By: Abasiama Umoh
“Prince Enobong Uwah is a political collosus and a master strategist, whose political pedigree speaks loudly about experience blended in competence” – Anonymous
Following the Governor’s pronouncement of Prince Enobong Uwah, Secretary to State Government on Friday, at Government House as Chairman of the forthcoming APC State Congress, Akwa Ibom State’s political stage has started witnessing an entirely new and significant dimension.
Quite obviously, as Enobong Uwah assumes this key role in the evolving structure of the All Progressives Congress, APC, following this new development and strategic move by Governor Umo Eno to ensure a seamless and unified party congress across the state, optimism for a more unified party structure has grown in a spectacular dimension.
In what party stakeholders describe as a carefully considered step, the emergence of Enobong Uwah as it regards this key role reflects the Governor’s broader commitment to internal cohesion, inclusiveness and orderly political processes within the APC. The development comes ahead of the party’s anticipated congresses, which are expected to set the tone for future political engagements in the State.
Governor Umo Eno, widely regarded for his consultative leadership style, has consistently emphasized the importance of consensus building and unity within party ranks. Sources within the APC note that his approach to the forthcoming congresses is aimed at avoiding rancor and factional disputes that have historically undermined party organization and electoral readiness in the state.
Enobong Uwah’s assumption of this critical role is seen by many observers as both strategic and symbolic. Uwah is viewed as a bridge between various interest groups within the APC. His duty as Chairman APC State Congress is expected to strengthen coordination, foster trust among stakeholders and contribute to a transparent and credible congress process.
Party leaders have described Uwah as a highly disciplined gentleman, accessible and deeply familiar with the party’s grassroots structure. These qualities, they say, align with Governor Umo Eno’s vision of building a party machinery that is not only electorally viable, but also grounded in internal democracy and mutual respect.
“The focus is not just on conducting congresses, but on conducting them right,” a Senior Party official said. “By positioning Enobong Uwah as the Congress Chairman, the Governor is sending a clear message that competence and unity will guide the process.”
Political analysts and pundits have noted that “the success of the upcoming APC congresses in Akwa Ibom will have far reaching implications, equally noting that, a smooth exercise would strengthen the party’s internal stability, enhance its public image and better position it for future electoral contests. Conversely, a poorly managed process could deepen divisions and weaken the party’s prospects”.
Governor Umo Eno’s strategic move towards oxygenating the party has therefore been widely welcomed by party faithfuls, many of whom believe his leadership has introduced a new level of organization and calm to party affairs. His insistence on dialogue with Critical Stakeholders across Wards and Local Government Areas is credited with reducing tensions and aligning interests ahead of the congress.
For Enobong Uwah, the new role represents both an opportunity and a responsibility. Party members expect him to play a constructive role in ensuring that guidelines are followed, disputes are amicably resolved and the congress reflects the collective will of party members.
As preparations continue, optimism appears to be growing within the Akwa Ibom APC. With Governor Umo Eno steering the process and figures like Enobong Uwah, Hon Patrick Umoh, Hon Frank Archibong, Arch Ubokutom Nyah, Engr Uwem Okoko, Hon Mrs Owoideghe Ekpotai, taking on critical responsibilities, the party seems poised to conduct a congress that could mark a turning point in its internal governance.
Ultimately, the coming weeks will test the effectiveness of this leadership arrangement. However, early indications suggest that the APC in Akwa Ibom is on a deliberate path toward unity, stability and a seamless congress that could redefine its political trajectory in the state.