Tension has risen in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, after the security details attached to former Governor Udom Emmanuel were withdrawn over the weekend. Sources say that all policemen assigned to Emmanuel’s two residences in the state have been recalled, prompting mixed reactions among the public. Some observers attribute the move to the All Progressives Congress (APC)‑led state government, suggesting it is an attempt to coerce Emmanuel into joining the party.
Emmanuel, the political godfather of incumbent Governor Umo Eno, has remained loyal to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) despite Eno’s defection to the APC. His decision to stay with the PDP and work toward rebuilding the party ahead of the 2027 elections is viewed as a threat to the APC state government, leading many to believe that the withdrawal of his security details is intended to weaken his influence.
The Akwa Ibom State government has denied involvement. Commissioner for Information Aniekan Umana stated that the deployment of police officers is the sole prerogative of the Inspector‑General of Police and the Commissioner of Police, not the governor. He added that all former governors are entitled to security details as approved by law and that no former governor has lodged a complaint about the withdrawal.
Barrister Steve Abia, Special Assistant to former Governor Emmanuel, confirmed that the security details were indeed withdrawn but could not disclose who ordered the action. A pro‑PDP group, PDP Advocates for Peace and Justice, described the incident as politically motivated, aimed at subduing Emmanuel and undermining the PDP in the state.
The removal of Emmanuel’s security details has significant implications for Akwa Ibom’s political landscape, highlighting ongoing tensions between the APC and PDP. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the former governor and the PDP will respond. The incident also raises concerns about the security and well‑being of former governors in the state, who are legally entitled to protection.
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