Gov Eno Stirs Reactions: Why I Embrace Those Who Once Fought Me

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has revealed that some people are upset with him for reconciling and associating with individuals who once opposed him politically.

Speaking on Sunday during a Thanksgiving service in Uyo to kick off events marking the state’s 38th anniversary, Governor Eno urged critics to either forgive him or, at the very least, tolerate him until the end of his tenure, stressing that he cannot abandon his commitment to embracing every Akwa Ibom indigene.

He emphasized his desire to see Akwa Ibom remain united, vowing that those pushing for division in the guise of state creation would not succeed.

Governor Eno said:

“Many people are angry with me. They say, ‘Oh, you’re greeting those who fought you, those who stood against you.’ But if we live by ‘an eye for an eye,’ we will all soon go blind.

We must learn to put the past behind us and be magnanimous in victory. Everything that happened was only to show the supremacy and glory of God. The Bible makes it clear: the battle belongs to the Lord, not us. There’s a time and a season for everything under the sun.”

The governor cautioned against hatred and divisive politics, urging Akwa Ibomites to rise above ethnicity and personal grudges.

“Too many endless meetings, too much talk about controlling structures. The moment anyone starts struggling for control, they become a suspect. What exactly are we fighting for? Let’s forgive one another and work together for the common good of our state.”

He further prayed that political enmity would not extend to the next generation, adding that unity, peace, and collaboration are vital for Akwa Ibom’s progress.