Akwa Ibom Still Poor Despite Increased Allocations, LP Governorship Candidate Alleges

The Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate in Akwa Ibom State, Akparawa Michael Bush, has accused the administration of Governor Umo Eno of failing to translate increased federal allocations into tangible development projects, alleging that poverty, hunger and youth unemployment remain widespread in the state.

Bush, who is seeking to unseat Eno in the January 16, 2027 governorship election, said Akwa Ibom had continued to experience poor development outcomes despite increased revenue inflows following the removal of fuel subsidy.

He argued that the state, despite being one of the major oil-producing states in the Niger Delta, had failed to deliver sufficient development projects to improve the living conditions of residents.

Bush made the allegations while presenting his manifesto at a media briefing at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) State Council Secretariat, Information Drive, Uyo.

He said the Eno administration had not done enough in project delivery, considering the financial resources available to the state since the government assumed office in 2023.

According to him, the alleged poor performance had left a large proportion of residents struggling with poverty, while a minority of the political class enjoyed the benefits of the state’s resources.

“Akwa Ibom State has been blessed by God, and remaining poor is an error due the abysmal performance by the administration,” he said.

“Why should a people created to dwell in the land flowing with milk and honey languish in this much self-inflicted perpetual pain and misery?” he queried.

The LP candidate described himself as an alternative to the incumbent administration, promising to deliver what he called 100 per cent tangible dividends of democracy if elected.

“I am here to inform you that by God’s grace, I am the Labour Party 2027 Governorship standard-bearer in our State. I am completely ready and totally prepared for this contest, nobody and nothing can stop me.

“And for effect I make bold to declare that I am in the current cycle among the most qualified for this all-important job,” he said.

Bush pledged to run an open and inclusive government that would guarantee citizens equal access to the governor without intimidation or embarrassment.

Describing himself as “a doer, patriot and thinker,” he promised to receive, connect, bless, promote and protect citizens irrespective of age, gender or race.

He said he would remain “the number one Receptionist” if elected governor.

The candidate also promised to prioritise human capital development through training and mentorship, while ensuring accountability and the proper utilisation of state resources to sustain economic prosperity.

He listed information, education, healthcare, financial autonomy, agriculture, electricity, housing, pension and gratuity payments, employment generation and economic opportunities for graduates among the sectors he planned to reform.