RismadarVoice Reporters, April 22, 2026
A former member of the House of Representatives, Eseme Eyiboh, has cautioned political aspirants against invoking the name of Senate President Godswill Akpabio to gain advantage ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during a media interaction on April 20, 2026, Eyiboh stressed that credible leadership must be built on trust, competence, and direct engagement with voters rather than reliance on influential endorsements.
He criticized the growing trend of “name-dropping” in politics, describing it as a shortcut that weakens democratic accountability. According to him, aspirants should present their qualifications and connect with the electorate instead of claiming backing from powerful figures without justification.
Eyiboh urged politicians to focus on issue-driven campaigns, noting that democracy thrives when citizens actively question leaders and demand transparency. He emphasized that leadership should be earned through performance and integrity, not political associations.
In the same vein, Eyiboh expressed support for Okpolupm Etteh, the lawmaker representing Eket/Onna/Esit Eket/Ibeno Federal Constituency, encouraging constituents to consider continuity based on his track record. He argued that experienced legislators with proven capacity should be given the opportunity to continue their work rather than being replaced by untested candidates.
On electoral reforms, Eyiboh described recent amendments to the Electoral Act as significant in strengthening internal party democracy. He noted that the reforms have made it more difficult for politicians to switch parties opportunistically in search of tickets, while also compelling aspirants to demonstrate grassroots support through direct primaries.
He added that these changes have shifted greater power to voters, ensuring that candidates engage meaningfully with the public before emerging.
Commenting on national policies, Eyiboh defended the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu, particularly the removal of fuel subsidies. He argued that the policy has helped redirect resources toward broader national development, even if its full benefits are not immediately visible.
Addressing criticism of the National Assembly, Eyiboh rejected claims that the 10th Senate lacks independence. He pointed to instances where lawmakers took firm positions, including the rejection of certain ministerial nominees and the preference for diplomatic engagement over military action in regional matters.
He concluded by advocating political continuity, urging Nigerians especially in Akwa Ibom State to support current leaders, including President Tinubu, Senate President Akpabio, and Governor Umo Eno, for another term to sustain ongoing reforms and development efforts.
