2027: Akwa Ibom Non-Indigenes Pledge Stronger APC Support As ₦800 Million Grant Is Proposed
By BASSEY BENSON
Association Commends Governor’s Inclusion Policy
THE Advisory Council Chairman of the Non-Indigenes Association in Akwa Ibom State, Onoriode Obareki, has commended Governor Umo Eno for promoting political inclusion and proposing an ₦800 million business grant for non-indigenes living in the state.
Obareki spoke at the weekend in Uyo during the inauguration of 369 ward coordinators and volunteers of the non-indigenes’ chapter of the ARISE With Renewed Hope Initiative.
According to him, the inauguration reflects Eno’s commitment to involving non-indigenes in governance and giving them opportunities to contribute to Akwa Ibom’s political and economic development.
Non-Indigenes Target Greater Electoral Influence
Obareki, who also serves as a senior legislative aide to the Senate President, said non-indigenes contributed more than 26,000 votes during the 2023 elections.
Consequently, he expressed confidence that the association would mobilise even greater support ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He also praised the association’s coordinator, Ambassador Sunday Usikhifo, and leaders of the various blocs for their mobilisation efforts.
Meanwhile, Obareki welcomed the proposed ₦800 million business grant, expressing hope that the initiative would provide additional support for non-indigenes seeking to develop their businesses.
Association Urges Support for APC Candidates
Beyond welcoming the proposed grant, Obareki urged members to reciprocate the state government’s support by voting for all All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates in the forthcoming elections.
He specifically called on members to support President Bola Tinubu and Governor Eno as the political parties prepare for the 2027 polls.
In a separate address, the President-General of the ARISE With Renewed Hope Initiative, Uwem Okoko, represented by the Uyo Local Government Area chairman, Uwemedimo Udoh, commended the association’s leadership for its mobilisation efforts.
Okoko described non-indigenes as an important electoral force capable of influencing political outcomes across Akwa Ibom.
He also encouraged them to feel at home in the state, describing the non-indigene community as Akwa Ibom’s “32nd local government.”
