LG poll: Akwa Ibom community decries marginalization, seeks chairmanship slot

The Ikpa Ibom Ward 2 of Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State has raised the alarm over what they described as ‘historical marginalization’ in both appointive and elective positions since the creation of the council in 1989 and return of democracy in 1999.
Arising from a stakeholders meeting on Friday, they insisted that the chairmanship position for the upcoming local government elections should be zoned to the area.
In a communique endorsed by Victor Ufford, Samuel Rufus and Godwin Udofot, the people lamented that out of numerous significant roles in government, only one personal assistant to the governor has hailed from Ikpa Ibom Ward 2.
According to the communique, “No Chairman or Transition Committee Chairman has ever been from Ikpa Ibom Ward 2. Out of 138 appointed officers in Mkpat Enin since 1999, only one has been from Ikpa Ibom Ward 2, compared to much higher numbers from other wards.
“It is now Ikpa Ibom Ward 2’s turn to produce the next Chairman of Mkpat Enin LGA.
“We call for support from other wards within the Ikpa Ibom Clan and from other clans in Mkpat Enin to ensure fair representation.”
The communique which commended Governor Umo Bassey Eno for his development efforts in the state, including the appointment of Akanimo Bob Ikpe from Ikpa Ibom Ward 2 as a Personal Assistant, however emphasized that such was the first appointment of its kind for their ward since 1999, underscoring the depth of their marginalization.
The communique added, “In conclusion, the forum called for the equitable distribution of political, social, traditional, and economic opportunities within Mkpat Enin, beginning with the chairmanship of the local government.
“Government and relevant stakeholders should address and rectify the longstanding neglect of Ikpa Ibom Ward 2, promoting peace, equity, and justice in the region.”
LG poll: Akwa Ibom community decries marginalization, seeks chairmanship slot