Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Aggrieved youths from Ikot Abasi Federal Constituency in Akwa Ibom State on Friday staged a protest against alleged moves by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to impose a consensus candidate for the Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District.
The demonstrators, drawn from Mkpat Enin, Eastern Obolo, and Ikot Abasi Local Government Areas, converged on the Ikot Abasi Council Headquarters, calling for a transparent, inclusive, and credible primary process ahead of the party’s senatorial primaries.
Carrying placards with inscriptions such as “We will choose our leaders,” “No automatic ticket for Senate seat,” and “Open primaries will strengthen APC,” the youths insisted that the future of their constituency must not be determined behind closed doors.
The protest comes amid reports that the incumbent senator, Ekong Sampson, who is seeking a second term, may be granted an automatic ticket.
While some stakeholders have backed his re-election bid, citing the need for continuity and experience, the protesting youths rejected the move, demanding a level playing field for all aspirants.
Addressing the crowd, youth leader Ayang Richard commended stakeholders for zoning the contest to Ikot Abasi Federal Constituency but warned against any attempt to impose a candidate.
“The future of our constituency cannot be decided behind closed doors. The people must choose their leaders,” he said.
“We will resist any attempt to impose an automatic ticket on a non-performing senator. Leadership must emerge through a transparent and competitive process.”
Richard noted that the protest reflected a broader demand beyond APC members, describing it as a collective call for internal democracy and fairness.
He added that the constituency boasts qualified individuals capable of representing the district effectively.
Similarly, another speaker, Friday Jack, criticised what he described as the continued marginalisation of youths, urging stakeholders to reject any form of imposition.
“An automatic ticket is a reinforcement of failure. Our youths have been neglected, and we must unite to demand better representation,” he said.
Despite their grievances, the protesters reaffirmed their support for President Bola Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno.
They urged the APC leadership to adopt direct primaries and ensure a transparent process that reflects the will of the people.
