A significant controversy has erupted within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akwa Ibom State, as prominent stakeholders accuse Senate President Godswill Akpabio, State Chairman Stephen Ntukekpo, and Minister of Petroleum (Gas) Ekperikpe Ekpo of undermining the party by allegedly colluding with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). This alleged pact is believed to be in exchange for PDP support for Akpabio's bid for a third term in 2027.


The allegations were articulated in an open letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu, titled “The Worrisome State of the APC in Akwa Ibom State: A Call for Your Intervention.” This letter was co-signed by Elder Okokon James, Peter Ibanga, and Chief Victor Affiah, representing the Uyo, Eket, and Ikot Ekpene Senatorial districts.


In a striking revelation, the letter claims:


“We, the founding fathers of the All Progressives Congress in Akwa Ibom State, are compelled to bring this critical issue to your attention. 


The state chairman, Mr. Stephen Ntukekpo, and Minister Ekperikpe Ekpo have publicly declared their allegiance to the Senate President’s directive to weaken the party, thereby paving the way for an easier victory for the PDP in the upcoming 2027 elections, all for Akpabio's own political gain.”


The letter further warns that if immediate action is not taken to revitalize the APC in Akwa Ibom, there may not be any party members left to welcome the President during his campaign visit next year. They express deep concern over the state of the party, stating:


“The soul and spirit of the APC have been sold to the PDP-led government, leading typical members to consider joining an opposition coalition against your second-term ambitions.”


The signatories voice their disbelief and frustration, questioning how the party can mobilize its members when its leadership appears to be working against its interests. They emphasize their loyalty to the APC, lamenting that it is now in a precarious position despite producing influential leaders such as the Senate President and the Minister of Petroleum Resources.


“This betrayal of trust by Akpabio is a profound disappointment,” they assert. “If party members decide to align with the opposition, the responsibility will rest squarely on the shoulders of the Senate President and the Minister of Petroleum.”


They also made it clear that Governor Umo Eno is unlikely to support the APC or President Tinubu’s re-election efforts, stating, “While Eno and his team work diligently to fortify their party, our leaders appear indifferent to the existence and vitality of the APC in the state.”


In response to these grave allegations, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Senate President, dismissed the claims as baseless and malicious. 


“The individuals behind this letter are unknown and have no standing within the party. Their allegations are unfounded and meant to sow discord,” Eyiboh stated. “The Senate President has been instrumental in strengthening our party through various appointments hardly evidence of working against it.”


As the political landscape in Akwa Ibom continues to evolve, the APC faces significant challenges ahead, demanding immediate attention and decisive leadership to restore unity and purpose within its ranks.