RismadarVoice Reporters, May 23, 2026
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has said the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s adoption of direct primaries has strengthened grassroots participation and compelled political leaders to reconnect with local communities.
Governor Eno stated this on Friday after participating in the APC presidential primary at Ibiakpan Obotim Ward II in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, where President Bola Tinubu secured victory.
Speaking with Government House Correspondents, the Governor said the exercise underscored the importance of grassroots politics and community inclusion in governance.
“One thing direct primaries have done is to bring everybody back to their wards, which shows you that politics is local,” Eno said.
He added that sustained engagement with rural communities contributed to the large turnout recorded during the exercise, noting that governments must maintain regular contact with citizens beyond election periods.
The Governor linked the development to his administration’s rural development drive under the ARISE Agenda, citing ongoing projects including rural road construction, model primary schools, healthcare centres, ward-based appointments, women cooperative support schemes, borehole installations and youth development centres.
Eno reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding infrastructure and economic opportunities in rural communities.
President Tinubu emerged as the winner of the APC presidential primary conducted in the ward.
