Obong Nsima Ekere, a former Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, has congratulated the new State Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by Obong Stephen Leo Ntukekpo.
Ntukekpo, at the party’s state congress held at the Uyo Township Stadium on Tuesday, re-emerged as state chairman through a consensus arrangement among party stakeholders.
Other members of the new executive committee include Aniekan Ekpo (Deputy State Chairman), Envoy Nsentip Akpabio (Secretary), Barrister Kemfon Neke (Treasurer), Barrister Victor Akpan (Organising Secretary), Patrick Edeke (Publicity Secretary), Obonganwan Obonodo Uko (State Woman Leader), and Clement Awakessien (State Youth Leader), among others.
In a statement made available to journalists, Ekere described Ntukekpo’s re-emergence as an endorsement of his performance during his first term and a reflection of the confidence reposed in his ability to steer the party forward.
He also extended his goodwill to the newly elected State Working Committee, expressing optimism that the team would build on the foundations already laid. He urged the new executives to “see their election as a call to service rather than a position of entitlement,” charging them to work assiduously towards positioning the party as a formidable force in Akwa Ibom State.
Commending the orderly conduct of the congress, the 2019 governorship candidate of the APC in Akwa Ibom State noted that the process demonstrated the party’s growing internal democracy and institutional strength.
“What we witnessed is a clear indication that our party is maturing politically. When leaders and stakeholders come together to agree on a consensus, it saves the party from unnecessary acrimony and strengthens our unity,” he said.
He further observed that the absence of rancour and disputes during the congress was a positive signal that the Akwa Ibom APC is on a steady path of growth and reconciliation.
The APC stalwart also used the opportunity to applaud the collaborative efforts between Governor Umo Eno and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, describing their synergy as instrumental to the peace currently enjoyed within the party’s structure. He noted that their inclusive approach to leadership has helped consolidate the party’s presence across the state and fostered a sense of belonging among members at all levels.
Ekere expressed confidence that the party is well-positioned for greater electoral fortunes in future contests.
He also called on all party members, regardless of interests or leanings, to rally behind the party and work collectively toward the shared goal of transforming Akwa Ibom State through the APC platform.
“The APC remains the vehicle for the change Akwa Ibom people desire, and with the calibre of leaders we have at both state and national levels, working in harmony with our governors and national assembly members, we will surely get there,” Ekere added.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the party’s progress and pledged to continue offering his support to ensure the APC remains strong, united, and electorally dominant in Akwa Ibom State.
