(Senator John James Udoedehe. Photo by The Street Journal)
Senator John James Udoedehe has declared his intention to contest the 2027 Akwa Ibom governorship election under the ADC, citing the widespread poverty, joblessness, and inequality in the state as his primary motivation.
Speaking to journalists in Uyo on Thursday, he expressed frustration that the state continues to struggle despite receiving substantial government funding.
Udoedehe stated that he is both mentally and physically ready to tackle these challenges by generating wealth, creating jobs, and narrowing the gap between the rich and the poor.
He pointed out that the current governor, Umo Eno, has received more funds in three years than his predecessors Godswill Akpabio and Udom Emmanuel combined over 16 years, yet poverty remains widespread across the state.
On the ADC’s chances of winning, the former APC national secretary credited himself with establishing the APC in Akwa Ibom now the ruling party nationally and expressed confidence that with proper grassroots mobilization, the ADC could clinch victory.
He also pushed back against the label of being a serial aspirant, clarifying that he has only appeared on the ballot twice, and drew inspiration from governors Alex Otti and Chukwuma Soludo, who each succeeded after multiple failed attempts.
Udoedehe also firmly denied suggestions that he was entering the race merely to solicit funds before withdrawing, describing such claims as blackmail and propaganda.
He noted that his political journey has come at a personal cost, including unjust imprisonment, and insisted he was genuinely committed to serving the people.
He called on Akwa Ibom residents to set aside bias and give him the opportunity to govern, expressing confidence that an informed electorate would vote in his favour come 2027.
