Okon Praised For Transformative Local Projects

Rt. Hon. Ime Bassey Okon, the member of parliament for Itu/Ibiono Ibom, has received high praise from the Centre for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) for his dedication to grassroots development through community-focused initiatives.

This recognition followed an independent assessment by CHRAN and its media partners on 4th June 2025, across the Itu and Ibiono Ibom local government areas. The monitoring visit is part of CHRAN’s wider initiative to evaluate elected officials in Akwa Ibom State based on transparency, accountability, and community impact.

The CHRAN team, led by the director, Otuekong Franklyn Isong and secretary, Bar. Christopher Ekpo included 22 prominent civil society members, such as journalists and governance advocates. They inspected various federal projects initiated by Hon. Okon, confirming their significance and benefits to local communities.

Projects reviewed included a four-classroom block with toilet facilities at PCN Primary School, North Itam; a six-classroom block at Technical College, Ayadehe; a solar-powered borehole at Afaha Itam; solar street lights in several communities; a 1.5 km road in Mbak Itam III; a completed Civic Centre at Idoro; and an ongoing Civic Centre in Nkwa Ibiono.

Community members expressed their gratitude to the CHRAN team. At the Afaha Itam borehole, Mr Isaac Asuquo Edet described the solar-powered facility as a “blessing,” noting the previous struggle to access water. Elder John Etim Bassey, Principal of the Technical College, praised the new classrooms but requested further assistance with water and sanitation.

CHRAN confirmed that the projects were implemented according to approved specifications and budgets. However, they recommended the provision of classroom furniture at PCN Primary School, modern whiteboards at the Technical College, and water connections for existing school toilets.

The group also urged state and federal authorities to promptly address the collapsed sections of Effi Itam and Ntiat Roads in Itu and called on the federal government to expedite the Calabar-Itu Highway project, which is progressing slowly from the Itu side.

CHRAN concluded by commending Hon. Ime Okon’s efforts as a prime example of responsive leadership and responsible governance, encouraging other elected officials to follow suit by remaining accountable and delivering meaningful development to their constituents.