Ekpenyong : Akpabio’s withdrawal from Senate rerun will foster peace in A’Ibom

Bassey Anthony , Uyo

 

The Senator representing Akwa Ibom North-West senatorial district, Obong Christopher Ekpenyong has commended Niger Delta Affairs Minister, Senator Godswill Akpabio for withdrawing from the rerun election.

Ekpenyong of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said Akpabio’s decision not to contest against him would bring peace and harmony to the state.

In a press statement at the weekend, the senator described Akpabio’s action as “a welcome development that will foster peace, unity and development of the Senatorial District”.

He commended President Muhammadu Buhari, for what he described as “good gesture” in the appointment of Senator Akpabio, as a Minister of the Federal Republic and expressed confidence that the former Senate Minority Leader would effectively deliver on his assigned duties.

Read Also: Akpabio withdrew from rerun poll out of fear of another defeat – PDP

He urged APC candidates not to contest in the rerun ordered by the Appeal Court in other areas in the state but instead “follow the Akpabio’s example and withdraw from the race “for a holistic peace and unity in the zone”.

“I am a Senator of Nigeria and not for a particular political party. My mission to the Senate is align with my colleagues from the state and other political appointees to attract development and peace to the people of my Senatorial District.

“I commend my brother for his decision to withdraw from the court-ordered rerun in Essien Udim, and that will go a long way to calmed frayed nerves and create the enabling environment for the dividends of democracy to thrive beyond party lines,” he said.