Uko Okon, Uyo
Akwa Ibom Youth coalition has urged the state Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, to ignore the recent open letter sent to him by a Journalist, Mr Ibanga Isine, over his planned defection to the All Progressive Congress (APC).
In his recent letter, Isine warned that the Governor might be sidelined like others who left PDP if he eventually moves to join Sen. Goodwill Akpabio in the APC in the State.
But a statement by the Coalition’s Board of Trustees Chairman, Pastor Michael Okon, on Wednesday in Uyo, cited by Newsnowng, dismissed Isine’s warnings of doom and gloom, describing them as “pessimistic” and “driven by self-interest.”
It commended Governor Eno’s boldness and courage, citing his proven track record of leadership and innovative problem-solving.
The statement reads partly, “Ibanga Isine’s open letter to Governor Umo Eno has sparked a necessary conversation about the potential implications of his defection to APC. While we appreciate Isine’s effort to offer advice, we strongly disagree with the gloom and doom picture he paints.
“Comparing Governor Umo Eno to those who joined APC before him and are now on the sidelines is unfair. Each individual’s path is unique, and destinies are not identical. We mustn’t judge the future based on past experiences of others as we tread different paths in life.
“Boldness and courage are essential to Governor Umo Eno’s decision-making process as we have witnessed so far from him. His potential defection requires audacity and the willingness to solve problems as they arise. This approach has proven successful in many endeavors.
“One of the best approaches to problem-solving is entering the arena with confidence and addressing challenges head-on. This method allows for adaptability and innovative solutions. The names Isine mentioned were not governors, and their circumstances differ significantly from Governor Umo Eno’s. We can’t draw direct comparisons.”
The statement emphasised the importance of strategic alliances in national politics, particularly for minority states like Akwa Ibom. It argued that the state’s relevance in Nigerian politics depends on its ability to form effective partnerships and that Governor Eno’s defection to the APC could be a game-changer.
According to the statement, the youth coalition expressed unwavering support for the governor’s potential defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Akwa Ibom State should have joined APC when PDP lost control at the center. As a minority state, we can’t afford to stand alone in opposition. Our relevance in national politics depends on strategic alliances. The fear of Senator Akpabio’s influence shouldn’t dictate our decisions for he is aware that he is who he is by the grace of God. This fear is driven by self-interest rather than the state’s liberation by those sponsoring the gloom and doom prophesies.
“Let’s focus on today’s opportunities rather than worrying about future uncertainties. The best use of today’s opportunities will shape our tomorrow. We appreciate Isine’s open letter, but we can’t help but notice his focus on pessimism. Many of us are not groomed to fight leaders; instead, we defend and offer advice. If the leader is convinced, we serve as bulwarks until they accomplish their dreams.
“Painting a gloom and doom picture undermines Pastor Umo Eno’s integrity. We’ve seen his leadership and heard his public statements; now, it’s time for stakeholders to follow his direction as a matching order. As a state, we’ve learned to support our leaders. When Senator Akpabio brought Mr. Udom Emmanuel, we fought behind him. When Mr Udom Emmanuel presented His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno as his successor we fought hell to see it happen.Now, we stand behind Governor Umo Eno, our commander-in-chief because we do not know how to fight our Governors. Call it sycophancy, we call it loyalty.
“The youths of Akwa Ibom State see a future in Governor Umo Eno and are willing to support him. We’ll cross the bridge of producing a successor in 2031 when we get there. Let’s drop the ethnicity storyline and focus on our collective progress. We’re too insignificant in Nigerian politics to afford divisions. Our strength lies in unity.
“Notably, Isine’s characterization of organizations like ours as “mushroom organizations” underscores his apparent unawareness of the vast and dedicated support base that Governor Umo Eno has garnered among volunteer foot soldiers. To these individuals, the Governor’s decision is seen as a symbol of hope, a light in the tunnel and a potential catalyst for long-awaited liberation. This perspective highlights the disconnect between Isine’s views and the sentiments of many on the ground who are eager for change and progress.
“Your Excellency Sir, we’re confident in your leadership. With courage and audacity, you’ll navigate challenges and lead Akwa Ibom State to progress. We’re behind you, and together, we’ll achieve greatness. Those with you are more than the few who think only of their political survival. You’ve transcended your survival to the progress of Akwa Ibom State. Be assured that God gives to people the kind of leader they deserve per time. This is your time,simply give the command and so shall it be,” the statement added.
