Arise Ambassadors, a socio-political group in Akwa Ibom State, has criticized the recent report by the United Kingdom that listed Akwa Ibom as one of the security-threatened states in Nigeria.

The group finds the report illogical and shocking, as Akwa Ibom has no recent history of insecurity and should not be grouped with states facing security challenges.

The United Kingdom’s report advised its citizens against traveling to specific states in Nigeria, including Akwa Ibom, due to security reasons. However, the Director of Special Duties of Arise Ambassadors, Paul Ufot, expressed his disagreement during a press briefing in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State. He argued that comparing Akwa Ibom to northern states with well-known security challenges is like associating the living with the dead.

Ufot highlighted the achievements of the immediate past administration in ensuring peace and security in Akwa Ibom, which garnered global recognition and awards. He also praised the current Governor, Umo Eno, for sustaining and even enhancing the peace and security in the state through innovative programs, such as the establishment of the Ministry of Internal Security and Waterways Management.

The group expressed disappointment in the UK report, stating that such projections can cause unnecessary fear among residents and Nigerians in general. They also raised concerns about the credibility of information originating from the West, citing previous failed prophecies of doom, such as the prediction of Nigeria’s breakup before the 2015 presidential election.

Arise Ambassadors emphasized the importance of security experts relying on credible intelligence when making claims and criticized the UK report on those grounds. They believe that Akwa Ibom should not be unjustly labeled as a volatile state and called for a more accurate assessment of the security situation in the region.