A Lagos-based engineer and real estate developer from the Angiaba/Begiaka ward in Obudu local government area, Cross River State, Mr Akpong Mathias Bepeh, has declared his intention to run for the office of Executive Chairman of the Council in the forthcoming local government elections in the state, assuring that he would make the difference if voted.
Declaring his interest in his council ward in Agiaba/Begiaka, Akpong urged the All Progressive Congress leadership and stakeholders to consider him for the position, stating that he was prepared to take innovative steps to create wealth for the people, promote infrastructural revolution, improve security, and provide jobs for youths so that the people could get better deals from government.
Akpong further emphasised his desire to bring development to Obudu, citing good roads, pipe-borne water, equipped schools, street lights, scholarships, entrepreneurship programs, bridges, culverts, healthcare facilities, and more as areas he would focus on. He explained how familiar he was to them, having attended primary and secondary school in the ward before moving on to pursue tertiary education elsewhere, and promised to be available at all times, even when elected chairman.
Mr Ukwayi Christopher, a stakeholder from Bedia village, said: “Akpong is a son of the soil, and we trust him to deliver. He has seen development elsewhere, and we believe he will bring it to our doorstep.” Another stakeholder, Lawrence Ishibi, from Bedia village, stated: “We need a youth like Akpong to lead us. He has the energy and passion to bring about the needed development to our local government.”
Izama Oscar, a stakeholder from Ukoshie village, said: “Akpong’s plans for our local government are impressive. He will work tirelessly to achieve them, and we believe in him.” Keven Undiadeye, a stakeholder from Bedia village, highlighted Akpong’s accessibility, saying: “Akpong is a listener, and he will remain accessible even when elected. We trust him to keep his promises.”
Albert Undie, a stakeholder from Ibong village, emphasized the need for fresh ideas, stating: “Akpong’s youth and passion make him an ideal candidate. We need someone who will bring new ideas and energy to our local government.” Concluding, Fidelis Adie, a stakeholder from Ibong village, expressed his belief in Akpong’s ability, saying: “We should stand by Akpong and give him the chance to serve. Together, we can make Obudu Local Government Area great again.”
Earlier, Mr Akpong Mathias met with the Paramount Ruler of Obudu, HRM Ukudari Felix Abanbeshe, to inform him of his intentions, and he was welcomed and given royal blessings.
