Udoedehe: Selfish Interests Delaying Ibom Deep Seaport

Sunday September 13, 2026
www.thenewsdesk.ng

The African Democratic Congress, ADC, governorship candidate in Akwa Ibom State for the 2027 election, Senator John James Udoedehe, has accused the state government of deliberately delaying the Ibom Deep Seaport project for selfish reasons.

Udoedehe alleged that the government was stalling the project because its long-term financial interests had not been adequately factored into the seaport plan.

Speaking during an interview in Uyo, the former minister said the project had already secured the necessary approval during the administration of former Governor Udom Emmanuel.

“Do not allow these people to lie to you again. During the tenure of Governor Udom Emmanuel, if you listened to him very well, he said he was looking for investors.

“The issue of approval was done and sealed. I was the Chairman, South Finance Committee of the Nigerian Ports Authority. It was a done deal; approval was given.

“If the Akwa Ibom people believe this is what will take them out of poverty, stop every other thing and put the money there. The money we have in this state, and what we project to have, we can take a loan to do anything.

“Why they are dancing around Ibom Deep Seaport is that they have not seen their interests factored in properly. Don’t listen to them. Their interest in how to make money for life has not been factored in properly.

“It is a doable thing. It is not rocket science; it can be done.”

Udoedehe said the project had its roots in the administration of former Governor Victor Attah, adding that he had contributed to its development as a member of the NPA board.

“We have the best seaport in the Gulf of Guinea. Obong Attah started it. I don’t claim credit; I have made my contribution as a member of the board. Don’t buy that story; they want to use it for campaign,” he said.

He urged the state government to focus on building the seaport rather than dwelling on disagreements over its name.

“Call the seaport any name, but build the seaport. If what would give you peace is to name the seaport Ibaka, name it Ibaka to integrate people and give them that sense of belonging. If it is Oron, name it Oron. Whatever you call it, build the seaport,” he said.