Labour Party condemns harassment of State lawmakers by A’Ibom Govt House security
…warns against attack on democracy
PRESS RELEASE
May 3, 2026
Harassment of Members of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly By Security Personnel Attached To The Executive Arm: An Attack On Our Democracy
The Labour Party in Akwa Ibom State strongly condemns the reported acts of intimidation and harassment yesterday, 2nd June, 2026, directed at Honourable Members of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly by the security personnel attached to the Government House, ostensibly on the orders of officials of the Executive Arm of the state Government. They were on their way to the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs; temporary venue for their sittings which is located within the Government House premises, when the ugly incident occured.
Such actions undermine the constitutional principle of separation of powers and erode public trust in democratic institutions. The legislature must be allowed to function without fear, coercion, or external interference.
This incident has further exposed an attempt by external forces to cause division in the state legislature judging from the conflicting statements on the matter: one by the Chairman, House Committee on Information; Hon Jerry Otu and a counter statement same day by the House Leader; Rt. Hon. Otobong Bob.
It is also pertinent at this juncture for Akwa Ibom people to question the progress of the ongoing renovation works at the State Assembly Complex, Udoudoma Avenue, Uyo, and to demand its immediate completion in order to accord the lawmakers un-teleguided environment to prosecute their legislative functions.
Our democracy rests on the independence of the three Arms of government. When the executive Arm resorts to harassment and threats against lawmakers, it violates Section 4 of the 1999 Constitution which vests legislative authority in the House of Assembly.
The Labour Party notes with concern that intimidation of legislators creates a chilling effect on robust debate and oversight. It discourages lawmakers from raising issues of public importance, from questioning budgetary allocations, and from defending the interests of their constituencies. A House of Assembly that operates under duress or fear cannot deliver good governance, transparency, or justice.
We therefore call on the Governor and all officials of the Executive Arm to immediately cease all forms of harassment and respect the autonomy of the House of Assembly. We urge the leadership of the Assembly to uphold its rules, protect its members, and resist any attempt to compromise its independence. Civil society, the media, and the people of Akwa Ibom must rise, remain vigilant and speak out against actions that threaten democratic norms.
The Labour Party remains committed to defending democratic institutions and the rule of law in Akwa Ibom State. We stand in solidarity with the Honourable Members of the House of Assembly and will continue to advocate for a government where each Arm operates within its constitutional limits. Harassment has no place in a democracy, and we will not be silent while it persists.
Signed:
Comrade Ime Silas
State Publicity Secretary
Labour Party, Akwa Ibom State
