Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has delivered a stark warning to his commissioners and special advisers, threatening immediate dismissal for any found to be displaying “indolence and insubordination” during official duties.
Speaking publicly, Governor Eno made it clear that no cabinet member, regardless of gender, would be spared if they failed to adhere to his directives. This comes amidst reports that some officials have been showing a lack of commitment, citing funding issues and adopting a dismissive attitude, encapsulated by the local phrase “Mkpo Ibaha,” meaning “there’s nothing in government.”
The Governor’s strong stance follows previous cautions for dissatisfied members to resign or face removal. The immediate catalyst for this latest warning was reportedly an incident where several key figures failed to attend an unplanned event following an official function, leaving the Governor alone.
“Starting from now, henceforth, I like everyone to hear, that’s why I am speaking publicly, that when you hear that I have fired a commissioner from your local government, it’s insubordination,” Governor Eno stated.
He emphasised that abandoning him during official duties was unacceptable, stressing that their roles, undertaken under oath, are “a full-time job, which you must do 24/7.” The Governor described his appointees as his “first eleven,” who are expected to be present at all functions.
He further stated that he would not disclose his schedule for public events, insisting, “You must go with me and take me back to the Lodge.”
“The fact that I am simple does not mean that I am an appointed Governor; I was elected by the people,” he asserted, adding that cabinet members must be fully committed to the effective implementation of his administration’s “ARISE Agenda” blueprint, to ensure the delivery of democratic dividends to the electorate.
Recalling his own experience as a commissioner, he said, “I was a commissioner myself, and I can’t remember any day I left my Governor behind.” He reiterated that any commissioner who prioritises personal matters over their official responsibilities should expect to receive a “red card.”
Add Comment