The State Coordinator and Director-General of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Akwa Ibom State chapter, Obong Prince Ikim, has praised the leadership of the All Progressives Congress, party stakeholders and members in Akwa Ibom State for the peaceful conduct of the recently concluded APC primaries in the state.
Ikim conveyed his appreciation in a congratulatory message made available to journalists following the completion of the party’s presidential primary and other internal elections conducted across the state.
According to him, the orderly manner in which the primaries were conducted reflected growing political maturity among party members and demonstrated the commitment of the APC leadership to democratic principles and peaceful political engagement.
The APC chieftain described the atmosphere surrounding the primaries as one marked by unity, discipline, mutual respect and decorum, noting that the process stood in sharp contrast to the tensions and disputes that often trail party primaries in many parts of the country.
He stated that the peaceful exercise was evidence of the growing acceptance of dialogue, inclusiveness and internal democracy within the party structure in Akwa Ibom State.
Ikim further linked the peaceful conduct of the primaries to the Renewed Hope Agenda championed by President Bola Tinubu, which he said promotes unity, democratic participation and national stability.
He also commended the Arise Agenda of Governor Umo Eno, describing the governor as a peaceful and accommodating leader whose style of governance continues to encourage political harmony within the state.
“The atmosphere of unity, decorum and democratic maturity witnessed during the party primaries is a clear reflection of the Renewed Hope Agenda championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Arise Agenda championed by Governor Umo Eno, whom I describe as a man of peace,” Ikim stated.
The Renewed Hope Ambassadors coordinator noted that the successful conduct of the primaries had further strengthened confidence among party members and supporters ahead of future political engagements in the state.
He urged party faithful to remain united and continue supporting the leadership of the APC to sustain peace and progress within the party.
Ikim also congratulated all aspirants who participated in the primaries, regardless of the outcome, for demonstrating sportsmanship and commitment to democratic ideals.
According to him, the ability of contestants and supporters to accept the outcome of the elections peacefully showed that the party was evolving into a stronger and more stable political platform in the state.
He appealed to aggrieved members, if any, to utilise internal conflict resolution mechanisms rather than actions capable of creating division or weakening party cohesion.
Political observers say peaceful party primaries remain critical to strengthening democracy in Nigeria, especially as disputes arising from candidate selection processes have historically triggered internal crises, defections and prolonged legal battles.
The APC primaries in Akwa Ibom reportedly witnessed significant participation by delegates and stakeholders across various local government areas, with security agencies maintaining surveillance to ensure a smooth process.
Analysts note that the conduct of peaceful primaries could improve the party’s public image and enhance its chances in future elections by presenting an appearance of unity and organisational stability.
The commendation by Ikim also highlights ongoing efforts by political actors to align themselves with the broader political narratives of both the federal administration and state governments ahead of the 2027 election cycle.
The Renewed Hope Agenda, associated with President Tinubu’s administration, has remained a central political message among APC leaders and supporters nationwide, while Governor Umo Eno’s Arise Agenda continues to shape governance and political discourse within Akwa Ibom State.
Observers believe the public endorsement of both agendas by influential political stakeholders may contribute to increased collaboration and reduced political tension within the state.
Meanwhile, party supporters have expressed optimism that the peaceful outcome of the primaries would pave the way for stronger mobilisation efforts and greater unity ahead of future elections.
Some stakeholders also urged party leaders to sustain transparency, fairness and inclusiveness in future internal processes to preserve the confidence built during the recent primaries.
As political activities continue to intensify across the country ahead of 2027, analysts say the ability of political parties to manage internal contests peacefully will remain a key test of democratic maturity and institutional stability.
For many APC members in Akwa Ibom, the successful conduct of the primaries is being viewed as a positive sign that the party is gradually consolidating its structures and strengthening internal unity in preparation for future political battles.
