By Solomon OKPO
Tension is mounting in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State following allegations of sponsored protests linked to political interests ahead of the 2027 senatorial race in Akwa Ibom South.
The Ukpum Minya Clan Youth Movement has raised alarm over what it described as “orchestrated and sponsored protests” allegedly backed by a former council chairman and senatorial aspirant, Hon. Ekanem Brown. The group warned that such actions could destabilize the peace of the area and disrupt ongoing political processes.
In a statement dated April 15, 2026, and signed by its leader, Enobong Jamesudo, the youth body said it had credible intelligence suggesting that certain individuals were mobilizing youths to stage protests aimed at heating up the polity in Mkpat Enin and the wider senatorial district.
The group cautioned that Mkpat Enin, known for its peaceful political culture, must not be dragged into conflict for what it termed “selfish political gains.” It stressed that the youths of Ukpum Minya would resist any attempt to foment unrest, while urging security agencies to remain proactive in maintaining law and order.
The statement further called on Hon. Brown to rein in his supporters and adopt a more mature and democratic approach to political engagement, emphasizing that the political space should not be turned into a battleground.
Reaffirming its political stance, the group declared support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, citing the need for continuity and stability in governance.
Similarly, the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Mkpat Enin chapter, has called for restraint among youths amid recent protest actions in the area. The council referenced incidents on April 12, when some youths barricaded sections of the Ibekwe, Ikot Akpaden Road to demand accelerated construction, as well as a separate political protest in Mkpat Enin Urban.
While acknowledging the constitutional right to peaceful protest, the NYCN warned against the hijack of such demonstrations by political actors pursuing ulterior motives. It urged youths to remain law-abiding and avoid being used as instruments of disruption.
The council commended Governor Umo Eno for ongoing road projects in the area, particularly the Ibekwe–Ikot Akpaden Road, noting that funds had already been released for its execution. It appealed for patience, assuring that the project would be completed.
On the political front, the NYCN distanced itself from what it described as campaigns of calumny against established leaders, while congratulating Senator Ekong Sampson on the growing support for his re-election bid. The council maintained that political aspirants should focus on promoting their track records rather than inciting unrest.
The unfolding developments underscore growing political undercurrents in Mkpat Enin as stakeholders intensify calls for peaceful engagement and responsible conduct ahead of the election season.
