The Niger Delta Affairs Minister, Senator Godswill Akpabio, yesterday declared his intention to contest the 2023 presidential election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Akpabio’s declaration attracted a mammoth crowd of supporters from within and outside the state to the Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium, Akwa Ibom State, venue of the declaration.
He said Nigeria would not disintegrate under his presidency, as he would unify all sections of the country and restore Nigeria’s dignity among the comity of nations.
Akpabio said: “You have heard a lot of declaration, but this one is uncommon. It is a message of hope, positive continuity and of the Egyptians you see today, you will see no more
“It is a message of restoration, of your dignity, respect in the ECOWAS region and beyond.
“I am determined not to let our nation sink, but drink from the deep well of experience I have from service.
I seek your nomination to become your president in 2023.”
The former minority leader and senator representing Akwa Ibom North West senatorial district in the National Assembly hailed President Muhammadu Buhari for the opportunity to serve as Minister of the Niger Delta Affairs.
“I thank the President for the opportunity given me to make great advances beyond Akwa Ibom State.
“The President is fighting corruption the way I like corruption to be fought,” he said.
A group, Northern Youths Forum, had bought and presented the presidential nomination form during the occasion to Senator Akpabio.
However, the occasion was not without some surprises, as a PDP group displayed a banner at the Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium declaring support for the presidential aspiration of Senator Akpabio.