*By: Eloi Ideba Enya, PhD*
For months, the political space has been awash with speculations about the balance of power, party dominance and political allegiance in Imabana, Abi Local Government Area. Much of the commentary, however, has rested on unverified predictions rather than demonstrable realities.
On Sunday, October 11, 2026, Chief Egbala Bassey, Executive Chairman of Abi Local Government Council, offered a glimpse into the political mood of his home town, Imabana I.
What began as a private consultation visit by the APC candidate for Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. John Gaul Lebo, Esq., to the women of Imabana quickly evolved into an impressive show of solidarity at the Chairman’s residence in Imabana I.
The spontaneous turnout conveyed a powerful message. The women openly expressed their pride in their son, Chief Egbala Bassey, affirming their confidence in his leadership and their willingness to stand by him.
Beyond the warmth of the reception, the gathering offered a glimpse of the grassroots sentiment that political predictions often overlook. It was a reminder that genuine followership is better measured by the people’s response than by the loudest voices in the public space.
Perhaps this was only a preliminary exercise, a microphone test ahead of a much larger political performance.
In Imabana, the big masquerade has stepped out, and the political atmosphere may never be quite the same.