In the midst of the political unrest in neighboring Rivers State, which has been characterized by a bitter battle between Governor Sim Fubara and his political mentor, Mr. Nyesom Wike, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has promised not to clash with Deacon Udom Emmanuel, his political godfather and immediate predecessor.
Speaking at an open church session at a special Christmas Day ceremony at the ex-governor of Onna Local Government Area’s hometown, the United Evangelical Church (UEC) in Awa Iman, Eno angrily denied rumors of a rupture with Emmanuel.
To be clear, since leaving office in May, my predecessor has never put any pressure on me. Conversely, we have been pressing him to come and offer advice,” said Eno.
“You will always be my governor and leader, even though you are no longer in office,” he continued, speaking directly to the outgoing governor. Your governance insights are priceless, and I’m determined to be your student.
Governor Eno promised to finish all unfinished projects started by Emmanuel, commencing with the multi-million naira International Christian Worship Center (ICWC), as a sign of his dedication. He promised that the mega-church will hold the State Interdenominational Service on January 2, 2024, and that it was almost finished.
“Every day, a pastor and their team will take turns to pray for the state and our country at the state’s sacred altar,” Eno said, emphasizing the significance of the center and outlining plans for its daily use.
In addition, he expressed gratitude to Deacon Emmanuel for his vision for the center and pledged to work toward finishing the remaining projects from the previous governor’s administration (2015–2023).
Mr. Emmanuel, his wife Dr. Martha, and other family members had earlier at the church praised Governor Eno for bringing state executive council members and other political figures to the ceremony.
In reply, Emmanuel emphasized how important it was to promote peace while he was in office and expressed satisfaction with the friendly connection he had with the State Governor. He emphasized the need of teamwork in order to advance the state and asked for patience and support for Governor Eno.
We’re getting along great. Governor Eno needs our unwavering prayers, but we also need to have patience. Emmanuel said, “The governor is for all of us, and he will definitely reach out to everyone. Without interfering with the operations of the current administration, he pledged continuing support and cooperation.