In response to a journalist’s question on the state of relationship between Gov Udom Emmanuel and his predecessor, Senator Godswill Akpabio during his regular media interaction , the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Communications,
Mr.Aniekan Umanah responded thus:
“His Excellency, Governor Udom Emmanuel and his predecessor, the Senate Minority Leader, Chief Godswill Akpabio have maintained a good example of how a predecessor and a successor can relate well in the interest and for the development of the state”
The commissioner went on to say that, “in line with the agenda of Governor Udom Emmanuel, there is inclusiveness in Akwa Ibom State.”
“The Governor invites all former Governors both military and civilian, stakeholders and elder statesmen. He consults with them on important State matters. I want to disabuse the minds of the people about the relationship between Governor Udom Emmanuel and Senator Godswill Akpabio. There is stability, cooperation and unity among the leaders in the State”
That was the response of the commissioner for Information and Communications, Mr. Aniekan Umanah which the editor of an Uyo based tabloid, The Mail, in its Vol.1 No.4 edition, captioned “Udom consults Akpabio before taking action on important state matters,” thought of its financial benefits on news stand chose it as one of its front page stories with the caption ‘Udom consults Akpabio before taking action on important state matters’
This is worrisome especially when it comes from a profession that is expected to not only inform the people truthfully but serve as a bridge that unites all sections and interest in the society for speedy development.
