Gov. Eno Willing to Waive Immunity for Probe Amid Allegations Against Predecessor

 

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has expressed his willingness to relinquish the immunity granted to him by the constitution in order to cooperate with anti-graft agencies if needed.

His comments come after an anonymous group within the All Progressives Congress (APC) called for an investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) into the financial records of Akwa Ibom State during the tenure of former Governor Udom Emmanuel, who governed the state from 2015 to 2023.

In response to the call, Governor Eno, who succeeded Emmanuel, said he was ready to face any scrutiny, even if it meant waiving his immunity.

Speaking in an interview in Uyo, the state capital, Governor Eno addressed recent political developments, including rumors about his possible defection to the APC. He emphasized that his focus was on running a transparent administration committed to accountability, due process, and the welfare of the people.

He expressed disappointment in critics who have targeted past political leaders in the state, including Obong Victor Attah (1999-2007), Chief Godswill Akpabio (2007-2015), and his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel. Governor Eno suggested that the recent efforts to stir conflict within the state were aimed at damaging his relationship with key national leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Emmanuel.

Since taking office in May 2023, Eno has worked to establish a bipartisan relationship with the federal government, which he says has brought significant socio-economic benefits to Akwa Ibom. He called on those seeking to create division within the state to reconsider their actions, emphasizing that Akwa Ibom’s progress depends on unity.

He also cautioned against using political differences to insult leaders, highlighting that Akpabio, despite party affiliations, remained a son of the state. “We must continue to support him and encourage him to do more for Akwa Ibom,” Eno said. He added, “The idea of living by ‘an eye for an eye’ will only lead to collective blindness.”

Eno reaffirmed that no political maneuvering would force him into running an administration marked by constant conflict with other leaders. He stressed that Akwa Ibom would not be left isolated under his watch.

The governor also dismissed rumors that he was planning to switch political allegiance from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC. He dismissed the idea as a “non-issue,” emphasizing that his commitment was to serve Akwa Ibom and support Senate President Akpabio, who he described as a proud son of the state.

On the rumors regarding tensions with Udom Emmanuel due to Emmanuel’s good relationship with the Senate President, Eno rejected the claims, stating that the former governor had never raised such issues with him. He emphasized that respecting and supporting past leaders was crucial for the state’s progress.

Regarding the EFCC and ICPC petition, Eno defended Emmanuel, saying the former governor had worked diligently to improve the state and had invested in projects that would benefit the people for years to come. He particularly pointed to the new airport terminal and the MRO facility as examples of Emmanuel’s lasting contributions.

Governor Eno also lamented the tradition of targeting former governors for investigation, recalling that Obong Attah and Chief Akpabio faced similar scrutiny after leaving office. He questioned why former leaders were so often subjected to public humiliation and called for a change in this pattern.

In response to accusations of corruption among politicians, Eno rejected the idea of amassing wealth for personal gain, saying that such behavior did not align with his values. “A good name is better than gold,” he stated, adding that he had taught his children the importance of integrity and leaving behind a legacy of honor.

Eno concluded by reiterating his readiness to cooperate with any investigations if necessary, confirming his commitment to running a transparent and accountable government.