…kicks against politics of ‘compensation, handouts’
By Ekanem Iniko
A Federal House of Representatives aspirant for Uyo Federal Constituency has faulted what he described as “rewarding mediocrity in the name of political settlement,” insisting that the 2027 elections must shift focus from endorsements to measurable results.
In a press statement issued in Uyo on Monday, Ikakke Bassey noted that public office should not be treated as compensation for loyalty.
“We must stop rewarding mediocrity in the name of political settlement. Public office is not a gift for loyalty—it is a responsibility to the people. You cannot carry the mandate of an entire constituency and reduce it to compensation for political alignment. That is one of the root causes of our governance failure,” Bassey declared.
With campaigns for the 2027 polls gathering momentum, the aspirant posed direct questions to current office seekers.
“As we approach the 2027 elections, a fundamental question must be asked: What are those seeking to represent Uyo Federal Constituency actually offering?”
“While some are campaigning on ‘the Governor wants me back,’ I am asking: Where do the people come in? What have they done to earn another chance? What will they do differently? What measurable impact can they point to?”
He maintained that representation must be earned, not inherited. “Leadership is not inheritance. Representation is not entitlement.”
Bassey acknowledged the work of a few federal lawmakers from Akwa Ibom but argued that the standard remains too low.
“I acknowledge and respect the contributions of a few Federal House representatives in Akwa Ibom State who have done remarkably well for their people. And that’s just a drop of water in an ocean. But beyond them, the conversation must shift from personalities to performance, from endorsements to ideas, and from loyalty to results.
“Uyo Federal Constituency cannot continue with business as usual. The people are ready. The youths are ready. The moment demands a new direction.”
He said his campaign rests on “clear, actionable pillars” built around economic productivity.
“That is why I have built my campaign on clear, actionable pillars—focused on Jobs, Skills, Enterprise, and Results. I am not just speaking—I am engaging communities ward by ward, explaining how we will create opportunities, how we will measure progress, and how we will build a future that works for everyone.”
Outlining his vision for the constituency, Bassey stated: “I envision a constituency where: – Young people are equipped with globally competitive skills and access to high-paying opportunities
– Entrepreneurs are supported to build sustainable businesses
– Women have strong, respected voices across all sectors of the economy
– Our daughters are valued for their intellect, skills, and leadership
– Our elderly have access to healthcare that is affordable, accessible, and dignified”
He warned against dependency politics, linking it to stunted growth.
“We must raise a generation of youths who become captains of industry—not dependents of political handouts. Because let’s be honest: handout politics is not empowerment—it is entrapment. It weakens productivity, kills ambition, and sets us decades behind.”
“The future of Uyo Federal Constituency cannot be built on dependency. It must be built on capacity, opportunity, and measurable results.”
Addressing constituents directly, the aspirant made a final appeal for mandate: “Dear people of Uyo Federal Constituency, this is our moment to choose substance over sentiment, vision over convenience, and progress over ‘handouts politics’.
Trust me with your mandate. I will work, I will deliver, and I will be accountable. Together, we will build the future we deserve. So help me God”.
