By Egufe Yafuborghi & Chioma Onuegbu

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has issued a warning against the illegal sale of kiosks at the Christmas village at rates exceeding the government’s approved price of N100,000.

Governor Eno revealed that credible intelligence indicated ongoing sharp practices, where individuals were purchasing kiosks and reselling them to vendors for as much as N300,000.

In a statement made available to newsmen on Thursday in Uyo, the governor emphasized that anyone caught engaging in this illegal activity would face the consequences of their actions. He urged the public to report anyone involved in such practices.

He stated: “I have credible intelligence that some people bought shops at the Christmas village and are now reselling them for as much as N300,000. If anyone asks you to pay N300,000, please report them immediately. You should only pay N100,000 for the shop. If someone asks for a balance, tell them to meet Umo Eno.”

Governor Eno further directed the Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism to address the issue immediately.

Regarding the displays by local government areas, the governor stressed that as a Christian, he would not tolerate any diabolical masquerades or promote rituals. He urged local government leaders and stakeholders to get involved in packaging the displays, ensuring they reflect the state’s values, particularly through showcasing local foods.

The governor also unveiled newly acquired waste management equipment in Itu Local Government Area, including Waste Compactors, Garbage Trucks, Recycling Bins, and Containers. He announced that an award would be given to the cleanest local government areas and that a task force would be established to prosecute individuals caught in indiscriminate dumping of refuse.

Governor Eno called on local government chairmen to collaborate with the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency (AKSEPWMA) to ensure effective service delivery. He also noted that he had met with 41 contractors working in the state, who had assured him that they would work through the dry season.

“I will carry out unannounced inspections at your sites. Please mobilize immediately, and let’s begin work,” he stated.

In his opening speech, the Chairman of AKSEPWMA, Prince Ikim, commended the governor for being environment-friendly and assured that the agency’s services would improve with the new equipment. He thanked the governor for addressing the challenges they inherited, such as a non-functional compactor and a dumpsite along Uyo village road.

In his welcome remarks, the Chairman of Itu Local Government Council, Mr. Ubong Nkut, thanked Governor Eno for fulfilling his campaign promise to visit the LGA with development programs, including the flagging off of the Nnung Ukot Itam – Ikot Ekwere road project. He assured the governor that the people of Itu would support his administration’s policies and programs.