Governor Eno Cracks Down on Kiosk Scalpers at Christmas Village, Promises Tough Action

Governor Eno Cracks Down on Kiosk Scalpers at Christmas Village, Promises Tough Action.

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has recently raised concerns about the illegal sale of kiosks at the Christmas village, warning that these kiosks should not be sold for more than the government-approved price of N100,000. He disclosed that he has received reliable information indicating that some individuals are buying these kiosks and then reselling them to vendors at inflated prices, sometimes reaching as high as N300,000.

According to a report by Vanguard, in a statement released to the press on Thursday in Uyo, Governor Eno made it clear that anyone caught engaging in this unlawful practice would face serious consequences. He urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to these sales. “I have credible intelligence that some people bought shops at the Christmas village and are now reselling them for as much as N300,000. If anyone asks you to pay N300,000, please report them immediately. You should only pay N100,000 for the shop. If someone asks for a balance, tell them to meet Umo Eno,” he stated.

Additionally, Governor Eno directed the Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism to take immediate action to address this issue. He emphasized the importance of maintaining ethical standards during the festive season.

The governor also discussed the displays by local government areas during the Christmas festivities. He expressed his strong disapproval of any diabolical masquerades or rituals being promoted and urged local leaders and stakeholders to ensure that the displays reflect the values of the state. He encouraged them to highlight local foods and traditions in their presentations.

In a related development, Governor Eno introduced new waste management equipment in Itu Local Government Area. This includes waste compactors, garbage trucks, recycling bins, and containers aimed at improving sanitation in the region. He announced plans to reward the cleanest local governments and revealed that a task force would be set up to take action against those who engage in indiscriminate dumping of waste.

The governor called on local government chairmen to work closely with the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency (AKSEPWMA) to enhance service delivery in waste management. He also mentioned his recent meeting with 41 contractors working on various projects in the state, where they assured him they would continue their work throughout the dry season. “I will carry out unannounced inspections at your sites. Please mobilize immediately, and let’s begin work,” he urged.

During this event, Prince Ikim, Chairman of AKSEPWMA, praised Governor Eno for his commitment to environmental issues. He assured attendees that with the new equipment, the agency's services would improve significantly. He expressed gratitude for the governor's efforts in addressing previous challenges faced by the agency, such as a non-functional compactor and a problematic dumpsite along Uyo village road.

In his welcome address, Mr. Ubong Nkut, Chairman of Itu Local Government Council, thanked Governor Eno for keeping his campaign promise by bringing development programs to their area. He highlighted initiatives like the launch of the Nnung Ukot Itam – Ikot Ekwere road project and assured the governor that residents of Itu would support his administration's policies and programs.