Eno rejects claims of rift with predecessor and pledges continued cooperation

Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has rejected claims that he is at odds with his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel, saying political differences will not prevent them from maintaining a respectful relationship. Eno said unnamed individuals were trying to create division between the two men through falsehoods and unsubstantiated claims ahead of the 2027 general elections. He said he would continue to respect and work with Emmanuel, whom he described as his “political father”.

The governor spoke on Monday, September 21, 2026, while commissioning 14.8 kilometres of internal roads and spurs, together with 1.9 kilometres of discharge drains, in Awa, Onna Local Government Area. He said he had chosen to commission the project because it was in Emmanuel’s home community and represented a mark of honour and respect. Eno said the road project began under the previous administration and was completed by his government.

He added that 26 projects were at different stages of completion in Onna and promised that his administration would continue delivering projects there. Works Commissioner Eno Ibanga said the scheme covered 16 road sections intended to improve links between communities and farm settlements. He said the project also included drainage and other engineering works.

Onna council chairman Kufre Umoren praised the project and other interventions in healthcare, education and community support. Political and community leaders also commended the government’s development efforts, while Umoren called for continued support for Eno ahead of 2027.