Dr Pat Akpabio, the spouse of Nigerian politician Ibanga Akpabio, has formally declared her intention to run for the Akwa Ibom North West Senate seat in 2027, currently held by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
In a Facebook post that has generated significant political discussion, Dr Akpabio referred to herself as the “incoming distinguished Senator, Akwa Ibom North West, come 2027, whether they like it or not,” further stating that she considers herself “duly elected” ahead of time.
Her announcement, made over two years before the scheduled 2026 primaries, has already garnered attention due to her background as both an evangelist and a figure recently associated with African traditional religion consultations.
According to political analysts, her declaration is likely to spark conversations surrounding succession, religious identity in politics, and the increasing number of women seeking high-profile elective positions in Nigeria.
The Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District, often regarded as a political stronghold of the Akpabio family, is expected to be one of the most closely watched contests as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.
