By Muhammad Mamman
The Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Mr Udeme Otong, has sparked political controversy after declaring that the outcome of the 2027 general elections in the state is already decided, claiming he has 26 House of Assembly tickets “in his pocket”.
Mr Otong made the remark during a political gathering in Akwa Ibom State, where he spoke confidently about his influence over the state’s legislative elections, suggesting that opposition parties stand little chance in the next poll.
According to the Speaker, the ruling party has effectively secured the majority of seats in the State House of Assembly ahead of 2027, a claim that has since drawn criticism from opposition figures and civil society groups, who described the statement as reckless and undermining democratic principles.
Political observers say the comment raises concerns about internal party democracy and the independence of the electoral process, especially as preparations for the 2027 elections are yet to formally commence.
Reacting to the statement, opposition leaders warned that such rhetoric could erode public confidence in the credibility of elections and called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reassure Nigerians of its neutrality and commitment to free, fair and credible polls.
Efforts to obtain an official response from the Speaker’s office were unsuccessful as at the time of filing this report.
The controversial declaration has continued to dominate political discussions in Akwa Ibom, with many Nigerians urging political leaders to exercise restraint and respect the sanctity of the electoral process ahead of the 2027 elections.
