RismadarVoice Reporters
November 6, 2026
The Akwa Ibom State Chairman of the Labour Party, Obongawan Freena Akpanusong, has pledged her continued support for the party’s 2027 governorship candidate, Akparawa Michael Bush, declaring that political pressure or intimidation would not make her abandon his ambition.
Akpanusong made the declaration during a press conference organised by Bush at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre in Uyo on Thursday, November 5.
Responding to a journalist’s question about her readiness to withstand political pressure ahead of the governorship election, the party chairperson maintained that she remained committed to Bush’s candidacy and the Labour Party’s preparations for the contest.
She said her position as a female party leader would not prevent her from confronting political challenges or carrying out her responsibilities.
Akpanusong expressed confidence in Bush’s leadership abilities, describing him as an intelligent and competent candidate with the experience required to address the state’s development challenges.
According to her, Bush’s longstanding involvement in broadcasting and media management has provided him with opportunities to understand public concerns and the difficulties confronting residents.
The chairperson also criticised what she described as persistent poverty, hunger and economic hardship in Akwa Ibom State despite the revenue available to the government through federal allocations and internally generated funds.
She argued that the 2027 governorship election should focus on candidates’ competence, leadership capacity and proposed solutions to the challenges facing residents.
Akpanusong maintained that political leadership should be judged by the ability to deliver results rather than gender or other personal considerations.
She further pledged to strengthen the Labour Party’s structures and mobilise support for Bush through legitimate political activities.
The party chairperson insisted that she was prepared to discharge her responsibilities despite possible opposition from rival political interests.
Bush, a broadcaster and media entrepreneur, emerged as the Labour Party’s governorship candidate following a primary election held in May 2026.
His candidacy has previously been the subject of competing claims within the party, although the leadership aligned with Akpanusong has maintained that he is its recognised candidate.
The latest declaration comes as political parties and governorship candidates intensify preparations for the 2027 general election in Akwa Ibom State.
Akpanusong maintained that her commitment to Bush’s candidacy remained unchanged and that she would continue working towards the Labour Party’s electoral objectives.
