It will be recalled that during the Christmas and New Year period, Akpanke had visited several critical leaders from the constituency in Calabar with various festive hampers and support.
By Our Reporter
The Member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal Constituency, Hon Peter Akpanke, yesterday hosted a mammoth crowd at the Obudu Local Government Secretariat for a special Christmas/New Year event organised for his constituents.
As part of his Yuletide package, the lawmaker donated Five Million Naira (N5,000,000) and 300 bags of rice to each of the three local government areas that make up the constituency. He also provided N100,000 business support for 33 women from across the constituency.
Speaking, Akpanke explained that, having been preoccupied with state functions during the Christmas and New Year period, he deemed it fitting to fulfil his annual ritual of celebrating and identifying with his people during festive seasons by organising the special event.
He stated that, “Although we had earlier celebrated Christmas as a political party, I was unable to be physically present at the time. However, I sent my contribution and made a firm decision to begin the new year with my people, something I have consistently done over the years as part of my commitment to giving back and staying connected to the grassroots.
“As part of the New Year celebration, a total of N5 million has been released to be distributed alongside 300 bags of rice per Local Government Area. In addition, I’ve also released business support of N100,000 for 33 women to empower them economically and support their livelihoods.”
The event was well attended by notable leaders and stakeholders, including Hon Peter Undiandeye, Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area; Hon Sunny Ayang, Chairman of Obanliku Local Government Area, and Hon Rhoda Ashong, Vice Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area.
HRH Utsu Felix Okudare, the Paramount Ruler of Obudu; other royal fathers; men and women of the clergy; support groups; chapter chairmen of the APC; Hon Kenneth Aklah, Special Adviser to the Governor on Aviation; Hon Boniface Eweh, immediate past Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area; Hon Adida Agabi; and a host of other party faithfuls attended.
The legislator also used the opportunity to appreciate His Excellency, the Governor of Cross River State, Sen Bassey Edet Otu, for his leadership, support, and continued commitment to the welfare and development of the people.
While reassuring his constituency’s commitment to supporting Gov Otu and President Bola Tinubu, he received into the All Progressives Congress (APC) Hon Atsua Francis, the Chapter Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Obudu, and Mrs Victoria Afebende Ushaka, who defected from the PDP along with all their supporters.
Hon Peter Undiandeye, Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area, speaking.
In his words, “They’ve joined us to work collectively for the success of His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Sen Bassey Edet Otu.”
It will be recalled that during the Christmas and New Year period, Akpanke had visited several critical leaders from the constituency in Calabar with various festive hampers and support.