Dr. Edidiong Essien serves as Secretary of Council of Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area, a post to which he was appointed by the Executive Chairman. A son of Akpa Utong, he is known for giving back to his roots — his 2026 birthday was marked by the distribution of back-to-school materials to over 250 pupils at St. Peter's RCM Primary School, Akpa Utong, an act inspired by the legacy of his parents, who were teachers.