Governor Eno Issues Stern Warning to Commissioners: Stay Engaged or Face Sacking

 Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has taken a firm stand against absenteeism, warning his commissioners that abandoning him at public events will cost them their jobs. This directive, issued in May 2025, underscores Eno’s push for accountability and active participation in his administration’s development agenda.

Speaking at a state executive council meeting in Uyo, Eno expressed frustration over instances where commissioners failed to attend key events, such as project inaugurations and community engagements, leaving him to represent the government alone. He described such behavior as a dereliction of duty, emphasizing that his administration’s success hinges on collective effort. 

Eno, known for his hands-on governance style, cited specific projects like the Ibom Model Farms and the Uyo-Eket road expansion, which require visible leadership to inspire public confidence. He warned that any commissioner found wanting would be replaced with more committed individuals.

The directive reflects Eno’s broader vision of transforming Akwa Ibom into a model state through infrastructure, agriculture, and tourism. Since taking office in 2023, he has prioritized transparency, often involving commissioners in grassroots outreach to ensure policies reflect local needs. However, some insiders suggest the warning addresses internal tensions, with a few commissioners reportedly prioritizing personal interests over state duties. 

The public has largely supported Eno’s stance, viewing it as a commitment to efficiency. Analysts note that the threat of dismissal could galvanize the cabinet but risks straining relationships if perceived as overly punitive. Eno’s leadership style, blending firmness with inclusivity, continues to shape Akwa Ibom’s political landscape as he prepares for a potential 2027 re-election bid.