2027: Akwaibom to monarchs-Mobilize subjects for Voter Registration

 

 

2027: Akwa Ibom to monarchs — Mobilise subjects for voter registration

 

The Akwa Ibom State Government has called on traditional rulers to mobilise their subjects for the ongoing voter registration exercise ahead of the 2027 general elections.

 

Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mkpisong Frank Archibong, made the appeal during a visit to the Akwa Ibom State Traditional Rulers Council in Uyo.

 

Archibong said low turnout at registration centres was worrisome and urged monarchs, as custodians of culture and respected voices in society, to take the lead in encouraging their people to register.

 

“The turnout so far is discouraging. Our royal fathers must rise to the task of mobilising eligible voters in their domains. This is the only way we can build a truly representative democracy,” he said.

 

The Commissioner commended the monarchs for their support to Governor Umo Eno’s administration, noting that their cooperation had contributed to the peace and stability in the state.

 

According to him, voter registration is critical to Akwa Ibom’s political and economic future.

“Numbers matter in a democracy. If our people fail to register, we will lose the strength that comes with collective participation,” Archibong stressed.

 

He also urged the monarchs to help curb the abuse of culture and tradition by individuals who exploit it for anti-social activities, citing the case of a masquerade assaulting a citizen and the growing trend of online insults targeted at leaders.

 

“Government will not fold its arms while culture is weaponised against the people. Tradition should unite, not divide us,” he warned.

 

Archibong further appealed to the royal fathers to support preparations for the state’s anniversary celebration on September 23, describing the event as a tribute to their role as custodians of history and heritage.

 

He reaffirmed that the Umo Eno administration places a high premium on the traditional institution and expects it to remain a strong partner in consolidating the gains of development.