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Stakeholders from Ibeno clashed with the Ekid people over billboards featuring Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The billboards were displayed in key locations across Eket Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State.
The Ekid People’s Union opposed the billboards, arguing that Akpabio does not represent the Eket Senatorial District. Akpabio represents Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District (Ikot Ekpene) in the National Assembly.
Ibeno Elders Defend Akpabio
In response, Ibeno Elders, through spokesperson Diamond Akpanika, criticised the Ekid Union’s objections. He described their actions as political envy disguised as activism.
Akpanika said Akpabio’s influence extends beyond the state. “Senator Akpabio is not just a senator for Ikot Ekpene; he is the Senate President of Nigeria. His impact is national,” he said.
Akpabio’s Empowerment Programs Highlighted
Akpanika cited Akpabio’s initiatives, including donations of outboard engines, fishing boats, and gear to riverine women in Eket in December 2025. He also highlighted federal appointments facilitated for indigenes.
He accused the Ekid People’s Union of sabotaging development projects such as the Amakpe Refinery, Qua Steel, Dr Pepper, BUA Refinery, East–West Road, NAF Air Base, and Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway. “You cannot smash your own plate and later complain there is no food,” he said.
Call for Political Maturity
Akpanika praised Governor Umo Eno for standing firm on the disputed Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve issue. He urged Eket interest groups to avoid bitterness, embrace political maturity, and hold leaders accountable.
2027 Elections in Focus
With the 2027 elections approaching, billboards featuring Akpabio have appeared statewide. Governor Umo Eno and supporters aim to help Akpabio retain his Senate President seat.
At a New Year thanksgiving service, the governor said, “We will pray and work hard for Akpabio’s return as Senate President so that Akwa Ibom continues to hold the number three seat in the country.”
