The Ibibio Vanguard, a prominent socio-political organization in Akwa Ibom State, has strongly asserted that the Ibibio nation retains its indisputable position as the premier ethnic group in the state, emphasizing that no individual or authority can rewrite the documented history and heritage of the Ibibio people.
The group was reacting to recent public remarks made by the State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, who declared that all ethnic groups in Akwa Ibom State are equal and that no single group holds superiority over another.
Addressing journalists on behalf of the group, the National Secretary of Ibibio Vanguard, Comrade Silas Udom, described the Governor’s statement as a subtle attempt to dilute the historical standing of the Ibibio nation as the foundational majority and “first child” of the state.
“We read with deep concern the recent remarks by His Excellency, Governor Umo Eno, asserting that all ethnic groups in Akwa Ibom State are completely equal with no group superior to another,” Udom stated. “While we support harmony and peaceful coexistence among all ethnicities, such statements must not be used as a political tool to erase historical truth. The Ibibio nation is, and remains, the first among equals in Akwa Ibom State.”
Udom emphasized that acknowledging the distinct historical and numerical position of the Ibibio ethnic group does not translate to discrimination against other groups, but rather respects the historical narrative upon which the state was founded.
“The Ibibio nation is historically the majority ethnic group and the bedrock upon which the identity and creation of Akwa Ibom State rest,” Udom continued. “Recognizing our place as the ‘first child’ does not diminish our brothers and sisters in the Annang, Oron, or other ethnic groups within the state. However, attempting to flatten our heritage under the guise of political equality is an unacceptable compromise. Nobody, no matter how highly placed, can rewrite the history of the Ibibio tribe.”
The Vanguard called on the state government to focus on governance and inclusive development that reflects equity, justice, and respect for historical realities, rather than making declarations that alter the established socio-cultural tapestry of Akwa Ibom State.
