The sixth year of dynamic and impactful representation of Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Bassey climaxed with a thanksgiving service at Methodist Church Nigeria, Ndinya Ikot Imo, Ini Local Government Area.
The church service which was officiated by Bishop Usen Akpaninua was an inspiring one where the clergyman preached on the topic, ‘A man that will not fail God’ drawing inspiration from 1Sam15:34-35.
The man of God having seen the current state of the Nigerian economy admonished the Chief Whip to be dedicated to his duty, maintain a good relationship with his constituents, seek peace and pursue it.
“Due to the state of anarchy in the country, God has brought Hon. Emmanuel Bassey to worship today so that he can tell Akwa Ibomites to maintain peace”, he said.
Hon. Emmanuel Bassey taking first Bible reading
Bishop Akpaninua encouraged the 6-Star legislator to always show love and compassion to the needy.
“The ball is in your court, serve it well. Live a simple and accessible life. Let Humility govern your heart and do no use a temporary office to create a permanent enemy.
“I pray for you to climb up by 2023 so that you can carry these people along.
“God loves you that is why he has chosen you to serve the people. Be honest, and do not tell a lie”, he emphasized.
In his address, the Executive Chairman of Ini, LGA, Rt. Hon. Israel Idaisin thanked God for gathering all the people of Ini together, and for keeping everyone alive. He advised Ini indigenes to be respectful and law-abiding.
“Let us not turn Ini to a warzone. Let us coexist peacefully, love one another, reject every form of trouble that may truncate the collective peace of Ini”, he said.
The Lawmaker in his speech said he is grateful to God for sustaining his life, his family and that of his constituents, adding that it is God who gives the grace to excel.
“I want to thank God for life. My special thanks go to the state governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel for the great support he has given to the 7th Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly so far.
“I also want to thank the people of Ini state constituency. It is not my doing but because of the love of God and the mandate they gave me that I am here. I want to assure you that I will not let you down”, he emphasized.
Reflecting on the day’s word, Hon. Bassey stressed that unity is the only weapon that can be used to conquer any terror.
“I want to urge us all to be united in thoughts and conducts. We are a great nation and I believe in the spirit of togetherness. We are one family, and Ini will continue to be One. No enemy shall divide us”, he added.
During the service, Mr. Bassey doled out cash gifts and tons of wrappers to over fifty widows, widowers. Clergymen, choristers also benefited from his good gesture. He also expressed gratitude to them for their support and corporation.
“I appreciate all the widows, youths, clergymen, choristers of this church for their sacrifices. May God bless them all”, he said.
Back at the reception ground, the constituency office was agog as everyone had a field day, featuring in songs and dance while supporters sent in their goodwill message.
Special dignitaries at the event were: Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr.Glory Edet, Executive Chairman Ini LGA, Rt. Hon. Israel Idaisin, Vice Chairman, Ini Local Government Council, Hon.Marcus Akpan, SSA to the governor on grassroots mobilisation, Mr. Inibehe Umah, SAs on project monitoring Mr. Ekomobong Peter and Mr. Charles Udofia, Special Assistant to the Governor on Inter-Party Affairs, Hon.Lawrence Udoide.
Others were; immediate past member for Ikono State Constituency, Rt. Hon. Victor Udofia, State Organizing Secretary PDP, Mr. Moses Akpan, Former Chairman Ini LGA Hon. Emmanuel Ebe. Honourable Councillors led by the Leader of Ini Legislative Council, Hon. Ukpe Uma Ukpe, Supervisors and Special Advisers led by the Dean of Supervisors, Hon. Silas Ukata, State officer of the Party, Hon. Saviour Inyang, State Chairman NULGE, Mrs. Anestina Uweh, Registrar, College of Science and Technology, Dr. Samuel Oworekpe, PDP chapter chairman, Hon.Emmanuel Umah, Former chairmen, supporters, and a host of cream de la cream.