APC USHERS IN NEW POLITICAL DISPENSATION IN EKET FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY AS STAKEHOLDERS HAIL SMOOTH TRANSITION
In what has been described as a pivotal turning point and unifying moment in the political evolution of Akwa Ibom State, yesterday, June 9, 2025, stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Eket Federal Constituency gathered at Joddag Hotels and Suites, Eket, to consolidate party unity, expand grassroots support, and officially integrate a wave of new decampees from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
The high-profile meeting, graced by party stalwarts, chapter chairmen, elders, women leaders, and youth representatives, was chaired by Dr. Godwin Umontuen and underscored the party’s renewed strength and commitment to inclusive governance and strategic political expansion in the state.
Setting the tone, Sir Victor Antai , KJW, Executive Director of Projects, Niger Delta Development Commission ( NDDC ), gave an impassioned address, attributing the political shift in Akwa Ibom to divine orchestration and astute leadership.
“We are all witnesses to the historic political transformation sweeping across Akwa Ibom. The APC has, by divine providence and strategic wisdom, taken over the Hilltop Mansion,” he declared.
Sir Antai applauded the instrumental roles played by President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu , GCFR, whose national leadership has provided direction and strength, Senate President, Dist. Sen. Godswill Obot Akpabio , GCON, and Governor Pastor Umo Eno , for their mature and peaceful collaboration.
“I especially commend Governor Umo Eno for his peace-loving disposition. His approach has restored unity and calm across party lines in the state, paving the way for this seamless transition,” he added.
He called on party members to embrace the decampees from the PDP with warmth and sincerity.
“Let the love of God reign among us. Open your arms to your brothers. Let the transition from PDP to APC be peaceful and people-driven. Welcome them at the ward level and issue them registration slips,” he charged.
In a show of party solidarity, the gathering took time to celebrate the birthday of Her Excellency, Ekaette-Unoma Akpabio , wife of the Senate President, singing a rousing birthday chorus in her honour.
The meeting also served as a strategic feedback session, as representatives from all four LGAs in the Federal Constituency shared updates on the successful reception of decampees and reaffirmed their dedication to the APC’s growing influence in the region.
Speaking on behalf of Onna LGA, Dr. Godwin Umontuen said: “We have already welcomed two batches of decampees at the ward level. Sir Antai’s presence here reassures us that we are valued. We are ready to work for the good of our party and our people.”
Hon. Sam Ekpenyong who spoke for Ibeno LGA expressed readiness for a new political era: “We thank the President, Senate President, and Governor Umo Eno for bringing Akwa Ibom into alignment with the center. The battle is over. We are ready for development.”
Speaking on behalf of Eket LGA, Rt. Hon. A.D. Ita Uma emphasized the importance of reconciliation and building trust: “While we celebrate, we must also heal old wounds. Let’s mend broken fences and move forward together.”
Dr. Usoro Akpanusoh , speaking for Esit Eket, praised Sir Antai for his consistency and exceptional leadership. “You have risen from council chairman to EDP of NDDC – that shows vision, loyalty, and capacity. We are proud to have you lead us.”
In an effort to formally appoint Sir Victor Antai as the leader of the APC in Eket Senatorial District — a motion that was moved by Dr Usoro, and unanimously seconded by Rt. Hon. Aniekan Akpan, who declared:
“This is the voice of the people. Sir Antai has earned our trust and confidence. He has the capacity to lead and transform our district politically, and developmentally’,
Sir Victor Antai expressed deep humility and rather called for inclusive, collective leadership: saying, “We are all leaders, in our respective units, wards, chapters, and at every level we find ourselves, even among those seated in this hall today. Leadership is not about title but about service. I am not moved by the title, I’m only a servant among fellow leaders. Let us pull together with one heart, one voice, and one goal.”
The event ended with a strong reaffirmation of the APC’s guiding values, unity, discipline, openness, and grassroots inclusion setting the stage for a stronger, more people-oriented political movement in Akwa Ibom State.
Dignitaries in attendance included: Hon. Bassey Eshiet, Chief Aniefiok Assam Ukai, Mr. Ikot Victor, Hon. Eyo Inyang Abia, Hon. Imoh Sunday Attah, Hon. Anyama Anyama, Mr. Robert Umoette, Obongawan Lucy Akwa, Chief David Ita, Chief Asukpa Ulaeto, Hon. Bassey Willie, and many others whose presence affirmed the importance and success of the meeting.
With this renewed political momentum, Eket Federal Constituency is poised to play a central role in shaping the future of the APC in Akwa Ibom State and beyond.
