Governor Eno Predicts EFCC Petitions After Tenure, Vows to Empower Citizens
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has declared that he anticipates being dragged before the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after his tenure, but remains committed to empowering citizens through legitimate means rather than distributing “Ghana-must-go” bags. The governor made the statement on Tuesday during a ceremony at the Uyo Township Stadium, where he distributed cash awards, business startup tools, and equipment to numerous beneficiaries.
Governor Eno emphasized that his administration would not cater to individuals with a sense of entitlement but would instead support hardworking citizens to achieve self-reliance. He warned that only those expecting handouts would complain about his government, as he is focused on creating opportunities for Akwa Ibomites to thrive through their own efforts.
“The only set of people who will complain about this government are those who believe they have a sense of entitlement and will sit down for the governor to bring them ‘Ghana-must-go,’” Eno said. “I will not bring you ‘Ghana-must-go.’ I will help you work with your hands. I will support the work of your hands because I know after my tenure, people will write petitions and will go to EFCC, and I will defend the work that I did.”
The governor expressed confidence in his administration’s approach, stating that his focus on transparency and accountability would enable him to withstand any scrutiny. He urged citizens to embrace hard work and reject the culture of entitlement, emphasizing that Akwa Ibom State belongs to everyone and that his government is committed to creating an enabling environment for all to succeed.
“When I am sitting there (at the EFCC), you will not be there with me. So, cautious of that fact, I will not bring you ‘Ghana-must-go.’ No entitlement to anybody. Akwa Ibom State belongs to all of us,” Eno declared.
Governor Eno also addressed the tendency of some citizens to engage in smear campaigns against leaders after their tenure, describing it as a discouraging practice that deters others from serving with dedication. He called on Akwa Ibomites to support their leaders and repay their service with gratitude rather than hostility.
“Our people are fond of carrying up smear campaigns. I advise us. The way to repay our leaders is not to want to send them to jail when they finish serving you with all their hearts,” he said. “The more we are doing that, the more we are discouraging other leaders. So, please, Akwa Ibom, get up, arise, and work.”
The governor’s remarks come amid growing concerns about accountability and transparency in governance across Nigeria. By prioritizing empowerment and self-reliance, Governor Eno aims to foster a culture of productivity and reduce dependency on government handouts. His administration’s initiatives, such as the distribution of business tools and cash awards, are designed to equip citizens with the resources needed to build sustainable livelihoods.
However, Governor Eno’s prediction of EFCC petitions highlights the challenges faced by public officials in Nigeria, where allegations of corruption and mismanagement often follow leaders after their tenure. His proactive stance on accountability and his commitment to empowering citizens could set a precedent for other leaders to follow.
As Akwa Ibom State continues to implement its development agenda, the focus will be on ensuring that the benefits of governance reach all citizens, particularly those willing to work hard and contribute to the state’s progress. Governor Eno’s message serves as a call to action for Akwa Ibomites to embrace self-reliance and reject the culture of entitlement, paving the way for a more prosperous and inclusive future.
The governor’s approach has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising his commitment to transparency and others expressing skepticism about the feasibility of his empowerment programs. As his tenure progresses, the success of these initiatives will determine whether his administration can deliver on its promises and withstand the scrutiny that often follows public service in Nigeria.
