Former APC Chieftain Akpanudoedehe Joins ADC, Sets Sights on 2027 Akwa Ibom Governorship
John James Akpanudoedehe, the former Interim National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has announced his defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He cited an internal gang‑up within the APC as the reason for his departure, saying the party’s internal forces conspired against him.
Despite the possibility that his opponents may regroup, Akpanudoedehe said he remains unfazed. His focus, he stressed, is on addressing the chronic unemployment and underdevelopment plaguing Akwa Ibom State.
“I only left APC as National Secretary when I discovered they ganged up against me. They may regroup, but I don’t care. My concern is the unemployment and underdevelopment in Akwa Ibom State.”
John James Akpanudoedehe
The former APC chieftain also rejected claims that he routinely contests elections merely to negotiate favourable outcomes. He asserted that he has participated in only two elections — 2011 and 2023.
“Selling my election chances in the past would have empowered my enemies, and I cannot do that,” he added.
Akpanudoedehe urged his supporters to stay resolute and back him in the 2027 governorship race. He pointed out that he has never held elective office, which, in his view, shields him from accusations of mismanaging public funds.
He blamed the state’s poverty, joblessness and developmental lag on corruption and poor governance, even though Akwa Ibom receives substantial federal allocations.
“I am coming to salvage Akwa Ibom people from poverty, inequality and development deficit.”
John James Akpanudoedehe
Regarding his political standing under the ADC, Akpanudoedehe noted that he played a pivotal role in building APC structures in the state, which later became the ruling party. He also dismissed the allegation that he once served as a motor park chairman, labelling it false and politically motivated.
He concluded by promising that his administration would be the most progressive in Akwa Ibom’s history and reiterated that he is not seeking office to enrich himself.
“I have never been a motor park chairman. That is propaganda from mischief makers,” he said.
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