By Divine Sam
A frontline aspirant for the Ikono State Constituency seat in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Dr. Abasiono Okon, has announced his official resignation from the rulling All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that his decision was driven by the collective interest and aspirations of the people of Ikono LGA.
Speaking during a telephone interaction with journalists on Tuesday morning may 5th 2026, Dr. Okon explained that his decision followed what he described as a pattern of imposition of candidates within the party, particularly in the build-up to the State Assembly race. He noted that after wide consultations with stakeholders and supporters, he resolved to step aside from the APC to pursue his ambition on a platform that aligns with the will of the people.
According to him, his aspiration is rooted in sustained calls from constituents who believe in his track record of community service and developmental strides. He emphasized that his entry into the race is not borne out of personal ambition but a response to popular demand for credible and people-oriented representation.
Reacting to allegations linking him to recent youth protests in Ikono, the philanthropist firmly denied any involvement, describing the claims as false and baseless. He clarified that he was not present during the protests and only became aware of the development through social media platforms like other members of the public. While acknowledging that he was approached to support the protest, he stated that he declined, maintaining his longstanding principle of non-involvement in protests or politically motivated unrest.
Dr. Okon attributed the protests to widespread dissatisfaction among the youths and people of Ikono, citing issues such as perceived marginalization, poor performance, and lack of constituency engagement. He further stressed that the agitation was not solely about zoning but also about the need for effective representation.
On the issue of zoning, he maintained that Itak Ikono Clan has waited for over two decades for its turn to produce a representative in the State Assembly, insisting that the 2027 slot rightfully belongs to the clan. He described this demand as legitimate and non-negotiable, noting that it formed part of the grievances expressed during the protests.
Outlining his vision for Ikono, Dr. Okon pledged a people-centered approach to governance, with a strong focus on grassroots development and social welfare. He announced an ambitious plan to construct three houses in each of the 11 wards in Ikono Local Government Area, aimed at providing shelter for widows and the less privileged.
“I am deeply passionate about the welfare of the downtrodden. These housing units will ensure that vulnerable members of our communities have a place to call home,” he said.
In addition to housing, he promised robust youth empowerment initiatives, including business grants and capacity-building programs designed to support young entrepreneurs and stimulate local economic growth. He assured that his representation would be inclusive, impactful, and beneficial to all constituents, regardless of political affiliation.
When questioned about his next political platform, Dr. Okon stated that he would make his new party known upon completion of the necessary processes. He, however, affirmed that his relationship with the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, remains cordial despite his resignation from the APC.
He commended the governor for his efforts in fostering unity and sustaining peace across the state, pledging his continued support for the administration’s developmental agenda.
Dr. Okon concluded by assuring the people of Ikono of his unwavering commitment to delivering effective representation and improving the overall quality of life across the constituency. Dr. Okon call on his teaming supporters to remain calm, absolute and stay focus on the mission to achieve a greater Ikono state constituency.
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