Eket Legislative Council Marks Chairman Akaninyene Tommey’s Birthday with CRARN Children
By Prince John Ekpo, Public Affairs Director, CRARN
In a touching gesture of compassion and community spirit, the Eket Legislative Council, led by Hon. (Mrs.) Joy Richard, visited the Child Rights and Rehabilitation Network (CRARN) in Ikot Afaha, Eket, Akwa Ibom State to celebrate the birthday of Rt. Hon. Akaninyene Tommey, Executive Chairman of Eket Local Government Council.
Councilors from all 14 wards spent the day with the children at the center, sharing essential items—including food supplies and toiletries—and presenting a cash donation of ₦100,000. Hon. Joy Richard commended Rt. Hon. Tommey for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the development of Eket, describing him as a beacon of hope for the community.
Deputy Leader of the 8th Assembly, Rt. Hon. Samuel Ima Ben, emphasized the significance of celebrating with underprivileged children, noting that the choice to mark the Chairman’s birthday in this way underscores a dedication to inclusive governance and humanitarian values.
CRARN’s Co-Founder and Chair, Mrs. Elizabeth Wilson-Itauma, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the lawmakers for their generosity and enduring support. The children offered prayers of blessing and longevity for Rt. Hon. Tommey.
Special thanks were also extended to Hon. Godfrey Samuel, Deputy Chief Whip of the Council, for coordinating the memorable celebration.
Mrs. Wilson-Itauma urged the federal government to take decisive, and proactive measures to address the complex challenges confronting the nation’s most vulnerable populations—particularly children and women who are stigmatized or abandoned. She expressed deep concern over the continued suffering of children subjected to severe hardship and abuse, often as a result of misguided doctrines propagated by self-proclaimed pastors who operate with alarming impunity.
The celebration was marked by the joyful cutting of a birthday cake, lively songs, and spirited dancing—creating unforgettable moments shared between the CRARN children and the visiting councilors.
