By EFFANGA OSOK

2027: Bush Faults Eno’s Development Record, Unveils Sweeping Reform Agenda for Akwa Ibom

THE Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate in Akwa Ibom State, Akparawa Michael Bush, has criticised Governor Umo Eno’s administration over what he described as inadequate development despite increased federal allocations. He has also unveiled an ambitious reform agenda covering healthcare, education, electricity, employment, agriculture and other critical sectors ahead of the 16 January 2027 governorship election.

Bush made his position known while presenting his manifesto to journalists at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) State Council Secretariat, Information Drive, Uyo. During the engagement, he accused the state government of failing to convert increased revenue inflows, particularly those following the removal of fuel subsidy, into sufficient projects and improved living conditions.

Bush Questions Development Despite Increased Revenue

The LP candidate argued that Akwa Ibom, despite its status as a major oil-producing state in the Niger Delta, continued to struggle with poverty, hunger and youth unemployment.

He maintained that the administration had not delivered enough projects since assuming office in 2023, considering the financial resources available to the state. Consequently, he alleged that many residents remained trapped in hardship while a small section of the political class benefited disproportionately from public resources.

“Akwa Ibom State has been blessed by God, and remaining poor is an error due the abysmal performance by the administration,” Bush said.

He further questioned why residents of a state endowed with natural resources should continue to experience what he described as avoidable hardship and deprivation.

Candidate Promises Inclusive Government & Accountability

Presenting himself as an alternative to the incumbent administration, Bush pledged to deliver what he called 100 per cent tangible dividends of democracy if elected.

He promised to operate an open and inclusive government that would guarantee citizens access to the governor without intimidation or embarrassment. Describing himself as “a doer, patriot and thinker,” he said he would remain the “number one Receptionist” of the state by making leadership accessible to people irrespective of age, gender or background.

Furthermore, Bush promised to strengthen accountability and ensure that public resources served the interests of residents. He said his administration would establish institutional safeguards to identify and prevent the theft, diversion or waste of government funds.

Healthcare, Education & Employment Top Reform Agenda

The candidate pledged to overhaul Akwa Ibom’s healthcare and education systems, while also creating more employment opportunities for residents.

He identified human capital development as a major priority and promised to invest in training, mentorship and opportunities for graduates. In addition, he listed information, financial autonomy, housing, pension and gratuity payments among the areas requiring reform.

Bush also promised affordable housing for low-income earners and community-based security partnerships. Meanwhile, he said poverty reduction, business empowerment, food security and agricultural development would form important parts of his proposed economic programme.

Ibom Power Plant, Water Supply & Industrialisation

On infrastructure and economic development, Bush promised to revive the Ibom Power Plant to support a 24-hour electricity supply across the state. He argued that reliable and affordable electricity would strengthen business activities, attract investment and support industrial growth.

He also pledged to revive the state water company to expand access to potable water. Beyond these commitments, he identified industrialisation and investment promotion as essential drivers of economic advancement.

The LP candidate further promised to strengthen local government, judicial and legislative autonomy in line with the Constitution and existing laws.

Bush Presents People-Centred Vision for 2027

Bush said his proposed eight-point agenda was built around Access, Knowledge, Wealth, Advancement, Industrialisation, Business Opportunities and Manpower Development. He explained that the programme would expand access to government, leadership, justice and healthcare services.

He also promised to ensure that public wealth produced measurable improvements in education, healthcare, infrastructure and employment.

As the 2027 governorship contest approaches, Bush is positioning his manifesto as a people-centred alternative to the incumbent administration. However, the proposed reforms remain campaign commitments that would depend on his election and the capacity of a future government to implement them.