Aniekan Akpan becomes new PDP chairman in A’Ibom

Akpan Umoh, Uyo

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has elected former Commissioner of Education in Akwa Ibom State, Mr Aniekan Akpan as its new state chairman with 3, 818 votes. 

Akpan who was a former member representing Ukanafun State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, and Local Government Chairman replaces the former Chairman, Mr Udo Ekpenyong, who died on January 20, 2021, following suspected complications arising from COVID-19 infection.

Prior to the election, the position of State Chairman was occupied by the Deputy Chairman, Mr Lawrence Udosen in acting capacity following the demise of Ekpenyong less than one year after becoming chairman.

The Akwa Ibom Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel was part of the 3,851 delegates out of 3, 874 who voted for the new State Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

Speaking at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Wednesday after the new Chairman was declared winner, Governor Emmanuel said it was difficult in many places to elect a new chairman under a peaceful atmosphere.

He commended the organising committee, delegates and all observers including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), for making the election a success. 

“The PDP State Congress was conducted peacefully in one accord and oneness of all the party delegates. The whole Nigeria, the Heavens is smiling at this party.

“All our people have come up to declare the only candidate that has been elected and appointed as the new Chairman. PDP behold your new Chairman,” he said.

In his acceptance speech, Akpan said he was humbled before the special congress which has made it possible for him to serve the party as the new chairman.

He said he was stepping into the shoes of the late chairman, Mr Udo Ekpenyong, and promised to continue in the footsteps of the founding fathers of the party. 

“Today in the memory our late Chairman, Mr Udo Ekpenyong, I renew my hope and committmnet in the dreams of our founding fathers. I accept wholeheartedly this mandate you have given me and my colleagues who are already working with me.

“Let me pay tributes to the late Chairman, Mr Udo Ekpenyong, he recorded great success within the short period as Chairman. I know the task ahead is enormous; even with the task, I am so honoured to be elected as the Chairman of the party.

“I have made a covenant with my God that I will elevate the party to higher heights. I shall strive in all situations to be fair in all dealings with our members. Our slogan will be politics without bitterness. The task head is great but not surmountable.

“I assure members of this party that with your great support I shall achieve this great goal,” he stated.