2027: Odukpani Communities Rally Behind Rep. Akiba, Endorse Him for Second Term
By Bassey Bassey
Stakeholders across the four blocs of Odukpani Local Government Area, Eburutu, Iboku, Okoyong, and Omo, have thrown their weight behind Rep. Bassey Akiba, endorsing him for a second term in the House of Representatives ahead of the 2027 elections.
The endorsement followed a series of meetings and rallies held across the blocs, where community leaders praised Akiba’s performance in his first term, highlighting his contributions in agriculture, education, healthcare, livelihood support, and effective legislative representation.
According to the stakeholders, Akiba has shown strong commitment to grassroots development since assuming office in 2023, earning the trust and confidence of his constituents.
They emphasized the importance of equity and rotation in political representation, noting that Odukpani should retain the seat, having only recently taken over from Calabar Municipality, which held it for twelve years. Denying Odukpani a second term, they argued, would undermine fairness and the established zoning arrangement.
The stakeholders also urged Governor Bassey Otu to disregard calls for the seat to revert to Calabar Municipality, insisting that justice demands Odukpani be allowed to complete its turn.
At the Okoyong bloc rally, key figures, including the Governor’s Special Adviser on Special Duties, Barr. Ekpenyong Akiba, alongside councillors from various wards, stressed the need to maintain the seat in Odukpani. A vote of confidence was unanimously passed on the lawmaker, citing his accessibility and developmental strides.
Similar endorsements were recorded across the Omo, Eburutu, and Iboku blocs, where community leaders and councillors commended his impact, particularly in empowering youths and women.
Responding, Rep. Akiba expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, stressing that true electoral success depends on unity and the collective will of the people.
“No matter how much money you have, you cannot win without the support of the people,” he said. “Together, we will continue to move our constituency forward. If given another mandate, the difference will be clear.”
