GOVERNANCE

CHRAN COMMENDS ETIM EKPO COUNCIL CHAIRMAN FOR TRANSPARENCY, ACCOUNTABILITY 

By Julius Nsikak - Uyo

The Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) has commenced its accountability tour of projects executed by the Chairmen of the 31 Local Government Councils of Akwa Ibom State, with a focus on verifying projects completed within their first 100 days in office. 

This initiative is part of CHRAN's commitment to promoting democracy and good governance at the grassroots level. 

The tour began with a visit to Etim Ekpo Local Government Council on Monday, 3rd February 2025, where the CHRAN team was received by the Executive Chairman, Hon. Gideon Uwah.

The Director of CHRAN, Otuekong Franklyn Isong, emphasised that the organisation's core mandate extends beyond federal and state governments to monitoring the activities of local government councils, ensuring that council officials are held accountable to the people. 

He noted that CHRAN is a worthy development partner dedicated to promoting good governance at the local level, which is essential for effective governance. Isong urged local government chairmen to be transparent about their achievements within their first 100 days in office, as this would demonstrate their commitment to accountability.

During the visit, the Council Chairman, Hon. Gideon Uwah, showcased various projects undertaken by his administration, including the renovation of the Council Secretariat, construction of a new gate house, and rehabilitation of the Police Area Command and Division. 

Other notable projects include the rehabilitation of St. Anthony Primary School Block, recovery and rehabilitation of the Council Grader, and the cultivation of cassava on five hectares of farmland to enhance food sufficiency. 

The CHRAN team commended the Chairman for his efforts, observing that the Council has become more engaged and active under his leadership.

Isong encouraged the Chairman to expand his development initiatives beyond the Council Secretariat to other parts of the local government area, ensuring that the entire community benefits from his administration's efforts. 

He also praised the Chairman for his vision, focus, and commitment to justifying the funds received by his administration. 

The Director recalled the recent accident at the Utu Etim Ekpo Roundabout, which resulted in loss of life and injury, and called on the federal and state governments to redesign and reconstruct the roundabout to improve safety and accessibility.

In his remark, the Council Chairman, Hon. Gideon Uwah, attributed his motivation to his passion and love for his people, having lived among them for many years. He emphasized that his administration's achievements are a result of vision and commitment, rather than just financial resources. Uwah noted that the Council Secretariat was in a state of disrepair when he assumed office, with the fence being used for billboards and other forms of advertisement, which detracted from the Secretariat's dignity. 

He took steps to renovate the gate house, remodel the fence, and give the Secretariat a facelift.

The Chairman also highlighted the five-hectare cassava farm, which was established in line with the State Governor's directive to contribute to the state's food basket. The produce from the farm will be sold at a subsidised rate to council staff and other interested buyers. 

Uwah commended CHRAN for their visit, which he saw as an honour, and expressed his administration's openness to scrutiny by any anti-graft agency. He also welcomed partnerships with development firms and organisations to promote the growth and development of the area.

The CHRAN team consisted of Otuekong Franklyn Isong, Director; Comrade (Barr.) Christopher Ekpo, Secretary; Comrade (Dr.) Victor David; Comrade (Dr.) Daniel Evans Eshett; Comrade Julius Nsikak; Comrade Lovina Anthony; and Comrade Patrick Titus, among others.