RismadarVoice Reporters
September 13, 2026
The Akwa Ibom State Government has dismissed allegations by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator John James Akpanudoedehe, against Governor Umo Eno and former Governor Udom Emmanuel as false and unsubstantiated.
The government, in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information, Aniekan Umanah, on Saturday, said the allegations appeared intended to incite the public and create tension in the state.
Akpanudoedehe had alleged in a social media video that Governor Eno caused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to seize a Lagos residence belonging to former Governor Emmanuel.
However, the state government said Eno had never reported anyone, including his predecessor, to the EFCC.
The government quoted Eno as saying, “I have never reported, let alone talked, more of my predecessor in office to the EFCC. I stand to be challenged or contradicted.”
It also cited Eno’s relationship with former administrations, noting that he had retained several officials who served under the previous government and continued with projects initiated by his predecessors.
The government accused Akpanudoedehe of attempting to reopen political divisions in the state, urging political actors to prioritise peace, development and responsible leadership.
It also recalled the violence surrounding the 2011 governorship election, alleging that vehicles acquired for the state’s mass transit scheme and other public assets were destroyed during the crisis.
According to the government, Akpanudoedehe was subsequently arrested and prosecuted over allegations arising from the events.
The statement urged political actors to avoid rhetoric capable of provoking tension, stressing that Akwa Ibom would not return to what it described as politics of bitterness, destruction and instability.
Meanwhile, the government said the Eno administration remained focused on implementing its ARISE Agenda through projects in roads, education, healthcare, agriculture, tourism and aviation, among other sectors.
It noted that the commissioning of 39 projects to mark the state’s 39th anniversary provided an opportunity for residents to assess the administration’s performance.
The government acknowledged the constitutional right of citizens to participate in politics and seek elective office but warned that such rights did not permit the spread of false information or actions capable of threatening public peace.
It called on Akpanudoedehe and other political actors to exercise restraint and responsibility, assuring residents that the government would continue to protect peace and focus on development.
