Akwa Ibom Youth Mandate has declared its rejection of Bassey Eno, the governorship aspirant preferred by Governor Udom Emmanuel to succeed him on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Instead, they endorsed Oniofiok Luke, a House of Representatives member for the governorship election in 2023.

The group spoke as Eno, the state’s Commissioner for Lands and Water Resources, sued for unity among party members.

The group insisted they would rather endorse Luke, who has a record of selfless services, dedication and commitment.

A resolution signed by Victor Sage Thompson, Speaker of the South-South Youth Assembly, on behalf Akwa Ibom Youth Mandate, stressed that the state needs a man young at heart, young in age and someone that could relate with youths.

“We believe young people in Akwa Ibom State make up more than 60 per cent of population in the state.”
BUT the governor’s anointed candidate, Eno, sued for peace and unity among party members.

Speaking at an interactive session with key party members in Uyo, Eno said he was humbled by the decision of stakeholders to back him for the top job and promised to work with them and others to secure the party’s ticket.

Emo, who has spent most of his life in the private sector building his company, Royalty Group, noted that he has begun consultation with all levels of the party to ensure PDP presents a united and formidable force during and after the primaries.
 
Pledging to work towards earning the trust of more party faithful and delegates, he said he was in the race to take Akwa Ibom State and its people to greater heights.

Governor Udom, in his remarks, noted that Akwa-Ibom indigenes would love Umo, describing him as an epitome of humility.