Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State says he has faced criticism for reaching out to political rivals who once opposed his rise to power.
Speaking on Sunday at a thanksgiving service in Uyo to launch activities marking the state’s 38th anniversary, Eno appealed to those displeased with his reconciliatory approach to forgive him or at least tolerate him until the end of his tenure.
“Many people are upset with me. They say, ‘Why greet those who fought you?’ But if we live by ‘an eye for an eye,’ we will all go blind,” he said. “We must put the past behind us and be magnanimous in victory, so that God’s glory and supremacy can be revealed. The Bible says the battles belong to the Lord; there is a time and season for everything.”
The governor urged Akwa Ibom people to rise above ethnic and political divisions, warning that lingering acrimony only undermines collective progress. “Forgive one another. Let’s work together for the good of our state. Every patriotic citizen and leader is important, and we will honour and respect them,” he added.
Eno also cautioned against endless political meetings aimed at controlling government structures, describing such efforts as counterproductive.
On the agitation for the creation of an Obolo State from Akwa Ibom, the governor vowed that the state would not be divided. “You will not have any other state apart from Akwa Ibom. Those trying to split this state will not succeed,” he declared.
Eno further asked for understanding from anyone who might feel offended by his actions. “If, in putting the interest of Akwa Ibom first, I have offended you, please forgive me. Tolerate me for a few more years until I leave office. Whoever becomes the next governor will take over, but as long as I’m here, I will always choose what is best for the state over individual interests,” he said.
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