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Open Forum, an advocacy group in Akwa Ibom State, is advocating for the establishment of two initiatives: the Ibom People’s Assembly and the Akwa Ibom Council of State. Convener Citizen Mathew Okono outlined the possible members of the council, which may include the current governor, former governors, former military administrators from Akwa Ibom, former chief judges, and Speakers of the State House of Assembly.

The governor has the authority to decide the council's composition, while the deputy governor, Speaker, and Chief Judge could serve as ex-officio members. The council aims to leverage the wisdom of past leaders for non-partisan guidance on governance, peace, security, and the state's development. Additionally, Okono proposed the Ibom People’s Assembly as a socio-cultural and development platform to unify all Akwa Ibom residents both in the state and abroad.

This assembly would promote shared values, address the rancorous nature of ethnic and tribal organizations, and provide a unified voice for the people. Okono suggested implementing these initiatives during the 39th anniversary of Akwa Ibom State's creation on September 23, 2026. Existing sociocultural organizations should continue to maintain their identities while harmonizing under a unified voice to serve the state's people.