RismadarVoice Reporters, April 29, 2026
Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has expressed concern over the increasing number of mentally challenged persons roaming the streets across the state, urging the government to take immediate and coordinated action.
At plenary on Tuesday, the House resolved to call on the State Government, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, to constitute a special committee to be stationed at strategic entry points to check the influx of such persons into Akwa Ibom.
The proposed committee is also expected to work towards eliminating their presence on the streets, while maintaining surveillance at key entry points to prevent the alleged influx of mentally challenged individuals from other states.
The Assembly further mandated the Ministry of Health to facilitate the identification and rehabilitation of affected persons who are indigenes of the state, ensuring their admission into appropriate psychiatric facilities for proper medical care and reintegration into society.
The resolution followed a motion on a matter of urgent public importance raised by the Member representing Uruan State Constituency, Dr Itorobong Etim, and seconded by the Member representing Esit Eket/Ibeno State Constituency, Hon. Udobia Udoh.
Presenting the motion, Dr Etim decried what she described as the growing number of mentally challenged persons on the streets, noting that their presence constitutes a public nuisance and causes discomfort to residents and visitors.
She stressed the need for a humane and structured approach to addressing the issue, calling on relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to take responsibility.
Contributing to the debate, lawmakers including the Member representing Ibiono Ibom State Constituency, Hon. Moses Essien, and the Member representing Essien Udim State Constituency, Prince Ukpong Akpabio, commended the sponsor for drawing attention to the issue.
They emphasised the urgency of the situation, noting that prompt intervention is necessary to safeguard public safety and preserve the state’s image.
In his ruling, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Udeme Otong, directed the Clerk of the Assembly, Mrs Nsikakabasi Orok, to communicate the resolution to relevant authorities for immediate action.
The House reaffirmed its commitment to promoting public welfare and ensuring that vulnerable persons are treated with dignity while safeguarding the well-being of citizens.
Plenary was thereafter adjourned to Tuesday, June 2, 2026.
