The Executive Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area (LGA) of Cross River State, Hon. Chief Dr. Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, KSM, has joined many other well-wishers to extend warm felicitations to the Special Adviser on General Duties to Governor Bassey Edet Otu, Chief Ekpenyong Akiba, Esq., on the occasion of his birthday anniversary.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Ikwen Atuaka, and made available to the press, the Obudu LGA Chairman described Chief Akiba as a committed public servant, grassroot politician and a seasoned legal practitioner whose dedication to duty continues to add immense value to the administration of Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu and the overall development of Cross River State.
The statement indicated that Dr. Undiandeye commended the celebrant for his strategic support, loyalty, and unwavering commitment to the Governor’s People First Mantra, noting that his contributions as Special Adviser on General Duties have helped strengthen coordination and enhance effective service delivery within government.
The Obudu Council helmsman further highlighted Barrister Akiba’s humility, accessibility, and passion for service, which according to him, have endeared him to colleagues, associates, and the grassroots.
Eulogizing Dr. Akiba on his Facebook handle, Hon. Undiandeye was quoted as saying:
“My dear brother and friend, I wish you a blessed and happy birthday today. You have been a source of joy to so many across the land. May God continue to enlarge your coast and grant you peace of mind. My family joins me in celebrating you on this beautiful and special day of your birth anniversary.”
He prayed for God’s continued guidance, sound health, greater wisdom, and many more years of impactful service for the celebrant.
The Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Otu on New Media, Andrea Ekeng Inyang, was among the numerous Cross Riverians who penned down glowing tributes to celebrate the award-winning SA General Duties.
In the words of the SSA New Media, “Today, we celebrate a strong pillar of loyalty and service, Otuekong (Dr) Anta Dunuo Ekpenyong Akiba, Esq, Special Adviser to the Governor on General Duties.
“Sir, you have shown what true loyalty and commitment look like. As a trusted supporter of His Excellency, Prince Bassey Otu, you have stood firm, consistent, and dependable.
“Your dedication to the Governor and to the progress of Cross River State speaks volumes about your character. In a time when many people shift positions easily, you have remained steady, focused, and supportive.
“That alone makes you a role model, especially to young leaders who are learning that loyalty, patience, and hard work still matter in public service.
“Your calm strength, humility, and readiness to serve show that leadership is not always about noise, but about commitment and results.
“As you mark your birthday, may God bless you with good health, greater wisdom, and more years of impactful service.
“May this new year bring you even more honour and fulfillment.
“Happy Birthday, Sir.
“Your loyalty and example inspire many.”
The SSA to Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, wife of the Governor of Cross River State, on Communication, Kenneth Anam, hailed Akiba, stating that “I have come this far, all thanks to a few good men like you Barr. Ekpenyong Akiba.
“I cannot write a line of my current journey and story without you being mentioned in the centre stage.
“You played the role well and you’re still acting the script perfectly and intentionally well about my growth.
“Cheers to life as I pray you good health and vitality in soundness of mind. Hearty Cheers the General!”
An outspoken lawyer and consummate politician, Akiba is seen to have played a prominent role in Governor Otu’s administration, focusing on impactful governance and community development. He is equally believed to have been instrumental in promoting the governor’s People-First agenda and has received several honours and recognitions for his philanthropic efforts and astute leadership.
Rated as one of the most performing Special Advisers in the current government of Apostle Otu, the legal pundit and grassroots mobilizer, was awarded Honorary Doctorate Degree by the Apostolic Church Bible College and Seminary (ACBCS) in affiliation with the University of Calabar (UNICAL).
Akiba’s open-mindedness and cordial relationship with the media professionals and journalists only few days ago earned him the prestigious media friendly award on World Broadcast Day.
Though a lawyer, the workaholic SA General Duties who was for a very long Senator Otu’s media aide before he became governor in 2023, is known to be a great media relations strategist. He has been described as a dedicated, sociable, easy-going, unassuming and approachable leader who values his rapport with members of the fourth estate.