…describes him as “Credible Alternative With No Political Baggage” for Akwa Ibom 2027
By Ekanem Iniko
The Labour Party in Akwa Ibom State has described its 2027 governorship candidate, Akparawa Michael Bush, as a credible alternative for the state, praising his integrity, media expertise and record of service as he clocks 55.
In a goodwill message released on Wednesday to mark the 55th birthday anniversary of the Ace Broadcaster and President-At-Large of Bush House Nigeria, the party noted that Akwa Ibom people deserve leadership that is tested in character and not in controversy.
The message was signed by the State Publicity Secretary of the party, Comrade Ime Silas, on behalf of the State Executive Committee.
“Today, we celebrate not just a birthday, but a movement,” the statement said, adding “Akparawa Michael Bush turns 55 with his head held high, his record unblemished, and his vision for Akwa Ibom, very clear”.
He represents a credible alternative with no political baggage, and that is exactly what our people have been asking for.”
According to the party, Bush’s journey from the newsroom to the boardroom and now to frontline politics, mirrors the aspirations of millions of Akwa Ibom youths who want opportunity without godfatherism.
“As Founder of Bush House Nigeria, one of the fastest growing media and communications outfits in the South-South, Akparawa Bush has created jobs, mentored young journalists, and used storytelling to project the Nigerian brand globally. That is the kind of problem-solving leadership we need in Government House, Uyo.”
The Labour Party noted that Bush’s entry into the 2027 governorship race has rekindled hope among workers, traders, students and professionals who feel disconnected from the old order of politics in the state.
“At 55, he comes with energy, ideas, and the discipline of a man who has built something from scratch,” Comrade Silas added.
“He is not a product of recycled political structures. He has no godfather to answer to and no skeletons in the closet. His only godfather is the people of Akwa Ibom State.”
The party highlighted three pillars of Bush’s emerging agenda: jobs through a digital and creative economy, accountable governance driven by transparency, and inclusive development that reaches riverine, rural and urban communities equally.
“Akwa Ibom has resources, talents and goodwill. What we have lacked is leadership that listens first and serves second,” the statement continued, adding further that: “Akparawa Bush understands communication. He understands branding. Most importantly, he understands people. That is why Labour Party members from Ikot Ekpene to Eket, from Oron to Itu are rallying behind him.”
The statement further urged members and supporters to use the celebration to intensify grassroots mobilization ahead of 2027.
“This birthday is a call to duty. Let us go from house to house, from village to village, and tell our people that there is another way. A way led by competence, not entitlement. A way led by Akparawa Michael Bush.”
The Labour Party also prayed for long life, wisdom and protection for the governorship candidate and his family.
“As he marks 55, we pray that God continue to order his steps and grant him the strength to lead the rescue and rebuild mission that Akwa Ibom urgently needs,” the statement concluded.
Happy 55th birthday, Akparawa Michael Bush. Akwa Ibom is ready for a new chapter.”
Michael Bush, who has pledged a better deal for Akwa Ibomites, is expected to unveil his full policy manifesto in the coming weeks as campaigns for the 2027 general elections begin to take shape across the state.
