Akwa’Ibom People no more what you think

Editor,

The Ibibios, the Annangs and the Oros are the people of Akwa Ibom State. Before the 21st century, people insinuated that our place is one of those places in Nigeria where seekers of servants and menial jobbers turn to.

Even if there was an atom of truth in that I will not agree that it has remained so till date.

Therefore, reading The Nation newspaper's “News Extra” (pages B1, B2 and B3) of Monday August 31, 2009, I felt bad. The Nation's story further insinuated that the dislodged shanties and criminal okada riders are mostly Akwa Ibomites. The onus is on the present leadership in Akwa Ibom to call to order The Nation newspaper and others that may report in similar way; we feel hurt by those assertions.

During Victor Attah's era, our rightful place was rekindled as he confidently went forth to contest to be President of Nigeria and was almost there but for what we all know that happened. Furthermore, the actions that led to the final abrogation of the obnoxious onshore/offshore oil dichotomy that now benefits the entire littoral States was achieved through our citizenry persuasive nature as exhibited in former military governor retired Air Commodore Idongesit Nkanga, Lady of Songs Christy Essien, first civilian governor (late) Obong Akpan Isemin, including other late/living numerous to mention, and Obong Victor Attah.

I think it is high time all and sundry should desist from subservient toga placed on Akwa Ibom or 'Calabar' people. We are very enlightened people.

Eno Samuel
Oron Road
Uyo, Akwa Ibom