Ukorebi Esien | 6th Feb. 2024
CALABAR – Pastor Abraham Osok has emerge President of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) Cross River State Chapter in a keenly contested election held at NICO Secondary School, Calabar.
The Election which drew delegates from all the 18 local government chapters of the state saw Pastor Pst. Abraham Osok pulling a total 77 votes to beat his closest rival Mr. Godwin Ukwu who gathered 71 votes.
Speaking with Journalists shortly after the elections, Osok attributed his victory at the polls to hard work, diligence and humility. Adding that he would build bridges to reconcile aggrieved members while collaborating to grow the association.
He further Assured that he will run an open door policy, while focusing on capacity building of its members as this will in turn impact positively on the quality of private schools in the state.
Dr. Akpeme Ojukwu, the Zonal President- South-South Geopolitical Zone who was on ground to supervise the election, expressed satisfaction with the entire process, urging any aggrieved member to follow constitutional procedures for dispute resolution within the Association's constitution.
The immediate past state president, Hon. Mike Egre hailed the State Election Committee, SECOM for it's commitment to constitutional guidance amid challenges while dismissing claims of disenfranchisement. He said those who didn't vote, weren't constitutionally qualified to vote as the election was transparent, free, fair, and commendable.
Mr. Edet Inwang, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, praised the credibility of the election, rejecting claims of bias. He emphasized the democratic essence, asserting that the winner should continue existing legacies.
The elections also saw Prince Raphael Effiong Etim emerge as Fin. Secretary while Prince Obi Agbor Asu was voted as Assist. Secretary in a closely contested elections. Other Offices were unopposed.
Officers elected and their offices include:
1. Pst. Abraham Osok – Chairman
2. Adie Christopher Ebodo – Vice Chairman I
3. Evang. Emmanuel A. Udo –Vice Chairman II
4. Comr. Bassey Effiong Anwana – Secretary General
5. Obi Agbor Asu – Assist. Secretary
6. Prince Raphael Effiong Etim – Fin. Secretary
7. Gabriel Okepa Odey – Treasurer
8. Obi Matthew Abua – Sec. Seminary/Training II
9. Egan Christopher Nkpen – Welfare/Organizing Secretary I
10. Akawu Precious – Welfare/Organizing Secretary II
11. Nyong Orok Archibong – Auditor
12. Wilson David Coco-Bassey – Legal Adviser
13. Tatch Joseph Ncha – Assist. Fin. Sec
14. Unamnake Michael A. – P.R.O
When approached by our correspondent for his reaction on the outcome of elections, Mr. Ukwu, said he wouldn't speak to the press workout consulting his supporters.
Highlights of the event was the presentation of certificates of returns to the winners, followed by the administration of the oath of office and official inauguration by the Zonal President South.