Wike also needs PDP – Senatorial hopeful, Ekong Sampson, declares

Rt Hon. (Barr.) Ekong Sampson, a Senatorial hopeful on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for Akwa Ibom South, has called for an end to the wrangling between Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike and the PDP.

Wike alongside some party chieftains have since the conclusion of the PDP Presidential Primaries been clamouring for the resignation of the National Chairman of the Party, Sen. Iyorchia Ayu, basing their claim on the need for power sharing balance.

Ayu’s camp, however, claims that any alteration must follow the constitution of the PDP. The faceoff has caused a war of words and disquiet in the party.

Recently, Dr. Ekong Sampson, well known for his insightful perspectives on national issues, during an interview on XL16.9 FM, Uyo, called for a resolution of the lingering impasse. Dr. Sampson acknowledged the contributions of Governor Wike and others in the party.

He, however called for understanding and a sense of sacrifice so that the party can begin preparations in earnest to come out victorious in next year’s general polls.

He stated that in as much as the PDP needs Governor Nyesom Wike and other leaders, the Rivers State Governor also needs the PDP politically.

Dr Ekong Sampson has also offered perspectives on the issue of court cases against the PDP candidate in Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno.

He said that, as is normal in democracy, all the ‘missiles and tantrums’ thrown at him were only expected, adding that there was no way the voyage would have been a totally smooth sailing. He said that these showed that Umo Eno is formidable, strong and a star.

He noted that Pastor Umo Eno comes aboard with the message of soul searching, to reinvent the youths and rejuvenate in them, the Akwa Ibom spirit, which is that of resilience and hard work.

According to him, “Umo Eno is a man of content and experience. He has seen Nigeria. You know, he grew up in Lagos. He is passionate about humanity and youth development. He is ready to reinvent the youth and Akwa Ibom spirit, which is that of resilience.

“Umo Eno’s story gathers momentum because he is a star. And he’s properly prepared for this moment. The missiles and tantrums can only be expected. You can’t expect Messi or Ronaldo in the field, and you expect attackers not to run around them’.

Barr. Sampson congratulated Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel on his appointment as the Chairman, PDP Presidential Campaign Council. According to the Onomkpoinam Mkpat Enin, this showed that Akwa Ibom is firmly PDP, and that PDP would sweep the polls in Akwa Ibom State, come the 2023 general elections.