Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom has named the state commissioner for Lands and Water Resources, Umo Eno, as his preferred aspirant to succeed him in office.
Mr Eno was presented to some members of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Sunday evening in Uyo by Mr Emmanuel who will complete his second tenure next year.
Fielding questions from newsmen at the commissioning of Spectrum Television, the State’s first privately owned cable television station, operated by TAF Media Group on Monday, the governor said his choice was because of he meant well for the State.
He said God revealed the commissioner to him as someone who will consolidate on his achievements.
“Let me say this emphatically, I mean well for this State, that is why I waited for God to show me the man who would continue with the pace of developmental strides we have started in the last six plus years and then move the needle even further,” he said.
“Pastor Umo Eno is a highly respected person; he has enormous capacity, he is an epitome of humility, and is blessed with the common touch, a compelling story and he is God-fearing.
“He is a successful entrepreneur who has employed our people, lifted thousands from poverty to prosperity. He will be coming to the office of Governor with an economic blueprint that will further guarantee employment, development, and economic prosperity for our people.
“He is a man of peace and will ensure that the peace and security of life we have enjoyed in the last six plus years will be maintained. His life story resonates with the story of most ordinary Akwa Ibom people.
“He came from the Police barracks, where, as he said during his Thanksgiving Service last year, life was dreary and hope seemed a distant ingredient.
“Through hard work, he summoned hope and overcame his early difficulties and ended up as one the biggest employers of labour in our State. His story is a testament to our Dakkada philosophy; one that will inspire and motivate our youths,” he added.
Already, the governor’s choice has elicited mixed reactions across the state.
