APC Chieftains Accuse Akpabio of Plotting to Hand Over Party Control to PDP in Akwa Ibom

Uyo, Akwa Ibom State — In a dramatic turn of events, chieftains of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akwa Ibom State have petitioned President Bola Tinubu, alleging a plot by Senate President Godswill Akpabio to cede control of the party to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The petition, signed by prominent APC members, claims that Akpabio is orchestrating this move in exchange for the PDP’s support for his third-term ambition.

The APC stalwarts, including Elder Okokon James, Peter Ibanga, and Chief Victor Affiah, expressed deep concern over the state of the party in Akwa.

They accused Akpabio of betraying the party’s trust and undermining its structure by allegedly working with the state APC Chairman, Stephen Ntukekpo, and the Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, to weaken the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

We are compelled to bring this to your attention, Mr. President, as the soul and spirit of the party in Akwa Ibom have been sold to the PDP, the petitioners stated. They warned of potential mass defections and a weakened party structure if urgent action is not taken.

Akpabio’s Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, dismissed the allegations as beer parlor rumors, insisting that the APC remains strong in Akwa Ibom. Udom attributed the accusations to a desire for conflict between the PDP and APC, citing harmony and peace between Akpabio and Governor Umo Eno as the reason for the allegations.

The allegations have significant implications for the APC in Akwa Ibom, potentially leading to internal divisions and weakening the party’s chances in future elections. The petition highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the APC in maintaining unity and strength in the state, where the PDP currently holds power.

As the situation unfolds, President Tinubu is expected to address these concerns to prevent further erosion of the APC’s base in Akwa.

The outcome could have broader implications for the party’s national ambitions, particularly in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.