Sunday June 8, 2025|
The Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. (Mrs.) Inibehe Silas Etukudo, has officially declared her membership in the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The announcement was made during a gathering on Saturday 7th June, 2025, at the Ika Unity Stadium, where Hon. Silas publicly renounced her former Party and announced her alignment with the APC. She emphasized that her defection was effective immediately upon the defection of Akwa Ibom State Governor, His Excellency Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, PhD. Hon. Silas expressed gratitude to her supporters for recognizing the necessity of progressive leadership alongside Governor Eno for the advancement of Akwa Ibom State.
Hon. Silas pledged to mobilize women across the State to collaborate effectively with the APC leadership, ensuring a smooth political process and the success of the Party. On the re-election of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu GCFR, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio GCON, and Pastor (Dr) Umo Eno, the Women Affairs and Social Welfare Commissioner vowed to mobilize women in the State for the success of their re-election.
The APC leader in Ika, Rt. Hon. Obongemem Ekperikpe Ekpo, warmly welcomed Hon. Silas and other defectors to the Party. He expressed his appreciation for the overwhelming support he has received from the Ika community since his appointment as Minister under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
He conveyed the greetings of President Bola Tinubu GCFR and Senate President Godswill Akpabio GCON, assuring the Ika populace that the APC government remains committed to implementing policies that enhance the lives of the citizens. He also recognized Governor Umo Eno for fostering peace in the State and welcomed all defectors into the APC.
Other notable speakers included Barr. Uyobong Udom, who set the tone for the event, and Barr. Utibe Nwoko, the Executive Chairman of Ika, who also announced his defection to the APC. Additionally, State Chairman of APC, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo, and Ika Chapter Chairman, Hon. Joseph John, extended a warm welcome to the new members.
A significant highlight of the event was a motion moved by the Member representing Abak, Etim Ekpo and Ika, Hon Clement Jimbo for Asiwaju Bola Tinubu GCFR, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio GCON and His Excellency Pastor (Dr) Umo Bassey Eno to be re-elected respectively in 2027. A motion duly seconded by Rt Hon Gabriel Toby, former House of Assembly Member and put to vote by Hon Barr. Utibe Nwoko received the acceptance was passed unanimously by all present.
The event drew attendance from prominent stakeholders within the Ika community, marking a historic moment for the APC in Ika.
