Opposition at loggerheads due to LG Polls

The controversial victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the chairmanship election for Essien Udim Local Government Area, associated with Senate President Godswill Akpabio, has left many members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) suspecting betrayal by Governor Umo Eno.

Despite the PDP winning 30 out of 31 chairmanship positions in the October 5 local government elections in Akwa Ibom State, dissatisfaction brewed among party members during the swearing-in ceremony for the newly elected chairpersons. Governor Eno acknowledged the discontent, stating, “People are angry.”

The controversy centers on the unexpected loss of the only chairmanship seat for Essien Udim, which was initially declared for PDP candidate Enobong Patrick Friday by Returning Officer Professor Inyang Atting. A video of Atting’s announcement went viral, but the following day, the Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission (AKISIEC) instead awarded the seat to Ntiedo Usoro of the APC, prompting accusations of a stolen mandate. PDP members believe Governor Eno may have compromised party interests to maintain a favorable relationship with Akpabio.

The PDP was expected to dominate the elections, especially given the weakness of the APC in the state, which has been described as factionalized and demoralized. Despite these claims, Akpabio maintained that the APC should not be underestimated.

Governor Eno, addressing concerns about favoritism toward Akpabio, insisted he was committed to the PDP and its success in future elections.

Professor Atting confirmed that the PDP candidate, Enobong Patrick Friday, had legitimately won the election, noting his significant lead in votes across all wards. However, following the announcement of winners by AKISIEC Chairman Elder Ikoiwak, Usoro was recognized as the elected chairperson for Essien Udim, leading to the disavowal of Atting’s results by the commission.

Source: Egufe Yafugborhi