The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State has celebrated the return of two prominent founding members, Chief Edet Isong and Prince Emmanuel Isong, to the party.

The Ward 2 branch of the PDP in Urue-Offong/Oruko formally welcomed the returnees at a grand ceremony in Uyo, marking their reintegration into the party.

Chief Edet Isong, a former Transition Chairman of Urue-Offong/Oruko, expressed enthusiasm about rejoining the PDP, describing it as “coming back home to contribute, support, and work for my family, the PDP.” He commended Governor Umo Eno’s leadership and the state’s developmental strides, citing projects like the Nsit Atai-Okobo Road as evidence of progress under the administration.

Prince Emmanuel Isong, a retired Director with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), also returned to the PDP, bolstering the party’s presence in Ward 2 and the Urue-Offong/Oruko community.

The Deputy Ward Chairman, Mrs. Nkoyo Unanaonwi, expressed joy at the return of the two stalwarts, highlighting their invaluable contributions to the party and community. “Their return is a big win for our party,” she noted.

Goodwill messages flowed from stakeholders, including Hon. Victor Amah, Chief Daniel Afiakurue, and Comrade Clement Walter, who celebrated the reunion as a significant boost for the PDP.

Chief Isong, previously affiliated with the Young People’s Party (YPP) after leaving the All Progressives Congress (APC), stated his decision was influenced by the steadfast leadership in the PDP and Governor Umo Eno’s people-focused agenda.

The ceremony marked a pivotal moment for the PDP in Urue-Offong/Oruko, as members expressed optimism about the party’s future strengthened by the return of its founding fathers.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State has endorsed Governor Umo Eno as its sole candidate for the 2027 governorship election, despite the general election being over two years away.

The decision, announced at the PDP Enlarged State Executive Council Meeting on 6 January 2025, was formalized in a communiqué signed by the party’s state chairperson, Aniekan Akpan. The party cited Governor Eno’s “outstanding performance” and “exemplary leadership” under his Arise Agenda as reasons for the endorsement.

“His vision has delivered significant dividends of democracy for Akwa Ibom State,” the communiqué stated.

This move effectively excludes other aspirants within the party, consolidating Governor Eno’s position as the PDP’s flagbearer in a state that has remained a PDP stronghold since 1999.

Governor Eno, who assumed office on 29 May 2023, dissolved his cabinet hours before visiting the PDP state secretariat in Uyo on Saturday.

With opposition parties like the All Progressives Congress currently weak in the state, Governor Eno appears well-positioned for a second term in 2027.

By: Al Humphrey Onyanabo

Da-Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari, Amanyanabo of The Source (Elem Kalabari), Dabaye Amakiri 1, has issued a heartfelt new year goodwill message to monarchs, chiefs, elites, and the masses of the Kalabari kingdom and kalabaris in the diaspora.

In his new year message, he emphasizes the importance of unity and peaceful coexistence among brethren in all Kalabari communities, stressing that this is crucial for development and progress.

Dokubo-Asari, known for his tireless efforts in fighting for resource control, oppression, and environmental conservation in the Niger Delta, urges youths to shun cultism and violent associations that harm others. Instead, he encourages them to embrace peaceful and constructive endeavors that promote the well-being of the community.

Furthermore, he calls upon the professional class, elites, and the rich, both in the diaspora and in Nigeria, to return home and invest in Kalabari. “Our people need to come back home to build houses here instead of buying land in other communities,”

He implores. “I urge my fellow Kalabari brothers and sisters worldwide to set up businesses here that will boost the economy of the Kalabari Kingdom and provide jobs for our people. Our region is rich in oil and gas with opportunities Marine transportation. There are huge possibilities in Agriculture and tourism development and many other avenues for viable investments.”

Dokubo-Asari’s commitment to the unity and development of the Kalabari kingdom is evident in his personal life.

In 2017, he made the bold decision to move from Port Harcourt to Obuama, selling off all his landed property and investing in Obuama. His investments have contributed significantly to the growth and transformation of Obuama into a vibrant and diverse community.

He added,
” As Amanyanabo of The Source,(Elem Kalabari) I recommit myself to the promotion, preservation and growth of everything that has to do with Kalabari like I have done for over 20 years.”

As the newly installed Amanyanabo of The Source (Elem Kalabari), Dokubo-Asari is poised to build upon his legacy, fostering growth, development, and prosperity for the Kalabari kingdom. His leadership and vision will undoubtedly have a profound impact on the region, cementing his place as a revered figure in the annals of Kalabari history.