The Chairman of Essien Udim Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State, Anthony Luke, has expressed his views on why he believes former Senate Minority Leader Godswill Akpabio will not succeed in the upcoming elections, even within his own local government area. Speaking to newsmen at his residence in Uyo, the state capital, Luke stated that aside from Akpabio’s own community of Ukana, he has not contributed significantly to other communities in Essien Udim to warrant their votes. Luke pointed out that his own ward would not support Akpabio, recalling that during the last election, the All Progressives Congress (APC) received zero votes in his community of Okon. He questioned the basis on which Akpabio could expect to garner support from the people of Essien Udim, highlighting the lack of development in various wards compared to Ukana, which has facilities like a clinic, a MOPOL base, and a Federal Polytechnic.
Luke further emphasized that Akpabio would struggle to secure even 5% of the votes in Okon, as the only road leading into the community remains incomplete. He expressed gratitude and loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), noting that it was through this platform that an Essien Udim son rose to the position of governor and that Akpabio was appointed minority leader despite being a first-time senator. Luke asserted that Akwa Ibom State is predominantly a PDP stronghold and questioned the expectation for an Essien Udim son to abandon the party. He underscored the integrity of the people from his area, stating that they do not engage in anti-party activities.
Additionally, Luke argued that it is time for the Abak Federal Constituency to have its turn in representation, as the Ikot Ekpene area has produced five senators since 1963, while no one from Abak has held that position. He suggested that Akpabio, as an elder statesman, should step aside and allow the younger individuals he has mentored to take on leadership roles. Luke criticized Akpabio for not informing anyone about his departure to the APC.
In response, Akpabio’s campaign organization, represented by Director of Media/Publicity Mr. Joe Iniodu, dismissed Luke’s claims as spurious and unfounded. Iniodu argued that many individuals, even those not from Essien Udim, are envious of the community due to the transformation it experienced during Akpabio’s tenure. He highlighted that Akpabio’s leadership was characterized by a genuine love for Akwa Ibom State and its people. Iniodu recounted a recent event where a Catholic congregation eagerly awaited Akpabio’s arrival, demonstrating the continued support and admiration he commands within the community.
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