By Micah Jonah
January 26, 2026
Ikono Local Government Council Chairman, Oto-Obong Essien, has thrown her weight behind the organizers of a 10,000-man solidarity walk in support of President Bola Tinubu’s second-term bid, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno. The walk is part of the Ikono/Ini Peace and Unity Summit 2026.
Scheduled for next Wednesday at the Ikono Local Government Secretariat, Ibiaku Ntok Okpo, the event
aligns with the International Day of Peaceful Co-existence, themed: “Sustaining the Culture of Peaceful Coexistence through Dialogue and Collaboration.”
Speaking during a courtesy visit by members of the Ikono/Ini Media Professionals’ Global to her office on Tuesday, Essien emphasized the critical role of the media in fostering development and sustaining peace, pledging full support for the summit and its activities.
“I am aware of the vital role the media play in national development and the good work being done in Akwa Ibom State. Without peace, development cannot thrive, and I assure you of our support for the successful hosting of the summit,” she said.
Emmanuel Ufon, President of the media body, commended Essien’s leadership, noting her administration’s contributions to maintaining peace and unity in the council area.
Ufot Udokang, Chairman of the Planning Committee, revealed that the summit will kick off with the 10,000-man solidarity walk on Saturday. The walk aims to demonstrate public support for the leadership and peaceful governance of Tinubu, Eno, Akpabio, Essien, and Ini Local Government Council Chairman, Inibehe Umah, beyond 2027.
Udokang also announced the postponement of a one-week free medical outreach earlier scheduled to start Tuesday, following directives from the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ekem John, to allow the ministry time for proper preparation. A new date will be announced.
