Three commissioners in Akwa Ibom State have resigned their appointments following Governor Umo Eno’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The departing officials include Engr. Eno Ibanga (Commissioner for Works), Ini Ememobong (Special Duties and Ibom Deepsea), and Emem Almond Bob (Finance).
The political realignment has created divisions in the state’s House of Assembly, where 15 of 26 lawmakers have chosen to remain with the PDP despite the governor’s move, while 11 members have followed him to the APC.
Governor Eno made his defection official on Friday during a ceremony at the Akwa Ibom Government House Banquet Hall in Uyo, witnessed by prominent APC leaders including Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma (Chairman of the APC Governors Forum), Cross River State Governor Prince Bassey Otu, and Unoma Ekaette Akpabio, wife of the Senate President.
After the declaration, Governor Eno proceeded to complete his APC registration formalities at his Obotim ward in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area.
Meanwhile, Comrade Ini Ememobong, one of the resigning commissioners, confirmed his departure in a resignation letter shared on his Facebook page and circulated to journalists in Uyo. Ememobong cited compliance with Governor Eno’s directive that appointees unwilling to join the APC should resign from their positions.
The statement reads in part, “Behold another bend. Today, I have tendered my resignation to the Governor in compliance with his directive that his appointees who are unwilling to join him on the political journey to the APC should resign.
“While I cannot question or fault the Governor’s personal decision, I am unable to join in that sojourn.
“My decision is borne out of my belief in politics with principles and my long-standing opposition to that political platform, which is daily validated by numerous Nigerians across many sectors.
“This decision does not affect my personal relationship with the Governor, who calls me his brother and reposed great confidence in me by saddling me with two very important ministries(Information and Special Duties & Ibom Deep Sea Port).
“I have and will continue to have tremendous respect for HE Governor Umo Eno, even out of EXCO.
“About my history in political and public service, I look back with great satisfaction at the work I have done and leave the ultimate judgement to history and posterity. Given another opportunity, I will do more.
“Let me convey the very sincere appreciation of my family to His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno for appointing me into his cabinet.
“Our very special appreciation goes to Mr. Udom Emmanuel, the immediate past Governor of Akwa Ibom State, for his enduring love and belief in me, especially for appointing me into the Executive Council during his administration.
“I understand this decision may not please everyone, and to those who are disappointed, I humbly seek your understanding.
“As usual, I do not know the future, but I know HE who holds the future and I trust that at the end, all things work together for good, to those who love the Lord and are the called unto HIS purpose.”
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