Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has firmly distanced his administration from the ongoing investigation into a N700 billion fraud allegation against his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel. During a town hall meeting in Abak, Eno rejected the claims, stating that such figures were not from the state government and that Akwa Ibom did not have those kinds of financial figures. He expressed concern over the treatment of past governors, pointing out that the state has consistently vilified its leaders after they’ve left office, citing the cases of Obong Attah, Godswill Akpabio, and now Udom Emmanuel.
Eno’s remarks came in the wake of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arresting Emmanuel on Tuesday. Emmanuel, who served as governor from 2015 to 2023, faces allegations of money laundering, diversion of funds, and financial mismanagement. The petition claims Emmanuel was unable to account for N700 billion despite receiving significant funds from the Federation Account during his tenure, alongside leaving a N500 billion debt and N300 billion in unpaid ongoing projects.
Governor Eno’s comments reflect a broader concern about the political and public fallout for leaders who are subjected to such investigations after serving in office, suggesting that it could dissuade current leaders from giving their best while in power. The ongoing probe into Emmanuel’s tenure continues to stir political debates in the state, highlighting the complex relationship between governance, accountability, and public perception.
