A group, Akwa Ibom League of Professionals, has expressed support for the governorship ambition of Senator Bassey Akpan.

It said his recent conviction was politically motivated to stop him from winning the 2023 election.

Speaking in Lagos, the group which comprises Akwa Ibom indigenes from different professions, said that they were solidly behind Senator Akpan.

They are optimistic that the Court of Appeal will vindicate him.

President of the group, Clement Obot, an engineer, said: “We are not deceived by the recent miscarriage of justice visited on our dear brother, Senator Akpan and we urge all Akwa Ibom indigenes also not to be deceived as the truth of evil plot will be revealed soon.

“We know that his trial and conviction were politically motivated to decapitate his political ambition and annihilate credible opposition that would deliver Akwa Ibomites from tyranny and bad leadership.

“Senator Bassey has distinguished himself as a selfless politician whose driving force is the welfare of his people and the prosperity of Akwa Ibom state.

“He is a worthy ambassador of our state and we are behind him at this moment of travails which we believe would soon pass.”

Secretary of the body, Imoh Ekwere, urged Akwa Ibom indigenes to go out en-mass and vote for Senator Akpan in the forthcoming election, saying he will be among the few politicians that won from prison.

He said: “Akwa Ibom indigenes should not be deceived by this development which is an attempt to silence the only hope of opposition to bad leadership and imposition in the state.

“Our people should not be deceived by this cleverly orchestrated judgement to entrench tyranny in Akwa Ibom.

“Senator Akpan represents hope for the future of Akwa Ibom and we urge our people not to be discouraged by this setback which will be set aside soon.

“We are hopeful that Senator Akpan will win the 2023 Akwa Ibom state governorship even if it has to be from prison.”

The Federal High Court sitting in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, sentenced Senator Akpan, for alleged money laundering, which he has appealed against. (The Nation)

Update news