Reconciliation: Essential path to uniting APC in Akwa Ibom State

By Emmanuel Nicholas

During Governor Umo Bassey Eno, transition to the All Progressive Congress (APC) the Governor of Akwa Ibom articulated that he does not approach this change from a standpoint of weakness; rather, he is aligning himself from a meticulously organized platform that boasts with the most extensive structure, encompassing networks from the grassroots level, units and wards, to local government areas, federal constituencies, senatorial districts, and ultimately, the state.

He emphasized that he is entering this new political arena from a position of strength, not from a place of weakness or desperation for power.

Governor Umo Eno, also acknowledged the considerable work that lies ahead within his new political platform, pledging to bring his spirit of reconciliation to unify the various factions within the All Progressive Congress.

After his defection, the political landscape is already witnessing the emergence of tensions within the flanks of APC, as each faction within the wards and local governments is asserting ownership of the party, thereby creating obstacles to the smooth revival of what was once a fractured political entity.

The arrival of Governor Umo Eno, PhD, into the All Progressive Congress has awakened all factions of the party, and in a rush driven by desperation, new leadership has been hastily formed, potentially undermining the noble intentions of the Senate President, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio (GCON), and the Governor himself to rebuild the party.

When the Governor candidly stated that he faces a significant challenge in rebuilding the fractured walls of the APC, he was not merely making a political statement; he was acknowledging the formidable task of reconciling the Udodehe faction, which perceives itself as the rightful owner of the party.

Conversely, the Obong Umana Okon Umana faction views itself as a group that was driven out of the PDP by Akpabio. Upon joining the APC, they attempted to reconstruct their political standing, only to assume that they had been destabilized by the same individual within the APC.

This ongoing struggle became evident when Umana assumed control of the management of the NDDC, resulting in the ousting and dispossession of Akpabio’s associates as it was written all over the mass media.

The Obong Nsima Ekere’s faction is also embroiled in conflict with other factions as they vie for prominence within the party; however, this endeavor has proven elusive, as Senator Godswill Akpabio continues to maintain a dominant presence.

A newer faction has emerged, consisting of individuals who transitioned with Senator Bassey Albert from the defunct YPP to the APC, and they are striving to secure their place within the party. They are currently collaborating with Senator Godswill Akpabio’s faction, although they have yet to be fully integrated into the caucus.

The least influential faction within the party is that of Senator Ita Enang, who has a significant presence across television, radio, and social media. However, their alignment with the Senate President appears to stem from frustration rather than a genuine commitment to a unified purpose.

The remnants of the Udodehe faction are primarily engaged in efforts to sabotage the initiatives of Akpabio’s dominant faction, aligning themselves with Umana and Nsima to execute this sabotage out of bitterness.

This pervasive factionalism is the principal reason it has become exceedingly difficult for the APC to secure any electoral victories in Akwa Ibom State in the past, as the PDP has maintained a remarkably united political front.

The Governor faces a formidable challenge in engaging his elder brother, Obong Umanah Okon Umanah, to reconcile their differences, extend forgiveness, and release past grievances, thereby embracing Senator Godswill Akpabio as a brother and former ally.

Governor Umo Eno, PhD, must also convene a roundtable discussion with the remaining members of Udodehe’s camp, who regard themselves as the true foundation of the APC in Akwa Ibom State. He should implore them to cease hostilities, eschew bitterness, set aside the frustrations of previous years, and welcome a new era of progress.

The newly joined golden leader of the APC bears the responsibility of reconciling the former Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Obong Nsima Ekere, with his former superior, Senator Godswill Akpabio. Despite numerous attempts at reconciliation, success has remained elusive. Both leaders must deepen their reconciliation efforts, ensuring that these are genuine and not merely superficial gestures.

The Governor must adopt the role of a unifier, demonstrating humility by also reconciling with Obong Bassey Albert. Although the Governor may not have personal grievances with him, Senator Bassey, having lost the election to the Governor, may harbour some resentment that necessitates discussion. The Governor must convey his sincere intention to collaborate with him within the APC.

Senator Ita Enang requires dialogue with both the Senate President and the Governor to emphasize the importance of refraining from using the media to incite further discord. His statements should not jeopardize the unity that both Governor Umo Eno and Senator Akpabio aspire to cultivate with the PDP in the future election.

Continued media provocations by him against the PDP and others could undermine the relationship between the two political entities and galvanize strong opposition to the APC from the PDP.

The Governor should also strengthen ties with Chief Don Etiebet, the former Minister of Petroleum, to assume a more profound elder statesman role in reconciling the party. Although he has played this role in recent years, the elder statesman should engage Obong Umanah, who is aligned with his political faction in the APC, to advocate for peace and collaboration with Senator Akpabio.

However, the individual with the most pivotal role in this reconciliation process is the Senate President. He must extend forgiveness to all who have wronged him throughout his political journey and encourage his political followers to avoid creating further factions, embracing inclusivity instead.

His media team should cease generating content that disparages other factions and leaders in Akwa Ibom State. Above all, he must ensure that power-sharing arrangements do not fracture the united front he shares with the Governor, as this is the primary factor that could hinder the APC’s success and unity.

Both leaders must recognize that individuals transitioning to the APC from the PDP are often key political operatives capable of winning elections and should be accorded significant roles. The positions granted to them will energize their commitment to the party.

In conclusion, the Governor is confronted with a daunting task that demands meticulous planning and divine guidance, particularly with the support granted to him by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He must navigate this challenging terrain to reconcile the party and transform it into a more formidable political force in Akwa Ibom State.