Akpabio, Gov Eno Realign For Reelection In 2027 Despite Party Differences

Senator Godswill Akpabio, President of the 10th National Assembly, and Governor Pastor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State are laying the groundwork for their reelection campaigns leading up to the 2027 general elections.

This intention became apparent recently as the people of Ikot Ekpene Senatorial district endorsed Akpabio as their sole candidate for the upcoming senatorial race in 2027. The endorsement took place during a grand reception held for the Senate President in Ikot Ekpene local government area.

During the event, Akpabio expressed gratitude for the support, emphasizing that the endorsement implied exclusive candidacy for the district.

Similarly, Governor Umo Eno received praise during the event for fostering unity and peace within his administration and successive ones, despite previous political differences between Akpabio and former Governor Udom Emmanuel.

In return, Governor Eno urged the people of Akwa Ibom Northwest to adopt him as the sole candidate for the governorship election in 2027, following their endorsement of Akpabio as the sole senatorial candidate.

This political arrangement seemed like a mutual agreement, ensuring Akpabio faces no opposition in 2027, while Governor Eno, the leader of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, will also have no contender from the main opposition party.

Akpabio assured his support for Governor Eno’s aspirations, emphasizing cooperation regardless of party affiliations.

However, rumors suggesting the defection of Senator Bassey Akpan from the Young Progressives Party (YPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2027 gubernatorial candidacy might be unfounded, given Akpabio’s alliance with Governor Eno.

Nevertheless, the ruling PDP in Akwa Ibom State declared its intention to field a candidate for the 2027 senatorial race, despite the endorsements made at the Ikot Ekpene event.

The Publicity Secretary of the PDP emphasized that the event was primarily an APC affair and did not reflect the party’s stance for the 2027 elections. He reiterated the party’s commitment to contesting the elections and securing victory with a competent candidate.