By UBONG EKEFRE
At the worship service marking the dedication of the APC campaign structure in Akwa Ibom State on 1st November, Archbishop Emma Isong, Vice President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, shared an interesting childhood experience about a masquerade known as Ekpo Ntokeyen.
He recalled how, as young boys, they paraded their beautifully adorned masquerade, armed with whips and canes, believing it represented the height of the masquerade tradition. For me, it was a journey back to my boyhood days in the village, so I can relate, and undoubtedly, the Chief Press Secretary, Ekerete Udo shares similar memories.
Until they encountered the big masquerades!
Those bigger masquerades were different in stature, appearance, authority, and presence. They carried spears, arrows, and machetes, commanding an awe that their little masquerade could never inspire. It was a startling revelation that there were different levels of power and presence.
Archbishop Isong drew a parallel with the biblical account of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore the Promised Land. However, beyond the spiritual lesson, I find his story a fitting metaphor for the political significance of the personalities assembled in the APC Campaign Council.
In the political village square, not all masquerades command equal influence, experience, network, or political weight. Some are influential within their immediate surroundings, while others possess the stature and capacity to change the complexion of an entire political gathering.
The emergence of the APC Campaign Council represents such a convergence of political heavyweights and established actors.
Among the notable personalities are Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Grand Patron; Chief Assam Assam- Obong Afe Eka Ekpo; Prince Godwin Ndukude; Prince Enobong Uwah, Secretariat Manager; Engr. Uwem Okoko, President General of Arise with Renewed Hope Initiative; Barr. Emmanuel Enoidem; and Barr. Uwemedimo Nwoko of Ika.
Across the 329 political wards, the council also brings together influential political figures whose presence commands attention. Who would overlook Obong Nsima Ekere in Edemaya Clan, Prof. Eno Ibanga in Mkpat Enin, Frank Archibong in Eket, Emmanuel Ukpong-Udo in Ikono, or Aniekan Umana in Abak?
Indeed, it is a roll call of political titans, bringing together experience, influence and political pedigree under one formidable structure.
The big masquerades have assembled in the village square, and their presence will certainly change the character of the political contest.
I am proud to be a cheerleader for the big masquerades!
Vote PBAT !
Vote Umo Eno !!
Vote Godswill Akpabio !!!
Vote APC !!!!
