Gov. Umo Eno (right), exchanging pleasantries with the celebrant, Elder Akpan.
By Anietie Akpan
The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno has charged politicians and others to always return to their roots and identity with the people.
Governor Eno, gave the church on Sunday, May 18, when he joined dignitaries and other personalities who stormed Ukanafun local government, Sunday, in honour of the State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Elder Aniekan Akpan and wife Deaconess Unyime Aniekan Akpan as they mark their 25th marriage anniversary.
The Governor also commended the Chairman for hosting the event in his local church, and urged everyone to always remember and periodically return to their roots to identify with their people, stressing that “everyone has a root and history”.
Elder Aniekan Akpan and wife Deaconess Unyime cutting the anniversary cake.
Speaking as special guest at the thanksgiving service held at United Evangelical Church (UEC), Ukanafun Local Government Area, the Governor called on the guests to join hands to build the PDP Chairman’s home church to the glory of God, stressing that no one who diligently serves God goes empty-handed.
He eulogized the sterling attributes of humility and honesty which Elder Akpan stands for, saying he was worth being celebrated.
Governor Eno who recalled the Chairman’s committed and unwavering support during the 2023 governorship election, described him as a rare breed of politician with the grace for skilful speeches.
Rev. Ndifreke Amos blessing the celebrants.
He said, “my brother, we came here to honour you, and to thank God with you. You are a good man. A man who doesn’t play any crafty politics like most people in this generation. His yes is yes, and his no is no; a straightforward man.
“I feel very happy to be part of your anniversary celebration today. 25 years in marriage is not 25 days. I am so impressed for your continuous love for each other. We thank God for you; thank God for being who you are and for being your own self – a man of your own convictions.”
The Governor commended Elder Akpan for being a remarkable Party Chairman, saying that he has exhibited friendliness, understanding, affection, and wisdom in his leadership of the State ruling party.
“I admire you for your deep sense of humility, modesty, sincerity and love for your people, the village and home church by leading all of us down here to see and learn from your humble beginning. We thank God for you and the laudable success in your marriage,” he said.
Preaching on the theme: “Thanksgiving to that same God” drawn from Psalms 50:14, Rev. Ndifreke Amos harped on the necessity and benefits of thanksgiving to God, stressing that thanksgiving which has to do with celebration of God’s faithfulness, favour, and grace upon man, is a biblical instruction and command by God to be obeyed by His children.
Rev. Amos therefore admonished Christians to always be thankful to God as thanksgiving is an attitude that leads to more of God’s increase and uplift in life.
Thanking God for sustaining the marriage in the last 25 years, the State PDP Chairman, expressed gratitude to God for sustaining his life from childhood, raising him from grass to grace, and for granting him a blissful marriage blessed with children.
Elder Akpan appreciated the Governor for honouring his anniversary celebration by coming with his Cabinet members, and for always extending his benevolence to him and his people, and prayed for God’s blessings to everyone that honoured him with their presence .
