Ahead of the 2027 general elections, former Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Chief Nduese Essien, has warned that voter apathy and other reactionary decisions could mar the polls if level playing field was not allowed for all contenders.
LEADERSHIP checks revealed that some key members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) irked by Governor Umo Eno's trump - card to jettison zoning for a consensus arrangement which guarantees automatic return tickets to serving State and National Assembly lawmakers, has split the state along varying political interests with some defecting from the APC to other opposition parties.
However, Chief Essien, a former House of Representatives member for Eket/Esit Eket/Onna/Ibeno federal constituency frowned at such unpopular decision, maintaining that it was not healthy for democracy as a system of choices.
Condemning the rising trend of candidates' imposition, especially in his Eket federal constituency as the crucial contest draws closer, Essien, who doubles as the Board of Trustees (BoT) Chairman of the Eket Senatorial District Elders Forum (ESDEF) called for a transparent and inclusive process in the emergence of political leaders.
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The former minister made his position known while hosting a frontline aspirant, Dr. Judith Mayen Ogbara, who paid him a consultative visit at his residence in Eket local government area of the state, during which he cautioned political stakeholders against practices that sideline the will of the people, stressing that "such actions undermine democratic values and weaken effective representation."
According to the former lawmaker, the imposition of candidates has contributed significantly to the constituency's declining political relevance, noting that only a credible and participatory process can produce leaders capable of addressing the needs of the people.
"Democracy thrives on participation, not imposition. Any attempt by a few individuals to decide for the entire constituency breeds resentment and disunity," Essien stated.
He urged political parties to prioritise merit, competence, and grassroots acceptance over personal interests and backdoor arrangements, warning that failure to do so could further alienate the electorate.
Essien also commended Dr. Ogbara, for her courage and determination to contest for the House of Representatives seat, describing her move as a reflection of a growing shift towards people-oriented leadership in the constituency.
He noted that her approach signals a renewed commitment to inclusive governance and community development, adding that her decision to step forward at a critical time demonstrates resilience and a genuine desire to serve.
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"Dr Ogbara has shown commendable boldness. Her dedication to service and her connection with the people stand her out," he said.
While reiterating that he has stepped back from active politics, Essien expressed confidence in Ogbara's capacity to represent the constituency effectively, urging other aspirants to focus on issue-based campaigns that address key sectors such as education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and economic development.
He further called on constituents to remain vigilant and actively demand accountability and transparency in the political process, emphasising that the future of Eket Federal Constituency must be determined by the collective will of the people, not a select few.
