Ebenezer Udofia-November 6, 2025
As the 2027 elections approach, a crucial debate has resurfaced regarding the rotation of the House of Assembly seat in Akwa Ibom State. The Ibiono Ibom Eastern Zone, which has been left out of this position since the return of democracy in 1999, is now making a strong and legitimate case for its turn.
Given the historical context and the principles of fairness, equity, and inclusion, it is imperative that the Eastern Zone be favoured to occupy the House of Assembly seat in 2027.
A review of the zoning arrangement since 1999 clearly shows a consistent rotation among the zones. The Northern Zone held the seat from 1999 to 2003 with Hon. Idorenyin James Umoh; followed by the Southern Zone from 2003 to 2011 with Rt. Hon. Ignatius Edet. The Western Zone then took its turn from 2011 to 2019 with Rt. Hon. Ime Okon, while the Central Zone produced Hon. Godwin Ekpo from 2019 to 2023, and currently Hon. Moses Essien, also from the Central Zone, whose tenure is set to end in 2027.
With the Central Zone completing its turn, it is only fair and just that the Eastern Zone takes its rightful place in 2027. This is in full alignment with the established zoning principle that has ensured fairness, stability, and inclusiveness in Ibiono Ibom politics.
The Ididep Declaration, which emphasizes zoning as a tool for equity and peaceful coexistence, further reinforces the legitimacy of the Eastern Zone’s claim. Zoning has been instrumental in fostering political balance, ensuring that every section of the local government participates in governance and decision-making.
We therefore call on His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D, who has publicly affirmed himself as a product and beneficiary of zoning, alongside all political leaders and stakeholders, to support the rotation of the House of Assembly seat to the Ibiono Ibom Eastern Zone in 2027.
It is both fair and just that the Eastern Zone-being the only zone yet to occupy this position; be given the opportunity to actualize its turn. The Ibiono Ibom Central Zone, having benefitted from two consecutive terms, should now support the peaceful continuation of this rotational arrangement rather than pursue personal ambitions that may undermine unity and stability.
We urge our dear Governor and the good people of Ibiono Ibom to uphold the principles of fairness, justice, and equity in this matter. The Eastern Zone’s turn is long overdue, and its inclusion is essential for the continued peace and progress of our constituency and state.
As we move toward 2027, we trust that our leaders will act with wisdom and integrity to sustain the zoning structure that has served as the bedrock of Ibiono Ibom’s political stability.
The rotation of the House of Assembly seat to the Ibiono Ibom Eastern Zone is not merely a political aspiration- it is a moral imperative rooted in justice, fairness, and shared progress. The people of Ibiono Ibom Eastern are eager to contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of our state, and we are confident that, together, we can achieve even greater heights.
