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After months of speculations, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Udom Emmanuel, has disclosed that the state’s Commissioner for Lands and Water Resources, Pastor Uno Eno, is his preferred candidate for succession in 2023.
This was revealed at the end of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stakeholders’ meeting on Sunday evening.
Pastor Eno was presented to the stakeholders, comprised of major and leading political chieftains from the state’s three senatorial districts by the former Governor of the state, Obong (Arc) Victor Atta.
In his remarks, Pastor Eno thanked God and the governor for finding him worthy to lead the people of the state.
He noted that he would continue with the developmental strides of Governor Udom Emmanuel if elected into office.
Stakeholders present applauded the governor for choosing Pastor Eno as his successor and promised to work towards his emergence as governor in 2023.
Recall that the governor had promised to disclose his choice candidate at the right time.
But the decision has caused a crisis in the party in the state.
Mr Onofiok Luke, Chairman of the House of Representative Committee on Judiciary said the declaration by the governor will not his quest to become the chief executive of the state.
According to a statement he issued on Sunday, the rep member said: “We Are Still On Course
1. Out of respect and as a loyal party man, I honored an innocent invitation from the Governor for a meeting this evening at the lodge;
2. At the meeting my brother from my local government and Federal Constituency, Pst Umo Eno was presented as the choice of the Governor for succession;
3. It was at the said meeting that I heard of the agenda and choice for the first time and no one held any discussion with me prior to the meeting;
4. I am not against the choice of the Governor coming from my local government, Federal Constituency nor the aspiration of my brother;
5. However, as a fellow aspirant from the same local government at the same advantage when successful, my aspiration to serve the state in the capacity of the Governor remains on course;
6. This statement would not have been necessary but not for the misrepresentation in media which may create a negative impression about my person and the reputation God has helped me to build these number of years in public service;
7. My supporters and those sympathetic to my cause should please note that we are as resolute as ever in our desire to give our people purposeful leadership in the office of the Governor come 2023”
