just as bees are attracted to honey, people would be attracted to Akwa Ibom State. When he made these remarks, not much was available in terms of infrastructure or public utilities to give vent to what seemed like a mere wish. Today the story is different. Groups and organizations wait in long queues to have their annual general meetings, workshop, seminars, and retreats in the State. Akwa Ibom has become a beehive of activities attracting local, national and international bodies to a place that has rightly earned the sobriquet of the Gilgal of Nigeria; an apt parallel to the Biblical Gilgal when Prophet Samuel summoned the elders of ancient Israel to Gilgal to renew the kingdom and their covenant with God. And so in sync with Akpabio's unalloyed vision for the state as a destination of choice, the management of Nigeria Breweries and its th consultants found the State fit for its 9 session of Gulder Ultimate Search having started the annual event in 2004. Gulder Ultimate Search is a Nigeria Reality Television series created and sponsored by Nigerian Breweries as part of its promotional mix with the product, Gulder as the theme. The concept behind the expedition is to train contestants for mental, physical and technical prowess. It is why contestants are allowed to venture into massive dense forest to overcome the obstacle arrayed within the forest after which the best contestant is declared the ultimate man. The first edition of the event had ten Islanders picked from a total of 10,230 applicants. The venue was Snake Island in Lagos. The year was 2004. The prize was right and the enthusiasm of participants and audience unabated. It is why it has not looked back since that year. It 264

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has become a growing and glowing annual retreat except the fourth edition scheduled for Jos, Plateau State which claimed the life of one Anthony Ogadeje who drowned in a lake while preparing with other contestants. th

The 9 Edition held in Usaka Forest in Obot Akara local government area between October 28 and November 17, 2012 has been adjudged to be the most successful. At least, this is the confession of the Nigerian Breweries and the organizers who have the benefit of comparison having been involved in several others. It is widely believed that the wide berth of support by the State Government, Obot-Akara Local Government Council and the Usaka Community was one of the reasons for the extraordinary success recorded in that edition of Gulder Ultimate Search. The Managing Director of Nigerian Breweries, Mr. Nicholas Vevelti, sponsors of the annual th event confirmed this much when he described the 9 edition as the best ever owing to the commitment of the people of Akwa Ibom State through the co-operation of their Governor, Chief Godswill Akpabio. The inkling that the event was going to get the nod and support of the state Government became obvious when the sponsors, organizers and contestants paid Governor Akpabio a courtesy call as part of protocol and a prelude to the event. Governor Akpabio had assured them of every level of support by government. He thanked them for choosing the State for the popular event. It was clear that the governor was beginning to witness the fruit of his labour and his imaginative christening of Akwa Ibom as the Gilgal of Nigeria was garnering support and acceptability every passing day. That this particular edition of annual show was held in Akwa Ibom suggests that the state has actually come of age and is competing with vigor to claim its rightful place amongst the Comity of States. 265

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There is also the perceptible hand of the divine to put the State on an enviable pedestal. For instance, every inch of this edition of Ultimate Search was pulsating and attracted the most mouth-watering prizes since the inception of the show. Part of the peculiarity of the edition was that it recorded 35,000 entries from where a paltry 12 best where selected with the ambition of each of the contestants stymied by eviction leaving only the winner and last man standing in the person of Paschal Eronmose, a 24 year old student of applied mathematics from the university of Benin. This image of the divine combined with the desire to foster genuine change has been the hallmark of Akpabio's administration. Chidi Mokeme, the anchorman for the Gulder Ultimate Search, 9th session who introduced a lot of panache and razzmatazz into the edition described the year's event as “uncommon in an uncommon State with the support of an uncommon Governor”. The Governor's submission that champions must go with champions as the reason why Nigerian Breweries chose Akwa Ibom State for the event seems to reinforce the perception of the hand of God in the affairs of the State. The Governor further told the audience that he is not only unleashing uncommon transformation on infrastructure, he is also building human capacity for youths. He urged the sponsors of Ultimate search to see Akwa Ibom State as a permanent venue while assuring them that the state Government would continue to support the project. There are some didactic lessons to learn from the Gulder Ultimate Search that debuted in our State. The first one is the reality that visions have wings and that they can soar to heights and travel as far as the progenitor wants it to go. When Governor Akpabio came into office in 2007, he was vociferous with the assertion that he would make Akwa Ibom a destination of choice. Many wondered what that meant and the paltry explanation that was supplied was that the State 266

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would be altered from its hitherto pedestrian status which used to witness people passing to Cross River, Rivers and Bayelsa States and vice-versa. How was the question? Today everything happens in Akwa Ibom conferring it with the epithet of the Gilgal of Nigeria. The second precept is the age-long principle used in exercises, “no pain, no gain”. The concept of Gulder Ultimate Search is to train people for mental, physical, emotional and technical prowess. The contestants venture into an unknown forest and through concerted efforts attempt to overcome the obstacles that lay within after which the best contestant is declared the ultimate man. In the 9th session which took place in the State, a determined young lady, Priscillia Ezeh, an undergraduate student of History and Diplomacy proved that what men can do, women can compete favourably. She demonstrated resilience, courage and daring. She braved odds, braced the obstacles and almost found the Gatekeeper's Fortune except for mother-luck which had settled for Eronmose. Miss Eze elicited great support across gender including Governor Akpabio who rooted for the manifestation of affirmative action. Perhaps the most interesting attribute that these youngsters exhibited were that of magnanimity in victory and grace in defeat. As Governor Akpabio noted, the fact that the contestants scaled the hurdle amongst 35,000 people makes the 12 of them winners. As each of the contestants was invited to the stage, it was clear that he or she had joyfully accepted the outcome. When the winner was finally invited, the stage exploded with palpable joy pervading the ranks of all the contestants. The winner moved around to hug all the other contestants who responded with equal enthusiasm. This action charged the atmosphere with excitement. There were no long faces, no aggrieved persons and no plans for litigations. This is the lesson our politicians should imbibe. They must realize that in every contest, only one winner would emerge and that one must accept the outcome in the spirit of sportsmanship. It is however, sad, that while 267

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the young ones should be learning from our leaders, the young ones have ironically become specimens of study for our leaders. Let our leaders imbibe this principle of conceding to winners for there lies true nobility. *Anietie Ukpe & Joe Iniodu

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CHAPTER TWELVE

GOVERNMENT FOR PEOPLE'S HAPPINESS: BENTHAM, J.S.MILL, MONTESQUIEU AND GODSWILL AKPABIO "It is the greatest happiness of the greatest number that is the measure of right and wrong"--- Jeremy Bentham "The business of government is to promote the happiness of the society”--- Jeremy Bentham “False happiness renders men stern and proud, and that happiness is never communicated. True happiness renders them kind and sensible, and that happiness is always shared.” --- Montesquieu Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill developed utilitarianism. Utilitarianism is popularly known in philosophy as “the greatest happiness principle”. It is a philosophical theory which holds that the proper course of action is the one that maximizes utility, usually defined as maximizing total benefit and reducing suffering or the negatives. In A Fragment on Government, Bentham says, "it is the greatest happiness of the greatest number that is the measure of right and wrong". In An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation, he talks of "the principle of utility" but later prefers "the greatest happiness principle." Bentham and Mill believed that a utilitarian government was achievable through democracy. Jeremy Bentham's book An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation opens with a statement of the principle of utility: 269

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“Nature has placed mankind under the governance of two sovereign masters, pain and pleasure. It is for them alone to point out what we ought to do… By the principle of utility is meant that principle which approves or disapproves of every action whatsoever according to the tendency it appears to have to augment or diminish the happiness of the party whose interest is in question: or, what is the same thing in other words to promote or to oppose that happiness. I say of every action whatsoever, and therefore not only of every action of a private individual, but of every measure of government.” Bentham introduces a method of calculating the value of pleasures and pains, which has come to be known as the hedonic or hedonistic calculus. Bentham says that the value of a pleasure or pain, considered by itself, can be measured according to its intensity, duration, certainty/uncertainty and propinquity/remoteness. In addition, it is necessary to consider "the tendency of any act by which it is produced" and, therefore, to take account of the act's fecundity, or the chance it has of being followed by sensations of the same kind and its purity, or the chance it has of not being followed by sensations of the opposite kind. Finally, it is necessary to consider the extent, or the number of people affected by the action. Bentham says: "The business of government is to promote the happiness of the society, by punishing and rewarding… In proportion as an act tends to disturb that happiness, in proportion as the tendency of it is pernicious, will be the demand it creates for punishment." Mill was brought up as a Benthamite with the explicit intention that would carry on the cause of utilitarianism. Mill described happiness as a “good”: that each person's happiness is a good to that person, and the general happiness, therefore, a good to the aggregate of all persons.

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Utilitarian theory suggests that good actions are those actions that produce the greatest happiness of the greatest number of persons in a society. So, Bentham and Mill suggest that individuals and governments must perform actions capable of producing the greatest happiness of the greatest number of persons in the society. Montesquieu's Philosophy Charles Louis de Secondat baron de la Brede et de Montesquieu, whom the world knows simply as Montesquieu advocated the establishment of government through law in The Spirit of the Laws (1748). He projected the doctrine of Separation of Powers of Government. He was born into the ancient noblesse de la robe (legal aristocracy) at Brede near Bordeaux, France, in 1689. He was a lawyer. Following the almost aristocratic custom of his time, he was put out to nurse with a countrywoman. McClelland (1996:316) says that he was aware of his seigneurial privileges, but lacked hauter and had that sense of 'noblesse oblige' which is less common among aristocrats than defenders of aristocracy like to think. Montesquieu's father intended him for the magistracy and encouraged the boy's natural taste for learning. He loved to study the classics. In his middle thirties, Montesquieu settled down at la Brede as a full time man of letters. He spent two years in England where he formed his ideas about how the British Constitution did not work. His Considerations on the Causes of the Greatness of the Romans and their Decline appeared in 1734; his masterpiece, The Spirit of the Laws (Esprit de Lois) in 1748. He died in 1755. Montesquieu was a product of the French Enlightenment. The enlightenment was an intellectual movement, which covered Europe and America in the 18th Century. Its basic tenets were optimism, materialism and apotheosis. Faith in progress is optimism. Faith in nature is materialism. Faith in reason is apotheosis. In his What Is 271

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Enlightenment? Kant considered enlightenment as man's release from self- imposed tutelage. Tutelage is the inability to see one's natural powers without direction from another. This tutelage is called self-imposed because its cause is not any absence of rational competence but simply a lack of courage and resolution to use one's reason without direction from another. Sapere Aude! Dare to reason! Have the courage to use your minds — is the motto of the enlightenment. Hence the enlightenment, for Kant, is summed up in “to dare to know” This was the age Montesquieu was born. On his part Montesquieu advocated for a government through law, the constitution. There are basically three general arms of government in any political system: legislative, executive and judicial. Montesquieu advocated for a separation of powers in government to safeguard against despotism and to guarantee the fundamental human rights of individuals. In the Spirit of the Laws, Montesquieu submits that there are three sorts of power in every government: The legislative; the executive in respect to things dependent on the law of nation and the judicial in regard to matters that depend on the civil law. By virtue of the first, the Prince enacts temporary or perpetual laws and amends or abrogates those that have been already enacted. By the second, he makes peace or war, sends or receives embassies, establishes the public security, and provides against invasion. By the third, he punishes criminals or determines the disputes that arise between individuals. The latter is called judicial power, and the other simply the executive power of the state. To justify his position, Montesquieu asserted that the political liberty of the subject is the tranquility of the mind arising from the opinion each person has of his safety. In order to have his liberty it is requisite that the government be so constituted as one man need not be afraid of another. When the legislative and executive powers are united in the same person, or in the same body of princes, there can be no liberty, because apprehension may arise, 272

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lest the same monarch or senate should enact tyrannical laws, to execute in a then tyrannical manner. Again, there is no liberty if the judiciary power be not separated from the legislative and executive. Where it joined with the legislative, the life and liberty of the subjects would be exposed to arbitrary control, for the judge would then be legislature. Where it joined to the executive, the judge might behave with violence and oppression. According to Montesquieu, there would be no end to everything were the same man or the same body, whether of the nobles or of the people, to exercise those three powers and that of enacting the public resolution, and of trying the causes of individuals. While the three branches of government are separate in terms of function and personnel, they are not to be completely isolated from one another. Indeed, each branch is vested with sufficient power of checks to the other branch in proper balance. Thus, the legislative which is charged with law-making, is expected or empowered to check the excesses of the Chief Executive by refusing to pass his bills into law or prune them to its wishes; rejecting some or all his appointees; withholding funds for administrative services; or worse still, removing the Chief Executive himself from office through the onerous process of impeachment. The Chief Executive, on the other hand, is empowered to check reckless legislation by vetoing the bill, although a two-third majority of the legislative branch can over ride the veto, and the offending legislation comes into force. The court can moderate the dangers of executive lawlessness as well as unconstitutional legislation and their application by the process of judicial review, which renders the acts of the two branches null and void. The doctrine of separation of powers and its application aims at maintaining equilibrium in government, thereby safeguarding the fundamental rights and liberties of the citizens. It helps to check against a despotic government Nonetheless, there is no absolute separation of powers in government. Even in England, the three 273

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general powers of government, strictly speaking, are not separated from one another. The members of the executive are also members of the legislature, such as the Prime Minister. The House of Lords (the Upper House) which is legislative, is headed by the Lord Chancellor, who is head of the judiciary. Judges are appointed by the crown on the advice of the Prime Minister. Ours is a rubber-stamped separation of powers in Nigeria. The executive can use the national money to pay the legislature and the judiciary to do his will. What we sometimes see in our National Assembly and the courts are most often a drama after celebration of money-sharing festivals by the players. Montesquieu, Bentham, Mill and Akpabio Montesquieu set out not only to describe social, political and legal phenomena, but also intended to understand these issues to use the comparative survey of phenomena as the basis for a systematic study of the principles of historical development. His theory of society, government and law consists of generalizations from the historical facts, having taken into account the state of affairs in France. According to him, society, state, and transformation therein are human inventions to meet the necessity of man. Government is an invention to secure self-preservation and happiness, and has no more purpose beyond the purpose of the individuals who created it. In Akwa Ibom State under Governor Akpabio, the governor ensures that the will of the people and their welfare are guiding principles in his governance. He makes the people the centre-piece of his governance, and the voice of the people (vox populi) bear testament to this as was demonstrated above. From his comparative study of society, law and government after the model of Aristotle who studied Greek constitutions, Montesquieu discovered that the relations comprise man's social and political life. To him, the different systems of positive law in different political societies are relative to a variety of factors; the character of the people, the nature and principles of the forms of 274

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government, and the economic condition. For these, Montesquieu developed hypothesis about man's social and political life when he asserted that “under a given government a certain system of law ought to be found.” Relating this to Akwa Ibom State, the implication is as follows: under a given form of government, transformation agenda ought to be the cardinal thing, and Governor Akpabio's administration is both an epitome and a quintessence of transformation philosophy. This is a political philosophy in practice. In terms of “the greatest happiness philosophy” of Bentham and J.S.Mill, we restate the position of utilitarianism, that "It is the greatest happiness of the greatest number that is the measure of right and wrong" and that "the business of government is to promote the happiness of the society.” We ask ourselves the question, “Are the people of Akwa Ibom State happy at all given the performance of Governor Godswill Akpabio?” The answer is “yes”, proveable by the testaments by the people themselves as recorded in this book in chapter seven under “Vox Pop”. We ask again, “Is this happiness the greatest happiness of the greatest number?” The answer remains “yes”, for the uncommon transformation cut across the length and breadth, width and height of the entire state. The transformation of Akwa Ibom goes well beyond Akwa Ibom, since citizens of other states in the country also benefit from the development efforts of the administration, for instance, all children resident in the state benefit from the free, compulsory and qualitative education policy of the governments. Some of these children come from other states in Nigeria and the policy accommodates them as well. The people of Akwa Ibom now have boasting rights before their counterparts from other states of the federation. Charged by their sense of contentment and happiness, they often challenge others to visit Akwa Ibom State to witness a government that works.

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However, utilitarianism is not a perfect theory. A big criticism of this theory hits on the principle of the greatest happiness of the greatest number of people in a society. It is possible for the greatest number of people in a given society to experience greatest happiness for an evil action. History demonstrates this critique when the Jews approved of the execution of Jesus of Nazareth and when the Athenians executed Socrates.

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CHAPTER THIRTEEN KANT'S CONCEPT OF DUTY AND AKPABIO'S DUTY FOR AKWA IBOM STATE Immanuel Kant's political philosophy is defined by his theory of perpetual peace, his idea of public reason, and his conception of freedom and right. Yet all of these derive from his philosophy of morals, the Kantian ethics. Here in this chapter, we shall mainly discuss on Kant's moral philosophy. In the Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals, Kant describes duty as what we ought to do; an obligation emanating from our respect for the moral law. According to him, duty is the necessity of acting from respect for the law. His moral philosophy is well represented in what he referred to as “the Categorical Imperative”. The categorical imperative is a universal moral command which applies to all moral subjects by virtue of their humanity. Kant argues that, if duty is not to be a vain delusion and a chimerical notion, then we must act according to the precepts of the categorical imperative, which state as follows: 1. Act only on the maxim whereby you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law; 2. So act as to treat humanity, whether in your person, or the person of another, in every case as an end, never as a means to an end; 3. Act externally in such a manner that free exercise of your will may be able to co-exist with the freedom of all others according to a universal law.

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Kant assumed or sought to resolve the vagueness of Rousseau's 'general will' in the categorical imperative. For Kant, Rousseau had shown that man's true being was his ethical autonomy, freedom. Freedom is the only one and original right which belongs to each man by reason of his humanity. In Kantian practical reason, freedom is not merely a negative freedom consisting in the absence of constraint by empirical causes; it is rather a positive freedom which consists in the capacity to make acts of will in accordance with the moral law. In this positive sense freedom is the autonomy of the will and when the will is determined by external forces, it is called heteronomy. In other words, heteronomy occurs whenever the will obeys laws, rules or injunctions from any other source. The will is autonomous in obeying the moral law for the sake of the law alone, because it is obeying a law which it imposes on itself. The categorical imperative is thus the general law of freedom. Kant maintains that it is from our autonomy or freedom that the moral law is founded, and consequently all rights as well as duties. Kant classifies rights into natural right and positive right, on the one hand, and innate right and acquired right, on the other hand. Natural right rests upon pure rational principles a priori. Positive or statutory right is what proceeds from the will of the legislator. This division of rights is derived from the system of rights, viewed as a scientific system of doctrines. The system of rights may also be regarded in reference to the implied powers of dealing morally with others as bound by obligations. Viewed in this sense, Kant, again, divides right into innate right and acquired rights. Innate right is the right which belongs to everyone by nature, independent of all juridical acts of experience. It is also called the “internal mine and thine” (meum vel tuum internum); since external right must always be acquired. Acquired rights are rights derived from juridical acts of experience, and thus acquired externally. Freedom is the only one innate right. It is independence of the compulsory will of another; 278

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and in so far as it can co-exist with the freedom of all according to a universal law. It is the one sole original, inborn right belonging to everyman in virtue of his humanity. An innate equality belongs to everyman which consists in his right to be independent of being bound by others to anything more than to which he may also reciprocally bind them. This reciprocity calls into order of discourse the right-duty correlativity. Just as we have the division of right which is either internal or external, we also have duties which correlate with each of these rights. Kant affirms that a duty is what we ought to do: an obligation. He is of the notion that all duties are either duties of right, that is, juridical duties (officia juris), or duties of virtue, that is, ethical duties (officia virtutis ethica). Juridical duties are such as may be promulgated by external legislation while ethical duties are those for which such legislation is not possible. No external legislation can cause anyone to adopt a particular intention, or to propose to himself a certain purpose. This depends upon an internal condition or act of the mind itself. Kant's Ethics of Duty and Akpabio's Duty The state law spells out what Kant refers to as juridical duties (official juris). While the citizens of the state have their duties which they owe the state, the law of the state, as well, spells out the duty which the state executive owes the state and the people. Following this line of reasoning, the state executive (in this case, the state governor) owes his state the primary duty of running the state to its purposed end. What is the purposed end or function of government? What is the duty of government? Edmund Burke wrote that “Government is a contrivance of human wisdom to provide for human wants.” The duty of Governor Akpabio, therefore, is to provide for the needs, wants and welfare of Akwa Ibom State. He has, therefore, performed his duty, as can be attested to in this philosophical chronicle and by the people. We charge ourselves the 279

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duty of electing a similarly good governor in order that we might have continuity of good governance in our state, and that our state might be a good model for Nigeria.

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CHAPTER FOURTEEN AN ASSESSMENT OF GODSWILL AKPABIO'S UNCOMMON LEADERSHIP STYLE WITHIN THE ETHICS OF DEMOCRATIC GOVERNANCE “We intend to make (continue making) the welfare of the Akwa Ibom person the centre-piece of all our efforts and actions as a government” – Godswill Akpabio The book, Annang History, Philosophy and Culture, was dedicated to Chief (Dr.) Godswill Obot Akpabio, not because he is a scion of the first Acting Premier of the Eastern Region and Regional Minister of Education, Chief Hon. I. U. Akpabio (p.71), but due to compelling appreciation and admiration for the visible, tactile, tangible, empirical, sentiate, corporeal, conspicuous and uncommon transformation of Akwa Ibom State within a very short time of his people-oriented government. Governor Akpabio has passed the empirical test of democratic governance. He has put into practice the sacred credo of democracy: “salus populi”, that is, the welfare of the people, according to Cicero, a senator of the Roman republic. Governor Akpabio has demonstrated that politics is not a dirty game, but a vocation unto service of the people. From time immemorial, politics had been associated with many negative tags, from “dirty” to “unjust”. The Greek mother in the dialogue below discouraged her son from going into politics because she deemed it as “unjust”: Mother: If you say what is just, men will hate you; and if you say what is unjust, the gods will hate you. But you must either say the one or the other. Therefore, you will be hated. 281

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Son: If I say what is just, the gods will love me; and if I say what is unjust, men will love me. I must say either one or the other. Therefore, I shall be loved. From the foregoing dialogue, we discern that both mother and son had conceived of politics as an unjust affair. However, this was only one way of looking at politics. There is a positive side to that human concept called politics. The ethics of good government had been laid down by thinkers down the history of political philosophy. These men had their views on how the human community should be ordered and governed. Eventhough Plato and Aristotle were a bit cautious of the extremes of democracy (probably because of the wrongful execution of Socrates), they, at least, admitted that the state must be governed according to just laws. Plato asserted (in The Republic) that there are three major classes of people in the society: the rulers, the guardians and the artisans. The rulers are the leaders in the society; the guardians are soldiers and those responsible for the security of the society; while the artisans are those involved in the banality of business transactions, who provide for the material needs of the society. Plato suggested that the rulers must be men of deep and wide knowledge and of virtues. The state experiences harmony whenever every person performs his duty within the state, said Plato. While he affirmed (in The Politics) that man is, by nature, a political animal (because he is born into the society; 'polis' = citystate), Aristotle opted (in The Constitutions) for constitutional rule as a mark of a good state. For him, constitutional rule is a rule in the public or general interest. Both Plato and Aristotle advocated for the education of the youth as the foundation of the future of the state. The free, compulsory and qualitative educational policy of Governor Akpabio satisfies this requirement of state craft. 282

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Cicero, the Roman senator and lawyer, affirmed that government exists to supply its subjects with the advantages of mutual aid and just leadership. His political philosophy was summed up in his saying: “the welfare of the people is the supreme law” (salus populi suprema lex). John Locke emphasized that the “authority of government resides in the consent of the governed”. While Montesquieu associated sovereignty with the people in a democratic government, John Stuart Mill focused his ethics and political philosophy on the people. According to him, whatever promotes the greatest happiness of the greatest number of people in a given society is good. Therefore, a good government must generate the greatest happiness of the greatest number of people or all people in the society. An assessment of the achievements of Governor Godswill Akpabio under the lens of ethics and political philosophy of good governance reveals one thing with glaring veracity: that Governor Akpabio's government is a people – oriented government; that is, it is aimed at the welfare and happiness of the people. There is a plethora of his transformation projects which this uncommon leader has completed for the people of Akwa Ibom State. A quick voyage through the list on this paper might seem unreal, but one needs to go through the roads and flyovers in Akwa Ibom State in order to confirm that this administration is so far the best in the history of Akwa Ibom State. Two hundred and eleven (2011) roads, covering over 700 km, have been tarred. One, among many others, that has kept a lot of critics silent is the Afaha Obong – Etim Ekpo road. The Etim Ekpo road was once a proverbial road, wherein anything bad was comparable to it with the common saying, “As bad as Etim Ekpo road”. This proverb has long ceased to exist and gone into oblivion because of Governor Akpabio's transformation programmes. The list goes as follows: The roads, several bridges and drainages systems; three concentric flyovers; free and compulsory education; 283

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the free treatment for infants, pregnant women and the aged; the Tropicana Entertainment center; the Ibom Gas Plant; the completion of the Ibom International Airport; the e-library (which is the first of its kind in West Africa); the pipe jacking drainage technology (which is the first of its kind in Africa); the completion of the first phase of the Ibom Power Plant, the list goes on and on. Hold on, please! The list continues and you must be patient till the last: the construction of the Ultra Modern 30,000 capacity Olympic-size stadium in Uyo. Dear reader, please, go through the width and depth, length and height of Akwa Ibom State and see things for yourself, if seeing is believing! The thing speaks for itself (res ipsa loquitur). What is evident does not need evidence! Come or go to Akwa Ibom and see! No elected public officer in the history of Nigeria has been so honoured as much as Governor Godswill Akpabio. Wherever he goes, in Nigeria and out of Nigeria, in Akwa Ibom and out of Akwa Ibom, the people pour avalanche of accolades and encomiums on him. Why all these? The answer is: his keeping to the promise he made to his people, that Akwa Ibom can change, and that he would bring the change. One could imagine that, if our state were the Roman Empire, that Governor Akpabio would be called Emperor Akpabio, and we would worship him as the Romans would worship their emperors who performed extra-ordinarily. The German Weimer Republic or Nietzsche would call him the (Übermensch) super-man. Yet he is here with us and for us, to serve his people. After his term as Governor ended in 2015, the people needed him to serve them in this country again in whatever capacity, for he is not yet done with his package of genius for humanity. Akwa Ibom had much to celebrate and boast about when she turned 25 in the jubilee year and her governor turned 50. 2012 was a year of Jubilee! When we juxtapose the tangible, visible, credible achievements recorded by the Governor Akpabio's administration 284

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within the ethical compass of democratic governance, we have this to say: that the Governor Akpabio's government has passed the empirical test of democratic governance with a first class performance. What do we learn from Governor Godswill Akpabio? Patriotism! Faith in progress! That to govern is to serve (guberno serviendo)! Sometime ago in the history of this nation, the youths fought hard and assisted in getting independence for us all and we are all beneficiaries of their estate. Fellow Nigerians and country men, what have you done for your country? What can you offer for the advancement of this large and populous nation? Bear in mind the exhortation of President John F. Kennedy, in his 20 January, 1961, Inaugural Address: “Ask not what your country can do for you; Ask what you can do for your country.” I extend this exhortation of John Kennedy and say unto you today: Ask not what Nigeria can do for you; Ask what you can do for Nigeria. Ask not what your state can do for you; Ask what you can do for your state. Ask not what your constituency can do for you; Ask what you can do for your constituency. Ask not what your Local Government can do for you; Ask what you can do for your Local government; Ask not what your ward can do for you; Ask what you can do for your ward. Ask not what your village can do for you; Ask what you can do for your village. Ask not what your family can do for you; Ask what you can do for your family. Ask not what your neighbour can do for you; 285

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Ask what you can do for your neighbour. Ask not what your friend can do for you; Ask what you can do for your friend. What then can you do for yourself? - Believe in yourself, and repeat this mantra to yourself – I AM! I CAN! I WILL! - Believe you can be the change this country urgently needs. Get up and act, for the time for change is now!

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GENERAL REFERENCES/BIBLIOGRAPHY Appadorai, A. Substance of Politics. 11th Edition. New Delhi: Oxford University Press, 1975. Aquinas, T. Summa Theologica. Translated by Fathers Of The English Dominican Province.New York: Benziger Brothers,1947 Aristotle. Rhetoric. Book II, Chapter 2, in The Basic Works of Aristotle. Edited by Richard Mckcon. New York, 1941: pp. 14031406. Aristotle. The Politics, Book II, Chapter 1 Aristotle. The Constitutions Bentham, Jeremy (2001). The Works of Jeremy Bentham: Published under the Superintendence of His Executor, John Bowring. Volume 1. Adamant Media Corporation. p. 18. ISBN 978-1402163937. Bentham, Jeremy (January 2009). An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation (Dover Philosophical Classics). Dover Publications Inc. p. 1. ISBN 978-0486454528. Bentham, Jeremy (1776). "A Fragment on Government". Retrieved 31 November 2012. Cicero. Republic Cicero. Laws Encyclopedia Britannica Online. Accessed July 17, 2012 Encyclopedia of Islam and the Muslim world. 2004: volume I

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Essien, Ephraim-Stephen. “Justifiability of Pre-Emptive SelfDefence: An Examination of United States Invasion of Iraq in the light of the United Nations International Law”. M. A. thesis in Philosophy of Law, University of Calabar, 2005. Essien, Ephraim-Stephen. Philosophy of Peace and Conflict beyond the United Nations. Calabar: University of Calabar press, 2008 Essien, Ephraim-Stephen. Jurisprudence and Human Rights Law. Pennsylvania: I-Proclaim press, 2009 Essien, Ephraim-Stephen. Annang Philosophy, History & Culture: An Inquiry in Afrology and Afrophilia. North Carolina: Lulu Press, 2011 Hegel, Georg W. F. Philosophy of Rights. Trans. Allen W. Wood. Cambridge: Cambridge University, 1991. Hobbes, Thomas. Leviathan. Edited with an introduction by C. B. Macpherson. Harmondsworth, Middlesex: Penguin BooksLtd., 1983. Hugo, G. ”De Jure Belli ac Pacis.” “Prolegomena” 11: Introduction th to Jurisprudence by Dennis Lloyd,4 . London: Stevens and,1985 Justinian Institutes Kant, I. Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals. Translated by Thomas Kingsmill Abbott. Virginia: A&D Publishing, 2008 Kant, I. “The Metaphysics of Morals.”: Kant's Political Writings. Edited by H. Reiss, translated by H.B. Nisbet. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press,1970:131-175. 288

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Kant, I. “What is Enlightenment?” The Philosophy of Kant. Edited and translated by C. Friedrich.New York: Random House.1949:132139. Kant, I. Critique of Pure Reason. Translated by N. K.Smith. New York: St. Martin's Press, 1965. Kant, I. Perpetual Peace. Edited and translated byL.W.Beck.Indianapolis: Bobbs-Merrill,1957. Kemp, John. The Philosophy of Kant. London: Oxford University, 1968. Kennedy, John. Inaugural Address. Washington. 20 January, 1961. In Greatest Speeches in History. Compiled by Silas Ammeh. Benin: self-improvement publishing, 2008 Lloyd, Dennis. Introduction to Jurisprudence. 4th ed. London: Stevensand, 1985. Locke, J. Two Treatises on Government. Translated by David Mazel. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1960 Machiavelli, Nicolo. The Prince. Translated by George Bull. London: Penguin Books, 1995. McClelland, J.S. A History of Western Political Thoughts. London: Routledge, 1996. Montesquieu. The Sprit of Laws. Book II, chapter 2

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