• Udoedehe
In celebration of this year’s Democracy Day held on June 12, Senator John James Akpanudoedehe, a former National Secretary of the APC and the 2023 gubernatorial candidate for the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has been recognised as a champion of opposition politics and democracy in Akwa Ibom State.
The Centre for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN), along with other civil society organisations, presented the award to Akpanudoedehe last week during an event aimed at evaluating democracy and the role of opposition parties in strengthening democratic practices in Akwa Ibom State.
This recognition comes in the wake of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State transitioning to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a move that the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, described as an effort to connect the state to the national government.
At the event, chaired by Chief Victor Iyanam, a former Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General of Akwa Ibom State, Otuekong Franklyn Isong II, the Chairman of CHRAN and the event’s convener, emphasised that Senator Akpanudoedehe’s efforts to promote democracy, enhance political integrity, and foster good governance in Nigeria, particularly in Akwa Ibom State, are invaluable.
Barr. Solomon Johnny, who accepted the award on behalf of Senator Akpanudoedehe, expressed gratitude for the recognition bestowed upon him by civil society groups in Akwa Ibom State.
Johnny praised Akpanudoedehe for his unwavering commitment to liberal democracy as a foundation for social justice and equality. He highlighted Akpanudoedehe’s resilience and consistency, affirming that the honour was well-deserved.
He also thanked Otuekong Isong and his organisation for their dedication to democracy and good governance, urging them to continue advocating against corruption and undemocratic practices, which pose a threat to democracy.
Speaking about future elections in the country, Johnny cautioned voters against selling their votes.
The event attracted prominent academics, including Professor Aniekan Brown of the University of Uyo, who served as the keynote speaker, as well as Bar. Nkokom, a senior lecturer at UNIUYO’s Faculty of Law, traditional rulers, and student union representatives, among others.
