The Governor of Akwa-Ibom State, Umo Eno, has said that he can’t support President Bola Tinubu in the dark.
“I’m convinced that President Tinubu is doing very well. While I appreciate the PDP for providing the platform for me to become governor, the constitution provides the liberty to switch parties if one decides.
“I couldn’t say I’m in one party during the day and then go to Aso Rock at night to pledge my loyalty. It’s best to let people know where I stand. When comparing President Tinubu with others, I naturally prefer him,” he said.
Meanwhile, Eno has warned the new chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Traditional Rulers Council, HRM Sylvester Saviour Udofia, to remain apolitical.
Eno gave the charge during Udofia’s swearing-in ceremony. He wanted him to avoid contesting political structures with his administration.
Eno administered the oath of office on Udofia, the Paramount Ruler of Abak Local Government, at the Chambers of the Akwa Ibom State Council of Traditional Rulers in Uyo, as part of activities marking the 38th anniversary of the state’s creation.
The governor said, “I pray, hope and trust you will bring the same cooperation we received from the outgone Chairman and even increase our capacity to work together for the unity of this great state.
“You will work with government. I hope you will not attend one meeting in the day and entertain another at night. I hope you will not seek to own structures that the governor should be owning. It is on that belief I swear you in.”
Earlier, HRM Okuibom Ibibio III, Nteyin Solomon Etuk, President General of the Supreme Council of Akwa Ibom State Traditional Rulers, and HRM Odidem Bassey Etim Edet, the immediate past Chairman of the Council, commended Governor Eno for the support extended to the traditional institution.
They also pledged the monarchs’ continued support for the administration’s efforts to advance the state.