Akwa Ibom Speaker's Claim of APC 2027 Tickets Sparks Backlash

The Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Udem Otong, stirred controversy by claiming control over 26 APC House of Assembly tickets for the 2027 general elections. His remarks have faced sharp criticism, especially from APC members following recent defections.

Various party affiliates and media platforms have condemned his comments as undemocratic and warned against undermining internal democracy. The group led by Iniobong John emphasized that party processes, not individuals, determine candidacy, and the power to select candidates lies exclusively with the party as a constitutional organ.