TheHILL | POLITICS | February 8.
A successful businessman and philanthropist in Akwa Ibom, Elder Godwin Etim Okon, has stepped up his ambition to become the Executive Governor of the State in 2023 on the platform of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP). Dumbra, as he is famously known has however, said, he is not deterred by any development in the State, thus, would consult more to seek the people’s support and blessing.
Recall that since Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State, a few days ago, presented his preferred choice of successor to a few stakeholders at Government House, Uyo, the once calm political climate of the State had since become blusterous with a good number of citizens insisting that there must be a level playing field to every qualified Akwa Ibomite who has genuine interest to contest for the plum job.
Speaking on Tuesday, when he visited the Leader, Uyo Senatorial Leaders’ Forum, Rt Hon (Otuekong) Thomas Okon Akpan, to seek the blessing of the respected leader, Dumbra disclosed that no indigene of Uyo has occupied the office of the governor since the creation of the state in 1987.
“I want to state emphatically that neither I nor my supporters would insult or demean the governor for his recent pronouncement vis-a-vis his successor because he is the leader of our party (PDP) and has every right to support whoever he is comfortable with, but, as a fonafidé son of Uyo from Effiat Offot, I make bold to say that I will not jump the gun, we will still have to consult, because the time has come for an Uyo son who has genuine interest about developing the State to move to the Hilltop Mansion” the frontline Governorship aspirant stated.
He explained that as a member of the PDP, he would abide by the rules and regulations of the party and respect all leaders of the party beginning from the Governor to the least in the umbrella party.
The United States based successful businessman also informed his host about his genuine desire to run an all-inclusive government for the development of Akwa Ibom in all sectors.
“I have lived in the United States for more than two decades and I’ve traveled to over fifteen (15) other countries in Europe, Asia and Australia. I have acquired vast knowledge, experience and capability for infrastructural development, finance management, community development, youth empowerment and what is needed for the development of any region,” he stated.
The governorship hopeful, who referred to Obong T. O. Akpan as a man of integrity added, “my leader, even if you would likely support the Governor’s choice, this consultation is very important to me because you are a revered king maker; kindly see this visit to your abode as a mark of respect. Daddy, I respect you as a very straightforward father, grand father, man of God, royal father, political leader in my senatorial district and State, a former parliamentarian and astute politician.”
Responding, the leader of the Uyo Senatorial District Leaders Forum, Obong Akpan, lauded his visitor for according him the respect. He also thanked Dumbra for having lived an exemplary life during his stay in the U.S and the many things he has done to help the downtrodden.
Akpan however stated that as one who detests double standards, he was in full support of the preferred choice of Governor Udom Emmanuel
He listed many achievements of the Emmanuel administration, some he said has directly benefitted him and his people, including the ongoing construction of road in his Nung Ette Community.
The Ibesikpo Asutan born leader said he has satisfied with Governor Emmanuel’s leadership style, thus, will follow his direction.
He however encouraged the governorship aspirant to pray to God for His will to be done in his life, stressing that Only God make and appoint leaders. Obong T.O Akpan, however, charged him to go about his consultations peacefully, assuring that the PDP will provide level playing ground for all her aspirants to test their popularity during the primary election.
Addressing a good number of youths who came out to give him a rousing welcome, the gubernatorial hopeful, Elder Godwin Okon shared his plans for them in the areas of vocational institutions for skills acquisition, technology hub, subsidized tuition for tertiary education and job creation.
Others are partnership with international agencies and private sectors to build more industries and sports development through the creation of sports academies.
“I don’t intend to stop helping our youths get employment; I am not going to stop giving our children scholarships. Also let me tell you, all of us aspiring for this position are my friends. I will not stop eating or drinking with them because of election. So, my dear brothers, you don’t have to fight among yourselves because of this election.
“This election is about you; it’s about your welfare, your health, education for your children, employment for you and your children, ease of doing business, security of your lives. I am here for service and by God’s grace, I will not fail this State.”
The governorship hopeful, who was accompanied by the leadership of his campaign organization and newsmen made cash donation and drinks to the youth.
Carry go brother, we are suddenly behin you, the youth need you.