By Edifon Abasi-Obot
The Commissioner for Economic Development, Labour and Manpower Planning, Barrister Ekong Sampson has urged Nigerians to use democracy as a vehicle to unite, and not divide the nation.
Barrister Sampson made these remarks at the 70th birthday thanksgiving service of Apostle Dr. John Okoriko at Solid Rock Kingdom Church, in Uyo.
The Commissioner who has been insistent on the advocacies of using democracy to unite Nigeria and using policy to drive politics, and not the other way round, even while serving as Special Adviser to the Governor on Political/Legislative Affairs and Water Resources, maintained that Governor Udom Emmanuel’s belief in inclusive and responsible politicking is justifiable.
Barrister Sampson commended the founder of Solid Rock Kingdom Church and his wife for their hard work and dedication to the faith.
He extolled Apostle John Okoriko as one of the outstanding Mkpat Enin heroes, who has used Christianity to touch souls, adding that the clergy has become a cultural ambassador that has made Akwa Ibom State very proud by preaching the gospel in Ibibio Language.
The Apostle in his welcome address said that he is using his birthday to renew his apostolic commitment to pray for the well-being and safety of Nigeria’s President Muhammed Buhari, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Deacon Udom Emmanuel and other government functionaries.
Drawing from the scripture, Exodus 22:28, that “you shall not revile God, nor curse a ruler of your people”, Apostle Okoriko admonished Nigerians and Akwa Ibom people against the act of cursing or abusing leaders.
Also in attendance were the Speaker, Akwa Ibom State House of assembly. Rt. Hon. (Barr.) Onofiok Luke, the immediate past deputy governor, Her Honour, Noble Lady Valarie Ebe, Hon. Ekanem Brown the Executive Chairman of Mkpat Enin LGA and other eminent sons and daughters of Akwa Ibom State.
