Press Freedom Day: Journalists identified as critical stakeholders in Peace and Conflict Resolution

Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot 

Journalists in Akwa Ibom State have been identified as critical stakeholders in promoting peace and resolving conflicts in the State.

This was the position of Prof. Iniobong Umotong, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Akwa Ibom State University and panelists at the 2026 World Press Freedom Day celebration held at the Press Centre, Information Drive, Uyo on Sunday, May 3.

Prof. Umotong noted that Journalists are not just watchdogs for the sakes of reporting happenings but for the sakes of ensuring and maintaining peace and decorum in the society. 

As such, the Keynote Speaker called for a deliberate analysis of issues before they are reported.

"Whatever you report, be deliberate about peace. Journalists must ensure to analyse complex situations and present them to the understanding of parties involved, and explain the implications of reporting or not reporting same", he said.

He also called on government, agencies, groups and individuals to ensure that journalism is not hindered, in the interest of the public. 

"Quality journalism is a public good hence, government, agencies and individuals should ensure to create an enabling environment for unhindered journalism", he stated. 

Earlier in his remarks, the State Chairman of NUJ, Comrade Nsibiet John, reinforced the importance of the media as a pillar of democracy and a driver of peacebuilding. He urged journalists to maintain professionalism, accuracy, and balance in their reporting, while also commending individuals and leaders whose contributions continue to advance development and good governance across the State.

Setting the tone for the event, the Chairman of the World Press Freedom Day Planning Committee, Comrade Oku Udoetor, underscored the vital role of responsible journalism in promoting peace, unity, and conflict resolution.

He charged media practitioners to uphold ethical standards and remain committed to truth and fairness in their reportage, especially at a time when society looks to the media for direction and stability.

The event which was themed “Shaping a Future at Peace: The Critical Role of Journalism in Promoting Peace and Resolving Conflicts in Akwa Ibom State,” featured the presentation of awards of excellence to performing personalities.

It was Chaired by the MD/CEO, U&K Integrated Services, Engr. Ukeme Eyo, and attended by the media community, government officials, and stakeholders across the State.

Akwa Ibom PPRO Buries Mom

 

Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot 

The atmosphere was sullen, tranquil and hush on Saturday, May 2, 2026 when the Akwa Ibom State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John laid her mother to rest.

The remains of the deceased, Late Mrs. Nkoyo Ita John Ikot, aged 61, were committed to mother earth admist painful tears by her children who lamented her departure at a time she would have stayed to enjoy the fruits of her selfless sacrifices for them.

According to the family, the deceased was a woman filled with love, kindness, sympathy and empathy both for her children and others.

She wore the garment of humanity with humility and was never found wanting where there was no virtue.

Testimonies from the community and Church she worshipped God with, Christian Fellowship Evangelical, attested to her moral uprightness, disciplined personality, assesibility and peace-loving disposition. 

A business woman, nurse and teacher; the Late Nkoyo according to her biography worked diligently for over 10 years without pay yet, remained steadfast and committed to service. She later ventured into 'mama-put' business and gradually grew it into a standard restaurant. 

Unfortunately,  she passed on after a brief illness on 6th of April, 2026, when all medical attention proved abortive.

"She laboured tirelessly for the success and wellbeing of her children, always praying and hoping to witness the fruits of her labour in full. Sadly, she passed on before fully enjoying the blessings she worked so hard for. She sought prosperity for her family and just as the blessings began to manifest, she was no longer here to partake in them", her Biography read.

In his consolatory homily, the Eket Area Pastor of the Christian Fellowship Evang. Nig. Inc, Pst. Paul Ukpo charged the family to be consoled by the words of the scripture that those who die in the Lord will rise on the resurrection morning. He urged them to live by the principles of their Late mother and what she stood for, adding that she had given them the best legacy.

His position were upheld by the General Overseer of the Chruch, Pst. Emem Jacob other sympathisers who came commiserating with the family.

The funeral sevice which attracted the socio-political and paramilitary class in Akwa Ibom State was graced by the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare; State Commandant of the NSCDC, Commandant Geraldine Sistus; State Comptroller, Immigration Services; Police Officers' Wives; the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ); Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Conference of Online Publishers (COOPA) and a long line of dignitaries.

IGP Pronounces Prosecution on Force accidental dischargers

 

Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot 

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu has announced an instant prosecution on police officers who cause the death of citizens as a result of accidental discharge.

The IGP made the announcement at the Passing Out Parade of One Thousand and Sixty-Eight (1,068) retrained police officers on Thursday, April 30, 2026, in Uyo.

Held at Police Mobile Base on Idoro Road, the IGP stressed that the training which included lessons on human rights protection, was enough for them to take precaution and be more careful when handling their weapons. 

"We have witnessed too many avoidable deaths, citizens killed by officers who claimed their weapon misfired. That tragedy has ended now. The the use of firearms must be the last resort; professional and strictly within the bounds of the Law", he charged. 

"This retraining has taught you mastery so that you don't fire unless you intend to fire because protecting lives is your highest calling. The best shot is the one that is not fired. A skilled officer with discipline is the guardian of the people, impunity ends now!", he stated, and made reference to the viral video of the Delta State killing.

"I want you to hear me clearly; any officer who misuses his weapon; who kills a citizen without lawful jurisdiction will be dismissed and prosecuted. Not transferred, not queried only but dismissed and handed over to the Law. I've warned all officers, the training you've received includes human rights. At Force order 237...you know the rules... Now you have no excuses. No badge is a license to kill...no uniform is a shield from justice. That is my promise", he charged. 

Similarly, the IGP called on Akwa Ibom people to see the officers as their partners in security and crime elimination; while urging them to report erring officers to the Force, stressing that no officer is above the Law.

Furthermore, he commended the State Police Commissioner, CP Baba Mohammed Azare for swiftly responding to his directive of retraining officers, saying his quick response was worth emulating. 

Responding, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Azare was grateful to the IGP for gracing the Passing out Parade.

"The retraining of these officers is in line with your directives to reposition the Force for greater efficiency and responsiveness", he said. 

"The training focused on weapon handling, disciplining, intelligence-led policing and respect for human rights", he informed. 

"Some of the trainees have been carefully selected to serve in the newly established violent crime response unit created to serve as a strategic response on combating crimes and enhancing rapid response to same" he added.

Congratulating the officers, the CP also charged them to serve with discipline, professionalism and integrity; adding that the confidence reposed on them must not be betrayed. 

"Let me make it clear that this Command will not tolerate misconduct, indiscipline or abuse of office. Any officer found wanting will be decisively dealt with in accordance with the law", he warned. 

While appreciating Governor Umo Eno for his continued support to the Police and other security agencies in the State, the State CP sought the IGP's support on the provision of marine gun boats to secure the Oron/Calabar waterways; construction of a standard shooting range to sustain continous firearms training, among others.

In his remarks, Governor Umo Eno commended the Akwa Ibom State Police Command for undertakings the training.

Represented by Adeyemi Ogunjemilusi, the Governor noted that the training underscores the commitment of the Nigerian Police Force to professionalism, discipline and responsible use of firearms in the discharge of duty.

He told the gathering that security remains a top priority in his administration as peace and stability are essential for sustainable developments.  

He also congratulated the constables for the beginning of a higher responsibility to serve, noting that their role is even more critical as the election approaches.

"You are expected to conduct yourself with utmost professionalism, neutrality and fairness, ensuring that every citizen participate freely and fairly in the coming democratic process", Governor Eno charged.

Umo Eno @62: TIMS Offset Medical Bills of Indigent Patients

Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot 

An indigenous medical organisation based in Uyo has intervened in the payment of bills of 50 indigent patients, in celebration of Governor Umo Eno's 62nd birthday. 

The organization, known as Tokiye Integrated Medical Services (TIMS) visited Ikot Ekpene General Hospital on Friday, April 24, 2026, being the Governor’s birthday, led by its Head of Corporate Services, Ms. Lyza Adiukwu.

At the facility, the team went round the maternity, post-natal, gynaecology and paediatric wards, sympathising with the patients and paying their bills, including those of the Accident and Emergency Ward.  

One of the babies visited was the Governor’s birthday mate, born about 4:00am that morning.  

Of particular interest were 12 babies in the incubating facility with cases such as neonatal sepsis, neonatal jaundice and severe birth asphyzxia, who were due for discharge but delayed due to lack of funds. The joy on the faces of their families could not be contained as thier bills were cleared by TIMS.

Similarly, patients at the gynaecology ward who were due for discharge but had not paid their bills shed tears of joy at the gesture.

One of them was Mrs. Hannah Dominic Henry who underwent myomectomy (removal of fibroid). 

At the Paediatric Ward, a pathetic sight greeted the team as parents of children with severe cases of burns, surgeries and other medical needs lamented their inability to afford the cost of treatment. But their faces glowed with excitement when it was announced that their bills have been cleared by TIMS.

One of them, Mr. Trust James whose 16 year old was managing Juvenile Diabetes was far more overjoyed. Not only was his child's hospital paid, the cost of his drugs were also covered by TIMS. 

In his reaction to the gesture, Mr. James praised the visiting team for the timely intervention and prayed God's blessings and unending supply upon TIMS. He, alongside other parents also wished the Governor more enriching years, while lauding Pst. Umo Eno's health intervention through the Akwa Ibom State Health Insurance Scheme.

He was supported by others such as Mrs. Idongesit Michael Ekanem, mother of the baby sharing the day with Governor Umo Eno; Mrs. Elizabeth Samuel Sunday, Mrs. OfonimeAbasi, Mrs. Uwakmfon Julius Victor, Mrs. Christiana Uwem Micah, Mrs. Hannah Dominic Henry and others who took turns to shower the Governor with goodwill messages and positive wishes.

Reacting to the development, the Medical Director of the Hospital, Dr. Nene Francis Andem was thankful to TIMS for choosing the facility for the intervention. 

She noted that the facility had a lot of indigent patients who could not afford their bills on completion of treatment.  

"We see lots of referrals coming in and by the time they're brought in here, they've already exhausted their funds, from seeking health services elsewhere", she told newsmen.

She was therefore grateful that the burden of those concerned have been borne by TIMS.  

Speaking for TIMS, the Strategic Communications Lead for TIMS, Imaobong Dem said the team was glad to be carrying out the Governor’s wish of channeling whatever would have been given to him as birthday gift to the less privileged.

"It's so exciting to see that a number of them have smiled which is what the Governor wants", she remarked.

While commending the hospital's hygiene and sanitary condition, the Communications Lead, on behalf of the team, lauded Governor Umo Eno on his birthday and wished him many fruitful and fulfilling years. She also commended the Governor for making the Health Insurance Scheme effective, adding that the scheme has paved way for others to benefit from thier intervention. 

The intervention featured the payment of two Chemotherapy sessions for Mrs. Okon Akpan Udo and a tour of the concerned wards.

In the intervention team were TIMS Human Resource Manager, Mrs Idongesit Ita; Head of Procurement and Supply Chain, Mr Abdulkahal Salihu; Financial Controller, Mr Ite Asuquo, among others.

Birthday Felicitations to His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno PhD

 

Uyo Council Boss Gets more accolade on Compassionate Home Built for Nsukara Widow

Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot

The Chairman of Uyo Local Government Council, Hon. Uwemedimo Udo has again been applauded for the construction and handing-over of a modern habitable edifice to a widow at Nsukara Offot.

The applause came from the Uyo Media Group on Monday, April 20, 2026 during a meeting with the Council Chairman in his office. 

It would be recalled that the widow, Madam Comfort Okon Ekpenyong, formerly known as “Mma Ntagha Ufok Nsukara”, meaning the woman living in the most dilapidated house in Nsukara, had endured harsh living conditions while raising three children and caring for seven grandchildren, one of whom is physically challenged.

The apartment presented was fully furnished and equipped with solar-powered electricity and borehole water to ensure comfort and sustainability for Madam Comfort Ekpenyong and her family. 

As the tape was cut and the doors of the new bungalow opened on Monday, February 23, 2026, the widow broke down in tears, saying she would sleep on a proper bed for the first time in her life. 

Beyond the house, the Chairman presented her with a cheque of ₦500,000 to boost her plantain and fufu business.

For this, the Uyo Media Group commended Dr. Udo, describing the action as a demonstration of humanity. 

Led by its Chairman, Elder Patrick Albert, the group gave the Uyo Council Boss a pat on the back, saying that he was making Uyo proud.

"Your leadership of Uyo LGA is quite remarkable. Your performance is evident and impactful. However, we must emphasise that despite enormous records, much is still expected of you. Continue this way, and posterity will judge you favourably", Albert said, while promising the support of the media body for his activities.

In his introduction of the Group to Dr. Udo, Elder Albert informed that the Uyo Media Group is a body of professional media practitioners whose aims and objectives were to promote love, unity, progress, and development of Uyo Local Government Area.

According to Albert, the Group also exists to preserve, protect, and advance the collective interest of Uyo Local Government within the politics of the State and the Nation as a whole; while identifying, collaborating, and supporting sons and daughters holding leadership positions in various tiers of government from the area.

He again applauded Dr. Uwemedimo on his track record of excellence, and promised the Group's partnership to get his deeds to public glare. 

Responding, the Uyo Council Boss, Dr. Uwemedimo Udo appreciated the team for visiting and acknowledging his activities. He disclosed that the Nsukara Offot house was one of the 14 Compassionate Homes to be delivered under his administration across the 14 wards in the local government.

The Chairman noted that his administration has consistently prioritised education and capacity building, as well as initiatives designed to ensure that the people directly benefit from government resources.

“ We are setting Uyo on a trajectory of sustainable developments. The template we are setting is one that whoever comes after us must sustain, especially in providing basic benefits like bursaries and entitlements to statutory officers,” he said.

On infrastructure, the Chairman disclosed that several projects are ongoing, including the renovation of the Community Health Centre at Atan Offot; rural electrification efforts in communities such as Nung Udoe Ediene, Ebong Akpakpan, Mbiabong Ikot Akpan, Ibiam Street, Ifa Ikot Okpon, Ikot Obio Mkpong, and others, where power is being restored after about five years as well as the installation of solar-powered water facilities in Ikot Akpan Ediene. He expressed optimism that many other projects including compassionate homes would be completed and handed over before the end of the year.

“We will continue to deliver within the limits of available resources, he added, while also acknowledging the support of stakeholders and traditional institutions, whom he said are carried along with due respect and recognition. 

Dr. Udo who doubles as Akwa Ibom ALGON Chairman further called on members of the group to uphold professionalism, fairness, and ethical standards in their engagements, while advocating for mentorship opportunities for younger media practitioners.

ARISE Park: Uyo Media Group Applauds Umo Eno

 

...describe edifice as destination of tourism 

Priscilla Christopher-Akpanettot 

Governor Umo Eno has continued to receive commendation on the construction of the ARISE Palm Resort, also known as the ARISE Park.

The lastest is coming from the Uyo Media Group, being the umbrella body of media practitioners from Uyo Local Government Area.

Describing the Park as the destination of tourism in Nigeria, the group at it's General Meeting held on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 commended the State Governor for transforming the area from a degraded environment into a major economic asset.

In a Communique issued at the meeting, the Group lauded Governor Eno for the visionary project, while expressing gladness that it is sited in Uyo.

They also appreciated the Governor for the reconstruction and expansion of road networks across the four clans of Uyo; establishment of ARISE Model Schools in Uyo Village and Ewet Offot as well as the provision of modern primary healthcare centres in the Local Government. 

"Others are the ongoing construction of the Ring Road III dual carriageway from Idoro Road, ongoing construction of Ibom International Convention Centre and the 200-room Ibom Hotel close to the Tropicana, and the upgrade of IbomLED, IBB Way, into a functional skills acquisition hub empowering youths".

"The establishment of a CNG Bus Terminal at Obio Offot and Ikot Akpe with integrated security infrastructure, expansion of housing through Ewet Luxury Estate and other estate developments, as well as the delivery of ARISE Compassionate Homes across the 14 wards", the Communique reads.

Similarly, the Uyo Media Group has given Governor Umo Eno thumbs-up for recognising and rewarding eminent sons and daughters of Uyo Local Government to manage various segments of his administration. 

They specifically mentioned the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; Chairman of ALGON, Dr. Uwemedimo Udo; Member, Uyo State Constituency,  Hon. Uwemedimo Asuquo; Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Anieti Udofia; Managing Director, Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort, Sir Charles Udo and the Chairman, Uyo Capital City Development Authority (UCCDA), Rt. Hon. Anietie Eka as sons of Uyo who were making them proud in Umo Eno's administration. 

"The Group expresses profound commendation to the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, for his diligence, loyalty and faithful discharge of his responsibilities to the State Government under the people-centric leadership of His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, Ph.D, Governor of Akwa Ibom State". 

"The Group notes with satisfaction that under the leadership of Prince Enobong Uwah as Political Leader of Uyo Local Government Area, there is a harmonious political alignment, peace, unity and sustained progress across all Wards and Clans of Uyo. To a greater extent, his commitment and political dexterity has continued to strengthen good governance and inspire confidence among the four (4) Local Government Areas in the Uyo Federal Constituency".

"The Group expresses commendation to the leadership of the Chairman of Uyo Local Government, who doubles as the Chairman of ALGON in Akwa Ibom State, Dr Uwemedimo Udo, noting that his “Service Alone” mantra has translated into tangible impacts across all the 14 wards and four clans of Offot, Etoi, Oku and Ikono, with notable projects, which includes provision of transformers and connection to the national grid in previously neglected communities, bursaries to students, financial support to Law Students, entrepreneurs, and the delivery of compassionate homes".

"The Group commends the Member representing Uyo State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and Chairman, House Committee on Security, Youth and Sports, Hon Uwemedimo Asuquo, for effective representation. It notes that his interventions which includes the construction and furnishing of a four-classroom block with toilet facilities serving multiple villages at Idoro and Nung Obio Enang, provision of water to villages, grading of roads, scholarships, gift of vehicles to constituents for commercial use, bursary schemes and sustained support to entrepreneurs among several others, have defined his representation positively".

"The Group commends the Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Anieti Udofia, for effective leadership at the Ministry - making it vibrant and result-driven institution, and of a significant note, earning the COMMISSIONER OF THE YEAR 2025 recognition from the Governor for his stellar performance in the organization of the Christmas Unplugged 3.0 and contributing to the growing visibility of Akwa Ibom in the tourism sector".

"The Group acknowledges the insightful performance of Sir Charles Udo, Managing Director of Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort, whose leadership has driven ongoing renovations, rebranding and transformation of the facility into a competitive world-class hospitality destination. Such innovative managerial acumen, the group notes, is what the 5-star facility needs at this time".  

"The Group also expresses satisfaction with the performance of the Chairman, Uyo Capital City Development Authority, Rt Hon. (Sir) Anietie Eka, for effectively driving the Governor’s vision of a modern city through the remodelling of Ibom Plaza, the transformation of the Itam flyover into a major city attraction, ongoing plans to replicate same across other flyovers, and the firm enforcement against street trading within the capital city".

Based on this inclusiveness of Uyo Sons and daughters in his administration, and the execution of life-touching projects and programmes which have positively impacted indigenes, residents and businesses in Uyo; the Uyo Media Group expressed confidence in the leadership of Governor Umo, while promising commitment to identifying and supporting it to completion.

The Communique was jointly signed by the Group's Chairman, Elder Patrick Albert; Secretary, Patrick Titus; Chairman, Communique Drafting Committee, Elder Chris Ikpoto; Secretary, Henshaw Nyong and Chief Imo Udoima, Member.