RismadarVoice Reporters
May 18, 2026
Former President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Comrade Danielson Akpan, has formally declared his intention to contest for the Ikono State Constituency seat in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly under the platform of the Labour Party.
Akpan announced his ambition on Monday shortly after submitting his expression of interest and nomination forms, stating that his decision was driven by what he described as the long-standing political marginalisation of the Ediene Itak axis in Ikono Local Government Area.
According to him, Ediene Itak, one of the three geopolitical blocs in Ikono, has allegedly been excluded from major political positions despite the existence of an informal zoning arrangement intended to ensure fairness and inclusiveness.
He noted that key elective offices, including the House of Representatives seat, the State Assembly position and the chairmanship of the local government council, are currently occupied by individuals from Ikono South, leaving Ediene Itak without representation at critical levels of governance.
Akpan further alleged that political stakeholders from Ediene Itak had supported the emergence of the current lawmaker based on an understanding that the Assembly seat would rotate to the area after the incumbent’s tenure, an agreement he claimed has not been respected.
“The people of Ediene Itak have remained loyal and supportive over the years, yet they continue to be sidelined politically. This contest is about fairness, inclusion and giving every section of Ikono a sense of belonging,” he said.
The former student leader promised to provide effective representation, champion people-oriented legislation and attract meaningful development to the constituency if elected.
Describing himself as an activist rather than a conventional politician, Akpan said his leadership style would focus on justice, accountability and grassroots engagement.
“I am entering this race not as a career politician, but as someone committed to defending the interests of ordinary people and ensuring that government truly works for the masses,” he added.
Reacting to his declaration, the Akwa Ibom State Chairman of the Labour Party, Mrs Freena Akpanusong, expressed confidence in Akpan’s candidacy and pledged the party’s support for his ambition.
She described him as a vibrant and courageous leader with the capacity to provide quality representation for the people of Ikono State Constituency.
“The constituency needs a representative who understands the people and is ready to speak boldly for them. We believe Danielson Akpan possesses those qualities,” she stated.
Akpan’s entry into the race is expected to intensify political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections in Akwa Ibom State.
