Prince Mendy Archibong, President of Prince Archibong Life Foundation addressing journalists after presenting food items to persons displaced by security crisis in Essien Udim LGA.
By Abasifreke Effiong
Prince Archibong Life Foundation, a non-governmental organisation working to improve lives in rural communities in Akwa Ibom State has called on all stakeholders from Essien Udim local government to come together and find lasting solution to the security crisis in the area.
The Foundation made the call on Friday while presenting food items to persons displaced by the insecurity in Essien Udim local government area, camped at Saint Anne’s Catholic Cathedral, Ifuho, Ikot Ekpene local government area.
President of the Foundation, Prince Mendy Archibong sympathised with the displaced persons, told them that with aggressive response to the crisis by the governments and security forces, there was hope that they will return to their homes soon.
The food items donated by Prince Archibong Life Foundation to the IDPs.
Three communities, Ikot Akpan, Ukana, Ikot Afang in Essien Udim were displaced during a reprisal attack on bandits by security forces.
Bandits said to be members of IPOB killed security personnel and burn down police facilities and utilities in targeted operations in Essien Udim local government area in March.
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Archibong commended the Akwa Ibom State government, security agencies and Essien Udim local government Council for not leaving any stone unturned in responding to the unwarranted attacks in area by bandits.
“Essien Udim is part of Akwa Ibom State generally adjudged to be the most peaceful in Nigeria, so those causing the incidents in Essien Udim do not wish the people of the State well. We use this opportunity to call on all stakeholders in Essien Udim to work with the State and local government council to end the crisis and ensure that the displaced persons return home safely and in good health.”
He lauded the State government, security forces and Essien Udim local government council for the decisive steps taken to end the security crisis and catering for the welfare of the displaced persons.
“We thank the Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, the Chairman of Essien Udim for working hard to ensure security of lives and property in the affected communities. We thank the wife of the governor for reaching out to the displaced persons.
“The Foundation was created to reach out to the less privilege because we have passion and love for humanity . This is the reason we are rendering assistance to the displaced persons who were victims of the crisis that took place in Essien Udim community recently”, Archibong said.
Receiving the items donated by Prince Archibong Life Foundation, the Chairman of Essien Udim Local Government Area, Mr Anthony Luke, thanked the Foundation for reaching out to the displaced persons.
L-R : Prince Mendy Archibong, President of Prince Archibong Life Foundation, Lady Agnes Udoenwenwen, Chairperson Obot Akara, Mr. Anthony Luke, Chairman of Essien Udim, Mr. Ese Umoh, and leader of Obot Akara Legislative Council, during a meeting with Persons Displaced by the insecurity in Essien Udim local government area.
Luke said that was not the first time Essien Udim people have benefited from Prince Archibong Life Foundation.
The Chairman noted that last year Prince Archibong Life Foundation donated educational materials to students, food items and wrappers to widows during the 2020 yuletide.
“A true friend and brother is known during times of trouble. By the consistent act of Prince Archibong’s benevolence, he has proven that although he is from Obot Akara by birth, he is Essien Udim son.”
“I also have to thank members of his foundation. They are a very formidable and result-oriented team. Prince Archibong has been selfless in his milk of kindness. Others should emulate him. May God bless him”.
Also speaking, the member representing Essein Udim State Constituency, Mr. Esse Umoh described PALF as true foundation that meets the yearnings of people and communities through strategic interventions and life – touching projects.
Mr. Umoh appreciated Prince Archibong Life Foundation for their kind gesture towards the people of Essien Udim and prayed for God to replenish their good deeds in hundred folds.
The chairperson of Obot Akara local government area, Lady Agnes Udoenwenwen and leader of Obot Akara legislative council were also in the entourage of Prince Archibong Life Foundation during the visit to the displaced persons.
