The Digest:
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has endorsed his nephew, Ukpong Akpabio, for a second term in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly representing Essien Udim State Constituency in the 2027 elections. The endorsement came Saturday during APC Local Government Congress in Essien Udim, where Akpabio also backed Patrick Umoh, lawmaker for Ikot Ekpene/Essien Udim/Obot Akara Federal Constituency, for a second term. Akpabio announced a zoning arrangement: Umoh (from Obot Akara) will serve a second term, after which Essien Udim will take over the federal seat for eight uninterrupted years from 2031. He declared: "Whoever from Obot Akara or Ikot Ekpene that will challenge Essien Udim turn, Holy Ghost fire." Ukpong Akpabio, a former special assistant to Akpabio during his governorship, defected from PDP to APC in June alongside Governor Umo Eno.
Key Points:
- Akpabio's endorsement cements family and political dynasty in Akwa Ibom APC.
- The zoning pact aims to ensure political stability and equity among LGAs.
- Akpabio's nephew gains clear path, while zoning prevents future disputes.
- This signals the importance of informal power-sharing in Akwa Ibom politics.
- The timing, ahead of 2027, sets APC's electoral strategy.
Sources: Premium Times, APC Congress
