Governor Eno Dismisses Two Appointees For Attending PDP National Convention

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has dismissed two of his aides following their attendance at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national convention in Ibadan, Oyo State, despite explicit instructions to refrain from participating.

The move has sparked conversations about loyalty, party alignment, and internal discipline within the state government.

The two aides affected are Joseph Jacob Ikpak, Senior Special Assistant on Support Services, and Felix Ekuri, Special Assistant on Neighbourhood Watch. Social media images showing both aides at the convention reportedly prompted the governor’s decisive action.

In an official statement, the Secretary to the Government, Enobong Uwah, said the sacking is part of an ongoing effort to restructure the administration and ensure alignment with Governor Eno’s “Renewed Hope and ARISE Agenda.”

The statement emphasized the importance of loyalty and adherence to directives for all political appointees.

Sources within the government indicate that the decision reflects heightened concerns over party allegiance, particularly in light of Governor Eno’s defection from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC) earlier this year.

Observers say the move also signals a determination to limit the influence of former Governor Udom Emmanuel’s loyalists within the administration.

Governor Eno has reportedly convened an emergency meeting with all political aides to reinforce rules on obedience, party loyalty, and internal cohesion.

Analysts suggest that the action is both a disciplinary measure and a strategic signal to other officials regarding adherence to the governor’s directives.

The sacking highlights broader political tensions in Akwa Ibom State, where party loyalty remains a sensitive issue ahead of future elections.

Political commentators note that this could influence the dynamics between APC and PDP supporters within the state government and may set the tone for stricter enforcement of loyalty among political appointees.

The incident underscores the high stakes of political alignment in Nigeria’s state administrations, particularly in contexts where party defections and historical rivalries play a significant role in governance and policy implementation.