In the realm of politics, leaders are expected to be the voice of the people and the driving force of progress. They are elected to represent their constituents’ interests and make meaningful decisions on their behalf.
However, a disturbing trend has emerged in recent times in the Nigerian state of Akwa Ibom, where some lawmakers seem to have vanished into thin air.
These set of lawmakers are only noticed when they want to make new month or birthday wishes, or during ceremonies where they chair the event, or in other occasions, or seen in the Green or red chamber quietly observing others raise motions for their Constituents.
Also, while few Lawmaker return to their Constituents to give account for representing the people via TownHall meetings or empowerment programs annually, others have varnished into thick air.
Some of the Lawmakers noted for disappearing when topic of TownHall briefing or empowerment programs are mentioned are;
Hon. Okpolupm Ette (PDP) – Eket/Onna/Esit Eket/Ibeno Federal Constituency
Hon. Paul Ekpo (PDP) – Etinan/Nsit Ibom/Nsit Ubium
Hon. Uduak Alphonsus (PDP) – Ikot Abasi/Mkpat Enin/Eastern Obolo Federal Constituency
Hon. Patrick Umoh (APC) – Ikot Ekpene/Essien Udim/Obot Akara Federal Constituency
Hon. Ime Bassey Okon (PDP) – Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency
Hon. Mark Udo Esset (PDP) – Uyo/Uruan/Nsit Atai/Ibesikpo Asutan Federal Constituency
But on a positive note, Some are giving a good account of their representation so far…
Top on the list of effective Representation, TownHall meetings and Empowerment programs are;
Hon. Ukpongudo Emmanuel (YPP) – Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency
Hon. Jimbo Clement (APC) – Abak/Etim Ekpo/Ika Federal Constituency
Hon. Martins Etim – Oron/Mbo/Okobo/Udung Uko/Urue Offong/Oruko Federal Constituency
Hon. Unyime Idem – Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency
Akwa Ibom, a State known for its rich oil resources, faces numerous human challenges that require immediate attention in the aspect of empowerment.
However, without Representatives like Ukpong-Udo, Iniobong Idem, and few others, majority of the other Lawmakers have gone into hiding, and the hopes and dreams of the people that voted them into office are shelved.
The consequences of this phenomenon are far-reaching. The lack of giving back to the Constituency that voted you in office has made the people to loose hopes on you, thereby putting a big question mark on these lawmakers; if they sill be able to win their reelection if elections will be done in a free and fair manner.
The hiding of elected representatives from Eket, Ikot Ekpene and Uyo also highlights a worrying trend of politicians who make empty promises during election campaigns but disappear once elected.
The people feel betrayed, and their confidence in the democratic process is eroded.
This disillusionment has severe implications for the future of democracy in Nigeria, as citizens become disengaged from the political sphere, breeding a sense of apathy and distrust.
Moreover, the lack of political representation further marginalizes vulnerable and marginalized groups within society. Women, youth, and minorities are the most adversely affected by this ghost-like leadership. Their voices go unheard, and their concerns and needs remain unaddressed.
It is crucial for the citizens of Akwa Ibom to demand accountability from their elected representatives. They must raise their voices and put pressure on these ghost leaders to fulfill their obligations. The media and civil society organizations also play a vital role in uncovering the truth behind this phenomenon and shedding light on the plight of the people.
Ultimately, the days of Honorable Okpolupm Ette and other absent lawmakers must come to an end.
Akwa Ibom need leaders who are present, engaged, and committed to the welfare and progress of their constituents. It is time for these ghost leaders to be held accountable for their absence and for the people to reclaim their right to effective representation.
Finally, TownHall meetings and Empowerment projects must not be done only during election seasons, it should be carried out annually, just like Hon. Emmanuel Ukpong is leading in that regard.
Udo-Akagha Inyang
writes from the streets of Afaha Eket in Eket LGA, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.
