“Akwa Ibom is bigger than any party” – Gov Eno addresses defection rumours

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has stated that political parties should never be a source of division among citizens, reaffirming his commitment to inclusive governance amid swirling rumours about a possible defection.

Speaking during a live interview on Comfort 95.1 FM in Uyo on Wednesday, Governor Eno stated that Akwa Ibom’s unity and progress must take precedence over partisan politics.

“Why can’t we be peaceful? Why must political parties separate us? Why must we have issues because my brother is in one party? No, we are all Akwa Ibomites first,” he declared.

The governor described political parties as “vehicles to attain power,” stressing that once elected, leaders must serve everyone regardless of their political affiliations.

“I see party as a vehicle to get to power — and when you get there, please begin to govern. Govern everyone, relate with everyone,” Eno said.

His remarks come at a time when speculations about his possible defection have sparked debates online and within political circles.

Dismissing any insinuations of disloyalty to his mandate, Eno made it clear that his priority is good governance, not political gamesmanship.

Addressing a recent controversy surrounding comments he made about Ibom Air, the governor clarified that his analogy was misinterpreted.

“I made an analogy and they said, ‘Oh, the man is demarketing Ibom Air’. That’s far from it. Ibom Air is the best airline,” he explained.

Eno further stressed that in governance, practical decisions must be made in the public interest.

“If Ibom Air has a technical fault and I have a crucial meeting in Abuja or Lagos, should I not take an alternative flight? That doesn’t mean I don’t support Ibom Air,” he said.

Governor Eno concluded by urging citizens to rise above political rivalries and work together for the common good of the state.