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The Gong Newspaper, 30 Umoren Street, Uyo (2026)

02/05/2026

AKHA 2027: GAINS OF NTATAM'S SCHOLARSHIP DRIVE AND MORE

Abasianyanga Akpan

In January 1955, one of Nigeria’s foremost leaders, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, made a profound statement that continues to resonate with truth, foresight, and patriotic zeal—a statement every leader must reflect upon when rethinking development for society and its people.

Awolowo declared solemnly: "The children of the poor we fail to train today will never allow our children to live in peace."

This declaration provided more than just words; it offered an instinct, a philosophy, and a simple yet powerful formula for addressing the future security architecture, healthcare services, religious tolerance, human capacity building, empowerment, and infrastructural development of any nation. Driven by this conviction, he declared the first free and fair education policy for all, irrespective of tribe, religion, or cultural affiliation.

Many decades later, Dr. Emmanuel Ntatam has resurrected this line of thoughtful leadership as a deliberate rethink to help harness sustainable development in Ikono Local Government Area. He has done this by granting scholarships to numerous Ikono sons and daughters enrolled in both private and public tertiary institutions across the nation.

As a leader on a mission, Dr. Ntatam has not relented in addressing the many tributaries of development. He continues to intervene through human capacity building, laudable empowerment initiatives, and several other humane deliverables that directly touch the lives of ordinary people.

At the College of Education, Afaha Nsit—now upgraded to the University of Education—Dr. Emmanuel Ntatam released over a million naira to offset tuition and other associated bills for students of Ikono extraction. This singular act lifted a heavy financial burden off parents and gave renewed hope to many young scholars.

At the University of Uyo, a significant number of Ikono students are currently on his payroll throughout their academic journey. This is the kind of commitment expected of a leader who understands that education is the bedrock of societal transformation.

Beyond undergraduate studies, many Ikono postgraduate students currently pursuing their Master’s degrees and other advanced programmes stand as living testaments to Dr. Ntatam’s unwavering trust in human development and his drive for an education-driven constituency. His investment is not in certificates alone, but in minds that will return to build Ikono.

Without mincing words, education forms a leading pillar in the ARISE Agenda of His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno. In alignment with that vision, Dr. Emmanuel Ntatam has performed creditably well—his impact is too significant to go unnoticed.

These interventions are among the many reasons the people of Ikono score Dr. Emmanuel Ntatam highly. His strides have become the driving force behind the growing calls for him to transition from being an effective private citizen to a lawmaker. The people see in him a man who understands duty and representation, with the dogged capacity to build a community that belongs to all—a community rooted in intellectual growth, financial empowerment, and face-to-face engagement with governance that has a human face.

On the whole, the aforementioned gains of Dr. Emmanuel Ntatam’s scholarship drive are the reason for the groundswell of support and the clarion call for him to contest the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly seat come 2027. Like Oliver Twist, the people of Ikono are asking for more—more of his quest for development, more of his tenacity, and more of his pact with the people.

19/04/2026

CAUGHT ON DUTY: STORYLINE OF A'IBOM SA TO GOVERNOR ON PUBLIC WORKS, HON BLESSED LAWRENCE

_Abasianyanga Akpan_

It was Sunday, and my journalistic instincts were stirred, prompting me to embark on an impromptu tour. One personality who immediately came to mind was the Special Assistant to the Governor on Public Works. In recent times, many have commended the Governor for his relentless efforts to restore the roads, streets, and lanes of Uyo to a zero-pothole status.

Even on a Sunday, I observed that work by Amitec Construction Company was proceeding at full speed. Inspired by this, I set out on my tour—drawing from my experience as a former news reporter, an editor with a local tabloid, and a public affairs analyst.

With this background, I consider myself equipped to distinguish fact from fiction, to commend excellence, and to critique what falls short. And what I witnessed deserves commendation. If this were in the East, Hon. Blessed would likely have been summoned by royal fathers—whose communities have directly benefited from government intervention—to be conferred with a chieftaincy title.

He clearly understands the intricacies of public works. He supervises, stands under the scorching sun, directs, guides, and monitors performance, all while motivating the construction team to deliver their best. As Ecclesiastes 9:10 admonishes, _“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.”_ He embodies that scripture.

As I write, Umoren Street has been transformed into a motorist’s delight. Umoren Close off Udomana Street, once completely impassable, dilapidated, and seemingly abandoned, now boasts a new look.

At the same location, Ikot Abasi Street off Udomana
is experiencing a new dawn. I stopped by and found Hon. Blessed, as usual, caught at his duty post—diligence has become his lifestyle.

The provision of good roads, access points, and aesthetically pleasing environments is a fundamental responsibility of government. These alone stimulate economic growth and development by opening up corridors for business. Unsurprisingly, shop owners along these streets—whose contributions to the state’s internally generated revenue are invaluable—have been vocal in their commendation.

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) require smooth routes and streets to create value, drive sales, and sustain livelihoods. When families can earn a living, unemployment is reduced and insecurity is curtailed. A community with motorable roads is, by design, less susceptible to crime. Proverbs 29:4 affirms this truth: _“By justice a king gives a country stability.”_ Infrastructure is justice made tangible.

Furthermore, as Akwa Ibom steadily positions itself as a tourism hub in West Africa, deliberate attention to accessible, passable routes that offer beautiful views of an enabling environment becomes non-negotiable.

It is often said that _“the reward for good work is more work.”_ This level of exemplary commitment, thoughtfulness, and hands-on supervision reflects a prepared and competent public servant—one for whom the office of SA to the Governor on Public Works is a perfect fit.

To Hon. Blessed Lawrence, who has transitioned seamlessly from a protocol aide to the Governor to his present role, this is more than duty; it is a covenant. This is a son etching his name in gold before his father, proving himself worthy of greater trust.

BRAVO 👏

17/04/2026

AKHA 2027: GAINS OF NTATAM'S SCHOLARSHIP DRIVE AND MORE

Abasianyanga Akpan

In January 1955, one of Nigeria’s foremost leaders, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, made a profound statement that continues to resonate with truth, foresight, and patriotic zeal—a statement every leader must reflect upon when rethinking development for society and its people.

Awolowo declared solemnly: "The children of the poor we fail to train today will never allow our children to live in peace."

This declaration provided more than just words; it offered an instinct, a philosophy, and a simple yet powerful formula for addressing the future security architecture, healthcare services, religious tolerance, human capacity building, empowerment, and infrastructural development of any nation. Driven by this conviction, he declared the first free and fair education policy for all, irrespective of tribe, religion, or cultural affiliation.

Many decades later, Dr. Emmanuel Ntatam has resurrected this line of thoughtful leadership as a deliberate rethink to help harness sustainable development in Ikono Local Government Area. He has done this by granting scholarships to numerous Ikono sons and daughters enrolled in both private and public tertiary institutions across the nation.

As a leader on a mission, Dr. Ntatam has not relented in addressing the many tributaries of development. He continues to intervene through human capacity building, laudable empowerment initiatives, and several other humane deliverables that directly touch the lives of ordinary people.

At the College of Education, Afaha Nsit—now upgraded to the University of Education—Dr. Emmanuel Ntatam released over a million naira to offset tuition and other associated bills for students of Ikono extraction. This singular act lifted a heavy financial burden off parents and gave renewed hope to many young scholars.

At the University of Uyo, a significant number of Ikono students are currently on his payroll throughout their academic journey. This is the kind of commitment expected of a leader who understands that education is the bedrock of societal transformation.

Beyond undergraduate studies, many Ikono postgraduate students currently pursuing their Master’s degrees and other advanced programmes stand as living testaments to Dr. Ntatam’s unwavering trust in human development and his drive for an education-driven constituency. His investment is not in certificates alone, but in minds that will return to build Ikono.

Without mincing words, education forms a leading pillar in the ARISE Agenda of His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno. In alignment with that vision, Dr. Emmanuel Ntatam has performed creditably well—his impact is too significant to go unnoticed.

These interventions are among the many reasons the people of Ikono score Dr. Emmanuel Ntatam highly. His strides have become the driving force behind the growing calls for him to transition from being an effective private citizen to a lawmaker. The people see in him a man who understands duty and representation, with the dogged capacity to build a community that belongs to all—a community rooted in intellectual growth, financial empowerment, and face-to-face engagement with governance that has a human face.

On the whole, the aforementioned gains of Dr. Emmanuel Ntatam’s scholarship drive are the reason for the groundswell of support and the clarion call for him to contest the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly seat come 2027. Like Oliver Twist, the people of Ikono are asking for more—more of his quest for development, more of his tenacity, and more of his pact with the people.

-the Gong-

06/04/2026

Ikono 2027 Assembly Race: Zoning Debate Favours Ediene-Itak

‎
‎As Nigeria's 2027 general elections approach, political discourse Android activities in Ikono are intensifying, with growing interests in who will represent the Constituency in the State House of Assembly.
‎
‎Logically, debates are focused on zoning, while concerns are loud about which of the three zones of Ikono Middle, Ikono South, and Ediene-Itak, should produce the next lawmaker. Many stakeholders, advocating fairness and balance, are calling for a credible candidate with character asset and strong qualities of leadership that would catapult representation to an impactful realm.
‎
Accordingly, ‎arguments in favour of Ediene-Itak, the only zone yet to complete a full two-term tenure, are rising. The zone last held the seat in 1999, when Aloysius Etok served a single term.
‎
‎Meanwhile, the incumbent, Asuquo Nana Udo from Ikono South, is in speculation for allegedly nursing a third-term ambition, having been representing the local government in the State House of Assembly since 2019.
‎
‎Key stakeholders and political actors, including Sir Sunday Udo Akpan, former Commissioner for Finance, Akwa Ibom State, ‎Hon. Etop Udofia, President Ikono Middle Consultative Association (IMCA), and Prince William Okon Akpan, Vice-Chairman, IKono South Elders Forum
have spoke in support of Ediene- Itak Zone.

Speaking separately during a recent submit organised by Ediene-Itak leaders with attendees from across the three zones of Ikono, they sounded in unison that, "it is the turn of Ediene-Itak."

This is sound, and indeed, a move seen by many as a potential step at promoting equity, unity, and political stability in Ikono.
‎
‎‎Community leaders and political pundits in the local government are reported to have agreed that allowing Ediene–Itak produce the next representative would ensure balanced political participation among the coexisting groups.
‎
‎The pro-Ediene/Itak voices are basing their stance and opinions on what is described as "a proactive step to prevent potential disputes arising from perceived marginalisation."
‎
‎The development has prompted progressive calls on the State Governor, Umo Bassey Eno, PhD, and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the State, under Chairman Stephen Ntukekpo, to respect and adopt the community’s position in order to sustain peace and unity ahead of the 2027 elections.
‎
‎‎Although stakeholders' popular positions tilt towards Ediene-Itak geopolitical zone, they equally emphasise the need for the emergence of someone with proven integrity, leadership capacity, and a clear vision for development, in addition to understanding the nuances of effective representation which has been a mirage in recent years of political representation.
‎
For the 2027 race, names ‎‎are flying and tongues are wagging. In political gossips, Dr Emmanuel Sunday Ntatam, a native of Osuk Ediene in Ward Nine is fast gaining attention ahead of others. A seasoned professional with decades of experience in finance, business development, and leadership mentorship across Africa and Europe, Ntatam is both dreaded and cherished. Dreaded by co-contenders for the Ikono State Constituency ticket and cherished by the people, Ntatam is in high demand.

A capable technocrat and community leader with matchless records of service to humanity within the landscape of Ikono, his pedigree speaks for him.
‎
‎He holds a degree in Accounting from Usman Dan Fodio University, and an MBA from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology. In recognition of his outstanding feats in the business world, he has been endowed with an honorary doctorate in Entrepreneurship.

Founder of the Heal the Needy Foundation, a non-governmental organisation focused on youth development and empowerment, educational and healthcare support, Ntatam has put smile on the faces of many individuals within and beyond the local government community.
‎
‎Dr Ntatam is a Fellow of several professional bodies, including the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), the Institute of Management Consultants, and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria. Besides, he holds international affiliations in forensic and cybercrime analysis.
‎
Ongoing conversations around Dr Ntatam ‎‎uphold that his blend of professional expertise, grassroots engagement, and commitment to public service positions him as a strong contender who can squarely represent Ikono in 2027.

‎The belief is stout that his leadership could facilitate socio-economic development through effective representation.

‎As the build-up to 2027 general elections is gradually taking shape, prayers are that, Ikono people will see the light of goodness in mobilising for the emergence of Dr Ntatam, a large-hearted man who, beyond parochialism, has lived and worked for the good of others.

The cap of representation in the state legislature come 2027 fits him.
‎

03/04/2026

IKONO 2027: NTATAM KEDO

Ikono Local Government Area is one of the most strategically outstanding local governments of Akwa Ibom State, given its historical relevance, as the Cradle of the Ibibio Nation.

Hence, the fast-approaching 2027 Ikono State Constituency Election which has enormously ignited some degree of unprecedented amount of political consciousness, has also generated much heat in the area.

Beyond stimulating extensive political discourse in various arenas such as schools, markets places, worship centres, village squares, etc., it is also impacting and influencing alliances towards the 2027 race. This is healthy for the growth of our democracy.

Even in the midst of babel of voices, where confusion seems to thrive regarding where to pitch one's tent, there is yet, no ambiguity regarding who the people's preferred choice is. The choice is clear and unmistakable, as the man at the centre of it all is an amiable genus of notable record of accomplishments, in addition to undeniable charisma. Akwa Obong Unwana Emmanuel Ntatam is his name.

Aware of Ntatam's sterling disposition in words and excellence in performance, Ikono people are hoping, waiting and praying for his emergence. These are no banal or idle expectations; they are well anchored in sound purpose.

The current manifest political behaviour in Ikono is akin to the 2023 popular demand for His Excellency, Dr Godswill Akpabio, the now sitting President of the 10th Senate. Across the North-West Senatorial District, the constituents wished and worked for Akpabio in the spirit of what was coded "utom idung."

In opting for the popular choice of Dr Ntatam, the people have taken, and are still taking into consideration criteria such as the critical issues of zoning, equity, capacity, bridge-building mechanism, experience, character, integrity and selfless service to the people.

The Akwa Obong Unwana of Ikono is a private citizen but the tangible acts of his productive service to the people of the area are, over the years, awesome and verifiable.

His topnotch experience, impeccable character, intelligence, versatility, suaveness, are all defining of Ntatam, a deeply rooted political being with unbent passion for the people. His boldness, courage, assertiveness and pragmatic capacity demonstrate not just the man's adequate internal and external exposure necessary for effective representation of IKono, but equally throw up one man who can squarely measure up to his peers in any human community he finds himself.

As the wave of interest in representing Ikono State Constituency come 2027 is escalating, Dr Ntatam, a Fellow of the prestigious accounting profession, is the one eminently adjudged by the public courts of assessment to give a fresh direction through purposeful representation to the teeming and expectant people of Ikono at this critical moment of its existence.

The title holder of Akwa Obong Unwana of Ikono, Emmanuel Ntatam believes in employing the instrument of peace to heal negativities, while addressing deprivation.

Ntatam, the man with huge potentialities to represent Ikono people in the next political dispensation is indeed the genuine voice of Ikono dream.

So far, across the political landscape of the area, the agitations, the wishes, the desires, and declarations of the people about 2027 are: Ntatam Kedo.

Media Unit,
Emmanuel Ntatam, PhD.
03/04/2026

11/03/2026

Advertorial!

You Are Invited! 🎉

Join The Word of Grace Fellowship as she celebrates 25 Years of God’s Faithfulness at her Church Anniversary Celebration.

Experience a powerful time of worship, thanksgiving, and fellowship hosted by Pst. Prophetess Emem Daniel.

📅 Date: Friday, 13th March 2026

⏰ Time: 10:00 AM

📍 Venue: 8 Ikot Ndem Street, Off Calabar–Itu

Highway, beside Mount Zion Christ Church, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

✨ Please be a guest as the church celebrate 25 years of grace!

29/01/2026

MISAPPROPRIATION: A'Ibom Assembly Committee Begins Probe of Ikono Council Chair Over Alleged Law Breaches
.. investigates allegations of financial misconduct and violation of the Local Government Administration Law against Ikono LGA Chairman.

By Williams Akpabio

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs on Thursday commenced an investigation into the alleged violation of the Local Government Administration Law, 2017 by the Executive Chairman of Ikono Local Government Area, Engr. Otobong Essien.

The interface, held at Luton Park Hotel, Uyo, followed a petition signed by ten out of the twelve councillors of the council and submitted to the House of Assembly on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, for legislative scrutiny.

Speaking during the session, the Committee Chairman, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Mfon Idung, emphasized that the committee’s mandate was not to witch-hunt any individual but to objectively examine the petition in strict compliance with the provisions of the State Local Government Administration Law, 2017.

According to the petition, the council chairman was accused of failing to submit monthly income and expenditure reports to the council legislature as required by law, abuse of office, reckless spending, misappropriation of funds outside the 2025 budgetary provisions, and alleged fraud against government coffers. The petitioners maintained that such actions constitute gross misconduct and are impeachable offences under the law.

During preliminary investigations, the Head of Local Government Service (HOLGS), Mr. Victor I. John, the Director of Finance, Mr. James Umoh, and the Director of Works, Mr. Arit Ubong Usoro, in their separate testimonies, reportedly confirmed several allegations. These included non-presentation of financial reports to the legislature, expenditure of ₦40 million on solar lights, CCTV and ICT projects without budgetary approval, ₦10 million donation to Elegant Football Academy, ₦10 million spent on republishing the Chairman’s office, purchase of a non-functional transformer valued at ₦11 million, and an alleged ₦440 million expenditure on an administrative block without payment vouchers or ministerial approval.

In her defence, Engr. Otobong Essien stated that most of the projects were executed through direct labour with the approval of the Finance and General Purpose Committee (FGPC), adding that her actions were guided by the Head of Local Government Service.

In a related development, the committee also considered another petition filed by the Editor of The Post Newspaper, Mr. Gideon Ekere, who alleged that the council chairman owed him and four others over ₦1 million for newspaper publications carried out more than a year ago, an allegation the chairman reportedly denied.

However, since the meeting was inconclusive, the committee is expected to schedule a new date for concluding hearing.

Those present at the meeting included the Chief Whip and member representing Mbo State Constituency Rt. Hon. (Sir) Effiong Johnson, member representing Ikono State Constituency, Rt. Hon. Asuquo Nana Udo, Hon. Moses Essien , Hon. Eric Akpan, Hon Jerry Otu , Hon. Itoro Etim and Hon. Bassey Pius Bassey

Also in attendance were the Committee Clerk, Uduak Ebong Okon, Parliamentary Counsel, Barr. Victor Idiong, councillors of Ikono Local Government Area, the Council Secretary, Mr. Bassey Umoh, the Vice Chairman, Hon. John Bassey, and other directors.

Information Unit
Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly

20/01/2026

IKONO LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL COMMENCES IMPEACHMENT PROCEEDINGS AGAINST COUNCIL CHAIRMAN
..cites several misconducts and breach of duty as reasons

The Ikono 8th Legislative Council today at its plenary, commenced an impeachment proceeding against the Council Chairman, Rt Hon (Engr) Oto-obong Essien over what it describes as gross misconducts, misappropriation of funds and breach of duty.

A unanimous motion for the proceedings was read by the Councilor representing Ukpom Ward 5, Hon Obong Joseph.

In a letter dated 20th January, 2026 and in pursuant to section 44(1)-(3), 28(d) of the Akwa Ibom State Local Government Administration Law, 2017(as amended),the lawmakers further expatiate on the basis for the impeachment proceeding to include but not limited to, her refusal to release the funds meant for Constituency projects which was duly captured in last year's budget estimate, refusal to submit statements of income and expenditure, petitioning of the Councilors at Police Headquarters, Abuja, spending Council's money not captured in the budget, etc.

The impeachment notice was signed by 10 out of the 12 Councilors in the Council.

More details later...

©️Media Unit
Ikono Legislative Council

01/01/2026

From all of us at the Gong Newspaper, we wish you all a happy new year 2026❤️

13/12/2025

IKONO LOCAL GOVERNMENT SHINES AT CHRISTMAS UNPLUGGED 3.0

Abasianyanga Akpan

In a spectacular display of cultural pride and unity, Ikono Local Government Area took center stage at the Christmas UNPLUGGED 3.0 celebration, held at the Christmas Village, Udoudoma Road, Uyo, on December 12, 2025. The event was a resounding success, showcasing the rich heritage and traditions of Ikono to a global audience.

The evening was filled with electrifying performances, including the iconic Ekon & Obio Okpo dancers, who mesmerized the crowd with their energetic and rhythmic moves. The Exhibition of Nkon – the iconic Pan-Ikono handwoven mat – was a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Ikono people.

But the star of the show was undoubtedly the legendary Afere Nsana Soup, which was served to attendees, who eagerly devoured the delicious and nutritious dish. The soup, known for its healing properties and aphrodisiac qualities, was a hit with the crowd, who praised its unique flavor and cultural significance.

Chairman Hon. Engr. Oto-Obong Okon Essien, the mastermind behind the event, expressed his delight and pride at the turnout and enthusiasm of the Ikono community. "This is what we work towards – showcasing our culture and heritage to the world," he said. "We are proud to be Ikono, and we are proud to share our traditions with the world."

The event was attended by Ikono sons and daughters from across the globe, who came together to celebrate their shared heritage and make history. It was a night to remember, a night that will go down in the annals of Ikono history as a celebration of unity, pride, and culture.

As the night drew to a close, the Ikono community vowed to continue showcasing their culture and traditions, and to make Christmas UNPLUGGED 4.0 an even bigger and better celebration.

The Gong Newspaper

02/05/2026

19/04/2026

17/04/2026

06/04/2026

03/04/2026

11/03/2026

29/01/2026

20/01/2026

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13/12/2025

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