Ekid People’s Union takes stand, rejects Etteh, Ibeno candidates for 2027

Tony Okoh, Uyo

Ekid People’s Union (EPU) has officially withdrawn its political support for the member representing Eket Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Okpolupm Ikpong Etteh, over what it described as his alleged failure to safeguard the interests, unity, and identity of the Ekid people.

The decision was reached at a joint meeting of the EPU Board of Trustees, Executive Committee and accredited stakeholders held recently.

In a press release issued at the end of the meeting and endorsed by the Former Minister and Chairman, Board of Trustees, Chief (Hon.) Nduese Essien;
President General, Dr. Samuel Udonsak;
Secretary, Board of Trustees, Chief Bassey Itama; Secretary General, Hon. (Barr.) Bassey Dan-Abia.

Among others, the union also declared that it would not support any candidate of Ibeno extraction for the federal constituency seat.

The EPU said its decision followed what it described as a breach of trust by the lawmaker over the past 30 months, noting that representation required “courage, vigilance, consultation and dedication to the people’s interest.”

The union expressed concern that Hon. Etteh allegedly failed to defend the territorial integrity of Akwa Ibom State when a petition challenging the state’s gazetted map was presented on the floor of the House shortly after his inauguration.

According to the group, the lawmaker’s silence at the time raised doubts about his commitment to the people he represents.

The EPU further accused the legislator of unilaterally sponsoring a motion to change the names of Eket and Esit Eket Local Government Areas without consulting the affected communities, describing the move as insensitive and contrary to democratic principles.

It also raised alarm over worsening insecurity in the constituency, alleging that threats to peace and development, reportedly linked to militias from neighbouring states, had not received adequate attention or response from the representative.

The union additionally condemned what it described as attempts by the Ibeno Clan Council to influence the status of Esit Urua village, warning that such actions threaten the territorial integrity and identity of the Ekid people.

It maintained that the cumulative actions and inactions of the lawmaker had created a disconnect between him and the aspirations of the Ekid people.

The EPU therefore urged political parties to exercise due diligence in selecting candidates for the 2027 House of Representatives election for Eket Federal Constituency, stressing that it would not support or vote for any Ibeno candidate.

The union emphasized that its decision was reached after careful consideration and reaffirmed its commitment to democratic principles, pledging support only for leadership that reflects responsibility, inclusivity and respect for the will of the people.