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Idongesit Ashameri
Former governorship candidate and ex-National Secretary of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, James Akpan Udoedehe, has declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Akwa Ibom State under the platform of the African Democratic Congress, while raising concerns over the management of increasing state revenues.
Speaking during a media interaction with journalists in Uyo, Udoedehe alleged that the resources currently available to the administration of Umo Eno exceed the combined allocations received during the 16-year administrations of former governors Godswill Akpabio and Udom Emmanuel.
He argued that with the current level of revenue inflow, government should be able to deliver stronger economic outcomes and improve living conditions across the state.
Announcing his governorship ambition, Udoedehe said his entry into the race was driven by what he described as the need to offer Akwa Ibom people an alternative leadership platform built on accountability, transparency and development.
The former senator also dismissed suggestions that he could be influenced financially to weaken opposition politics, maintaining that he had never traded political mandates or compromised electoral processes for personal benefit.
According to him, his decision to seek office was not motivated by personal gain but by a desire to confront issues of economic hardship, unemployment and hunger affecting residents.
Udoedehe further stated that despite not previously serving as governor, he had attained personal fulfilment and was entering the contest with the intention of contributing to the long-term growth and development of Akwa Ibom State.
