Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has launched what appears to be an early offensive in his re-election campaign, questioning the credentials of opposition figures eyeing the governorship seat in 2027. During a media chat on Saturday marking his third anniversary in Uyo, the governor asserted that some of his potential challengers reside in rented apartments yet aspire to lead the oil-rich state. Eno did not name any specific politician or aspirant.
Growing Political Activities
The governor's comments come as political maneuvering intensifies ahead of the 2027 general elections, with opposition politicians and stakeholders positioning themselves for the next electoral cycle. Eno emphasized that critics often underestimate the complexities of governance until they assume office.
“My dear brothers and sisters, if you’re not a governor, you’re not a governor. That’s the truth. It’s sweet to stay outside to want… So if I were a governor, I would do this,” he said. “When you come in as a governor, forget about the siren, area boys, and female youths. Leave all those things and become a governor and notice how you’ll feel.”
Criticism of Recycled Politicians
The governor also dismissed what he termed attempts by “recycled politicians” to present themselves as alternatives to his administration. “When I see recycled politicians coming back to tell me stories, I look at them and say, ‘You had the opportunity; show me one thing you did,'” he stated. “We’re going on a campaign. I’d like to debate with them; let them tell me what they did.”
Eno intensified his criticism by questioning the personal achievements of some aspirants. “Some of them don’t have a house. They live in a rented apartment and want to become governors. Is that how it works?” he asked. “They should tell me what they’ve done in life that succeeded. Anything they laid their hands on died,” he added without providing specifics. “And you want me to hand over the state treasury to you. Akwa Ibom, we’ve gone past that level. They should stop deceiving people.”
Political Background
Eno was elected governor in 2023 under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), succeeding former Governor Udom Emmanuel. In a significant political shift, he defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2025, reshaping Akwa Ibom’s political landscape and sparking intense debate. Since joining the APC, Eno has consistently defended his administration’s record and urged residents to judge his government based on performance.
Supporters argue that his administration has achieved notable progress in infrastructure, education, health, and rural development. However, opposition figures accuse the government of failing to address key governance challenges despite receiving trillions of naira in revenue. With formal campaigns for the 2027 governorship election still months away, Eno’s latest remarks signal that political contestation in Akwa Ibom is already gaining momentum.
