Senate President Godswill Akpabio has thrown his weight behind Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State for re-election in the 2027 gubernatorial race, marking a rare show of bipartisan support in the state’s political history.
Akpabio, a leading figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC), made his endorsement through his wife, Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, during a Town Square meeting held at the Ikot Ekpene Sports Stadium on Thursday.
The endorsement follows Governor Eno’s recent public declaration of support for President Bola Tinubu’s second term bid, delivered on Tuesday.
Akpabio commended the governor for empowering constituents through business grants and praised his inclusive approach to governance. He stated that Akwa Ibom would flourish if future administrations build upon Eno’s leadership model.
“Let me welcome you to the Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency for this Town Square meeting and thank you for the numerous impactful projects executed here,” he said. “I urge the constituents to unite for the growth of Akwa Ibom, beyond religious, political, or ethnic divides. I reaffirm my commitment to supporting Governor Eno beyond 2027, irrespective of party lines.”
Also speaking at the event, Hon. Patrick Umoh, Member representing Ikot Ekpene-Obot Akara-Essien Udim Federal Constituency, described the gathering as a true expression of democracy. An APC lawmaker, Umoh praised Eno’s leadership and moved a motion endorsing the governor’s return to the Hilltop Mansion in 2027—a motion that received unanimous approval from constituents.
In response, Governor Eno announced a N260 million grant to 664 farmers, traders, and entrepreneurs in the constituency.
According to the breakdown, 210 farmers received N105 million, 255 traders got N125 million, and six SMEs were awarded N5 million each. Additionally, 184 individuals received equipment support, while nine beneficiaries were presented with various types of vehicles.
The governor urged recipients to use the funds wisely to improve their livelihoods and warned that the grants were a one-time opportunity under the current scheme.
He also pledged to incorporate the constituency’s Needs Document—officially presented during the event—into the 2026 state budget.
“We are here today to say thank you to the Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency for your unwavering support,” Eno said. “This Needs Document aligns with the legal requirement for citizen engagement during budget preparation. We will study and implement its recommendations, depending on available resources. The 2026 budget will reflect the voice and needs of the people.”
Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, Political Leader of the Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency, lauded Governor Eno for his transformational leadership, noting that over 42 impactful projects had been delivered across the constituency in the past 20 months.
Speaking on behalf of the three local government chairmen in the constituency, Hon. Nkom Nkom, Chairman of Ikot Ekpene LGA, reaffirmed their collective support for Eno’s second term bid, citing his developmental strides and people-centered leadership.
