Posted by By our political editor on
He exit of Deputy Governor Chris Ekpeyong from office appears to have quickened the pace of politicking in Akwa Ibom State.
He exit of Deputy Governor Chris Ekpeyong from office appears to have quickened the pace of politicking in Akwa Ibom State.
Groups known to have been on the sideline, according to our investigations, have of late intensified their efforts to position for the race in 2007.
Thus far, the moves remain largely covert, given what is the ban on open air political campaigns.
Ekpeyong whose supporters claim was eased out in order to end his ambition to succeed Governor Victor Attah has intensified his mobilization efforts, sources in the Annang speaking areas say.
At least, the names of several other aspirants are making the rounds in connection with the race to the house on the hill top
They include Barrister Goodwill Akpabio, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, Obong Ifiok Asikpo and Dr. Udoma Bob Ekarika.
Others are Otuekong Nkanga, Architect Aniekan Nya-etok, Senator Itakk Ekarika, Hon. Moses Essien, Group Captain Idonkisit Nkanga and Senator Udoma Udo Udoma.
Also on the cards are Otuekong Eddie Etim, Obong Ini-Ibeche Okori, Akaninyene Ukpanah, Barrister Ukpong and Dr Ime Umanah.
Not too surprising is the fact that there are many front runners for the governorship ticket from the Annang speaking areas.
One basic reason account for this. The Annangs insist there was an agreement in 2003 when Governor Attah was about to run for a second tenure.
The Annangs had held a summit where they decided they would not give up on the aspiration to produce a governor.
The Oron people followed suit, with the Ibibios holding theirs as well.
The Ibibios are keeping mum over their plan in 2007 while the Oron people aren't talking too much on the issue of the governorship.
Between the Ibibios who are the more populous and the Annang who rank second in terms of number the Oron people don't have much clout politically.
What is the background of the candidates that are indicating interest? From what senatorial districts are they coming?
What is the political crystal ball like? Keep a date with us as we bring you more incisive details.