• Mr Moses Essien
The triumph of Hon. Moses Essien in the re-run election for the Ibiono Ibom State Constituency held on Saturday, February 4, 2024, sparked joy and satisfaction among the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly (AKHA) leadership and members.
During the Thursday plenary, the Assembly’s Speaker, Rt. Hon. Elder Udeme Otong, warmly welcomed Hon. Essien back into the fold, commending his impactful representation of his constituents in the Assembly as the key factor behind his electoral success.
Expressing gratitude to the Almighty for his support throughout the campaign period and beyond, Speaker Otong also extended his appreciation to the people of Ibiono Ibom State Constituency for their unwavering loyalty and support.
He acknowledged that Hon. Essien’s victory would not have been possible without his effective representation during plenary sessions, committee meetings, and oversight functions as a member of the 8th Assembly.
The Speaker specifically lauded Hon. Essien’s valuable contributions and collaborative nature on the Assembly floor, describing his victory in the re-run election as well-deserved.
Offering his congratulations, Speaker Otong wished him success in his legislative duties both for his constituents and the 8th Assembly.
In his response, Hon. Essien expressed his gratitude to the Speaker and his fellow members for their support, which contributed to his victory in the re-run election.
He specifically thanked Governor Umo Eno for not only acting as a father figure but also for maintaining absolute neutrality throughout the re-run process, refraining from any interference.
Essien lauded the Governor for upholding democratic principles in governing the state.
As a member of the Young Progressives Party, (YPP), Hon. Essien perceived his re-run victory as a reflection of his constituents’ desires.
He pledged to maintain the highest standards in discharging his legislative duties and to promote ideals that would further the growth and development of democracy in the state.
In the re-run for Ibiono Ibom State Constituency, the YPP candidate, Moses Essien, again, defeated the PDP candidate, Godwin Ekpo. He was declared the winner by Godwin Ayi, the INEC’s collation officer.
Mr Ekpo had challenged the victory of Mr Essien in the 18 March 2023 election and won at the Appeal Court which ordered a rerun in the area.
