Nelson Utip
Michael Bush , a renowned Journalist who has declared preparedness to fly the flag of The People’s Democratic Party, PDP in the forthcoming gubernatorial election in Akwa Ibom State has raised an alarm over what he claims to be intimidation by The ruling All Progressives Congress, APC in the state.
Bush through his Campaign Organization Spokesperson, Namso Akpan said that a radio programme that was to feature him was cancelled at the last minute “ due to power from above “ . He sees this as intimidation of the opposition.
In a letter of protest tagged: “Condemnation of Political Intimidation and Suppression of Democratic Engagement Ahead of the 2027 Akwa Ibom Governorship Election,” the Spokesperson strongly condemned the action, describing it as a dictatorship that is antithetical to plural democracy.
“We strongly condemn the disturbing and undemocratic cancellation of a scheduled live radio programme involving governorship hopeful, Michael BUSH, on Comfort 95.1 FM.
“Something really, really, really comically unfortunate happened over the weekend when, with just 20 minutes to airtime, Comfort 95.1 FM, Uyo, cancelled a two-hour live session that had been fully paid for over a week in advance.
“Throughout that period, the station repeatedly aired promotional announcements to mobilize listeners and supporters for the programme.
The botched interview was to offer Bush the ample opportunity to present his manifesto to the Akwa Ibom State people.
“Sadly, what should have been a healthy democratic engagement appears to have been abruptly halted under pressure from political interests threatened by alternative ideas and rising competition ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial election.
“This development raises serious concerns about freedom of expression, political fairness, and the shrinking democratic space in Akwa Ibom State. Democracy thrives when citizens are free to hear different voices, compare ideas, and make informed choices without interference, intimidation, or coercion.
“It is unacceptable for media platforms to become instruments of political suppression. The intimidation of opposition voices, candidates, or their supporters undermines the integrity of the democratic process and sends a dangerous signal to citizens who believe in fairness, accountability, and equal participation.
“It is satanic to seek to create fear to gain advantage — no matter what office you hold.
“We therefore call on all relevant authorities, security agencies, media regulators, civil society groups, and democratic institutions to immediately desist from any form of intimidation, harassment, or suppression of political candidates and their supporters ahead of the 2027 Governorship Election in Akwa Ibom State.
“We also urge media houses across the state to remain courageous, professional, and committed to the principles of free speech, fairness, and equal access for all political actors, regardless of affiliation.
“Those who allow themselves to be intimidated by political power should ensure that the intimidation ends with them. Akwa Ibom State belongs to all of us equally. There is no superior or inferior citizen.
“The people of Akwa Ibom deserve a peaceful, open, and competitive democratic environment where ideas — not intimidation — determine leadership,” The letter read.
