‘It’s the Beginning of a New Season,’ Gov Eno Sacks Akwa Ibom Cabinet Inherited from Predecessor

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has dismissed the entire cabinet inherited from his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel, signaling the start of a new season for the state’s governance. The decision comes 19 months after Governor Eno took office, as he seeks to refresh the leadership and begin a new chapter.

Former Governor Emmanuel had requested that his cabinet members remain in place to help stabilize Eno’s administration after his tenure ended on May 29, 2023. Reflecting on their contributions, Governor Eno praised the outgoing cabinet members for their roles in ensuring stability under his predecessor’s government.

During the valedictory State Executive Council (SEC) meeting held at the Exco Chambers of the Government House in Uyo, Governor Eno expressed gratitude to the commissioners, stating that their performance had helped the ARISE Agenda succeed. However, he emphasized that it was time to move forward into a new phase.

“If you were to be changed based on non-performance, I think none of the commissioners would go, because all of you have delivered, and that’s why the ARISE Agenda has succeeded. But we must come to the end of a season, start another season and keep moving,” Governor Eno remarked.

He also encouraged the outgoing cabinet members to continue being good ambassadors of the state, even after their tenure.

The governor is expected to soon submit a list of new commissioner nominees and special advisers to the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly for clearance, following consultations with the state’s elders, leaders, and stakeholders.