The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ikot Effiong, Ward 11/13, Ukanafun Local Government Area, hosted a grand reception on July 29, 2025, to welcome Elder Samuel Jonah Akpan—popularly known as “AKRO”—into its ranks. Akpan, a respected statesman and the 2007 gubernatorial aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), joined the APC with a considerable number of supporters, including the immediate past PDP Ward Secretary, Mr. Umoh Friday Abraham.
During the well-attended ceremony held in Akpan’s hometown, APC Ward Chairman Mr. Monday Abraham handed him the party membership card, describing the event as a landmark for the party. Abraham stated, “Having Elder Samuel Jonah Akpan—a renowned businessman and community leader—join us is a plus not just for the party, but serves as a unifying force, signifying a new chapter for our party.” He emphasized the value of AKRO’s experience in business, community development, and leadership.
The chairman also praised Hon. Ubokobong Umoh for exemplary leadership in Ukanafun, urging party members to sustain unity, synergy, and commitment as the party embarks on its next phase.
In his remarks, Elder Akpan expressed gratitude for the warm reception, stressing the importance of peace, unity, and collaboration among party members to foster both community and state development. He commended the Ukanafun APC leadership and Governor Umo Eno, PhD, for their people-centric leadership, acknowledging efforts to unify Akwa Ibom’s leaders and citizens. Akpan also expressed support for the party’s national decisions, including the endorsement of Governor Umo Eno, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and President for return tickets in 2027, pledging to actively advance the party’s goals of unity, peace, and community progress.
Pastor Eshiet Offiong, a former House of Representatives APC candidate, lauded the party’s resilience and growth, attributing its current status to the dedication of steadfast members. Other notable leaders, including Hon. Mfreke Ebong (Ward Councillor), Hon. Elijah Akpan (Governor’s Personal Assistant, Ward 13), Hon. Ufokobong Owen (Former Councillor), Mr. Joseph Paul (Chapter Representative), Elder Ikpoto Udo (Ward Vice Chairman), Elder Emaeyak Friday (Ward Secretary), and Elder Ikpe Dick (Member, APC Elders Council), also delivered messages of unity and optimism.
The occasion was marked by enthusiastic support and reaffirmed the APC’s commitment to strengthening its presence and delivering development in Ukanafun and across Akwa Ibom State.
