By Solomon OKPO
NSIT UBIUM, The Akwa Ibom State Council of Chiefs has reaffirmed its confidence in the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON, describing him as a true son of the state whose achievements continue to bring pride and honour to the people.
The declaration was made on Friday by the Oku Ibom Ibibio and President-General of the Akwa Ibom State Traditional Rulers Council, His Eminence, Ntenyin (Dr.) Solomon Daniel Etuk, during a courtesy visit by Senator Akpabio and a delegation of National Assembly members to the royal palace in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area.
Welcoming the Senate President and his entourage, the royal father expressed delight at the visit, saying the people of Akwa Ibom “know their son” and remain proud of his record of service.
“This is our son, and we are very happy to receive him in this palace,” Ntenyin Etuk said. “We know what he can do, and we are proud of his achievements in his current office as the Senate President.”
In what appeared to be a response to critics and negative social media commentaries, the monarch stated emphatically:
“We know who Godswill Obot Akpabio is. We testify that we know who you are. If we don’t know who you are, then it means we are not yours. As a king, I know all my children, the good and the bad ones but the good and bad must live together in hope that the bad ones will change for good.”
He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his collaboration with Senator Akpabio and urged the Senate President to convey the appreciation of Akwa Ibom traditional rulers to the President.
The royal father also appealed to Akpabio to ensure that the long-awaited Ibom Deep Seaport Project is completed, describing it as vital to the state’s economic development. He further commended the National Assembly for its recent legislative interventions, particularly the passage of laws addressing child defilement and gender-based violence.
Responding, Senator Akpabio thanked the traditional rulers for the warm and spontaneous reception, which he described as a homecoming filled with affection and unity.
“I am here today with my colleagues and family members, which shows that my home is intact,” Akpabio said.
The Senate President described the Oku Ibom Ibibio as a “man of peace,” crediting him with fostering unity across the state. He also conveyed his greetings to Governor Umo Eno, whom he praised as another “man of peace” whose leadership has brought stability to Akwa Ibom.
“My visit today is a reconciliation move that will rekindle peace, love, and unity in Akwa Ibom State,” Akpabio declared. “Under Governor Umo Eno, our state is united because of his decision to link us to the centre by joining the APC. I will support him 100 percent to succeed as a second-term governor.”
He cautioned against divisive politics and misinformation, pledging to continue working for the peace and progress of the state.
“Don’t listen to naysayers and blackmailers. We are solidly behind the governor. I will continue to work for the unity and development of Akwa Ibom State,” he said.
The visit ended with prayers and royal blessings for Senator Akpabio, his family, and his continued success as Nigeria’s Senate President.
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