Defections: Akwa Ibom Assembly Gets New Leader, Deputy

The member representing Nsit Ubium State Constituency of Akwa Ibom, Hon. Otobong Bob has been announced as the new Leader of the House at the plenary chaired by the Speaker, Elder Udeme Otong (Abak).

The leadership rejig followed the defection of 24, out of 26 members of the Assembly from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

PDP which previously controlled the House, lost its majority status when the APC took over the majority of the House.

LEADERSHIP learnt that the latest development has brought in its wake, the need to restructure the Assembly in line with the political parties’ strength.

Hon. Bob replaced the former Leader, representing Onna State Constituency, Hon. Sunday Johnny, who chose to remain in the PDP.

Our correspondent learned through Assembly source that Johnny’s continued membership of the PDP was “to prove his solidarity and loyalty to the former Governor Udom Emmanuel, his kinsman, who nominated and bankrolled his election.”

Also, the Etinan State Constituency lawmaker, Hon. Uduak Ekpo Ufot, another loyalist of the former governor, also refused to defect to the APC.

Similarly, member representing Eket State Constituency, Dr. Nsidibe Akata, was named as new Deputy Leader, replacing Hon. Otobong Bob (Nsit Ubium).