Crisis Brews in Akwa Ibom APC as Leadership Battle Intensifies
Fresh tension is gripping the Akwa Ibom State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as internal power tussles threaten to destabilize the party ahead of the anticipated defection of Governor Umo Eno and his loyalists.
Once considered dormant following its disappointing outing in the 2023 general elections, the APC’s local structures are now experiencing a sudden surge of activity and ambition. Sources within the party say the prospect of the state governor joining the APC has sparked intense jostling for control, particularly at the ward level.
A Scramble for Influence
The recent upsurge in interest over ward leadership positions previously viewed as symbolic and largely uncontested has thrown many local party units into disarray. According to party insiders, long-time APC stakeholders are increasingly uneasy over what they perceive as an invasion of political space by new entrants riding on the governor’s coattails.
While the position of “ward leader” is not formally recognized in the APC constitution, the role has grown in informal influence, particularly during pre-election activities. Critics argue that some of these leaders often duplicate or usurp the constitutional responsibilities of ward executives, thereby weakening party cohesion.
However, others defend the existence of ward leaders, saying they play important advisory roles and act as counterbalances to errant officials, especially in volatile political environments where grassroots loyalty often outweighs official titles.
Mkpat Enin in Focus
One of the flashpoints of the growing rift is Mkpat Enin Local Government Area, where a leadership crisis has erupted following the self-declaration of multiple individuals as ward leaders. The situation recently forced the Chapter Chairman, Utitofon Jeremiah, to call an emergency stakeholders’ meeting on Monday, June 2.
During the meeting, Jeremiah announced the immediate constitution of a disciplinary committee, chaired by the Chapter Secretary, Leo Ntokekpo, to investigate the leadership crisis, recommend disciplinary actions, and chart a way forward for the troubled chapter.
Addressing the ward chairmen, Jeremiah stressed that the administration of the party rests squarely on their shoulders and urged them to conduct themselves as credible representatives of the APC.
Call for Unity Amid Defections
In a strategic move, the chairman also appealed to members to welcome incoming defectors with open arms, noting that the strength of the APC depends on unity and inclusiveness. However, he also cautioned against further escalation of the ward leadership debate, urging stakeholders to place the party’s interest above personal ambition.
“Let us not be distracted by titles and power plays. What matters now is the health and strength of our party as we prepare for a new political phase,” Jeremiah said.
The coming weeks may determine whether Akwa Ibom APC can resolve its internal rifts or sink deeper into factional crisis a scenario that could undermine the party’s chances even with a high-profile defector like Governor Eno in its ranks.
Reference
Crisis Brews in Akwa Ibom APC as Leadership Battle Intensifies