By Uduak Akai
IBIONO IBOM
It was a true homecoming as elders, stakeholders, the Ibiono Ibom Legislative Council, past and present political office holders, women, and youths in the Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area convened to unanimously endorse several key leaders for the 2027 general elections.The stakeholders endorsed Mr. Moses Essien, representing Ibiono Ibom State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly (AKHA); Mr. Ime Okon, representing the Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency; Senator Aniekan Bassey, representing the Uyo Senatorial District; Governor Umo Eno, PhD; and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for second terms in office.
The endorsement took place during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Ibiono Ibom Council Secretariat in Ikpa on Monday, May 4, 2026, at the instance of the Council Chairman, Mr. Asuakak Umoh.Addressing the stakeholders, Umoh explained that the meeting followed directives from the state and party leadership. He noted that the gathering aimed to present the decision of the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership to the people to provide direction for the forthcoming primaries and the 2027 general elections. He added that, as Chairman, it was his responsibility to coordinate political activities at the local government level and present recommended candidates for various elective offices.Umoh stated that the party’s decision was timely and a step in the right direction, as it would ensure unity, prevent conflict and unnecessary expenditure, and maintain political stability across the state and local government areas.
He further disclosed that the decision was based on the fact that these leaders have performed creditably well in their respective offices. He noted that they should be given another opportunity to consolidate their achievements, observing that Governor Umo Eno has already received widespread endorsements from all 31 local government areas in the state.The motion for the endorsement and adoption of these political office holders was moved by the former Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Mr. Ignatius Edet, and seconded by a former House of Representatives member, Mrs. Christie Akpan. The motion was unanimously supported by everyone present.In response, Mr. Moses Essien expressed gratitude to God, the people of Ibiono Ibom, and the party for their show of love and support. He promised not to betray the confidence reposed in him by his constituents.Essien used the occasion to apologize to his constituents for any shortcomings during his legislative assignment, emphasizing that Ibiono Ibom will remain a peaceful and united constituency where development can thrive.
The lawmaker explained that he has done his best to ensure his voice is heard on the floor of the House during every plenary session. He listed several achievements, including empowerment initiatives for youths, men, women, traditional rulers, and students.Essien, who chairs the Committee on Health and the Committee on Nutrition and Food Security, noted that his motions led to the construction of the Use Ikot Amama and Ikpanya roads, which were previously in deplorable states. He also highlighted his organization of free medical outreaches, the construction of classroom blocks and civic centers, and the provision of solar-powered boreholes.
Additionally, he mentioned a ₦100 million empowerment programme—the first of its kind in the history of the constituency.He pledged that, as the first elected office holder from Ibiono Western, he would continue to attract democratic dividends to leave the constituency better than he found it.Similarly, Mr. Ime Okon, the Member representing Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency, thanked God for the peace in the area and thanked stakeholders for the endorsement. He highlighted achievements such as free medical outreaches, ₦50,000 bursaries for over 120 students, the construction of a 1.5 km road in Mbak Itam 3, and various educational and community infrastructure projects. He promised that the next round of grants would focus on artisans.
Okon assured the people that more capital projects would be executed as funds are released and urged communities that have not yet benefited to remain patient. He encouraged the people to support current office holders, noting that they might also have the opportunity to serve in the future.
In separate goodwill messages, representatives from various zones—including Mr. Ignatius Edet (Southern Ibiono), Mr. Edet Ikotidem (Western Ibiono), Prof. Ntiaobong Ekong (Ibiono Central), Evangelist Joseph Udoh (Northern Ibiono), and Dr. Iniobong Essien (Eastern Ibiono)—called for continued unity and peace. They maintained that the decision of the APC should remain intact for the progress of the area.The meeting concluded with the official endorsement of Mr. Essien and Mr. Okon by the Council Chairman, supported by the APC Chapter Chairman, Prince Ime Ikpong, and other key stakeholders.
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