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| Hon. Magdalen Ekpe, Leader of Akamkpa Legislative Council |
Ukorebi Esien | 11 November 2024
CALABAR — In a historic ceremony, Hon.(Princess) Magdalene Ekpe representing Ojuk South in Constituency 2 was elected first-ever female Leader of the Akamkpa Legislative Assembly
The election which held during the inaugural sitting of the legislators saw Hon. Magdalene emerged unopposed as leader of the council while Hon. Dominic Akposi of Uyanga ward was elected deputy Leader of the 8th Assembly.
Speaking during the event, Hon. (Ophot) Felix Akposi KSJI, Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Council, advised the legislators to embark on legislative activities that will lead to the development of Akamkpa while stressing the fundamental role of the legislature in shaping local governance and enhancing democratic accountability.
"As part of the requirements by law, the councillors-elect must take their rightful place to formulate laws and carry out their oversight functions," he stated. "It beholds on us to inaugurate them into the Hallowed Chambers. As a responsive government, we must make every unit functional." He expressed deep gratitude to the people of Akamkpa for their unwavering belief in his administration, emphasizing, "Be assured that this administration is for the people, and our mantra is to 'Serve the People.' We are committed to this cause and will follow it to the letter."
The solemn but historic ceremony marks a progressive milestone in gender representation and leadership within the council as it produced the first Female Leader in the history of the council in the person of Hon. Magderlen Ekpe.
In her acceptance speech, the new Leader, Hon. Ekpe, reflected on the historic nature of the occasion, noting the immense responsibility that accompanies their roles.
"Today, history is made as we resume the 8th Legislative Assembly to represent our people across the various wards of our Local Government. On behalf of all Honourable Members, I extend heartfelt gratitude to the people for granting us this mandate to serve," she stated. Hon. Ekpe commended the government of Cross River State for the timely conduct of the local government election, which she described as "the most acceptable, free, and fair to all."
"Today, history is made as we resume the 8th Legislative Assembly to represent our people across the various wards of our Local Government. On behalf of all Honourable Members, I extend heartfelt gratitude to the people for granting us this mandate to serve," she stated. Hon. Ekpe commended the government of Cross River State for the timely conduct of the local government election, which she described as "the most acceptable, free, and fair to all."
Hon. Ekpe pledged the legislature's unwavering support for the executive arm, vowing to collaborate with Hon. Akposi's administration in achieving developmental goals. "We, as the legislative arm, will offer the needed cooperation and support to enable the Chairman to realise his developmental agenda. Akamkpa comes first," she declared passionately. She emphasised that their priority is to elevate Akamkpa Local Government to new heights, making it a tourist destination and an investment hub through effective by-laws.
The swearing-in ceremony also featured the induction of other councillors who will serve in various leadership capacities. Among them, Hon. Princess Angelina Itambom was elected Majority Leader representing Awi Ward, while Hon. Thomas Anom from Ikpai Ward assumed the role of Chief Whip. Other notable councillors include Hon. Dominic Offiong (Oban Ward), Hon. Vincent Ndifon (Ojuk South), Hon. Sylvester Edim (Eku Ward), Hon. Ruth Joseph (Iko Ward), Hon. Alex Ejor (Akamkpa Urban Ward), and Hon. Christopher Patrick Edet (Mbarakom Ward).
The newly sworn-in members pledged to uphold democratic values and deliver effective representation for their constituents. Hon. Ekpe stressed that the legislative council comprises "technocrats whose expertise will complement the Executive Arm's efforts to provide dividends of democracy to our constituents."
Dignitaries present at the historic event included His Royal Majesty, Ophot Agbor Ewa Ebani, the Paramount Ruler of Akamkpa, and his royal cabinet. The gathering was also graced by Ntufam Emmanuel Anom, Commissioner for Livestock and Aquaculture; Hon. Ankpo Pius, Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure; and Hon. Victor Effiong, Chairman of the Cross River State House of Assembly Commission.
In her remarks, the Clerk of the Legislative Council, Mrs. Margate Ayendi, advised the newly inaugurated councillors to discharge their duties with diligence, integrity, and a commitment to service. She reminded them of the weight of their mandate and the expectations of the people they represent.
The ceremony concluded with the first plenary session of the 8th Assembly, culminating in a symbolic group photograph, capturing the unity and resolve of the new legislative arm. This marks the beginning of a fresh chapter in legislative governance for Akamkpa Local Government.
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