Ahead of the 2027 general elections, traditional rulers in Akwa Ibom State have endorsed President Bola Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Governor Umo Eno for a second term, citing their developmental achievements and records of governance.
The endorsement was announced during a special rally on Saturday at Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium, where royal fathers from across the senatorial district convened in a rare show of unity.
The monarchs, including Paramount Rulers, Clan Heads, Village and Family Heads, and their spouses, expressed support based on the visible accomplishments of the trio at both federal and state levels. Itai Afe Annang, Paramount Traditional Ruler and Leader of Afe Annang, and Obong Blaise Awakama, who chaired the ceremony, described the gathering as historic, highlighting that it was the first time traditional rulers in Akwa Ibom had collectively recognised the achievements of their sons.
The rulers commended President Tinubu’s economic reforms, noting increased funds available to states and local governments for development projects, and praised Akpabio for his contributions as former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senate Minority Leader, Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, and now as Senate President, citing his role in passing people-oriented legislations and executing key projects in the region. They also lauded Governor Eno for promoting inclusive development beyond urban centres.
Akuku Udofia, Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Traditional Rulers Council and Paramount Ruler of Abak, said the endorsement reflected proven leadership, good governance, and sustained public service by the trio. Following a unanimous voice vote, Udofia emphasised that the decision represented the collective will of the council to promote peace, unity, and constructive engagement with traditional institutions.
Receiving the memorandum of endorsement, Governor Eno described the gesture as unprecedented and thanked the traditional rulers for their continued support. Akpabio, accepting the endorsement on behalf of himself and President Tinubu, assured the monarchs that the President was committed to improving the lives of Nigerians and expressed confidence that Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District would deliver significant votes for the trio in 2027. He urged the traditional rulers to mobilise their subjects to register and obtain Permanent Voter Cards ahead of the elections.
