Six gov candidates congratulate Akwa Ibom governor-elect, Eno

At least six governorship candidates who contested the recently concluded 2023 elections in Akwa Ibom State, as well as 13 political parties, have congratulated the governor‑elect, Pastor Umo Eno, on his victory in the March 18 governorship poll. Eno, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, secured 356,346 votes, defeating his rivals.

The candidates and their parties are: Mr. Nsikak Thomas (Zenith Labour Party), Abasiekeme Ekanem (Action Alliance), Eyo Ekong (Allied Peoples Movement), Sunday Ekanem (Peoples Redemption Party), Mr. Akan Ekpenyong (Boot Party), and Mrs. Emem Udoh (Social Democratic Party). Candidates from the Young Progressives Party, the All Progressives Congress and a few others have not yet sent congratulatory messages.

In separate statements on Friday, the candidates urged the governor‑elect to fulfill the people’s expectations, noting that his “ARISE” agenda had already raised high hopes. They said, “Despite our series of campaigns and politicking, it was clear that Pastor Umo Eno won the heart of the people through his ARISE Agenda and we expect that he satisfies the desires of the people.”

The political parties under the Inter‑Party Advisory Council described Eno’s victory as an act of God. The coalition, comprising chairmen of various parties, called on the governor‑elect to hit the ground running when sworn in and expressed hope that his administration would promote both economic growth and social cohesion in the state. Their statement read, in part: “It is our hope and belief that, in line with your avowed commitment to unite Akwa Ibom State and foster healing and true reconciliation, your reign as governor from May 29, 2023, will signify and symbolize inclusiveness, selflessness, godliness, peace, unity, and entrepreneurial development as encapsulated in your ARISE Agenda.” The group also assured Eno that the organization would partner with his administration to foster the state’s development.

The parties involved include the Action Democratic Party, Labour Party, National Rescue Movement, African Democratic Congress, All Progressives Grand Alliance, All Peoples Party, African Action Congress, Zenith Labour Party, Action Alliance, Allied People’s Movement, Peoples Redemption Party, Boot Party, and Social Democratic Party.