…..Vows to Unseat Eno with Better Development Agenda
By Deborah Ekanem
Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) has officially adopted Jeremiah Akpan as its sole candidate for the 2027 governorship election, as the party concluded Statewide Primaries in Akwa Ibom State
The Exercise which took place on Thursday, 28 May, 2026 at No.4 Atiku Abubaka Way, Uyo also witnessed adoption of State,/Federal House of Assembly and Senate hopefulls.
Other candidates endorsed for State Constituency includes
Etukapkan Michael – Eket, Edidiong George – Ibiono Ibom, Uko Ene -Etinan, Bassey Ime – Ukanafun, Solomon Essien – Ini, Ime Udofia – Uyo, Princewill Fortune – Mbo, Godwin Ukam – Onna.
Others were;
Bassey Robert – Ikono, Ruth Udoh – Esit Eket/Ibeno, Friday Efik – Orukanam, Uduak Akpan, Godwin Okon, Etim Ekpoke, Eyo Etim, Kingsley Akpan – Ikot Ekpene/Obot Akara, Antonia Etok – Essien Udim, Elijah Sunday, Sunday Ukpong – Nsit Ubuim, Mbotidem Okon – Nsit Ibom, Caroline Akpan – Ikot Abasi/Eastern Obolo, Idara Edet – Uruan, Idorenyin Billy – Mkpat Enin, Lawrence Oduobuk – Okobo , Akaniyene Joshua – ITU and Apostle Imo Frank – Akwa Ibom North – West ( Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District)
The Exercise observed by INEC officials was well attended by party leaders, delegates, youth representatives, and supporters from across the state.
Addressing Party members, the State Chairman, Hon. Victor Tom stated that the decision to adopt Akpan as the sole candidate and others followed extensive consultations with party stakeholders and grassroots supporters. He maintained that the move was aimed at promoting unity and ensuring adequate preparation ahead of the election.
the State Chairman, described Akpan as a visionary leader capable of driving economic growth, improving infrastructure, and addressing the needs of citizens through people-oriented policies.
Hon. Tom declared that the DLA was fully committed to unseating Governor Umo Eno in 2027 through what he described as a superior development blueprint and a more inclusive approach to governance.
“We respect the current administration, but we believe there is room for greater progress. Our candidate represents a fresh vision and a practical roadmap for accelerated development across all sectors of the economy,” he said.
“Adoption of a sole candidate this early could provide the DLA with ample time to consolidate its structures, articulate its policy agenda, and build momentum ahead of what is expected to be a keenly contested gubernatorial race in 2027”. The Chairman added.
Supporters at the event to include Barrister Gideon Willie, Hon. Tony Ukpong Elder Ime Udofia expressed optimism that Akpan’s emergence would strengthen the party’s chances in the forthcoming election, urging members to remain united and mobilize support at the grassroots level.
Speaking after his adoption, Akpan who was flanked by his wife, Obongawan Enomfon Jeremiah expressed gratitude to the party for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to lead an issue-based campaign focused on development, job creation, education, healthcare, and rural transformation.
According to him, the 2027 election will provide an opportunity for residents to choose a new direction that prioritizes inclusive growth and sustainable development.
” Our mission is clear, we are offering the people a credible alternative built on transparency and measurable development, we believe the state deserves better opportunities, stronger institutions, and leadership that places the welfare of the people first” Akpan said.