Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has reiterated his commitment to delivering good governance, dismissing recent allegations by a faceless political group as baseless blackmail aimed at tarnishing his reputation.

In a press release signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Ekerette Udoh, Governor Eno debunked claims published in The Nation newspaper on 22 January 2025 by a group identifying itself as the Concerned Members of the All Progressives Congress in Akwa Ibom State. The group accused the governor of forming clandestine alliances, a claim Governor Eno described as a “malicious cocktail of lies and blackmail.”

The statement categorically denied the allegations, asserting that the accusations were politically motivated attempts to disrupt the strong relationship between Governor Eno and key figures in the federal government, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and the Minister of Petroleum Resources (Gas), Obong Emem Ekperikpe Ekpo.

Governor Eno emphasised that his administration prioritises governance over political manoeuvring. “This is the time for governance and not for political gamesmanship,” the statement declared, adding that the governor remains focused on implementing his Arise Agenda for the betterment of Akwa Ibom residents.

The press release highlighted Governor Eno’s unwavering support for President Tinubu’s economic reforms, describing the governor as an enthusiastic advocate for the president’s bold plans to address Nigeria’s economic challenges. “While President Bola Tinubu is rallying the nation to support his audacious economic plans, Governor Umo Eno has enthusiastically endorsed and canvassed support for them,” the statement noted.

Governor Eno also reaffirmed his commitment to fostering bipartisanship and peace in Akwa Ibom. He condemned the alleged group for attempting to incite tensions and disrupt the harmony he has worked to build. “The promoters of this faceless group hate the current peace, amity, and bipartisan spirit in the state,” the release stated, accusing the group of seeking to profit from political chaos.

The statement praised the collaboration between Governor Eno and federal government officials, particularly in the oil and gas sector, where Akwa Ibom remains a leading producer. It urged critics to applaud these efforts rather than exploit them for political gain.

Governor Eno called on all stakeholders to prioritise the state’s development over divisive politics. The press release dismissed the allegations as a “hatchet job by enemies of peace and tranquillity” and reaffirmed the governor’s commitment to collaboration and progress for the benefit of Akwa Ibom residents.