APC CHIEFTAIN, JAMES INIAMA COMMENDS A'IBOM WOMEN SENSITIZATION TOUR

 

...hails Move to Curb Voter Apathy

By Henshaw NYONG & Mfonobong Ukpong

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akwa Ibom State, Mr. James Iniama, has described the ongoing statewide Women Sensitization Tour on Civic Responsibilities as a timely and commendable initiative by the state government and the ruling party, the APC.

Mr. Iniama made the remark on Wednesday while speaking with newsmen at Mbak Itam, Itu Local Government Secretariat, on the sidelines of the recently concluded Women Sensitization Tour in the area. The event was led by the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, alongside the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Helen Eno Obareki and other top government officials.

The APC chieftain, an estate surveyor and valuer who hails from Itu Local Government Area, noted that the sensitization exercise was a strategic move to properly enlighten women on their civic responsibilities ahead of the forthcoming elections. He stressed that the initiative would significantly reduce voter apathy and enhance women’s participation in the democratic process.

He noted that grassroots-focused tour would empower women with the necessary information about their civic rights and responsibilities, thereby ensuring greater political awareness and engagement. “There will be no excuses of voter apathy. They won’t say they were unable to vote. I must commend the women for the massive turnout. APC is taking the right step at the right time to sensitize voters,” he said.

Mr. Iniama, a former governorship candidate under the defunct Action Congress (AC), also delivered a goodwill message during the programme held at the council headquarters, where he lauded the initiative and pledged his full support towards the success of the exercise in Itu Local Government Area.

The Women Sensitization Programme with the theme “Women ARISE,” focused on key areas including voter registration, party e-registration, National Identification Number (NIN) enrolment, and cooperative development. These were highlighted as critical pillars for enhanced political participation, grassroots mobilisation, and inclusive growth across the state.

The political heavyweight assured that the people of Itu Local Government Area, whom he described as politically conscious and consistently proactive in civic engagement, would once again take the lead in the 2027 general elections by re-electing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno and all candidates of the All Progressives Congress. 

He maintained that Itu people have always been number one in political participation and would demonstrate that strength at the polls through massive support for the APC.

Uyo Federal Constituency 2027: Group Insists On Ibesikpo Asutan

 

••• As Former Lawmaker Declares Stand on Equity, Fairness, Justice

As preparations gather momentum for the 2027 general elections, political groups, organisations and concerned electorates across Akwa Ibom State have begun setting the record straight on zoning, unity, equity and fair representation within various constituencies.

One of such groups, the Atai Uyo Progressives Forum, insists that the agitation for the Uyo/Ibesikpo Asutan/Uruan/Nsit Atai Federal Constituency seat is anchored on fairness, unity, equity and justice, stressing that the time has come for Ibesikpo Asutan to produce a Member of the House of Representatives.

Recently, the group paid a courtesy visit to a former member representing Uruan State Constituency, Hon. Kufre Etuk, Ph.D, to further advance its position.

Responding, the APC chieftain in the state, Hon. Etuk, PhD assured the delegation that as an ardent advocate of fairness, equity, justice and good conscience, Ibesikpo Asutan—being an integral part of Atai Uyo—should not be denied representation after 24 years of supporting others.

The former lawmaker argued that since the creation of the federal constituency, the other three local government areas have taken two turns each, adding that 2027, morally and in all honesty, should complete the cycle in favour of Ibesikpo Asutan.

He stated that denying Ibesikpo Asutan the opportunity to produce a representative after decades of patience would amount to continued marginalisation and an affront to the principles of equity and unity upon which the constituency stands.

Etuk also recalled how voters protested in 2011 by supporting Emmanuel Ekpenyong (TEMPO) of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) when Nsit Atai was denied its turn, leading to the loss of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He cautioned that history could repeat itself if the APC’s internal democracy and processes are not strengthened to prioritise unity, justice, equity and fairness.

Speaking on behalf of the group, its Chancellor, Pastor Joshua Basil, popularly known as Joe Pastor, pledged continued and steadfast support for Governor Umo Eno, whom he described as a father to all, a leader who abhors injustice and a man of God whose governance philosophy is rooted in fairness, equity and inclusiveness.

He expressed confidence that the Governor’s leadership style and moral authority would continue to promote justice and balance across all local government areas, noting that the group’s demand aligns with the values of equity and unity championed by the current administration.

Also speaking, the Progenitor of the group, Comrade Udeme Smith, declared that for 24 years—from 2003 to 2027—Ibesikpo Asutan has waited patiently for a representative who genuinely understands and represents its interests at the National Assembly.

“Our time has come. We are not asking for more; we are demanding a competent and reputable representative from Ibesikpo Asutan with proven experience and integrity. We will not stop the negotiation,” he said.

Smith warned against political manipulation, inducement and what he described as attempts to mortgage the future of the constituency through “peanuts” and compensations, insisting that such tactics would no longer succeed.

He cautioned political actors who, according to him, have benefited from the marginalisation of Ibesikpo Asutan to desist, noting that the people are now alert, organised and determined.

“When your grass becomes green, beware of green snakes. Those who have fed on our marginalisation should beware. Ibesikpo Asutan will no longer be silenced by peanuts or mere compensations. We are watching—systematic but resolute,” he warned.

The group stated unequivocally that 2027 is non-negotiable for Ibesikpo Asutan, urging unity among stakeholders and warning against internal sabotage driven by selfish ambitions.

The meeting climaxed with prayers for a smooth political transition in 2027, as the group declared support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Senator Aniekan Bassey, representing Uyo.

“This is a call. 2027 is the turn of Ibesikpo Asutan to represent Uyo Federal Constituency, and we shall stand by it without remorse. Only enemies of our progress will oppose it. No one should toy with our right,” the group declared.

REVEALED! Why Ikono Impeachment Plot Crashed: Records Clear Chairman, Expose Councillors’ Real Grievances

Fresh findings have uncovered why the impeachment move against the Chairman of Ikono Local Government Area, Rt. Hon. (Engr.) Oto-Obong Okon Essien, failed to gain traction, with official records and investigations discrediting the allegations raised by some councillors.

Checks by our correspondent revealed that claims of unpaid salaries and entitlements were unfounded. Payment records examined by our investigative team showed that councillors’ salaries and statutory allowances had been fully settled, leaving no outstanding arrears to justify the impeachment notice.

On allegations relating to the purported arrest of councillors, findings indicate no breach of the constitution or abuse of office. Law luminaries consulted maintained that councillors, like other citizens in the Country, are subject to lawful arrest and investigation where necessary. Our paper however gathered that there was no evidence linking any security action to directives from Engr Essien.

The allegation of spending without budgetary approval also failed our team's scrutiny. Investigations found the claim lacking specifics, with no figures, dates, payment vouchers or audit queries provided to support it. Financial records reviewed did not reveal any infraction attributable to the chairman.

In the same vein, claims that funds were withheld for constituency projects were contradicted by budget realities. Sources at the Council Secretariat confirmed that several constituency projects captured in the 2025 national budget were rolled over to 2026 due to non-release of funds, a situation not peculiar to Ikono and which has not formed grounds for impeachment at other levels of government.

Beyond the disputed allegations, findings showed that the Ikono Council Boss, Engr. Otobong Essien has recorded innumerable life touching projects. The Chairman, our correspondent observed, has advanced work on a modern administrative complex for the local government, which has addressed the long-standing absence of a functional council secretariat since the creation of Ikono in 1976.

In sports development, the paper gathered that the chairman has sponsored the Elegant Angels Football Club, which represented Akwa Ibom State at the Senate President’s Cup in Abuja and emerged champions last year.

Agricultural intervention has also recorded visible results, with over 100,000 tubers of yam cultivated, leading to a bumper harvest and positioning Ikono as an emerging yam-producing area in the state.

Economic empowerment programmes under the Ikono SME Empowerment Support Programme (ISEP) further showed that 53 youths received ₦200,000 business grants each through a process reportedly endorsed by all 12 councillors. In addition, 200 rural women were trained in cosmetology, issued starter packs and supported through five production centres across Ikono South, Middle and Ediene Itak zones. More than 70 elderly residents also benefited from welfare support and health insurance coverage.

Investigations however revealed that the political standoff stemmed from alleged disagreements over financial demands. Sources alleged that some councillors demanded ₦20 million as a condition for passing the 2026 budget, a request the chairman reportedly declined, citing fiscal discipline and public accountability.

It was further gathered that the same councillors are yet to retire imprests and other funds accessed since February 2025, despite requesting detailed income and expenditure records from the executive arm.

Records reviewed also showed that the 8th Ikono Legislative Council has enacted no bye-law and held fewer than eight sittings this year, raising questions about its legislative output.

Meanwhile, some council staff, who spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not authorised to comment publicly, said, impeachment threats usually surface every January, emphasizing they are driven largely by the personal interests of some councillors. They described the latest move as a recurring distraction rather than a reaction to any real failure in governance.

They further alleged that councillors had, in December last year, received substantial funds from the Chairman for yuletide activities in their respective wards, but none carried out the Christmas engagements for their constituents. According to the sources, the current tension escalated after the Chairman again provided funds and directed the councillors to return to their wards to mobilise and register members for the ongoing APC revalidation exercise, a move they said some councillors opposed while allegedly demanding additional financial inducements, with threats of impeachment if such demands were not met.

The staff warned that repeated impeachment threats could weaken the credibility of the legislative council, stressing that governance in Ikono should be guided by due process, accountability and the overall interest of the people, not selfish motives or the copying of unhealthy political practices from a House of Assembly in one of the States in the South South.

Meanwhile, further checks pointed to alleged political backing behind the impeachment push, with sources identifying some political stakeholders linked to the councillors involved. The Leader of the Council, Hon. Saviour Ebong, was said to enjoy the support of his godfather; a former Senator, a relationship sources claimed may have emboldened his stance, particularly as efforts to douse tensions were reportedly absent from the Senator. In Ukpom Ward 5, Hon. Obong Akpan, tagged the leader of G-10, was alleged to be backed by the immediate-past former House of Representatives member, who played a decisive role in his emergence. Obong Akpan, at the time of filling this report, was still a member of the PDP.  Another kingpin in the 'Chairman Must Go' group is Hon. Christopher Udo of Ward 2, who was also linked to the backing of the SSA to the Governor on Petroleum Matters, who according to sources, has yet to openly intervene or mediate. Similarly, Nsikak Udo of Ward 4 was alleged to be supported by the immediate past Transition Committee Chairman of Ikono LGA. Sources maintained that the weight of these political ties may have stiffened resistance and complicated efforts at reconciliation. 

However, efforts by our investigative team to reach the political heavyweights mentioned yielded limited response. Only the immediate past Chairman responded, expressing surprise at being linked to the alleged plot. He dismissed the claims, insisting that he would not undermine the same office he once occupied, and maintained that since leaving office he has remained a private citizen. He further stated that he has no interest in destabilising the council or plotting the downfall of any individual, stressing that he stands to gain nothing from such actions.

Emmanuel Enoidem: When Love for Akwa Ibom Defies Personal Pride

 

"...no notion could be more puerile and laughable than the idea that a man who graduated at 24 and opened his own law firm just a few years later cannot thrive outside politics..."

✍🏻 By Henshaw NYONG

If anyone had predicted that Chief Emmanuel Moses Enoidem, SAN, would one day leave the PDP for another platform, not to talk of the APC, the reaction would have been, Never!. Isn’t that so?

Not because he was merely loyal to the PDP, but because he was one of the founding fathers of the umbrella party in Akwa Ibom State and, true to his nature, never sugar-coated words or played comedy with serious matters. He defended the PDP at all fora. He was unapologetic about it. On record. In public. In private.

To Enoidem, no other party was a political option. It was a line he drew clearly and boldly. Perhaps that is why news of his movement to the APC this Friday has come as a shock to many.

But in politics, just like life itself, moments arise when decisions must go beyond ego, public opinion and personal comfort. 

Seen from this lens, Enoidem’s decision is not rooted in egocentrism, political ambition or desperation. Rather, it is driven by conscience, responsibility and, above all, love for Akwa Ibom State.

I have known Emmanuel Enoidem for nearly two decades. From a distance first, in 2009, when I worked as a reporter with The Ibom Times Newspaper, published by Sir Ubong Ekefre. Our office was then at Ewet Housing Estate, close to where Enoidem lived while serving as Commissioner in the administration of Governor Godswill Akpabio. Even then, it was obvious that he was not a politician driven by impulse. He carried himself as a man of character; a team player, a committed servant leader. A man of few words, but soaked in action.

By 2015, when Mr Udom Emmanuel assumed office as Governor, the demands of my work brought me closer to him. From that period till date, our relationship has remained cordial and robust. Over the years, I have watched him closely. Studied him. Learned him. Anyone who truly knows Enoidem will attest to this: his yes is yes, and his no is no. He is bold, brave and unafraid to take positions. A man who commands loyalty. A fighter with formidable and die-hard political soldiers, yet deeply peaceful in spirit, strong like a lion, calm like a dove.

Here is a man whose name needs little introduction. He earned his Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree at the age of 24. Shortly after his call to the Bar in 1989, he began his legal journey as Legal Adviser to the Mass Mobilization for Social Justice and Economic Recovery (MAMSER) in Benin City. He later worked with Victor Oviosun & Co. and subsequently served as a lecturer in the Faculty of Law, University of Uyo, where he taught future generations of lawyers, including a long list of heavyweight politicians from Akwa Ibom and across the country. By the age of 32, Enoidem had earned a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree.

In the early 1990s, he served as Legal Adviser of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Etim Ekpo Local Government Area and was later elected Chairman of Etim Ekpo Local Government under the then zero-party system, while still in his early 30s. He went on to serve as State Treasurer of the PDP, Commissioner for Housing and Urban Renewal, and later Commissioner for Special Duties, where he played key roles in supervising major state projects  from Godswill Akpabio International stadium construction to the Governor’s Lodge and other critical infrastructure.

Between 2017 and 2021, he served as National Legal Adviser of the PDP. During this period, the party prosecuted and won numerous cases at the High Courts, Courts of Appeal and the Supreme Court, with Enoidem personally overseeing many of the legal battles. By merit, he was elevated to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in November 2023, one of the highest honours in the Nigerian legal profession.

Beyond politics and law, his community impact is massive. His generosity cuts across party lines, ethnicity and religion. He has built a world-class hospital fitted with state-of-the-art equipment in his local government, at a time that hospital served nearly five LGAs. He has built schools, awarded scholarships to indigent students, provided potable water to rural communities and consistently empowered those who had the opportunity to serve with him. Enoidem gives quietly. And he still gives. Perhaps, this is why his current decision deserves to be properly understood.

The truth, though uncomfortable, is that the PDP today is not the PDP Emmanuel Enoidem devoted over 28 years of his life to. What exists at the national level is a party fractured by leadership crises, weakened by internal wars and stripped of cohesion, with no clear end in sight. This reality has affected everyone, including some of the party’s founding fathers. From Prince B.B. Apugo to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim, Governor Douye Diri, and several serving and former senators, the list is long.

Still, some insist that Enoidem should have remained, that his pride, history and past statements should have anchored him. No, saint reader! Good leadership is not stubbornness. Loyalty does not mean remaining inside a collapsing house whose roof has been torn off, exposing everyone inside to destruction.

Come to think of it, Chief Enoidem was not just a supporter of Governor Umo Eno. He was one of the leaders who stood firmly behind his emergence. He sold the message of unity. He preached peace as Leader of the Maintain Peace Movement (MPM). He canvassed togetherness across Akwa Ibom State. When the Governor took the hard but important decision to leave the PDP in for the enlightened interest of the state, he called for unity, understanding, and collective purpose, beginning with those who had traversed the 31 local government areas to rally support for his vision.

For Enoidem to remain behind, purely for ego, would have created a contradiction, a man who led a governorship campaign built on unity choosing to stay in a divided house simply to protect pride and past positions. Leadership sometimes demands the humility to admit that circumstances have changed. This is where ego gives way to responsibility, where pride bows to state interest.

Enoidem commands a gargantuan political structure across his senatorial district and has honest supporters in the State. Therefore, before now, consultation was inevitable. Explanation was necessary. And the message to his followers was: look beyond sentiment. Look beyond old battles. See the bigger picture - a united Akwa Ibom for President Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno and Senator Godswill Akpabio.

However, no notion could be more puerile and laughable than the idea that a man who graduated at 24 and opened his own law firm just a few years later cannot thrive outside politics. 

Have we forgotten that Emmanuel Enoidem has been out of government since June 2016, when he resigned as Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Industry? In the ten years since, he has not accepted a single government appointment, yet he has survived, assisted the less privileged, lived comfortably, and flourished.

Enoidem is not only rich; he is truly wealthy and deeply accomplished. He laid professional and entrepreneurial roots that remain strong today and are built to last well over five decades. His business ventures are solid, enduring, and spread across the country. For now, service to his fatherland remains his foremost priority.

At this point, Credit must be given to Governor Umo Eno, who understands what loyalty and sacrifice truly mean. Pastor Eno recognises those who laboured when it mattered and understands that leadership thrives when experience, intellect and commitment are brought to the table. That understanding explains why he reached out, to build a peaceful and united house.

Therefore, as Emmanuel Enoidem, SAN, steps into the APC this Friday, his own is a story of a man who allowed love for his state to override personal pride. A man who chose unity over ego. The future over the past. Akwa Ibom over self.

Perhaps this is what the South African poet and philosopher; Gift Mona, meant when she observed that the success of any society rests on leaders who choose service over self-interest.

History will record this moment. And when it does, Emmanuel Enoidem will be remembered as a man who understood when conviction must bow to the higher call of unity and enlightened state interest. That, in the end, is genuine statesmanship.

2027: Elections in A'Ibom Will Be Most Peaceful - Udo Kierian Akpan

  

••• Assures Landslide Victories for Tinubu, Gov Eno, Akpabio, APC candidates

By our Correspondent 

The International Coordinator of the ARISE With Renewed Hope Initiative, Rt. Hon. (Sir) Udo Kierian Akpan, has projected that the 2027 general elections in Akwa Ibom State will be the most peaceful in the state’s political history, while also producing the highest number of votes ever recorded.

Kierian, a former Deputy Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, expressed strong confidence that the All Progressives Congress (APC) would secure overwhelming victories for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and all candidates the party would field in the state.

Speaking during a radio engagement on Comfort 95.1fm, Uyo, the former labour leader said the current political climate in Akwa Ibom has been fundamentally altered by Governor Umo Eno’s leadership style, which he described as inclusive, calm, and deliberately unifying.

According to him, the peace and political stability currently enjoyed across the state have dismantled long-standing divisions and created an atmosphere where development thrives and political participation can flourish without tension.

The Oruk Anam born heavyweight politician noted that the emergence of the ARISE With Renewed Hope Initiative was driven by the need to consolidate unity, deepen reconciliation, and shield governance from avoidable political distractions as the state moves toward 2027.

He said the task of political mobilisation had been eased by what he described as Governor Eno’s visible performance across key sectors, stressing that governance outcomes, rather than rhetoric, now define political conversations in Akwa Ibom.

The former Deputy Speaker highlighted the governor’s grassroots-driven approach, pointing out that the administration has institutionalised direct engagement through ward-level political structures and constituency-wide consultations that allow citizens to articulate their needs for government action.

Akpan observed that Akwa Ibom has become more attractive to investors, visitors, and stakeholders due to sustained peace, noting that development can only be meaningful where stability exists.

Kierian also reaffirmed that the state’s renewed political relevance at the national level must be protected, describing the presence of the Senate President as a strategic advantage that should not be taken for granted.

He urged Akwa Ibom people to rally behind the APC to strengthen the state’s connection to the centre, arguing that political cohesion remains the surest path to sustained federal presence and economic benefits.

On the national scene, Kierian called for continued support for President Tinubu, stating that ongoing economic reforms are already yielding results, including improved fiscal inflows to states and gradual relief in food prices.

He stressed that the goal of the ARISE With Renewed Hope Initiative is to keep the political space stable, organised, and supportive, allowing Governor Eno to concentrate fully on governance and service delivery.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Labour Relations concluded that with the calibre of leaders within the APC in Akwa Ibom, the 2027 elections would not only be peaceful but historic in voter turnout, describing victory for the party as inevitable if unity is sustained.

Eteidung Asikpo Felicitates Prince Enobong Uwah On 57th Birthday

...Hails Him on Diligence as SSG to Akwa Ibom State Government

 

The Village Head of Ekpri Nsukara Offot in Uyo Local Government Area, Eteidung Emem Denis Asikpo, has felicitated with the Secretary to the Akwa Ibom State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, on the occasion of his 57th birthday celebration on Thursday, January 15, 2025.

Eteidung Asikpo said the people of Ekpri Nsukara Offot village are proud to identify with him as an illustrious son of Offot Ukwa Clan in Uyo LGA and for his diligence and distinctive track record in the performance of his duties as the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) of Akwa Ibom. 

He noted that the SSG has constantly remained exemplary as a public servant – demonstrating the capacity of a statesman, a visionary leader and a servant of the people. 

The royal father said at that 57 years, Prince Uwah’s life speaks of God's abundant grace and blessings for which he has continuously demonstrated appreciation through contributions to society by empowerment, developmental strides and support to widows, indigent persons and humanity in general. 

According to him, the community is thrilled with Prince Uwah’s total commitment and loyalty to His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, PhD, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, and for ensuring that the Governor's policies, as encapsulated in the ARISE Agenda, are efficiently implemented. 

Eteidung Asikpo said they salute him at this new horizon and pray to the Almighty God to grant him greater wisdom, abiding grace and renewed strength as well as reward him with higher leadership responsibilities and grant him more years of fulfilment in life, marked with good health.

The message read: “We in Ekpri Nsukara Offot village heartily identify with you as our illustrious son and for your diligence and distinctive track record in the performance of your duties as the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) of Akwa Ibom. It is well noted that you have constantly remained exemplary as a public servant – a statesman, a visionary leader and a servant of the people. 

“At 57 years, your life speaks obviously of God's abundant grace and blessings for which you have continued to demonstrate appreciation through your contributions to society by empowerment, developmental strides and support to widows, indigent persons and humanity in general. 

“We are so happy with your total commitment and loyalty to His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, PhD, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, and for ensuring that the policies of the Governor, as encapsulated in the ARISE Agenda, are efficiently implemented. 

“At this new horizon, we salute you and pray to the Almighty God to grant you greater wisdom, abiding grace and renewed strength. May He reward you with higher leadership responsibilities and grant you more years of fulfilment in your life, marked with good health.”

Ini Forum Faults Marginalisation Claims, Backs Udoide, Gov Eno 2nd Term

 

The Ini Peoples’ Forum (IPF) has dismissed claims of marginalisation against Odoro Ikono in the representation of Ini State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, describing the allegation as misleading, politically motivated and unsupported by facts.

Reacting to a communiqué circulated by a group styling itself as “Concerned Citizens Forum of Odoro Ikono/Ukwok,” the Forum said the narrative being pushed was a deliberate attempt to distort established political arrangements in Ini Local Government Area and undermine the performance of the current lawmaker, Hon. (Dcn.) Lawrence Udoide.

In a statement made available to newsmen on Tuesday, the IPF stressed that representation in the State House of Assembly is neither by allocation nor concession, but through a constitutional and competitive electoral process, adding that whoever emerges through a duly conducted election is entitled to serve the entire constituency for the legally prescribed tenure.

The Forum noted that the agitation ignored the long-standing political structure of Ini LGA, which is zoned into two major blocs — the former Ini State Constituency and the former Ikono II State Constituency — between which the House of Assembly seat rotates.

According to the IPF, zoning in Ini has never been operated at sub-zone level, but strictly between the two major blocs, with contests thereafter determined by wards within the zone where the seat is domiciled.

It pointed out that Ukwok Ward 10, which produced Hon. Udoide in 2023, had not produced either a House of Assembly member or a Local Government Chairman for over three decades prior to his emergence, describing his election as a correction of long-standing imbalance rather than an act of exclusion.

The Forum also cited historical records to show that previous occupants of the seat from both blocs completed uninterrupted eight-year tenures, insisting that equity, justice and precedent demand that Hon. Udoide be allowed to complete a similar tenure.

On claims that Odoro Ikono had never produced a House of Assembly member, the IPF described the assertion as false, recalling that Arc. Smart Ekanem from Ikono North I Ward represented the constituency in 1992.

The group further faulted what it described as selective outrage by some of the principal actors behind the agitation, noting that several of them had benefitted from the same political structure they now seek to discredit.

While affirming that every qualified individual retains the constitutional right to contest elections, the IPF urged party leaders and stakeholders to disregard what it called attempts by a few disgruntled elements to manufacture crisis for political relevance.

The Forum reaffirmed its full support for the endorsement of Hon. Lawrence Udoide for a second term by Ini stakeholders, describing him as a vocal, fearless and effective representative who has raised the bar of representation for the constituency.

While also reaffirming their total support for Governor Umo Eno's second term which the Ini people said it is a must, it called on Hon Udoide to remain focused on his legislative duties and urged the people of Ini to continue to support him, stressing that the seat is expected to rotate back to the former Ini State Constituency at the end of the current cycle in line with existing arrangements.