UYO, Nigeria — A socio-political group in Akwa Ibom State has declared its support for President Bola Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Governor Umo Eno ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, drawing both praise and caution from national institutions.
The group, known as the E’ekpede Initiative, made the announcement during a press briefing in Uyo, the state capital, stating its mission is to promote continuity in leadership and deepen democratic engagement at both state and federal levels.
Adede Inima, chairman of the group’s Board of Trustees, said the initiative was formed to “push the right narrative” and support leaders whose policies, in their view, have positively impacted governance and development.
Inima praised President Tinubu’s economic reforms, claiming they have empowered state governments to execute projects without excessive borrowing. He also commended Governor Eno’s people-centered leadership and Akpabio’s influence in national politics.
Senate President Akpabio welcomed the endorsement, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the legislative and executive branches. He said elected officials are expected to work together across party lines to advance national development.
Akpabio has recently launched empowerment programs in Akwa Ibom, distributing resources and financial support to residents. These efforts have been interpreted by some as both development initiatives and political groundwork ahead of the next election cycle.
However, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has cautioned against premature political activity. The commission reiterated that while civic engagement is encouraged, political endorsements and campaign-related activities must adhere to the official electoral calendar.
INEC expressed concern over the growing number of early support groups and campaign posters emerging across the country, warning that such actions could undermine the integrity of the electoral process if left unchecked.
Despite the caution, Inima urged Akwa Ibom residents to unite behind Tinubu, Eno, and Akpabio, describing the trio as a “progressive force” capable of sustaining development and political stability in the state and beyond.
The E’ekpede Initiative joins a growing list of regional groups signaling early support for incumbents, reflecting the intensifying political atmosphere as Nigeria edges closer to the 2027 elections.
