AKWA IBOM, UYO – Governor Umo Bassey Eno of Akwa Ibom State has called on citizens, particularly government officials, to maintain peace and unity in the state.
He emphasized the need for decorum in governance, prohibiting officials from issuing press statements without clearance, except for the Commissioner for Information and the Chief Press Secretary.
Speaking during a Sunday service at the Methodist Church in Uyo, the governor clarified that his upcoming Executive Council appointments aim to foster development rather than political conflict.
He urged appointees to adopt a forgiving spirit, referencing the biblical story of Joseph.
Meanwhile, a debate has arisen over the fairness of commissioner appointments, particularly concerning the Oron Federal Constituency.
Legal Adviser Emem Benson criticized the justification that a Deputy Governor’s role equates to four commissioners, arguing that the appointments should reflect the principles of Federal Character as mandated by the Nigerian Constitution.
He pointed out the imbalance in representation, stressing that governance should be inclusive and fair to all ethnic groups in the state.