Former Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Senator John James Akpanudoedehe, has raised the alarm over alleged moves by influential political forces to decide who will be allowed to contest the 2027 governorship election in Akwa Ibom State.
Akpanudoedehe made the claim at the weekend during an interview with newsmen in Uyo, saying the battle ahead was not just about winning votes but about aspirants securing the freedom to even appear on the ballot.
The former senator for Akwa Ibom North-East argued that some political actors were more focused on controlling the electoral process than allowing citizens to freely choose their leaders.
“Not everyone in this state, I don’t know their fears. They don’t want me to be on the ballot,” he said, alleging that certain interests have been working behind the scenes to frustrate his ambition.
The chieftain, who remains active in opposition politics ahead of 2027, recalled his 2011 governorship contest. He alleged that he won that election but the result was later manipulated, a development that forced him to approach the courts for redress.
Akpanudoedehe also claimed that huge sums of money had been spent in the past to block him from emerging as a candidate. He cited an instance where he was allegedly told that N22 million was expended to frustrate his bid.
“I spent on behalf of Udom Emmanuel N22 million to stop you from having APC—to stop you from being governor,” he quoted a political associate as saying, adding that the individual could later deny making the statement.
The former minister said such experiences highlight the urgent need for stronger internal democracy within political parties. He urged party members and the electorate to be more vigilant as positioning for 2027 intensifies across the state.
He further stressed that opposition politics should go beyond the quest to replace individuals in office. According to him, it must offer Nigerians credible alternatives and hold those in power accountable.
“Opposition is an alternative government to tell you this man is not doing well,” Akpanudoedehe said. He insisted that democracy requires voices willing to challenge government when it is failing the people.
The former FCT Minister also anchored his 2027 ambition on what he described as the growing gap between Akwa Ibom’s vast resources and the economic realities of its citizens, arguing that the state’s wealth must translate into improved welfare for the people.
Akpanudoedehe called on INEC, security agencies and civil society groups to ensure a level playing field ahead of 2027, warning that any attempt to manipulate the process would undermine public confidence in democracy. He said the people of Akwa Ibom deserve an election where all qualified aspirants can test their popularity without intimidation or financial inducement.
Political observers in Uyo say the former minister’s comments reflect the early jostling within both ruling and opposition parties in the state. With more than a year to the polls, analysts expect the debate over zoning, party primaries and candidate selection to dominate political discussions in Akwa Ibom in the coming months.
