Aggrieved stakeholders from the Ekid ethnic nationality in Akwa Ibom State have demanded for strict adherence to the existing zoning arrangement in the Eket, Esit-Eket, Onna and Ibeno Federal Constituency ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Operating under the umbrella of the Ekid People’s Union (EPU), constituents from Eket and Esit Eket Local Government Areas announced their withdrawal of support for the second-term ambition of the current House of Representatives member, Rep. Okpolupm Ikpong Etteh.
The group cited what it described as poor representation, alleging that the lawmaker failed to protect the identity and interests of the Ekid people.
According to them, his tenure has been marked by exclusion and discriminatory politics against their communities.
This position was reached during a joint meeting involving the EPU board of trustees, executive members, and key stakeholders.
In a communiqué issued in Uyo and signed by prominent leaders of the group, the union declared its resolve to oppose Rep. Etteh’s re-election bid, as well as any candidate emerging from Ibeno Local Government Area.
The EPU stated that its decision was based on what it called a “breach of trust” over the past 30 months, stressing that effective representation requires courage, consultation, vigilance, and commitment to constituents’ interests.
Among its grievances, the union accused the lawmaker of failing to defend Akwa Ibom State’s territorial integrity when a petition challenging the state’s official map was raised in the House of Representatives shortly after his inauguration.
His silence on the issue, they argued, cast doubt on his loyalty to the people he represents.
The group also faulted him for allegedly sponsoring a motion to rename Eket and Esit-Eket Local Government Areas without consulting the affected communities, describing the move as undemocratic and insensitive.
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Rising insecurity in the constituency was another concern highlighted by the EPU.
The union claimed that threats to peace and development, reportedly linked to militias from neighboring states have not received adequate attention from the representative.
Additionally, the group condemned alleged attempts by the Ibeno Clan Council to influence the status of Esit Urua Village, warning that such actions could undermine the territorial identity of the Ekid people.
The EPU concluded that the cumulative actions and inactions of the lawmaker have created a disconnect between him and his constituents.
It urged political parties to carefully screen candidates ahead of the 2027 elections, emphasizing that it would only support leaders who demonstrate inclusivity, accountability, and respect for the people’s will.
