The Uyo Liberation Movement (ULM), a socio-political group in Akwa Ibom State, has taken its campaign for equitable distribution of political offices in Uyo Local Government Area to the palace of the Paramount Ruler. The group urged that the 2027 House of Assembly ticket be zoned to Offot Clan, in line with what it described as an established rotational arrangement.
Delegation Visits Paramount Ruler
The delegation, led by the group's President, Udeme Ekot, paid a courtesy visit to the Paramount Ruler of Uyo Local Government Area, His Royal Majesty, Edidem Sylvanus Okon. The delegation argued that adherence to the existing zoning formula would promote fairness, inclusion, and political harmony among the four clans that make up the council area.
Ekot said the movement considered it necessary to brief the traditional ruler because of his position as the custodian of the people's culture and traditions. He stated, "We in the Uyo Liberation Movement have decided to be the voice of those who feel unheard. Uyo has a tradition that the House of Assembly seat rotates among the four clans in the local government area. Since the beginning of the Fourth Republic, the arrangement has been based on a single four-year term for each clan."
Call to Preserve Rotational Arrangement
According to him, any attempt to alter the arrangement before Offot Clan takes its turn could undermine the spirit of equity that has sustained political stability within the area. "If there is a need to review that agreement, it should commence after Offot Clan has completed its tenure. We are taking this advocacy to relevant stakeholders, beginning with the Paramount Ruler, because Uyo must continue to be united," he added.
Ekot further urged political leaders to ensure that the zoning understanding is respected in the interest of peace and inclusiveness ahead of the 2027 elections.
Secretary-General Reinforces Position
Also speaking during the visit, the Secretary-General of ULM, Elder (Prince) Emmanuel Sam, reiterated the group's position that Offot Ukwa Clan should produce the next member representing Uyo State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly. "Our interest is to ensure that Offot Ukwa Clan produces the House of Assembly member for Uyo State Constituency in 2027," he said.
Paramount Ruler's Response
Responding, the Paramount Ruler, Edidem Sylvanus Okon, appealed to political stakeholders to pursue peaceful dialogue in resolving disagreements and avoid actions capable of creating unnecessary divisions. "I encourage everyone to always make their demands known to government through appropriate channels and, when necessary, sit around the table to resolve issues because brothers are not meant to quarrel," the traditional ruler said.
He also cautioned politicians against using their positions or proximity to power to intimidate or victimise others.
Other Delegation Members
Other members of the delegation included Hon. Nse Brownson, Mr David Ikpe, Mr Caleb Effiong, Mr Usen Okon, Mr Ifiok, and other representatives of the movement.
The debate over zoning and political inclusion has increasingly featured in discussions ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle in Akwa Ibom State, with various interest groups advocating arrangements they believe would ensure fairness and strengthen unity within their respective communities.
