By; PATRICK TITUS, Uyo
Amid thousands of banners that adorned Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium in Akwa Ibom State, venue of the official declaration of Senator Godswill Akpabio’s Presidential aspiration on Wednesday, was a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) banner erected few meters behind the podium.
The banner reads, “People’s Democratic Party, Akwa Ibom State Chapter in support of His Excellency, Chief Dr Godswill Akpabio for President in 2023”, has caused a stir.
Akpabio, who is the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs Ministry, is contesting the Presidential bid on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), a leading opposition political party in Akwa Ibom ruled by PDP government.
As expected, all other banners reflected APC logo bearing names of their sponsors, all APC faithful showcasing either their alliance or solidarity to their principal’s presidential aspiration.
However, how the PDP banner found its way into the stadium has remained a surprise, leaving many to suspect a foul play by some APC supporters to discredit the PDP leadership in the state.
One, who spoke on condition of anonymity with our correspondent covering the event said, “In politics, anything can happen otherwise how can we have a PDP Banner in an event organised by APC?”
Another who said that he is a card carryng member of PDP but only came to witness the declaration because he is Ikot Ekpene, however said, “This development has thrown members of the political class into confusion since we heard of it considering the fact that the leader of the party and Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel is also contesting as President in 2023 under PDP.
Another who claimed to be a member of APC said, “the action is taken maybe because the governor has failed to consult the party in the state before embarking on such a significant contest of Presidency.
“Charity must always begin at home. how can our governor be going round the country to consult for a presidential election without first of all informing Akwa Ibom people?” the source who craved anonymity also queried.
