A'Ibom Speaker pledges robust , vibrant 8th Assembly

A'Ibom Speaker pledges robust, vibrant 8th Assembly 

From Uyime BASSEY, Uyo

Speaker of the newly inaugurated Akwa Ibom House of Assembly Rt Hon Udeme Otong has assured that the 8th Assembly under his watch "will be vibrant, robust and engaging to guarantee public-oriented legislations needed to usher in socio-economic development."

Rt Hon Otong. who spoke shortly after he emerged as the speaker of Akwa Ibom 8th Assembly, said the House under his tenure will introduce "new dynamics to pave the way for seamless passage of bills and resolutions to fast track social and economic freedom for people of the state to transform the state into a model in the country."

Rt Hon Otong, who represents Abak state constituency, garnered 20 votes to beat Hon Prince Ukpong Akpabio of Essien Udom, who got 6 votes, in a lopsided contest having been nominated for the speakership slot to set up a two horse race while KufreAbasi Edidem of Itu state constituency was voted as the new deputy speaker.

Hon Itong, the 13th speaker to pilot affairs of Akwa Legislative arm of government christened the House " The Pragmatic Assembly" and sued for dedication, commitment as well as teamwork to ensure success 

Earlier, the Clerk of the House, Mrs NsikakAbasi Orok congratulated the members-elect and expressed optimism for a purpose driven 8th Legislative Assembly.