COUNTING THE GAINS WITH UDUAK IKOT IN ESIT EKET: THE PROGRESS AND RECORDS
On October 5, 2024, Akwa Ibom State recorded the most peaceful local government election in history since the creation of the state on September 23, 1987. The election, conducted by the Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission- AKISIEC, was the most credible, free and fair by international observers, as the electorates trooped in en masse to their polling units to exercise their franchise.
Esit Eket was not left out of the show as the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Hon. Mrs. Uduak Ikemesit Ikot, swept the area, defeating all her counterparts with large margins to be returned elected. Worthy of note was the fact that the amazing and super-passing result of the poll as captured by Ikot was, however, not surprising because the PDP has become a religion in the area. But more important was the choice of the candidate, who was, and still is, the people's choice.
Ikot’s candidacy is a testament to Governor Umo Eno’s commitment to empowering women in leadership as enshrined in the ARISE Agenda, and her popularity is based on character and experience. Her emergence brings a fresh perspective, renewed hope, and a vision for an all-inclusive government. As a beneficiary of the Governor’s visionary leadership, Mrs Ikot is now driven by deep gratitude and responsibility to harness her skills, expertise, and passion to create opportunities, foster inclusive growth, and improve lives at the grassroots and beyond.
To foster inclusivity, maintain peace, and drive growth in Esit Eket, the chairman rightly mimicked the footsteps of the state Governor, HE, Pastor Umo Eno, immediately after her election as the first democratically elected female chairman of the oil-rich area by scheduling meetings across party lines, religion and tribe where she reiterated her commitment to an all-inclusive government where every voice matters. Indeed, this can only come from one who can differentiate between governance and politics.
Setting up for motivation and inspiration by positioning oneself amid fast-rising individuals who are providing intellectual, independent and world-challenging solutions could just be what one needs to make that life-changing journey. This was exactly what Chairman Uduak Ikot did by pulling young minds from Esit Eket to set them up for a mind-shifting moment at the Akwa Ibom Tech Week, which was held at Ibom Hotels and Golf Resorts, Uyo. She sponsored 15 students across the 3 Zones of Esit Eket on ICT Foundational Training, with underlying plans to establish them in the coming days; an action which is in fulfilment of her campaign promises of human capital development, centred around the youths.
In a proactive move to address the critical need for water during the dry season, the Chairman initiated the revamping and conversion of three abandoned boreholes to solar-powered systems, strategically located across the three zones of the local government. This timely intervention aims to provide a reliable and sustainable source of water for the communities, alleviating the challenges posed by the dry season and improving the overall well-being of the residents. The water projects are located in Akpambiet-Edo for Zone A, Assang-Uquo for Zone B, and Ubabong-Afaha Ekpenedi for Zone C.
In a concerted effort to stimulate economic growth and development in Esit Eket, Ikot has consistently provided Business Support Funds to emerging entrepreneurs and small business owners to catalyze their growth and success. This strategic initiative has yielded impressive results, with numerous beneficiaries experiencing significant positive impacts on their businesses, including substantial increases in turnover and profitability.
Still, within her first 100 days in office, Mrs Ikot completely renovated the Council Secretariat, giving it a much-needed face-lift. The extensive renovation covers key areas such as the Udoedukere Hall, Godswill Akpabio block, as well as the Admin and Works Departments. This bold move reemphasizes her commitment to transforming the council and providing a more conducive and efficient work environment for staff and visitors as promised during campaigns.
Additionally, Ikot has commenced the remodelling of phase 2 of the Council Secretariat, a project aimed at providing workers with sufficient office space for optimal productivity. This initiative is a fulfilment of her promise to prioritize the comfort and well-being of all council workers, creating a conducive work environment that fosters efficiency and job satisfaction.
At the grand finale of the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration, Hon. Uduak Ikot announced a huge financial donation, amounting to the tone of N1.8 million for the Legions, Legion widows and Non-widows, an act that attracted state-wide encomium. This is however in addition to the monthly support for the securities of the Akwa Palm plantation.
Ikot also marked a strong and astonishing presence at the Akwa Ibom Christmas Unplugged 2024, held at the Ibom Christmas Park, Uyo, with an impressive display of cultural performances, exhibitions, and interactive sessions, leaving a lasting impression on the audience. The event which was a huge success added another feather to the Council Boss’ hat.
So far so good, the record speaks for itself.
Donald B. Robert
Special Assistant to Esit Eket Chairman on Media and Publicity.
