By Nathaniel Zaccheaus, Abuja
Ambassadorial nominee and former lawmaker, Senator Ita Enang, has defended Senate President Godswill Akpabio against claims of political exclusion in Akwa Ibom State, insisting that no segment of the state has ever been sidelined under his leadership.
Enang, one of the 65 ambassadorial nominees forwarded to the Senate by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu last week, asserted in a personally signed statement dated December 8, 2025, in which he also expressed deep gratitude to Tinubu for his nomination.
Describing the appointment as an “exceptional privilege,” the former representative of Akwa Ibom North-East in the 7th Senate pledged to justify the confidence reposed in him as the confirmation process gets underway.
But a significant portion of his message was devoted to addressing political controversies at home, as he strongly dismissed insinuations that Akpabio had denied any part of Akwa Ibom their due.
He said, “At no time has the Senate President held any segment of our people in contempt or denied us our due.
“On the contrary, he has demonstrated exemplary leadership, remarkable inclusiveness, and an unwavering commitment to carrying every section of our state along.”
He argued that Akpabio’s position as head of the National Assembly has placed Akwa Ibom in a strong position in national politics, noting that the state must maximise the opportunity.
Enang said, “We must recognise how fortunate we are to have him occupy the esteemed position of the third-highest office in the Federal Republic.
“His influence and advocacy on our behalf have placed Akwa Ibom in a stronger national position.”
Enang also disclosed ongoing cooperation among himself, the Senate President, and the Minister of Petroleum (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, particularly in driving federal attention to the state’s strategic developmental needs.
He cited their joint engagements during federal budget negotiations, which yielded a ₦10 billion provision in the 2025 budget for the Nkari Dam in Ini and the Itu/Ibiono Dam in Ibiono Ibom.
Clarifying his role in previous political decisions that some stakeholders may have misunderstood, Enang said any misinterpretations were inadvertent and arose from strategic discussions held at Akpabio’s invitation.
The former lawmaker ended with an appeal for unity across political divides, urging Akwa Ibom citizens to rally behind both Akpabio and Governor Umo Eno.
“I appeal to all our people to unite firmly behind the Senate President and Governor Umo Eno as they jointly lead our dear state toward the land of promise, progress and prosperity for all,” he said.
