By Udeme Hosea

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly is set to ensure that the benefits of the Ibom Community Watch security outfit are not limited to just one Local Government Area. Hon. Barr Otobong Bob, Deputy Leader of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, has passionately advocated for the extension of the program to all LGAs in the state.

Hon. Barr Otobong Bob

Speaking during tuesday’s plenary, Bob supported a motion moved by the House Leader, Hon. (Elder) Sunday Johnny, emphasizing that  “Uyo people cannot enjoy Ibom Community Watch alone”.  He stressed that the extension of the program will bring relief to residents in other LGAs who are yearning for improved security and community development.

Bob, also underscored the significance of equitable distribution of government initiatives, noting that the success of Ibom Community Watch in Uyo serves as a testament to its potential impact across the state and acknowledged potential challenges, including funding, but insisted that the challenges should not hinder the program’s expansion to other LGAs, for all to benefit.

The assembly’s stance comes after the state Governor, Pastor Umo Eno PhD., commissioned 550 personnel into Ibom Community Watch for Uyo LGA, leaving 1450 personnel yet to be employed in other LGAs.

The Assembly leadership after due deliberation on the deployment of Ibom Community Watch to all the Local Government Areas,  directed the Clerk to communicate the House resolutions to the governor for action