Senator John James Udoedehe, a leading aspirant for the 2027 governorship election in Akwa Ibom State, has revealed that the alarming levels of poverty, unemployment, and inequality in the state are the primary reasons driving his decision to contest for governor.
Speaking at a press conference in Uyo on Thursday, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) aspirant expressed deep concern over the persistent socio-economic challenges facing the state despite substantial government allocations.
Udoedehe, a former National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), said he is fully prepared — mentally and physically to tackle these issues head-on by creating wealth, generating employment opportunities, and significantly reducing the wide gap between the rich and the poor.
“What gives me strength and motivation is the level of poverty, inequality, and unemployment I see in the state,” he stated. “Any government that fails to address these three critical issues has not even begun. The poverty in Akwa Ibom is so severe that you see a 35-year-old man with grey hair all over due to hardship.”
He drew a stark comparison with previous administrations, noting that the combined federal allocations received by former Governors Godswill Akpabio and Udom Emmanuel over 16 years were less than what the current Governor, Umo Eno, has received in just three years, yet poverty remains rampant.
On his party’s chances, Udoedehe expressed confidence in the ADC’s ability to win, citing his role in establishing the APC in Akwa Ibom, which later became the ruling party at the federal level. He believes strong grassroots mobilization will deliver victory in 2027.
Dismissing criticisms of being a serial aspirant, Udoedehe noted that he has only appeared on the ballot twice. He drew inspiration from Governors Alex Otti of Abia State and Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State, who succeeded after multiple unsuccessful attempts.
He also debunked allegations that he is contesting merely to collect money from the government and withdraw midway, describing such claims as “baseless blackmail and propaganda.” “I am not coming to contest because I want to collect money from anyone. I am contented with what I have been blessed with,” he said.
“I have faced many ugly situations, including unjust imprisonment, because of my fight for the people. I want Akwa Ibom people to give me the opportunity to serve as governor. Once properly enlightened, I believe they will vote in my favour in 2027.”
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