The Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, has sparked controversy by claiming that the 2027 state assembly election is already decided and that he controls all 26 party tickets.
The remarks, made on December 16, 2025, have drawn criticism for raising concerns about internal party democracy.
During a visit by a local political group to his hometown, Abak Itenge, Mr Otong said: “All the 26 House of Assembly tickets are already in my pocket”, adding that no one could secure a seat without his approval.
The visit coincided with his 2025 birthday celebrations.
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Akwa Ibom’s House of Assembly has 26 members. Until June 24, 2025, most were in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) before 24 defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) with Governor Umo Eno, leaving only two lawmakers in the PDP.
Mr Otong, who represents Abak State Constituency and is serving his second term as speaker, suggested his return for a third term is assured.
He urged supporters not to fear electoral contests, using a biblical analogy to highlight confidence in his political journey.