By Solomon OKPO
Stakeholders in Esit Eket Local Government Area have formally endorsed Senator Ekong Sampson for a second term, signaling strong grassroots backing as political consultations intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.
The endorsement was sealed on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting held at the residence of the political leader of Esit Eket, Elder Benjamin Udobia. The gathering drew key political figures and opinion leaders across the area, underscoring a unified front in support of the senator.
Addressing the stakeholders, Senator Sampson reaffirmed his commitment to delivering greater dividends of democracy across the 12 local government areas of Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District. He highlighted ongoing and completed interventions, noting that his legislative efforts have impacted critical sectors within the district.
Among key projects, the lawmaker disclosed that the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has approved an erosion control project in Ikpa, Esit Eket. He further revealed that several youths from the area have been profiled for federal employment, with appointment letters expected in due course.
Senator Sampson also announced plans for a large-scale empowerment programme, stating that nearly 80 percent of the items earmarked for distribution are already in place. In addition, he disclosed ongoing efforts to facilitate the establishment of a Federal University of Medical Studies in Eket, a move expected to boost education and healthcare development in the region.
Describing Elder Udobia as a respected leader and father figure, the senator expressed appreciation for the endorsement and pledged to sustain quality representation. He assured stakeholders that their demands would be addressed while emphasizing his commitment to results-driven governance.
He also expressed confidence in the re-election prospects of Governor Umo Eno, noting that strategic political alignment at the national level would attract increased development to the state.
In his remarks, former member of the House of Representatives, Sir Bassey Dab-Abia, rated Senator Sampson’s performance as “top-notch,” citing his contributions through bills, motions, and legislative engagements.
The Executive Chairman of Esit Eket Local Government Area, Mrs. Uduak Ikemesit Ikot, urged the senator to maintain synergy with local leadership to ensure proper documentation and implementation of projects.
She assured that his second term bid enjoys overwhelming support from the political structure in the area.
Other stakeholders, including Prince Enobong Asubop, Pastor Godwin Bassey, Dr. Usoro Akpanusoh, Elder Urua Akpe, and Hon. Ayang Edet, unanimously backed the endorsement, describing Senator Sampson as the best option for sustained representation.
The motion for his adoption as consensus candidate was moved by the Leader of the Esit Eket Legislative Council, Hon. Ndifreke Etiekiiet, seconded by former Leader, Hon. Daniel Akpe, and ratified through a voice vote presided over by Sir Dan Abia.
In his closing remarks, Elder Benjamin Udobia expressed optimism that the senator would deliver even more impactful representation in a second term. He also called for continued support for the ARISE Agenda of the state government, stressing the need for collective commitment to the development of Akwa Ibom State.
