APC Media Network rejects alleged plan to impose candidates for 2027 Akwa Ibom Assembly elections, defending democratic processes in the party
The All Progressives Congress Media Network (APCMN) has criticised alleged plans by some political leaders to impose candidates for the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly elections in 2027.
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The statement comes in response to a viral video in which Speaker Udeme Otong allegedly claimed he would determine who secures the APC tickets for all 26 Assembly seats.
Otuekong Iniobong John, Director-General of the APCMN, condemned the alleged remarks, asserting that only a democratic process can produce the party’s candidates.
He warned that allowing such actions would undermine the efforts of foundation members and stakeholders who have long supported the party in the state.
“The APC Media Network condemns the anti-democratic and provocative statement made in a video clip by the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, in which he claimed that the 26 APC House of Assembly tickets for the 2027 general election are ‘custodied’ by him,” the statement read.
John emphasised that the Speaker has no constitutional or moral authority to determine APC candidacies, noting that such powers reside solely with the party’s constitutional organs. “APC tickets are neither personal assets nor instruments of patronage,” he added.
The group urged Otong to retract his statement and issue an unreserved apology to APC members in Akwa Ibom, stressing that public recantation is essential to reaffirm the party’s democratic values.
The APCMN also called on him to emulate the conduct of Governor Umo Eno and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, highlighting their leadership qualities as examples of humility and party loyalty.
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The network warned that political arrogance and attempts to intimidate party members would not be tolerated, insisting that fairness and equity must guide the nomination process for all aspirants.
