Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno has cautioned politicians and their supporters against violence ahead of the 2027 general elections, declaring that no political ambition is worth the loss of human lives.
Speaking during his third anniversary address to the people of Akwa Ibom State on Friday, Umo Eno urged political actors to embrace issue-based campaigns and avoid divisive politics, name-calling, and character assassination.
“As the political season commences, I urge our people to play politics of ideas and not one of name-calling or character assassination. We have kept the peace in our State because no single life is worth shedding for anyone’s political ambition,” he said.
The governor stressed the need for peaceful coexistence during the electioneering period, noting that political contests are temporary but the unity and brotherhood among the people must endure.
“Politics, as I said in my inaugural address, will come and go but the spirit and bond of our brotherhood will remain unbroken by the temporary passion of partisan politics. Let us imbibe the spirit of genuine sportsmanship in the game of politics,” he stated.
Eno said his administration had remained committed to inclusive governance, maintaining that he had fulfilled his promise to govern all Akwa Ibom people without discrimination.
“I had promised you that I would be the Governor for all Akwaibomites and so far, I have by the Grace of God kept my word on that score. Today, our political slogan is Akwa Ibom United and as we go to the polls next year, we will remain united, secure in our belief that an injury to one is an injury to all,” he added.
The governor further described himself as a peacemaker who intends to leave office in 2031 with the same spirit of unity and reconciliation.
“I came as a peacemaker and I will leave, by the Grace of God leave office in 2031, as a peacemaker. I will continue to pastor Akwa Ibom State with the fear of God and the leading of the Holy Spirit. So help me God!” he declared.
Highlighting achievements recorded by his administration in sectors such as education, aviation, healthcare, and infrastructure, Eno thanked residents of the state for their support, prayers, and commitment to peace and unity.
“We couldn’t have achieved all these, without the love you have shown, without the prayers you have said, without the faith you have invested, and without the peace, unity and deep spirit of kindredship you have so selflessly displayed,” he said.
The governor also said Akwa Ibom was gradually transforming into a preferred destination for investment and development.
“From a once rusty backwater subnational, we are fast becoming a destination of choice, a shining City on the Hill, steady, illuminating, firm, inviting, hopeful and poised to fulfil the dreams of our founding fathers as a true Land of Promise,” he stated.
Political activities have continued to intensify across Nigeria ahead of the 2027 elections, with stakeholders repeatedly calling for peaceful campaigns amid growing concerns over insecurity and rising political tension in parts of the country.
