… As PDP Receives Over 5000 Defectors In Essien Udim
The speculation being peddled by agents of the All Progressive Congress (APC) who believe the “purported nationalistic” switch of the former Senate Minority Leader, Senator Godswill Akpabio, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has completely woo the people of Essien Udim Local Government Area to the APC was put paid to on Tuesday when over 5,000 founding members of APC defected to PDP amidst cheers at Unity Hall, Afaha Ikot Ebak.
The defectors, who were led the pioneer chairman of Essien Udim, Barrister Martins Umanah, stormed the venue of the reception with enthusiasm, stressing that they were grateful to the PDP family.
They commended the leadership of PDP in Akwa Ibom for piloting the affairs of the party in a transparent and inclusive manner, which according to them has aided renewal of membership and registration of new members.
The defectors, including a former Chapter Chairman of APC, Pastor Kayeobong Edet; former APC Caucus member; Elder Aloysius Isonguyo, also lauded the leadership of PDP for rebranding and repositioning the party to reclaim its pride of place in the comity of states.
They described APC described the APC as a strange party of impunity, imposition, bloodsucking and murder, expressing “regret over their ignorant association with the APC.”
In his remarks, the Deputy Governor, Mr. Moses Ekpo, thanked the people of Essien Udim for the pivotal role played in the emergence of Governor Udom Emmanuel in 2015, expressing optimism that same support will guarantee the 2019 success.
Mr. Ekpo charged the defectors to strive to project PDP’s image in good light, maintaining that their decision to join the party was unparalleled.
Speaking, the convener and Commissioner in the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment, Prince Ukpong Akpabio, thanked Governor Udom Emmanuel for the tremendous support given him and the people of Essien Udim.
He lauded the defectors for their wise choice to join the Umbrella Family, saying “PDP is known for political inclusiveness and charged them to remain focused, believe in PDP, and support the reelection of Governor Udom Emmanuel in 2019 for justice, equity and fairness.”
Chairman of Essien Udim Local Government Council, Elder Raphael Isobara; State Deputy Chairman of PDP, Hon Suyiekekere Inokon; Ikot Ekpene Senatorial candidate, Engr. Chris Ekpenyong; Hon. E.E.P Umanah; Ikot Ekpene Federal House of Representatives candidate, Hon. Nsikak Ekong; Essien Udim State Constituency candidate, Barrister Esse Umoh; Etubom Francis Ukoibanga, and Pastor Felix Udofia, who also spoke at the epoch making event, encouraged the new members to join hands in the rebranding process of the party and ensure it returns to the grassroots.
They attributed the success story of the party to the confidence that members have in the leadership of the party, stressing that all its candidates will emerge victorious in the general elections.
The event featured the presentation of the symbol of the party (the Umbrella and Party Flag) to the leader of the defectors.
