BY SOLOMON OKPO
A frontline aspirant for the Eket State Constituency seat in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Akpan, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 election, outlining a reform-driven agenda focused on accessibility, transparency, and grassroots engagement.
Akpan, a former Chairman of Eket Local Government Area and a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), made his declaration during a press briefing in Eket on Friday. He said his decision followed wide consultations with stakeholders and residents across the constituency.
Speaking on his ambition, Akpan emphasized that his aspiration is rooted in service rather than personal ambition or political rivalry. He maintained that his entry into the race should not be misconstrued as an attack on the incumbent lawmaker.
“I hereby officially declare my intention to contest for the Eket State Constituency seat in the State House of Assembly. This decision is not driven by personal ambition, but by a sincere sense of duty and responsibility to serve our people and move our constituency forward,” he said.
The former council boss expressed concern over what he described as a disconnect between the people and government, particularly across the Okon, Urban, and Central zones of the constituency. According to him, the absence of regular constituency briefings, legislative updates, and a functional constituency office has weakened public engagement.
He argued that many residents no longer feel adequately represented, alleging that the benefits of governance are not evenly distributed and appear to favour a limited number of individuals.
“For too long, the vital connection between the people and government has been weak. The concerns and aspirations of our people are not reaching government as they should, and the benefits of governance are not effectively reaching our communities,” Akpan stated.
Akpan pledged to introduce a more inclusive style of representation, anchored on open communication and accountability. He assured constituents that, if elected, he would establish a functional constituency office and maintain regular engagement through briefings and feedback channels.
“I will serve as a true bridge between the people and government, taking your concerns forward and bringing back clear and honest feedback. I will promote openness, accessibility, and accountability in representation,” he added.
While reiterating that his ambition is devoid of malice, Akpan stressed that effective legislative representation requires competence, experience, and a verifiable track record in public service, expressing confidence in his ability to deliver.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio for endorsing reforms such as direct primaries, which he said would deepen internal democracy and give party members greater influence in candidate selection.
Akpan concluded by assuring constituents that he would prioritise public interest over personal gain, pledging not to use public office for self-enrichment but to deliver equitable and people-oriented representation for Eket State Constituency.
