Politics Not My Career, But Udom Emmanuel Brought Me In — Gov Eno
MOUTHPIECE NGR reports that Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno on Saturday said politics was not his chosen career but that God used his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel, to bring him into public office.
He spoke during his third anniversary media briefing at the Government House Banquet Hall in Uyo, amid speculation of a rift with Emmanuel, widely seen as his political godfather.
According to him, “Politics was not my career path, but God put me in the heart of Udom Emmanuel; he did all for me.
He said: “I will not join you people to say anything about past leaders in the state. Maybe I’m not a good politician, but there are certain things I can’t do.”
“In my next world, I will like to be a politician so that I will be able to be telling you lies. But we are trying as a government to bring the dividends of democracy to our people,” he added.
The governor said he would not speak ill of Emmanuel or other past leaders, stressing that loyalty and gratitude were values he would not abandon because of politics. His remarks appeared to address claims that his bond with Emmanuel had weakened since he assumed office.
On project delivery, Eno warned that his administration would not allow public funds to be wasted on non-performing contracts.
He said the government would review stalled projects and could terminate contracts where necessary, while listing ongoing works including the dualisation of Ring Road III and the reconstruction of the Ikot Akpaden–Iko Road with bridges.
To tackle bad roads in Uyo, Eno said he would set up a committee of journalists, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to monitor potholes and failed sections for government action.
On electricity, the governor appealed for patience, saying the government was working within required frameworks to improve supply. He cited “fundamental and implementation issues” that must be resolved before steady power can be achieved.
Eno however said his administration remains committed to delivering quality infrastructure and bringing the dividends of democracy to Akwa Ibom residents.