Akwa Ibom 2027: Engr. Ubong Challenges Incumbent, Rejects Automatic Ticket Culture
By Pan Afric Reporters
A frontline aspirant for the Ikot Abasi/Mkpat Enin/Eastern Obolo Federal Constituency, Engr. Ubong Clement Idemudo has declared his commitment to the forthcoming contest for the Representative seat, positioning himself as a credible alternative to the incumbent lawmaker ahead of the 2027 elections.
Said his ambition is driven by a desire to bring youthful energy, exposure, and pragmatic leadership into lawmaking for the benefit of his constituency.
“My interest is hinged on the need for youth with exposure and desired charisma to support leadership in making policies and laws that will transform our people and lead to collective prosperity,” he stated.
Addressing concerns about challenging an incumbent and ongoing agitations by some serving lawmakers for automatic tickets within the party, Clement dismissed the idea of entitlement in a democratic system, emphasizing the importance of performance and accountability.
“I believe in the philosophy of pragmatism—anything that is practically possible is the truth. The only way to fix non-performance is to offer a better alternative, not to sit on the fence and complain,” he said.
While acknowledging the efforts of the current officeholder, the aspirant maintained that the constituency deserves more dynamic representation.
“The incumbent has tried, but he is not good enough. I believe I can do much better. I represent a better replacement for someone who is already exhausted with ideas,” Idemudor asserted.
He expressed confidence in the democratic process, particularly direct primaries, noting that his grassroots support and track record would give him an edge if the process is free and fair.
“My people know me. I have antecedents of performance—from my days in the Student Union Government to my role as a chairman in NUPENG, where I positively impacted lives. If the process is credible, the people will choose me,” he added.
Clement’s declaration comes amid growing debates within political circles in Akwa Ibom over internal democracy, zoning arrangements, and the push by some incumbents to secure automatic tickets ahead of the next electoral cycle.
