by COOPA
The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 election in Akwa Ibom State, John James Akpanudoedehe, has pledged to prioritise the development of Oro nation, particularly by ensuring the siting of the proposed Ibom deep seaport in its original location in Ibaka, if elected governor.
Senator Udoedehe also promised to execute infrastructure projects aimed at stimulating socio-economic development across the five local government areas that make up Oro nation.
He made the pledge on Friday during his visit to the Oron Union secretariat in Oron and the Council of Oro Traditional Rulers, as part of his consultations with political leaders, stakeholders, and traditional rulers ahead of the election.
The ADC candidate stated that his experience as a former local government chairman, federal minister, and senator has given him a solid understanding of government policies and programmes, promising to ensure prosperity if elected.
He said, “My visit here today is to formally inform the Oron Union and the council of traditional rulers that I am the governorship candidate of ADC. I am no stranger to Oro nation because I have visited almost all the wards before, and spoken to nearly all the paramount rulers.
“Mr. President, when I was coming here, they advised me not to talk about the seaport because it has often been used to deceive Oro. But, I said I would address it because I am not a liar.
“If you check the agenda of our presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, it is written in black and white. Whether you vote for us or not, we will establish the Ibaka deep seaport because it is the right thing to do. It will boost the economic activities of Akwa Ibom State.
“I have come here to ask for your support. I promise that I will work for the overall development of Oro when I assume office as governor next year. Support me this time; I will not disappoint you because I will run an inclusive government.”
Udoedehe also appealed to the Oro leaders to support the ADC and its candidates at the state and national levels, including the party’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.
“We are going to change APC to ADC. I’ve said it before, and I’ve told our presidential candidate that we must give Oro what they are looking for. If Oro is looking for Ibaka deep seaport, give them the Ibaka deep seaport, the name.”
Responding, the President General of Oron Union, Sir Esang Nsa Bassey, stated that the seaport project is not just for Oro, but for the benefit of Nigeria as a country.
Bassey also noted that Oro lacks federal presence, apart from the nearly 40-year-old Maritime Academy, which, he noted, has about 140 students.
He emphasised that Oro has not felt the impact of government despite the presence of onshore oil and gas fields in the area, calling for the establishment of a federal university, electricity, and other infrastructure to empower and benefit the people.
They prayed for the ADC governorship candidate and wished him success in his political journey.
