The leadership of the Ibibio Traditional Council in Akwa Ibom State has reaffirmed its confidence and pride in the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, describing him as a true son of the soil whose capacity and achievements are well known to the people.
Receiving Akpabio and his entourage of National Assembly members in his palace in Nsit Ubium on Friday, the Oku Ibom Ibibio and President-General of the Akwa Ibom State Traditional Rulers Council, His Eminence, Ntenyin (Dr.) Solomon Daniel Etuk, commended the Senate President for his exemplary service and contributions to national development.
“This is our son, and we, as a people, are very happy to receive him in this palace. We know what he can do, and we are very proud of his achievements in his current office as the Senate President,” Ntenyin Etuk stated.
In what appeared to be a veiled response to online attacks and misinformation targeted at the Senate President, the monarch said, “We know who Godswill Obot Akpabio is. We testify that we know who you are. If we don’t know who you are, it means we are not yours. As a king, I know my children — the good and the bad ones — but we hope the bad ones will change for good in the future.”
He further expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support to Akpabio, urging the Senate President to convey the appreciation of the Ibibio people to the President.
“To whom much is given, much is expected. One good turn deserves another,” the royal father said, while also appealing to Akpabio to ensure the realization of the long-awaited Akwa Ibom Seaport project. He commended the National Assembly for its legislative efforts, particularly the passage of the bill on defilement of minors.
Responding, Senator Akpabio thanked the royal fathers for the warm reception accorded him and his team, describing the visit as a homecoming and a symbol of reconciliation and renewed unity in Akwa Ibom State.
“I am here today with my colleagues and family members, which shows that my home is intact. This visit is a major reconciliation move that will rekindle peace, love, and unity in Akwa Ibom State,” Akpabio said.
He lauded the peaceful disposition of the state’s traditional ruler and the governor, Pastor Umo Eno, describing both as men of peace. “The most costly peace is better than the cheapest war. Akwa Ibom is united because of Governor Umo Eno’s decision to link us to the centre by joining the APC. I will support him 100 percent to succeed as a second-term governor,” Akpabio added.
The Senate President urged citizens to ignore detractors and focus on collective progress, assuring continued collaboration for the peace and development of the state.
The visit ended with special prayers by the royal fathers for Akpabio, his family, and his success in office.
— Jackson Udom, Special Assistant (Media) to the President of the Senate
