Royal Fathers Endorse Tinubu, Akpabio, Gov. Eno for Second Terms

Traditional rulers from Akwa Ibom North-West (Ikot Ekpene) Senatorial District have unanimously endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for second terms in office ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The endorsement was announced on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at a well-attended rally held at the Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium and organised by royal fathers from the district. At the event, the monarchs adopted the trio as their sole candidates for the respective offices, declaring that no further consultations would be entertained.

Speaking at the rally, the Itai Afe Annang, Obong Blaise Awakama; the Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Traditional Rulers Council and Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District Traditional Rulers Council, His Royal Majesty Saviour Sylvester Udofia; and the Paramount Ruler of Oruk Anam, J.J. Obosi, said the endorsement was based on the leaders’ performance, stability and visible achievements in office.

They praised President Tinubu for key infrastructural projects in Akwa Ibom State, particularly the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, and for supporting the emergence of Senator Godswill Akpabio as Senate President, noting that it has enhanced the state’s influence at the national level.

Governor Umo Eno was commended for fostering peace, unity and inclusive governance across the state, as well as ensuring fair distribution of development projects. The traditional rulers declared their full support for his re-election bid in 2027.

The monarchs also endorsed Senator Akpabio for another term, describing his leadership of the National Assembly as impactful and beneficial to Akwa Ibom State and the country.

Responding on behalf of the endorsed leaders, Governor Eno thanked the traditional institution for the confidence reposed in him and Senator Akpabio, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to sustained development under the ARISE Agenda.

In his remarks, Senate President Akpabio said the endorsement reflected the trust and confidence of the royal fathers of Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District, assuring them of his continued dedication to effective representation and national service.

The event’s highlight was the presentation of a memorandum of endorsement to the Governor and the Senate President, as well as the conferment of the traditional title “Akwa Obong Emem” on Governor Umo Eno in recognition of his leadership style and peace-building efforts.

Goodwill messages were delivered by the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi; Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong; Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Obong Emem Ekperikpe Ekpo; Director-General of Campaigns, Chief Assam Assam, SAN; Executive Director, Projects, NDDC, Sir Victor Antai; Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Frank Archibong; members of the National Assembly led by Rt. Hon. Unyime Idem; and other dignitaries.