Different kinds of people exist in this world, making it a very interesting place. Within Nigeria’s predecessor-must-go system of politics, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State is proving himself to be a jewel of a person. But that is only because his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel, is an excellent mentor and father figure to Eno.
Akwa Ibom continues to enjoy great peace and progress relative to its sisters. Since the emergence of Governor Eno in 2023, the state’s prospects have been reinforced by focused governance and informed strategies for sustainable all-round growth and development. Economists may try to take the glory, but much of this is due to the former governor’s wisdom, evidenced by his quiet presence in the state.
Eno has explained many times that Emmanuel is one of the main reasons for his current success as governor. Not only has the former governor not pressurized him in any way, but he has also provided means through which Eno would govern the state without the distractions of having to persecute his predecessor.
In reality, Emmanuel is doing more than Eno is giving him credit for. Understanding that two king tigers cannot remain on the same mountain, Emmanuel has tried to reduce his visibility to the barest minimum, becoming a hermit since leaving office in May 2023.
Unlike a certain former governor in North-central who is rumoured to still be in the government house while his successor, the incumbent governor, lives outside, Emmanuel respects Eno. Even now, there is not one mention of Eno setting up the former governor for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which is almost a rite of passage now for every former governor in Nigeria.
Both Emmanuel and Eno are model political figures. With respect in their hearts for others, it is not surprising that they are well-liked in Akwa Ibom and outside. And since Emmanuel does not stalk Eno, Akwa Ibom is more likely to grow into its motto as the Land of Promise during the latter’s tenure.
