The immediate past governor of Akwa Ibom State, Udom Emmanuel has clarified the misconception that he has fallen out with his successor, Umo Eno.
Speaking during a Christmas worship service at United Evangelical Church (QIC), Awa Iman, Onna LGA, in his hometown, Emmanuel said he was conscious of avoiding any action that could lead to friction with his successor, adding that he prays every day for the governor to succeed.
According to him, “Don’t mind what people may say. We are relating very well. Sometimes, if there is a state function and I attend, they will say he is coming too much, if I don’t attend, they will say ‘they are quarrelling that is why he has refused to come’ but they forget that Udom Emmanuel and the Governor are inseparable.
“Any support I can give him (Governor Eno) to enable him to succeed, I will always give him. I pray every day for him to succeed.”
However, the governor, Pastor Eno who led state council members and other Stakeholders to the service described ex-governor Emmanuel as an exceptional leader who would not want to interfere in his government but was always willing to give advice.
He stated that since his assumption of office, his predecessor had never put him under pressure in whatever guise, noting that he was the one chasing after him.
“On the contrary, we are the ones chasing him to ask him to always come around to advise us.” He said.
Governor Eno announced that the Akwa Ibom State International Christian Worship Center, established during Mr Emmanuel’s tenure, is ready and will be used for the New Year’s State Interdenominational Service on January 2nd, 2024.
He explained that the centre will be active every day as each day, a pastor and his team will take turns to pray for the state and the country at the state’s sacred altar.