As the 2015 Akwa Ibom governorship race hits up unofficially, what confronts the millions of voters in the state is the choice of whose boat to sail to the polls. Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Russian Federation & Belarus, who happens to be a strong contender in the race, posted a message on Facebook a while ago debunking the rumors of his withdrawal from the race.
In his message, the Ambassador said..
I have been inundated with calls and messages to the effect that a local radio station and some ‘soft sale’ tabloids in Akwa Ibom State have been carrying the story that Ambassador Assam has withdrawn from the Gubernatorial race in Akwa Ibom State. I hasten to say that I am contesting the 2015 Gubernatorial Elections. I only declared in my Ward on the 26th of March 2014. I am even yet to publish my public declaration and they are already talking of withdrawing. The electioneering activities is even yet to start and some lazy folks, who hope for political gains, are already using me to sell themselves. Whoever is telling stories is welcome to await the commencement of official political activities. Those who are worried about my candidature do not need to use me to sell themselves. They can do the obvious, line up to be counted as my supporters rather than hope to contest if I don’t. To all my supporters, note that you will hear more of these stories. Don’t be daunted. The race is yet to start. You hear the cock that rules in the morning. Those who want to run against me should not hide behind some puerile propaganda. Come out and let the people see and assess you. I have presented myself, don’t be a masquerade.
As those interested in running for the governorship seat are getting set to declare their ambitions and as the system gets heated with strategies and gimmicks, the people are watching and praying that only the best candidate succeeds Governor Akpabio come 2015.