Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Friday distributed a massive array of empowerment items including mini buses, cars, tricycles, cargo tricycles, refrigerators, sewing machines, as well as cash grants worth over N2 billion and scholarships to beneficiaries from his Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District and across the other two Senatorial Districts of the state.
The gesture, which formed part of the second phase of his constituency empowerment programme, drew thousands of beneficiaries and supporters to the venue, turning the event into both a celebration and a political statement.
Beyond the material support, Akpabio used the occasion to announce a bold political endorsement ahead of the 2027 general elections. According to him, the people of Akwa Ibom have collectively agreed to adopt President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno, and himself as sole candidates for the offices of President, Governor, and Senator respectively.
“We have decided, and our people have spoken with one voice. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno, and I, Godswill Akpabio, will go unopposed in 2027,” he declared, prompting a loud voice vote of endorsement from the crowd.
Akpabio lauded Governor Umo Eno’s leadership, describing him as “a man of peace and a man of God in attitude and actions,” whose collaboration with the federal government has brought stability and development to Akwa Ibom.
“President Tinubu is very happy with Akwa Ibom State because of the peace and progress here, made possible by the unity between the state government and the Senate President,” he added.
The distribution of empowerment tools and financial aid is being seen not just as philanthropy, but as a strategic move to solidify grassroots support and prepare the political ground ahead of the next elections. For many beneficiaries, the day ended not only with tools of livelihood but also with a renewed sense of political allegiance.