Without much ado, Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno daily is perfecting his plans to defect to another political party.
Eno who was elected under the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is allegedly plotting to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking at a Thanksgiving Service held in his honour at The Apostolic Church, Maboju Assembly in Lagos State, Mr. Eno made a bold statement about his political future, despite not having a clear idea of his next platform.
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“I don’t know where I’ll be tomorrow, whether PDP, APC, or YPP. These are just for political convenience and enlightened state interest. But it will never define who I am,” the governor said.
He pledged, however, that his identity as a governor would not change regardless of the party he aligns with in the future. “I will remain a governor connected to the people, regardless of party. I will continue to unite all our parties, regardless of where God will take me to. That is not to say I am going anywhere,” he clarified.
As a corollary to his message, Mr. Eno broke into the chorus of a popular Christian hymn, “Oh, the future lies before me,” reflecting a sense of uncertainty about the future, while conveying a sense of faith and optimism.
“Oh, the future lies before me, and I know not where I’ll be, but where’er my path be leading, Saviour, keep my heart with thee,” he sang, as the congregation joined in. The hymn, rooted in James 4:14, seemed to serve as a metaphor for his political journey.
In his remarks, he also encouraged the audience to be unafraid of what lies ahead, advising them to understand the signs of the times.
“So, there is no need to be scared. Those of you in politics know that there are no two elections that are the same- that people must always understand. We are the children of Issachar. The children of Issachar were given to understanding the times and seasons. And we must clearly understand the time and seasons so that we do not swim against the tide,” he said.
His message ended with a spiritual call: “I’d like to stop there, but he that has ears, let him hear what the spirit says to the church.” The phrase is traditionally used to highlight the importance of listening to spiritual truths.
Mr. Eno was accompanied to the service by his children, political associates, and entrepreneurs. Reflecting on his long history with the church, he compared his visit to a biblical moment, likening it to the return of Jacob to Bethel, where he gave thanks for God’s guidance and visitation.
In his homily, Pastor Dr. Senior Gabriel Uyeh, the National Vice President of the Apostolic Church who preached on the theme, Greatness in Humility commended the simplicity and humility in Governor Umo Eno’s homecoming to appreciate his humble beginning.
While decrying the traits of pride and arrogance that had led to the downfall of many, he said that humility gives rise to greatness and implored all to learn the lessons of humility from the Governor.
In his goodwill message, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, commended Governor Eno for his numerous achievements in Akwa Ibom State.
Represented by the Secretary to Lagos State Government, Barr. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Sanwo-Olu said Governor Eno’s leadership is a reflection of his sound moral upbringing.
“I’m happy that your formative years, early working years were all shaped by the vibrant Lagos and you have also contributed to the growth of Lagos State.
“As your host Governor, I am happy to identify with you on this thanksgiving celebration which is a reminder that without God, one cannot achieve anything”, the Lagos Governor stated.
In his welcome address, the District Apostle and Area Superintendent, Pastor Dr. Solomon Nkopeti described Pastor Eno as a true son of the Apostolic vision who has shown that leadership is a calling of God.
“Sir, you are hereby welcome back to this spiritual home where it all began.
“Your Excellency, we remember the days you walked and worked among us, not with trappings of power, but with humility of a brother in Christ.
“To the glory of God, you had served in this Assembly as a Faithful Brother, Committed Chorister, Dutiful Deacon, Eloquent Interpreter, Effective and Evangelical Elder, Chairman of the Building Committee, the First Official Chairman of the Church Welfare Committee, a Trusted Prophetic Channel and Leader of Prayer Defense Force among other responsibilities.”
He recounted that, “It is on record that in 1980, the Lord spoke prophetically of whom you will be in the future.
“At the fullness of time according to God’s perfect plan for your life, the call of purpose led you to Akwa Ibom State to fulfill your divine Assignments, but your spiritual roots remain deeply planted here.
“Your Excellency, today in Akwa Ibom State, your Administration is a living prove and testimony of the scriptures in Prov. 29:2 which says “when the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice ….”
“We have watched with keen interest, pride and joy the invaluable opportunities offered by your administration to reshape the future of our people – the Akwa Ibomites, your paradigm shift in engagements, prioritizing inclusion, accountability and solidarity, tackling root causes rather than symptoms, investing in people, Communities and laying solid foundations for enduring peace and stability, Pastor Nkopeti stated.
