Labour Party governorship candidate in Akwa Ibom State, Michael Bush, and his wife, Jaunty, have welcomed a new baby girl. The announcement was made by Ms Bush on Wednesday, which marked Akwa Ibom State's 39th anniversary. In a Facebook post, Ms Bush expressed gratitude and joy, using an Ibibio expression, "Abasiodiong Akwaabasi Ibom State," meaning "God bless Akwa Ibom State."
The post attracted congratulatory messages from Facebook users, including Mr Bush. He expressed appreciation for his wife's patience and love in growing their family. Mr Bush also shared a photograph of himself and his wife, taken before the delivery, showing her with a baby bump. The couple's joy was palpable as they shared the news with their friends and supporters on social media.
According to Mr Bush, the baby is their third daughter. He made this disclosure in a separate Facebook post, where he also appreciated his wife for being a supportive partner. The Labour Party candidate has been active on social media, using the platforms to engage with his supporters and share his vision for Akwa Ibom State.
Mr Bush is a broadcaster and media entrepreneur with over three decades of experience in the industry. He is the managing director and chief executive officer of Bush House Nigeria, a media production outfit. His emergence as the Labour Party's governorship candidate for the 2027 election in Akwa Ibom State followed his victory in the party's governorship primary in May 2026.
Before joining the Labour Party, Mr Bush was a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and served as an aide to former Governor Udom Emmanuel. He was also considered a political ally of Governor Umo Eno before their relationship deteriorated following Mr Eno's defection from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress.
In November 2025, Mr Bush publicly accused Mr Eno of deceiving Akwa Ibom people with his "Akwa Ibom United" message and demanded an apology. This criticism came amid political tensions following Mr Eno's defection to the APC. Mr Bush later left the PDP and joined the Labour Party, securing the party's ticket for the 2027 governorship election.
In his 39th anniversary message to Akwa Ibom people, Mr Bush called for a general stock-taking to determine how residents, especially the ordinary people, have fared in the 39 years since state creation. He vowed that his administration would spread prosperity and happiness when elected governor, promising to break the state free from godfatherism.
Key points
- Michael Bush, Labour Party governorship candidate, and his wife welcome a new baby girl.
- The baby is the couple's third daughter.
- Mr Bush has been active in politics, previously serving as an aide to former Governor Udom Emmanuel.
