Saturday July 26, 2025
By TheNewsDESK |
By Thomas THOMAS
Though I am still mourning the passing of my great and loving father, Elder E. T. Udom of Obotim Ikot Ekong, I cannot allow grief to silence my voice in matters concerning the politics and future of Nsit Ibom. Mourning does not preclude duty. Even now, I remain committed to the progress of our local government area.
When Nsit Ibom, like the rest of Nigeria, returned to democratic governance in 1999, our people embraced peace and quickly came together to forge a path of equity and development. It was then resolved—by consensus and wisdom—that the House of Assembly seat should rotate between the two Court Areas: Asang and Mbiaso.
Thus, in 1999 an Asang man, Hon. Ukana Egbo-Bassey was sent to the State House of Assembly to represent the people of Nsit Ibom in the State House of Assembly. In 2003, Mbiaso took its turn through the representation of Rt. Hon. Joseph Esitikot and later Mrs. Sarah Esitikot. They served with distinction. After them, Asang Court Area took its turn with Rt. Hon. Anietie Etuk, who made history as the first person to receive a second term in the Nsit Ibom State Constituency. He served from 2007 to 2015.
Following him, Mbiaso reclaimed the seat with Rt. Hon. Mfon Ekong in 2015, and subsequently Hon. Ifiok S. O. Udoh in 2019. For the first time, Mbiaso also held the seat for two consecutive terms.
In 2023, the pendulum swung back to Asang with the election of Rt. Hon. Eric Akpan, marking a return to the original single-term rotational principle. His tenure will end in 2027.
By equity, by history, and by moral standing, 2027 is Mbiaso:
Should Asang Court Area wish to retain the seat beyond 2027, it must come through proper negotiation and must be guided by justice—including consideration for Wards that have not benefitted before.
This is not a matter of personal sentiment; it is a call for fairness. I am not alone in holding this position. A silent majority across Nsit Ibom shares this view, even if they remain quiet due to fear, pecuniary interest, or fear of political isolation.
But as for me, I have never feared standing alone. I speak not for applause, but for posterity.
Nsit Ibom must honour its political heritage. For the sake of justice, unity, and continuity, 2027 is Mbiaso.
