PAUL “POLITICS” EKPO: TIMELINE OF A COLLOSUS
By Iniubongabasi Anako
For over five decade, a colossus has bestrode the earth with unrivalled zest and commitment to the betterment of humanity. A man of great character and deep sense of devotion, Obong Paul “Politics” Ekpo has grown from humble beginnings to become a legendary political figure with pragmatic and indelible imprints on the sands of time.
His unique selling point is a natural gift of effective leadership. In line with the maxim that a gold fish has no hiding place, Obong Paul Ekpo whose tenure has elapsed today, 10th of May, 2020 as a two terms state Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State and as well still have to continue to pilot the affairs of the party in the nex three months as State Caretaker Chairman of the party never cease to wow with his dexterous ability to offer solutions and inspire many to scale hurdles hitherto thought insurmountable.
Born November 18, 1969, into the family of Chief Asuquo Ekpo of Nkana village in Etinan Local Government Area, Paul Ekpo, from humble beginnings, followed a divine trajectory which has launched him into heights unimagined. Despite his visible exploits, tangible achievements and antecedents, his levelheadedness and kindheartedness remain a case study.
Like every kid from a humble background, a young Paul started his formal education journey at UNA Primary School, Ikot Udoabia, in 1974 and bagged his First School Leaving Certificate in 1981. In 1982, he proceeded to Apostolic Church Secondary School, Ikot Oku Nsit, in Nsit Ibom Local Government Area and secured his WAEC in 1987.
Despite being disadvantaged financially, his thirst for education continued. He enrolled at the University of Uyo and bagged a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Political Science and Public Administration. His choice of course at the university was perhaps divinely ordained as his exploits in politics and public service are legendary.
He delved into the corporate world and served in different capacities at Deaveraux Investment Limited, Jackson Devos Plc, Nigeria Export-Import Bank, and other bluechip companies. His dedication to service delivery earned him plaudits at such companies.
The applause trailing his sojourn in the corporate world caught the attention of Chief Godswill Akpabio, Governor of Akwa Ibom State (as he then was) in 2007. Paul Ekpo was appointed Honourable Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, and later reappointed as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in 2008.
It is on record that the hardworking Paul proved irreplaceable in the state cabinet as the governor kept retaining him despite several cabinet reshuffles. At the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, he forged synergy between the state government, local government and the traditional rulers in the state.
Armed with ample experience, Paul “Politics” Ekpo decided to throw his hat into the ring for the State Chairmanship race of the PDP. He was overwhelmingly elected by the party stakeholders on 7th March, 2012. Exhibiting uncommon dexterity, Paul became the glue divergent interests and channeled them for the singular purpose of nurturing the PDP to greatness.
On the strength of his mastery of the art of leadership, PDP’s grip of the state was strengthened. To say that the PDP has pushed other political parties to the brink of extinction is an understatement. The strength which the party wields in the state can be attributed to the dedication of the party members harnessed by the Obong Paul “Politics” Ekpo who is a very talented manager of human and material resources.
Paul Ekpo has proven to be perfect for the party at all times – good or bad. During trying times as couched in recent memory, his levelheadedness made PDP surmount the empty boasts of rabble rousers, as the party remained resolute and won landslide in line with the yearnings of the masses.
Year in year out, Paul “Politics” Ekpo’s stock keeps rising. He has since attracted national attention by serving as Chairman, Conference of PDP State Chairmen in Nigeria.
His selflessness and foresightedness has laid a good foundation for the PDP to thrive, not only in the state but in Nigeria as well.
A messianic figure came out the right time to consolidate on the gains of the party’s founding fathers. This bodes well for the future.
The past journey were gloriously golden. A new chapter has started in earnest. Surely, it would be told to generations yet unborn of a man who defied humble beginnings to etch his name in gold in the sands of time and in the hearts of millions.
A true proud and humble son of Iman Ibom, who takes no pride in his dealings, a philanthropy of no means repute. A man of timber and calibre. Social crusader, leader excellent, supper manager, trailblazer since the year of jubilee and a trusted son of Akwa-Abasi Ibom State.
The Obong Paul “Politics” Ekpo example has definitely brought home the glaring truth that leadership is all about strong, noble and honourable character and conviction.
ANAKO is a Public/Political Affairs Analyst
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