Diaspora group raises N22m for Ekpeyong nomination form

As momentum builds ahead of the 2027 general elections, beneficiaries of the scholarship initiatives of the senator representing Cross River South Senatorial District, Asuquo Ekpeyong, under the platform known as “Scholars in Diaspora” have raised N22.1m to purchase expression of interest and nomination forms for the senator’s re-election bid.

The scholars, who are indigenes of Cross River South Senatorial District resident in Coventry, West Midlands, and across the United Kingdom, voluntarily mobilised contributions among themselves, raising a total sum of N22.1m with additional donations still ongoing.

In a statement on Monday, Offiong Bassey of the University of Leicester said the gesture was a reflection of Ekpeyong’s impact on their lives.

“The senator often says he is a product of quality education, and he made a deliberate decision to extend that opportunity to people like us.

“Today, we are saying thank you not just with words, but with action. We are committed to paying it forward and ensuring that others experience the same support he has shown us,” Bassey said.

On her part, Alice Oyo Ita of Coventry University described the initiative as a demonstration of gratitude and continuity.

“What we are doing today is a reflection of impact. Senator Asuquo Ekpeyong has invested in our education, believed in our future, and changed our stories,” she said.

She added that the gesture was a way of showing appreciation and gratitude to him for his far-reaching legacy and lasting impact on their lives, having benefited from his scholarship initiatives.

“This gesture is our way of expressing gratitude and continuing that legacy by reaching out to others, just as he reached out to us,” she added.

The group noted that out of the amount raised, N20m was earmarked for the purchase of the senator’s nomination form, while the remaining funds, including additional contributions being received, would be invested in educational support for vulnerable children.

“The intervention will focus on the provision of learning materials such as writing supplies, school bags, and exercise books,” the group said.

The initiative, according to the group, is a continuation of its longstanding commitment to education.

Before the event, members had consistently supported educational causes, including the distribution of learning materials and financial assistance for underprivileged students.

In his remarks, Ekpeyong expressed gratitude to the group, commended them for the show of appreciation and solidarity, and reaffirmed his commitment to education, youth development, and service to the people of Cross River South.

”I want to express deep gratitude to you all for the show of appreciation and solidarity. I hereby reaffirm my unwavering commitment to education, youth development, and service to the people of Cross River South,” he stated.

The highlight of the event was a live call session with Ekpeyong during which the group presented a symbolic cheque to him.