Ahead of the 2027 general elections, traditional rulers from Akwa Ibom State have publicly thrown their weight behind President Bola Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Governor Umo Eno, endorsing them for another term in office.
The endorsement took place during a special gathering held at the Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium, where royal fathers from across the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District met in what observers described as a rare and united assembly of the traditional institution in the state.
The monarchs, made up of paramount rulers, clan heads, village and family heads as well as their spouses, said their decision followed what they described as visible governance efforts by the three leaders at the federal and state levels.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, leaders of the gathering said President Tinubu’s past and present roles in public service influenced their support, noting his time as Lagos State governor and his ongoing policies as President. They also pointed to reforms under his administration, which they said have improved financial inflow to states and local governments.
The royal fathers also recalled Akpabio’s tenure as governor of Akwa Ibom State, his service at the National Assembly and his time as Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, saying his roles contributed to infrastructural and institutional growth in the state and the region. They further acknowledged his current position as Senate President, citing legislative actions they believe benefit citizens.
Governor Umo Eno was equally commended by the monarchs for what they described as a calm leadership style and an approach that spreads development across rural and urban areas of the state. They said his administration has promoted peace and inclusion since assuming office.
The Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Traditional Rulers Council explained that the endorsement followed a collective decision reached through a voice vote, reflecting the shared position of the council in support of the three leaders.
Receiving the endorsement, Governor Eno expressed appreciation to the traditional rulers and described the move as unusual in scope and unity. Senate President Akpabio, who accepted the endorsement on behalf of himself and President Tinubu, assured the monarchs of continued efforts to improve the welfare of Nigerians.
He also urged traditional leaders to encourage residents to register for their Permanent Voter Cards ahead of the 2027 elections, expressing confidence that the state would deliver strong support at the polls.