By Otobong Nsekpong
Association of Former Elected Councilors (AFECO) has opened its temporary Secretariat in Etinan Local Government Area.
The temporary Secretariat is located at 178 Uyo Road, Ikot Abasi No1, Etinan Local Government Area.
At the event, the Chairman of Etinan Local Government Council, Hon.(Dr) Uko Umoh applauded the visionary leadership of AFECO in Etinan saying the acquisition of a temporary Secretariat is leadership in action.
The Council boss who described AFECO as a forward thinking, grassroots political association called on; members to be united for greater achievements in the future.
He urged them to use their position as former councilors in their respective wards to mobilize support for the electoral victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
“Let me applaud the leadership and members of AFECO in Etinan for this visionary initiative. I am very proud of each and every member of AFECO for the display of unity that has turned vision into reality. This again, is evidence of what unity can do.
“I count on your support to mobilize your people who have come of age to register in the ongoing Continous Voter’s Registration exercise so that together we can deliver bloc votes for the APC. Inform your people that we have progressively moved to APC and mobilize them to support the movement”
In his address of welcome, the chairman of AFECO in Etinan, Hon Akanuboh Affiah, thanked the executive chairman of Etinan local government council for his support to AFECO’s visions and operations within the local government jurisdiction.
Hon Affiah called for peaceful campaign as the 2027 general elections draw nearer by the day, stressing that, aspirants must presents achievable manifestos to the electorates.
“Prospective aspirants and candidates in any election should not see their opponents and supporters as enemies, rather be focus and embark on issue base campaigns.
“Permit me to categorically state here that ineffective and selfish representation would be condemned in its entirety while good representation and performance will be applauded and appreciated”
The event was chaired by a renowned scholar, Prof Usen Ikpe, who called for mentorship in the leadership process.
Prof Ikpe who was also decorated matron of AFECO in Etinan noted that, former elected councilors have the experience that can shape the actions of incumbent councilors and political leadership at the grassroots.
“Don’t feel your tenure is over and you must go home, think boldly and act strategically, then you will remain relevance long after your tenure had ended”
AFECO also honoured some persons with excellent award for their contributions to the development of the people in their respective life endeavours. They include Dr. Dominic Ekpo, an Associate Professor and a three term Dean, Student Affairs at the Akwa Ibom State University and Comrade Ubong Ikpe, Special Assistant to the Governor on people living with disabilities.
