By Julius Nsikak, Uyo
A pressure group under the umbrella of the Ikot Abasi, Mkpat Enin and Eastern Obolo Federal Constituency Renaissance Movement (IMEFCRM) has called on political parties to ensure fairness, transparency and equal opportunities for all aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The group made the call during a press conference recently, where it raised concerns over the conduct of political actors and the build-up to party primaries within the constituency.
Speaking at the briefing, the President of the group, Mr. Nsikak Ekim, said IMEFCRM is a non-partisan pressure group committed to promoting good governance, credible leadership and accountability across the federal constituency.
He stressed that the group does not support any political party or aspirant, but is focused on ensuring that democratic rules are followed and that all aspirants are given equal opportunity to participate in primaries.
According to him, leadership must remain a service to the people and not a platform for personal gain.
“The purpose of leadership is service. Our people deserve leaders who will listen to them, represent them well and bring development to the constituency,” he said.
The group urged political parties to avoid the imposition of candidates and instead provide a level playing field for all aspirants.
IMEFCRM also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain neutral and discharge its responsibilities in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act. It warned that Nigerians would only accept elections that are free, fair and credible.
The group further urged security agencies to remain professional and avoid being influenced by political interests, especially during party primaries and the 2027 general elections. It said security operatives must ensure peace and prevent any form of electoral malpractice or voter intimidation.
IMEFCRM also advocated inclusion and civic education, encouraging eligible voters to register and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). The group said it had begun taking its message to churches, hospitals and other public places to sensitise residents on the importance of participation in the electoral process.
Speaking on development issues within the constituency, the group noted that Ikot Abasi, Mkpat Enin and Eastern Obolo Local Government Areas have suffered significant infrastructural decay over the years.
IMEFCRM expressed displeasure over what it described as underdevelopment, stressing the need for indigenous capacity development and noting that youths in the area are being left behind.
“Graduates and professionals should benefit from capacity development programmes. Whoever represents the constituency across the three local government areas after the 2027 elections must be intentional and come up with policy reforms and frameworks that will cater for youth development and help bridge the technological gap in rural communities,” the group stated.
On environmental pollution, the group called for urgent action to address the situation.
The group also alleged that residents of the Ikot Abasi Federal Constituency are not benefiting fully from free and compulsory education, claiming that many schools have been returned to missionary ownership. It urged the government to intervene and support policies that would enable children within the constituency to enjoy access to quality education.
According to the group, whoever emerges as representative in the 2027 elections must be prepared to take responsibility and be held accountable at all times. It added that an assessment of the area revealed widespread infrastructural challenges, particularly in the provision of basic amenities needed to improve the quality of life of residents.
The secretary of the group, Mr. Edidiong Ekpo, said the constituency is currently focused on addressing critical sectors that directly affect the people.
“If you assess these three local government areas, there is a general decay in infrastructure. We are focusing on the basic things that would make life easier for our people,” he said.
He identified power supply as a major concern, noting that about 65 per cent of power facilities in the area are in poor condition.
“For us, the primary focus is the power sector, renovation of educational facilities, markets, and the construction or grading of community roads. We have local government structures, state representation and federal representation, yet these basic needs remain unattended,” Mr Ekpo added.
The group also urged residents of the constituency to support credible leaders and hold elected officials accountable for their performance in office.
It further commended the administration of Governor Umo Eno for what it described as people-oriented governance through the implementation of the ARISE Agenda.
Those present at the press conference included the Contact and Mobilisation Officer, Mr. Imo Udoma; Mr. Eno-obong Etukudo; Mr. Udeme Ayara; other members of the group; and members of the press.