Widespread protests broke out in some parts of Akwa Ibom State during the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives primaries ahead of the 2027 elections.
Reports from several local government areas, including Essien Udim, Obot Akara, Ikot Ekpene, Etim Ekpo, Ika, Ukanafun, Oruk Anam, Abak, Nsit Ubium, Nsit Ibom, and Etinan, showed that many candidates were chosen through consensus arrangements. Most of those adopted were current lawmakers seeking second or third terms.
However, in some areas, the consensus method caused disagreement. Some aspirants and their supporters rejected attempts to impose candidates, insisting that proper voting should take place if consensus could not be reached.
At the Adiasim Ikot Ata Enin Ward Centre in Essien Udim Local Government Area, tension rose when an aspirant for the Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency, Mr. Erikan Tom, rejected the consensus arrangement.
He argued that it could not replace a proper primary election. Party organisers, however, insisted that members should respect the party’s internal decision.
Speaking to journalists and supporters, Tom called on Senate President Godswill Akpabio, APC National Chairman Yilwatda, and President Bola Tinubu to intervene. He said party leaders had earlier agreed that elections should hold wherever consensus failed.
Tom said he was fully qualified to contest after buying the nomination form, passing screening, and getting clearance from the party.
He also claimed it was the turn of Essien Udim and Adiasim to produce the candidate for the constituency.
Meanwhile, at Abak Urban Ward 4 in Utu Abak, supporters celebrated after the current lawmaker, Clement Jimbo, defeated another aspirant, Mr. Iboro Johnny.
As of the time this report was filed, returning officers were preparing to announce party candidates, with many results believed to have been influenced by top APC leaders in the state, including Governor Umo Eno and Senator Godswill Akpabio.
