Otong emerges as Akwa Ibom 8th Assembly Speaker

Mr Udeme Otong (PDP), representing Abak State Constituency, has emerged as the Speaker of the 8th Akwa Ibom House of Assembly.

Also, Mr Kufreabasi Edidem (PDP), representing Itu State Constituency, emerged as the Deputy Speaker in the election preceding Friday’s inauguration of the house in Uyo.

Otong, a two-term lawmaker, emerged after he secured 20 votes to defeat his only contender, Mr Ukpong Akpabio, who scored 6 votes.

Akpabio (PDP) is representing Essien Udim State Constituency.

The speaker was earlier nominated and seconded for the position of the speaker by Mr Effiong Johnson – (PDP, Mbo State Constituency), and Mr Uwem Imo-Ita – (PDP, Mkpat Enin State Constituency), a first timer in the house.

In an inaugural speech, Otong thanked his colleagues for their support which, he said, saw him emerge as the speaker.

He said that the members had placed a big responsibility on his shoulders and solicited for their support and cooperation to succeed.

He also urged them and people of the state to cooperate with the new administration to move the state forward.

NAN/N.O