Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has made a striking personal revelation about his rise to power, admitting that politics was never part of his original life plan.
According to him, his emergence as governor was not a personal ambition but a path shaped by divine intervention and the influence of his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel.
Speaking during his third anniversary media briefing in Uyo, Eno painted a picture of a journey he described as unexpected, but deeply guided.
“God Put Me In Udom Emmanuel’s Heart” — Eno Opens Up
In a moment that quickly drew political attention, Governor Eno credited former Governor Udom Emmanuel for playing a decisive role in his political rise.
He said Emmanuel did not just support him — he “stood by him completely” and ensured his emergence against all odds during the 2023 governorship election.
According to Eno: “Politics was not my career path, but God put me in the heart of Udom Emmanuel; he did all for me.”
The governor’s comments have reignited conversations about political godfatherism in Nigerian politics, especially in Akwa Ibom State where influence and loyalty often shape succession battles.
“I Won’t Speak Against Past Leaders”
Governor Eno used the opportunity to distance himself from what he described as the growing trend of attacking past political leaders once in office.
He stressed that no matter the political narratives circulating around him, he would not speak negatively about Udom Emmanuel or any former governor of the state.
According to him, gratitude and loyalty remain core values he refuses to abandon, even in the rough terrain of politics.
“There are certain things I can’t do,” he said, hinting at the ethical boundaries he sets for himself in governance.
His remarks were widely interpreted as a subtle response to claims that his relationship with his predecessor had become strained since assuming office.
“In My Next World, I Want To Be A Politician Who Tells Lies”
In a surprisingly candid and controversial remark, Eno joked about the nature of politics itself.
“In my next world, I will like to be a politician so that I will be able to be telling you lies,” he said.
The statement drew mixed reactions, as it appeared to reflect frustration with political expectations, communication pressure, and public scrutiny.
Project Accountability: Warning To Contractors
Beyond political commentary, the governor also addressed governance issues, particularly project delivery across the state.
He warned that his administration would not tolerate abandoned or slow-moving projects, stating clearly that public funds must produce visible results.
Eno said underperforming contractors could face sanctions, including possible termination of contracts.
He also highlighted ongoing infrastructure efforts, including:
- Dualisation of Ring Road III
- Reconstruction of Ikot Akpaden–Iko Road with bridges
- Multiple strategic road projects across the state
According to him, infrastructure development remains central to improving economic activity and community connectivity in Akwa Ibom.
Uyo Roads, Potholes And Public Monitoring
In a move aimed at transparency, Governor Eno announced plans to set up a monitoring committee to track road conditions within Uyo metropolis.
The committee, he said, would include journalists, civil society groups, and other stakeholders tasked with identifying potholes and failed road sections.
Their reports will be submitted directly to the government for quick intervention.
Power Supply: “Be Patient With Us”
On electricity challenges, the governor appealed for patience from residents, acknowledging ongoing difficulties in power supply across the state.
He explained that structural and technical issues must be resolved before stable electricity can be achieved.a
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Eno assured that his administration is working within the right frameworks to improve energy supply and strengthen infrastructure in the long term.
Governance, Loyalty, And The Politics Of Gratitude
Governor Umo Eno’s remarks go beyond routine governance updates — they open a deeper conversation about loyalty, mentorship, and political survival in Nigeria.
In a system often defined by shifting alliances and political rivalry, Eno’s public acknowledgment of Udom Emmanuel stands out as a rare moment of open gratitude.
But it also raises a broader question: In Nigerian politics, how long does loyalty truly last once power changes hands?
For now, the Akwa Ibom governor insists his focus remains simple — delivering “the dividends of democracy” to the people who elected him.