A’Ibom APC stakeholders reject consensus for assembly seat

In Akwa Ibom State, a significant internal political development is unfolding as stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ikot Ekpene have vocally rejected the purported move to impose a consensus candidate for the Ikot Ekpene/Obot Akara State House of Assembly seat. This stance, articulated through a communiqué after a stakeholders' meeting, signals a strong adherence to democratic principles within the party, even as they reaffirm their support for the state and national leadership.

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Having noted with concern the alleged plan by some individuals to impose a preferred candidate through the unpopular and undemocratic process of consensus, this stakeholders’ meeting became necessary.

The core of the stakeholders' objection lies in the perceived violation of democratic tenets. They argue that the alleged directive from Governor Umo Eno to adopt a consensus candidate undermines the will of the majority and disenfranchises other aspirants. This perspective, championed by former APC Assistant Secretary Ubong Amadu, emphasizes the importance of direct primaries as a mechanism for ensuring fairness and reflecting the genuine choice of party members. The rejection of consensus candidacy is framed not just as a local issue but as a matter of upholding the integrity of the party's constitution and the Electoral Act 2026.

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We, the APC stakeholders in Ikot Ekpene, vehemently reject the imposition of consensus candidacy or automatic ticket for any aspirant seeking to contest the Ikot Ekpene/Obot Akara State Constituency seat in the forthcoming primaries.

From the local perspective in Ikot Ekpene, this is about ensuring that the party remains a vehicle for popular representation, rather than a tool for entrenching the interests of a select few. The stakeholders are making it clear that while they are loyal to the APC and supportive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Governor Eno's ambitions for a second term, this support is contingent on the party upholding justice, fairness, and democratic rights for all its members.

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We therefore demand an inclusive and credible process through open and direct primaries, where the most popular and credible aspirant will emerge to represent the constituency.

The Punch's report captures a crucial internal party dynamic. The stakeholders' demand for an 'inclusive and credible process through open and direct primaries' highlights a desire for internal democracy to flourish. This internal struggle for democratic practice within a major political party is a significant story for followers of Nigerian politics, demonstrating that even within established parties, there are strong voices advocating for adherence to democratic norms.

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We express our overwhelming support for the second-term bids of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Governor Umo Eno in recognition of their impactful and performance-driven leadership.