Akwa Ibom State’s governor, Umo Eno, has refuted claims of a conflict between himself and his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel.
Eno characterized these rumors as unfounded and deceptive, asserting that his switch to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has not affected his rapport with Emmanuel, whom he affectionately calls his ‘political father’.
The governor provided this clarification during the 55th Anniversary celebration of the Believers Assembly Evangelical Church of Nigeria in Uyo on Sunday.
“For those who believe that my party change signifies a rift with my political father, you are mistaken,” the Governor stated.
“I have no issues with Deacon Udom Emmanuel. He continues to be my political father. Just last week, I visited his residence in Lagos, and we enjoyed a wonderful time together.”
Eno urged the people of Akwa Ibom to dismiss the false narratives intended to foster division, emphasizing the necessity of peace and unity within the state.
“Our youth must recognize that leadership is a challenging endeavor. Let us uphold peace in our state and persist in advancing the progress we are experiencing. This is the only state we possess, and we must not permit outsiders to undermine it. We must safeguard it at all costs.”
While honoring the founder of the Believers Assembly Evangelical Church, Prelate Isaiah Isong, for his 55 years of ministerial service, Governor Eno praised the cleric for his steadfast support and prayers for the state.
“Through the spiritual leaders you guide, you have consistently uplifted the government in prayer. I am pleased that the government you prayed for is now in power. God has responded to your prayers,” he remarked, offering prayers for the cleric’s continued strength and longevity.
The event’s Chairman and Member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Unyime Idem, expressed gratitude to Prelate Isong and other religious leaders for their spiritual contributions to the peace and stability of the state, particularly during the 2023 elections that led to Governor Eno’s election.
In his earlier sermon entitled “Mind Your Business”, which is based on Philippians 2:12–16, Apostle Lawrence Achudeme, the Founder of Victory Life Bible Church (VLBC), encouraged Christians to concentrate on their own personal and spiritual development, refrain from interfering in the matters of others, and to avoid undermining others.
