By Solomon OKPO
Stakeholders in Esit Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State have unanimously endorsed the Senator representing Akwa Ibom South (Eket Senatorial District), Senator Ekong Sampson, for a second term in office, signalling what observers describe as growing and unstoppable political momentum ahead of the 2027 general 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.
Addressing the gathering, Senator Sampson reaffirmed his commitment to delivering greater dividends of democracy across the senatorial district, noting that his legislative interventions cut across all 12 local government areas.
He highlighted ongoing projects and initiatives, including an erosion control project in Ikpa, Esit Eket, approved by the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio.
The lawmaker further disclosed that several youths from the area have been profiled for federal employment, with appointment letters expected soon. He also announced plans for a large-scale empowerment programme, revealing that about 80 percent of the items earmarked for distribution are already in place.
In addition, Senator Sampson revealed ongoing efforts to facilitate the establishment of a Federal University of Medical Studies in Eket, describing the initiative as a strategic step toward boosting educational and healthcare infrastructure in the region.
“I believe in results-driven politics, translating policies and budgets into tangible projects,” he stated, while expressing appreciation for the endorsement and pledging to sustain quality representation.
Sampson also commended Elder Udobia for his leadership, describing him as a father figure whose guidance continues to unite political stakeholders in the area.
He further expressed confidence that Governor Umo Eno would secure a resounding re-election victory, stressing that strategic national alignment would attract more development to Akwa Ibom State.
In his remarks, former member of the House of Representatives, Sir Bassey Dab-Abia, described Sampson’s performance as “top-notch,” citing his impactful bills, motions, and legislative engagements.
Also speaking, the Executive Chairman of Esit Eket Local Government Area, Mrs. Uduak Ikemesit Ikot, urged the senator to sustain collaboration with local leadership to ensure proper documentation of projects and empowerment programmes. She affirmed that his second term bid enjoys overwhelming grassroots support.
Other stakeholders, including Prince Enobong Asubop, Pastor Godwin Bassey, Dr. Usoro Akpanusoh, Elder Urua Akpe, and Hon. Ayang Edet, echoed similar sentiments, unanimously backing Sampson as the preferred candidate for continued representation.
The motion for his adoption as the consensus candidate was moved by the Leader of 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 about the senator’s capacity to deliver more dividends to the people and defend the interests of Esit Eket.
He also called for sustained support for Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, emphasizing the need for collective commitment to the development of Akwa Ibom State.
