RismadarVoice Reporters
May 18, 2026
Thousands of party faithful and supporters on Monday turned out in large numbers for the affirmation of Senate President, Godswill Akpabio as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District ahead of the next general election.
Akpabio emerged unopposed during the party’s senatorial primary election held at his ward centre, Methodist School, Ukana, in Ukana West II Ward of Essien Udim Local Government Area.
Despite being the sole aspirant, the exercise attracted a massive crowd of constituents, party members and supporters who gathered to demonstrate solidarity with the former governor and Senate President.
The atmosphere at the venue was celebratory, with supporters singing, dancing and chanting slogans in what observers described as a carnival-like scene.
Many party faithful described Akpabio as a tested leader who had consistently delivered effective representation and development across the various offices he had occupied over the years, including Commissioner, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senate Minority Leader, Minister of Niger Delta Affairs and now President of the 10th Senate.
Party members and stakeholders who monitored the process commended the conduct of the primary election, describing it as peaceful, transparent and orderly.
Officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), civil society organisations and other observers were also present to monitor the exercise.
Speaking after the process, the Returning Officer, Mr Gabriel Ekong, expressed appreciation to party members for the impressive turnout and peaceful conduct throughout the exercise.
He noted that the orderly atmosphere reflected the level of unity and discipline within the party in the senatorial district.
Some APC stakeholders at the event stated that the overwhelming support for Akpabio had further strengthened the party’s preparations for the forthcoming general elections, especially as consultations and grassroots mobilisation continue across Akwa Ibom State.
In his remarks, Senator Akpabio thanked party faithful for the confidence and trust they had continued to place in him over the years.
He assured constituents of sustained quality representation and effective leadership at the National Assembly, pledging to continue working toward attracting more development projects and democratic dividends to the district.
The Senate President also reaffirmed his commitment to promoting unity within the APC and supporting the policies and programmes of the APC-led Federal Government.
Akpabio urged the people to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno, and all APC candidates in future elections.
“I will continue to work harder to attract more dividends of democracy to our people,” he said.
