Tension is mounting in Akwa Ibom State ahead of the 2027 governorship election, as opposition figures accuse the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of intimidation and attempts to silence dissenting voices.
Two prominent aspirants have already declared interest in the race to unseat Governor Umo Eno. Former Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Senator John James Akpanudoedehe, is set to contest under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), while popular talk show host, Akparawa Michael Bush, is seeking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ticket.
Key highlights:
- Opposition parties in Akwa Ibom State accused the ruling APC of political intimidation ahead of the 2027 election.
- Two major aspirants have declared interest in challenging Governor Umo Eno.
- A live radio interview for politician Akparawa Michael Bush was reportedly cancelled over alleged political pressure.
- The opposition described the incident as a threat to democracy and free speech.
- The campaign urged authorities and media groups to ensure fairness and protect political freedom.
The political atmosphere reportedly became more heated over the weekend after a scheduled live radio interview featuring Bush was abruptly cancelled just minutes before airtime.
According to the Michael Bush Campaign Organisation, the two-hour programme on Comfort 95.1 FM, Uyo, had been fully paid for over a week earlier, while promotional announcements had consistently aired to mobilise listeners.
In a statement titled “Condemnation of Political Intimidation and Suppression of Democratic Engagement Ahead of the 2027 Akwa Ibom Governorship Election,” the campaign’s spokesperson, Namso Akpan, alleged that the cancellation was the result of political pressure from powerful interests uncomfortable with alternative voices ahead of the election.
The campaign said the radio appearance was intended to give Bush an opportunity to present his vision for the state, particularly his proposed agenda for uninterrupted electricity supply across Akwa Ibom.
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Describing the development as undemocratic and dangerous, the organisation warned that suppressing opposition voices threatens freedom of expression, political fairness, and the integrity of the democratic process.
The statement criticised what it called the growing culture of intimidation in the state’s political space, insisting that democracy can only thrive where citizens are free to hear competing ideas and make informed choices without fear or coercion.
It further urged security agencies, media regulators, civil society groups, and other democratic institutions to resist any attempt to harass or silence political opponents ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
The campaign also called on media organisations in the state to remain professional, courageous, and committed to equal access for all political actors, regardless of party affiliation.
“The people of Akwa Ibom deserve a peaceful, open and competitive democratic environment where ideas — not intimidation — determine leadership,” the statement added.
