A former minister of state for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Akwa Ibom State, Senator John James Akpanudoedehe, has declared he would again stake his fortune to challenge incumbent Governor Umo Eno, in the governorship race.
The former interim national secretary of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), who has secured the expression of interest and nomination forms for the ADC primaries, told party leaders, elders, stakeholders and supporters at the weekend that he was battle-ready to provide effective opposition with alternative platform.
It was at the special thanksgiving he convened for party supporters and stakeholders across the state, where he used the occasion to motivate the party faithful and reaffirmed the ADC’s readiness for the 2027 polls.
LEADERSHIP learnt the event, which attracted members of the ADC State Executive Committee, chapter executives from the 31 local government areas, political stakeholders, women and youth groups, as well as aspirants seeking elective offices under the party platform, was widely seen as both a thanksgiving service and a strategic political mobilisation meeting ahead of the big contest.
Recalling the political fracas of 2021, when he stood on the platform of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) – to challenge Governor Godswill Akpabio, in which some of his supporters died with several properties including vehicles destroyed, Senator Akpanudoedehe, used the forum to pay growing tributes to the departed and observed a one-minute silence in their honour.
Addressing the conferees, Senator Akpanudoedehe, also applauded the resilient spirits of party supporters for demonstrating steadfastness, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of the ADC.
He explained that the thanksgiving gathering was organised not only to appreciate God for the party’s progress, but also to recognise the sacrifices made by members who stood firmly with the movement through difficult times and challenging times.
He maintained that the ADC in the state has continued to witness steady growth because of the dedication and loyalty of its members at the grassroots level, and encouraged supporters not to be discouraged by temporary political setbacks, assuring that persistence, unity, and strategic organisation would ultimately produce positive results for the party.
The former Senator for Uyo Senatorial District, therefore, stressed the importance of discipline and unity among party members, warning against actions capable of weakening the structure and vision of the ADC in the state.
He urged supporters to remain focused and continue mobilising people at the grassroots, describing grassroots participation as the foundation of political success.
Senator Akpanudoedehe, further declared that “the ADC has come to stay as a formidable political force in Akwa Ibom State and across Nigeria,” and expressed confidence that the growing acceptance of the party among citizens dissatisfied with the current political order would strengthen the ADC’s chances in the 2027 elections.
The ADC leader assured supporters that the sacrifices made today would shape the future political direction of the state, while urging members to remain united and committed to the party’s vision ahead of the next elections’ cycle.
He also addressed aspirants under the party platform, advising them to pursue issue-based campaigns and maintain close relationships with the people at the grassroots, admonishing them to “focus on leadership built on integrity, accountability, and service to the people rather than personal ambition.”
Several speakers commended Senator Akpanudoedehe, for sustaining the party structure in the sate and keeping supporters united despite political challenges.
