Rep Ukpong-Udo Hosts Constituency Press Briefing, Announces Defection From YPP to APC

Friday June 20, 2025|

By Aniekan EKAH

Rt Hon Emmanuel Ukpong-Udo, Member of the House of Representatives representing Ikono-Ini Federal Constituency, held a constituency press briefing Thursday, June 19, to mark the second year of his second term in the 10th National Assembly.

Addressing a cross-section of constituents, stakeholders, and the media, the lawmaker expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and provided a detailed update on his legislative contributions, social programmes, and infrastructure projects over the past two years.

During the briefing, Ukpong-Udo highlighted his record of 12 bills, 13 motions, and one petition presented in the National Assembly. His welfare initiatives, notably the Macaire Mother and Child Programme, have supported over 242 mothers and facilitated the birth of more than 250 babies with needed assistance.

The lawmaker noted the empowerment of over 4,000 entrepreneurs, facilitation of 101 jobs, and multiple interventions in infrastructure, including road construction, classroom blocks, transformer installations, and solar streetlight projects. Over ₦1.35 billion has been disbursed through empowerment programmes and business grants in the last year alone.

In a major political development, Ukpong-Udo announced his official defection from the Young Progressives Party (YPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing prolonged internal crises within the YPP and the need to align with “a broader vision for national development.” He emphasized that the move was motivated by his desire to ensure better access to federal opportunities for his constituents.

“After sincere consultations and with the interest of Ikono-Ini at heart, I have decided to step into a more stable environment that aligns with our people’s future,” he stated. He reiterated that all ongoing and future empowerment programmes, including the upcoming 8th Phase valued at ₦1 billion, would proceed uninterrupted.

Ukpong-Udo closed by calling for unity and support across party lines while reaffirming his loyalty to the Ikono-Ini people and his commitment to service.