On Saturday, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State elected its executive committee members for a four-year tenure at the local government level across the state. The election process resulted in the appointment of 18 Chapter Officers per Local Government Area (LGA), including one Person Living with Disabilities (PLWD) in each LGA, totaling 31 PLWDs across the state.
What they are saying
The People Democratic Party, Publicity Secretary, Mr. Borono Bassey announced the election results in a statement on Sunday, highlighting the inclusion of persons with disabilities (PLWDs) in the new leadership.The statement added that the State Governor, Umo Eno was elected as National Delegate out of the 31 delegates elected in each of the local governments.
The state Governor in his address, praised the party’s unity and resolve, urging the newly elected officials to work diligently to secure future electoral successes.
Also the PDP State Chairman, Hon (Elder) Aniekan Akpan, emphasized the need for elected officers to exhibit selflessness and dedication to attract more supporters and maintain the party’s status as the preferred political choice in Akwa Ibom. He said “In this State, our Party, the PDP is privileged to stay as the most loved and preferred Political Party for Akwa Ibom people. Therefore those who will elect must be persons who will adopt an altruistic disposition that will make millions of people continue to admire the PDP and choose us.”
The five-man electoral committee from the party’s National Headquarters was led by Ene David as Chairman and Emmanuel Ekpe as Secretary.
Why It Matters
The election of new executive committee members at the local government level is crucial for the PDP as it sets the stage for the party’s organizational structure and strategy over the next four years. The inclusion of PLWDs highlights the party’s commitment to inclusivity. Governor Eno’s role as a National Delegate and the emphasis on unity and dedication by party leaders are significant as they aim to strengthen the party’s position and prepare for future electoral challenges.
However, it is important to note that these elections were held within the context of a one-party dominant system. The PDP has been the ruling party in Akwa Ibom State for many years. The outcome of these elections is unlikely to have a significant impact on the balance of power in the state. However, the elections do provide an opportunity for the PDP to renew its leadership and to strengthen its grassroots organization.
This could be important in the context of future elections, as well as in terms of the party’s overall governance effectiveness.