The issue of who succeeds Governor Godswill Akpabio in 2015 when his tenure runs full circle dominated discussions at the Town Hall Meeting between the Governor and the people of Eket Federal Constituency yesterday.
The meeting, which drew participants from Eket, Ibeno, Onna and Esit Eket Local Government Areas that make up the Federal Constituency, took place at the Eket Council Hall with the Governor Presiding.
Speaking, speaker after speaker at the well-attended forum spoke of the resolve of the people of Eket Senatorial District to support the emergence of Chief Akpabio’s successor in the 2015 from the district, a former Minster of Lands and Housing- Chief Ndueso Essien said the people of Eket Federal Constituency have benefited immensely in terms of appointments and projects.
He acknowledged that governance was not an easy task coupled with the pressure one receives while in public office and mentioned support for Eket Federal Constituency to produce the next Governor.
The former Minister advised all those with Governorship ambition to go round the State and campaign at the appropriate time so that they know the people, the terrain as well as the challenges they hope to face when they are eventually elected.
He applauded the Governor for kick starting the Town Hall Meeting from Eket Senatorial District.
Senator Emeh Ufot Ekaette on her part said another forum should be organized where the Governorship aspirants will feature to give account of their stewardship before the people.
Others who spoke were the Paramount Ruler of Onna- Akwa Edidem Akpabio Udo Ukpa, Chairman of Eket Local Government – Chief Aniekan Akpan and Prof. Umoette Umoette.