APC in Crisis as Akpabio Allegedly Loses Control of Party Structures in Akwa Ibom
Senate President Godswill Akpabio is confronting a significant political crisis in Akwa Ibom State, with mounting pressure from aggrieved members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The turmoil erupted during the party's recent state congress, where disgruntled members staged a dramatic protest at Akpabio's residence, alleging that former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members have hijacked key APC structures and leadership positions.
Protest Erupts Over Alleged PDP Takeover
Eyewitnesses described a tense scene as a large crowd of APC faithful gathered outside Akpabio's residence to express their displeasure over what they termed a forceful takeover of the party by new entrants. The protesters, chanting slogans and carrying placards, accused former PDP members of manipulating the APC's internal processes during the state congress. One protester, identifying himself as an APC stakeholder, declared: We built this party from the ground up. Now, people who never believed in APC are taking over our structures. This is unacceptable.
Growing Speculation About Political Realignment
The protest follows growing speculation that Governor Umo Eno and several PDP loyalists have significantly influenced the outcome of the APC state congress, effectively reshaping the party's leadership landscape in Akwa Ibom. Some APC members claim this development signals a broader political realignment in the state that could diminish the influence of long-standing party figures, including Akpabio. A senior APC member who spoke on condition of anonymity described the situation as a struggle for the soul of the party, adding: What happened at the congress was not organic. It was coordinated. Many of us feel sidelined and betrayed.
Implications for Party Cohesion and Future Elections
The unfolding crisis could have significant implications for party cohesion in Akwa Ibom ahead of future electoral contests. The APC state congress, originally intended to consolidate party structures, has instead exposed deep divisions, raising serious questions about unity and leadership within the party in the oil-rich state. As of press time, neither Senate President Akpabio nor Governor Eno had issued an official statement addressing the protest or the allegations of a takeover.
Akpabio's Political Future at Stake
How Akpabio navigates this internal crisis may ultimately determine his continued political standing within Akwa Ibom's evolving political landscape. The protest highlights broader concerns about the APC's unity and Akpabio's political future in the state, with imminent electoral battles adding urgency to resolving these internal conflicts. The situation remains fluid, with party members watching closely to see how leadership responds to these challenges.
