…as Akpabio hails unity in Akwa Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has commenced preparations for its 2026 congresses ahead of the 2027 general elections, with Governor Umo Eno approving the formation of an implementation committee to oversee the process.

Governor Eno announced the decision on Friday, January 2, 2026, during the party’s New Year stakeholders’ meeting held at the Government House Banquet Hall in Uyo. He urged party members to remain united and focused, stressing that cohesion within the APC was essential to achieving collective political goals in the state.

To drive the congress exercise, the governor constituted a seven-member committee to work closely with the state party leadership.

Prince Enobong Uwah was named chairman of the committee, while Hon. Dr. Patrick Umoh will serve as secretary. Other members include Hon. Frank Archibong, Mr. Nsentip Akpabio, Arc. Ubokutom Nyah, Engr. Uwem Okoko and Hon. Mrs. Owoideghe Ekpotai.

Governor Eno charged the committee to engage widely with stakeholders and ensure that the congresses are conducted transparently and successfully in line with party guidelines.

Speaking at the event, Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended the governor for fostering peace and unity across the state, describing his leadership as a reflection of the Akwa Ibom he had long envisioned.

According to Akpabio, the prevailing calm and harmony in the state, including during the festive period, underscored the strength of unity among political stakeholders.

He praised Governor Eno for his inclusive leadership style and publicly expressed appreciation for the confidence reposed in him.

The Senate President described the governor as a bold and forward-looking leader, noting that his decision to align with the APC was taken in the best interest of the state. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the governor beyond 2027 and called on party members to remain steadfast in backing his development agenda.

Also speaking, the APC State Chairman, Obong Stephen Ntukepo, thanked the governor for his unifying leadership, describing him as a leader deeply committed to the welfare and progress of Akwa Ibom people.

Other party leaders and stakeholders, including the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Obongemem Ekperikpe Ekpo; Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong; Senators Emmanuel Ibok Essien and Effiong Bob; former governorship candidate Obong Nsima Ekere; and the APC State Women Leader, Obongawan Obonodo Uko, praised the governor’s leadership and his collaborative relationship with the Senate President.

They pledged their continued support and assured him of the backing of their respective constituencies as the party moves towards the 2027 elections.