RismadarVoice Reporters
May 17, 2026
Leader of the African Democratic Congress in Akwa Ibom State, Senator John James Akpanudoedeghe, has rallied party supporters and stakeholders across the state, reaffirming the party’s readiness for the 2027 general elections and hinting strongly at a possible governorship bid.
The senator spoke on Saturday during a major Thanksgiving gathering attended by members of the ADC State Executive Committee, executives from the 31 local government areas, political stakeholders, women and youth groups, as well as aspirants seeking elective positions under the party platform.
The event, widely viewed as both a thanksgiving service and strategic political mobilisation ahead of the next electoral cycle, focused on strengthening party unity and boosting the morale of supporters across the state.
An emotional moment occurred during the gathering when party faithfuls observed a one-minute silence in honour of supporters said to have lost their lives during the political struggle led by Senator Akpanudoedeghe in Akwa Ibom State.
The solemn tribute highlighted what speakers described as the sacrifices and resilience of loyal supporters who remained committed to the ADC despite political pressures and uncertainties.
Addressing the gathering, Senator Akpanudoedeghe lauded party members for their steadfastness and dedication to the ideals of the ADC, noting that the thanksgiving event was organised not only to appreciate God for the growth of the party but also to honour members who stood firmly with the movement during difficult periods.
According to him, the ADC has continued to record steady growth in Akwa Ibom due to the loyalty and commitment of grassroots supporters across the state.
He urged members not to be discouraged by temporary political setbacks, expressing confidence that unity, persistence and strategic organisation would position the party strongly ahead of the 2027 elections.
The former lawmaker also stressed the need for discipline and cohesion within the party, warning against actions capable of weakening the ADC’s structure and vision in the state.
He encouraged supporters to intensify grassroots mobilisation efforts, describing community-level participation as critical to political success.
Senator Akpanudoedeghe further declared that the ADC had emerged as a formidable political force in Akwa Ibom State and across the country, citing growing public dissatisfaction with the current political order as an opportunity for the party to expand its influence.
In what many observers interpreted as a strong indication of his governorship ambition, the ADC leader stated that the party was prepared to provide purposeful leadership and a new direction for Akwa Ibom State in 2027.
He urged members to remain united and committed to the party’s vision, insisting that present sacrifices would shape the future political direction of the state.
The senator also advised aspirants seeking elective offices on the ADC platform to pursue issue-based campaigns rooted in integrity, accountability and service to the people rather than personal ambition.
Several stakeholders at the gathering commended Senator Akpanudoedeghe for sustaining the party’s structure in the state and keeping supporters united despite political challenges.
The event featured prayers for the unity and progress of the party, goodwill messages from stakeholders, praise sessions and renewed pledges of loyalty by members committed to strengthening the ADC ahead of the 2027 elections.
