The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has undergone a significant shift in its leadership structure following a sweeping defection of lawmakers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
At a recent plenary session presided over by the Speaker, Elder Udeme Otong, who represents Abak State Constituency, Hon. Otobong Bob, the member representing Nsit Ubium State Constituency, was officially announced as the new Leader of the House.
This leadership change was necessitated by the defection of 24 out of the 26 lawmakers from the PDP to the APC—an unprecedented political realignment that effectively reversed the power dynamics within the Assembly.
With the APC now holding the majority, the former ruling party, the PDP, lost its dominant position, thereby prompting a restructuring of the House leadership to reflect the new political reality.
Hon. Otobong Bob takes over from Hon. Sunday Johnny, who represents Onna State Constituency. Johnny was removed from his position as House Leader for choosing to remain in the PDP, despite the mass defection of his colleagues.
Reports suggest that his decision was driven by a sense of loyalty to his political mentor and kinsman, former Governor Udom Emmanuel, who is believed to have facilitated his emergence in the Assembly both through nomination and financial support.
In a similar show of allegiance, Hon. Uduak Ekpo Ufot, who represents Etinan State Constituency, also opted to remain in the PDP. He, too, is known to be a staunch loyalist of the former governor.
Their refusal to switch political allegiance underscores the deep-rooted loyalty and influence the former governor still commands among certain legislators.
In another notable appointment, Dr. Nsidibe Akata, who represents Eket State Constituency, was named the new Deputy Leader of the House. He replaces Hon. Otobong Bob, who has now ascended to the position of House Leader.
The reorganization of the Assembly leadership is seen as an attempt to consolidate the APC’s newfound control and ensure alignment with the current political landscape within the state legislature.