Ibeno Elders Condemn Eket Union’s Objection to Akpabio Billboards

A dispute has emerged in Akwa Ibom State between stakeholders from Ibeno and the Ekid People’s Union over billboards featuring Senate President Godswill Akpabio erected in Eket Local Government Area.

The Ekid Union had previously voiced opposition to the billboards, questioning their appropriateness as Senator Akpabio represents the Akwa Ibom North-West (Ikot Ekpene) senatorial district, not Eket.

In a response issued in Uyo on Wednesday, Ibeno Elders, through spokesperson Barrister Diamond Akpanika, strongly criticized the union’s stance. Akpanika labeled the objection as “political emptiness and an inferiority complex masquerading as activism.”

He defended the Senate President, describing him as a detribalized leader whose influence and office benefit the entire nation and, by extension, Akwa Ibom State. Akpanika pointed to empowerment initiatives facilitated by Akpabio in the Eket district, including donations of fishing equipment, and federal appointments for indigenes as evidence of his statewide impact.

The spokesperson further accused the Ekid Union of a pattern of sabotaging development in the state. He claimed the group has used petitions and protests to undermine major investment projects like the BUA Refinery, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, and others, contributing to unemployment.

“You cannot smash your own plate and later complain there is no food,” Akpanika stated.

He also commended Governor Umo Eno for his position on the Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve dispute, suggesting hostility toward the governor stems from his adherence to the facts.

The Ibeno Elders concluded by urging Eket interest groups to move past bitterness, embrace political maturity, and focus on holding their own leadership accountable.